I’m Pregnant and Emotional. What’s Normal?

I’m Pregnant and Emotional. What’s Normal?

One minute you’re smiling and having the time of your life. The next thing you know, you’re crying into a wrinkled tissue.

“What is happening to me?” you might be asking.

It’s normal to have a lot of emotions during pregnancy. It helps to have someone to talk to, such as your partner, family member, or close friend. However, sometimes these emotions can go beyond what’s expected for pregnancy.

Let’s talk about why this happens and when it’s time to find help.

Why You’re So Emotional

Hormones. Stress. Changes in your body. Tiredness. All of these things can make you feel like you are on a roller coaster that you never signed up for.

Right now, your body is working hard and it’s changing every day. You may not like how you look. At the same time, pregnancy hormones can make emotions feel bigger than usual. You may be dealing with work problems, money, or other stressful things. You might even be struggling to sleep at night.

Not getting enough sleep can make it harder to handle your emotions. You may find yourself crying, getting frustrated, or wondering, “Where did that come from?”

Ways to Feel Better

When your emotions feel like too much, ask yourself, “What would help me feel a little bit better right now?” Here are some suggestions.

• Write down your thoughts and feelings. Maybe try keeping a journal.
• Pray and listen to uplisting music.
• Take a bath.
• Read a book.
• Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep.
• Go for a walk.

Prayer is a great way to relax. Science says that it helps lower the stress level in your body, and cultivates and strengthens positive thoughts. Same with worship music. For a list of uplifting songs, click the link below. 15 Heart-Warming Christian Songs That Will Instantly Lift Your Spirit | Bible Study Tools

When Should I Get Help?

If you start having suicidal thoughts, feel sad or depressed most days, or your emotions feel impossible to manage, you should immediately reach out to a local healthcare provider.

There are other signs that it’s time to talk to a healthcare provider. If you stop enjoying things you used to like, are very worried about caring for your baby, and have trouble concentrating or remembering things, the National Institute of Mental Health recommends reaching out to a healthcare provider.

To learn more, follow the link below. Perinatal Depression - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

Support and Options

If you’ve taken a positive pregnancy test but haven’t confirmed the pregnancy, Alpha Women’s Center offers a free, limited OB ultrasound. You can call 515-285-5700 (Des Moines) or 515-965-7885 (Ankeny) to speak with a member of the team or to schedule an appointment.

If you need someone to listen, we’re here for you. We can answer your questions, explain your options, and support you as you figure out what comes next.

References

Can Prayer Actually Rewire the Brain?, Dr. Michelle Bengtson, Blog, Accessed July 29, 2026.

How to Cope With Unplanned Pregnancy | Support Guide, Caring Network, Accessed July 15, 2026.

Perinatal Depression - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institute of Mental Health, Accessed July 16, 2026.

Pregnancy Emotions | American Pregnancy Association, American Pregnancy Association, Accessed July 15, 2026.

9 Ways Musical Worship Leads to Fruitfulness | Crossway, Ryanna J. Molinari, Crossway, November 2, 2025.

15 Heart-Warming Christian Songs That Will Instantly Lift Your Spirit | Bible Study Tools, Pamela Palmer, Bible Study Tools, Accessed July 29, 2026.