Published by Paul Branston on 25 Jul 2008 at 11:34 am
No more Panic Attacks During Pregnancy
During pregnancy it is not uncommon for women to experience anxiety and panic attacks for the first time. This is not without reason
During pregnancy, the hormones in a pregnant woman’s body are all working overtime. It is these hormone changes which often cause the panic and anxiety. It is during pregnancy that every part of the woman’s body is involved and working differently than normal.
Pregnancy is a naturally stressful time for many women, particularly where the pregnancy is unexpected or unplanned, or where there are health concerns surrounding the pregnancy. When combined with these hormonal changes, pregnancy becomes a common time for panic and worry.
When I was pregnant, I seemed to be most worried about what was going to happen during the birth process and I was also worried about being a good mother. I was lucky as my extra anxiety and panic was considered by my doctor as being normal.
But for some women, anxiety and panic can be a problem especially in the third trimester which is the last 3 months of pregnancy. You might find it interesting to know that some women prone to anxiety and panic find these feelings actually go away during pregnancy. This shows a direct connection between hormone changes and anxiety and panic.
What can you do if you experience anxiety and panic attacks while pregnant? Pharmaceutical options may harm your child or interfere with the natural rhythmn of childbirth. Luckily there are natural solutions which help many women overcome these attacks.
* Relaxation- whenever you feel yourself getting stressed or anxious take time to relax. Find somewhere quiet and cool to lie down and just relax. Do not spend this time worrying or feeling anxious. Just allow yourself to think of something or somewhere calm and enjoyable to you.
* Share your problem - pregnancy is not something you have to do alone. Talk about your feelings with your partner, family or friends. All new mothers feel anxious and scared at some point and you are not unusual in this. Remember too that there are many professional counselling and therapy services available for people exactly like you.
* Breathe deeply - you will be surprised by how effective focused breathing can be. Try lying down and breathing deeply. Breathe in through your nose; blow out through your mouth. Take your time and keep breathing deeply and slowly until you feel better.
It can not be emphasized enough how important it is if you are pregnant and are feeling anxiety and having panic attacks that you get some help. It is not only important to you but to the health and growth of your baby.
Also for women who are pregnant, their husbands may also be prone to anxiety and panic attacks. Becoming a new father can be very stressful and your husband or significant other may be extremely worried about supporting the new child and if the both of you can afford a new baby.
These stresses can be just as serious as those of a mother, and men are often unwilling to share or discuss these issues. The outcome can often be anxiety or panic attacks.
If you notice your partner seems more stressed than usual it might be a good idea to talk to them about it. Pregnancy should be an enjoyable time. If you find yourself worrying or anxious, seek treatment.