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as Omega Twin by Barleans. I recommend discon nuing use 2 weeks prior to the due date because of a small but possible increased risk of bleeding while supplemen ng. Though this is likely overly cau ous, and most evidence suggests no risk, many herbalists have reported observing bruising in clients taking 2 g or more/day. If you do discon nue it, simply resume a few days a er birth to help prevent postpartum depression. Sam-E: A natural substance important for methyla on, a process involved in making chemicals called neurotransmi ers, which control mood, Sam-E has been well- studied and found to be safe in pregnancy. It should not be used in women with bipolar depression. A typical dose is 400 mg/day, but up to 800 mg (400 twice daily) may be needed for an op mal therapeu c effect. Rarely, it has been reported to cause mild gastrointes nal symptoms, swea ng, dizziness, and anxiety. Folate: Important for preven ng neural tube defects in our babies, folate is also important for a healthy nervous system. Taking folate does not in itself seem to improve prenatal depression, but it does appear that women who have adequate folate intake respond be er to treatment with an depressant medica ons. It may also have protec ve effects against au sm in our babies. I recommend 800 mcg – 2 mg of Methylfolate daily, ideally star ng 3-months prior to pregnancy, or at any point that you realize are pregnant. St. John's Wort: While the data is limited, and more studies are needed, especially given uncertainty over the safety of conven onal an depressant medica ons in pregnancy, studies on the effect of prenatal consump on of St. John's wort on pregnancy in mice and rats were generally associated with normal gesta on and offspring development. A limited number of human case reports indicated healthy pregnancies and infants when St. John's wort was used prenatally. A standard adult dose is 300 mg 2-3 mes/day, of a product standardized to 0.3% hypericin. Probio cs: Increasing evidence suggests that disrupted flora can contribute to a disrupted mood, including depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that ea ng live ac ve cultures such as found in yogurt can improve women's moods! I extend this to fermented foods in general, such as sauerkraut, kimchee, and miso. A good probio c can also do the trick! Check with your midwife or doctor before using if you are already on a medica on or if you have any medical problems related to pregnancy). 10. Call on a Pregnancy Natural Medicine Expert If a er a couple of weeks of incorpora ng a combina on of the above strategies you're not no cing any improvements, this is a good me to consult with a medical provider who specializes specifically in the func onal medicine, naturopathic, integra ve, or mental health care of pregnant women. While self-care is the cornerstone of health, greater health challenges can be best addressed with a suppor ve, knowledgeable team. Now it's your turn to share! If you suffered from depression in a past pregnancy, what helped you to cope or heal? What do you wish someone had told you while you were pregnant that you can share as inspira on for other women? Want to learn more about natural care for yourself during your pregnancy and beyond? You'll love the down-to-earth nature of The Natural Pregnancy Book, and for a er baby – Natural Health A er Birth. They also make great gi s for other pregnant women in your life! You are not alone: 1 in 10 – or even more – pregnant women struggle with the symptoms of depression. Abby's Magazine - Volume 5 Issue 5| Page 55