Pregnancy is thought to be one of the happiest times of a woman's life, yet many pregnant women do have overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, and confusion.

The newest studies are alarming. Nearly 70% of pregnant women today feel some sort of depression in pregnancy, and of those, 12% meet the criteria for major depression.

The "pregnancy blues" is not a new phenomenon, but perhaps just not as well known and more misunderstood than postpartum depression or the "baby blues".

Why are you feeling this way, and what can you do about it? In her book, "Pregnancy Blues" with a release date of August 30, 2005, Dr. Shaila Kulkarni Misri uncovers the symptoms and causes of pregnancy-induced depression. In this book, discover:

• How to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression–and know when to seek help
• The role of female hormones: why women are more vulnerable to depression than men
• How depression can “hide” behind physical complaints, such as back, stomach, or even chest pain
• The unspoken connection between infertility and depression
• The antidepressant controversy: the facts on specific drugs, their safety–and when medication is the right choice
• Breastfeeding and medication–the risks and benefits

Also, learn how to treat depression, with techniques such as acupuncture and therapy.

One technique to help cure "pregnancy blues"? Exercise. If your doctor has given you the all clear, exercise is a wonderful way to relieve your anxiety and depression.

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