Anxiety and Pregnancy -
Joyful Time or Nine Month Nightmare?
Anxiety during pregnancy turned Shelia’s lifelong dream
into a nightmare.
After trying to have a baby for two years she and her husband cried tears of joy when the doctor confirmed that she was pregnant. But anxiety during pregnancy soon transformed this joyful time into a dark period of extreme fear, tension and worry.
When her neighbors hosted a baby shower for her, Shelia became so overwhelmed by fear that she had to leave after the first ten minutes.
Her
bewildered husband finally insisted that she seek help.
When she was diagnosed with pregnancy anxiety, they were both relieved to find out that this a common problem and that there are treatments readily available.
Some amount of anxiety during pregnancy is normal as women prepare for the rewarding yet daunting task of motherhood.
It is not the fleeting moments of normal prenatal anxiety but the underlying levels of constant stress that are cause for concern for both mother and child.
Studies have shown that women who experience clinically significant anxiety symptoms during pregnancy are more likely to have preterm labor and low birth weight infants. High anxiety during weeks 12 through 22 appears to be particularly harmful.
Anxiety in expectant mothers has been directly associated with attention deficit disorder and other child behavioral problems.
Dr. Jeannette Kavanagh, author of the superbly written book titled "Calming Words," offers breathing techniques as one way to help calm anxiety.
Most of the breathing techniques recommended her book are safe for pregnant women. These techniques are particularly helpful for women who are reluctant to take anxiety medication during pregnancy.
Mothers-to-be who suffer from anxiety during pregnancy often question their ability to properly care for the babies, and that further elevates their anxiety levels.
Do not let the “anxiety monster” rob you of the joyful anticipation of having a precious little baby. Talk to your physician about the best way to manage anxiety during pregnancy.