Whether you're a first-time parent or expanding your family, whether you battled to conceive or became pregnant naturally, nine months of pregnancy can present a slew of anxieties.
You could be wondering why the baby kicks so much... or so little. How am I going to deal with the labor pains that I've heard so much about? How can I be a good mother if I don't know what it's like to look after a baby?
These are all reasonable concerns, as being a first-time mom means you'll have a lot of questions that only experience can answer. Behind that baby belly and "pregnancy glow," nearly every woman is nervous, scared, or reluctant about some part of pregnancy, childbirth, or parenthood.
When, on the other hand, might worry be a cause for concern? And how may it be addressed while a woman is pregnant? The answers are vital information for every pregnant mother.
What is a normal level of anxiety during pregnancy?
Anxiety is a normal part of life, not just for pregnant women. We all have concerns, and pregnancy can exacerbate those concerns.
Anxiety disorders affect roughly 15% of pregnant women, making them about as common as depression during pregnancy, according to studies.
Some women, particularly those who have experienced previous pregnancy losses or reproductive issues, are concerned about the health of their babies. Others may be concerned about whether or not they will be good parents, how their relationships with their spouses will alter, how their siblings will react to a new baby or the financial implications of having a child.
It's very normal to be concerned about all of these things.
What are anxiety's signs and symptoms during pregnancy?
Symptoms of more serious anxiety during pregnancy include:
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Feelings of panic, fear, or restlessness on a regular basis
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An inability to focus on your daily activities
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Having difficulties at work or at home
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Suffering from compulsive thoughts
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You're not enjoying the things that used to bring you delight.
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Palpitations in the heart
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Muscle tension
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Shortness of breath (hyperventilation) or rapid breathing (hyperventilation)
Don't panic if you don't notice any of the other indicators of pregnancy anxiety because this is a common symptom of pregnancy.)
This type of anxiety is more severe than ordinary concern — yet treatment can help.
What factors lead to anxiety during pregnancy?
Anxiety during pregnancy is a complex illness that even researchers don't fully comprehend. It can be caused by a variety of factors.
It could be a hereditary illness, as anxiety can run in families, or it could be caused by an underlying health issue like diabetes, thyroid difficulties, or chronic pain.
It could also be a dread of childbirth (you may have heard a terrifying delivery room story), or a stressful scenario at home or at work (like relationship problems or financial troubles). It could even be caused by the pregnancy itself, particularly if it was unintended.
Which anxiety medications are safe to take during pregnancy?
Because most anxiety medications are in the same class as antidepressants, prescribing them during pregnancy can be challenging. Prescriptions for these types of drugs during pregnancy should always include a careful risk-benefit analysis, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Though some anxiety drugs are considered quite safe during pregnancy, you'll need to work closely with your doctor to figure out which ones are suitable for you if medication is required to ensure your health and/or the health of your kid.
