Anxiety During Pregnancy

By Kieth | November 30, 2011
Anxiety During Pregnancy

Eat a packet of wafers or an apple instead? Sleep on my side or my back? Should I go for my long walk or should I just do some light exercises? Along with the excitement, pregnancy also involves anxieties and apprehensions. Panic attacks or anxiety during pregnancy are quite a common occurrence. When a woman is expecting, her body goes through a lot of change right from the beginning, till childbirth. Hormonal fluctuations are common in expecting mothers and due to these changes many women suffer from at least some amount of anxiety during pregnancy. As the pregnancy progresses almost every mother worries about the wellbeing of the baby. All this can lead to a lot of anxiety during pregnancy. However recurrent or severe anxiety attacks during pregnancy are a cause for concern and should be checked by a doctor immediately.

Anxiety during pregnancy symptoms:

There are several signs and symptoms that can be seen in women who experience anxiety during pregnancy. Given below are some of the most commonly seen symptoms:

  • Constant worry
  • Feelings of detachment
  • Impeding fear that something bad will happen
  • Physical signs like dizziness, disorientation, sweating, shaking & trembling
  • Nausea
  • Shortness of breath or other breathing problems
  • Numbness in limbs
  • Palpitations or heart pounding rapidly
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Loss of appetite
  • Inability to stay still
  • Hot flashes

Anxiety during pregnancy causes:

Women could suffer from anxiety during pregnancy due to several different factors. Given below are some of the most common causes of anxiety during pregnancy:

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Changes in the levels of blood sugar, circulation and breathing patterns
  • Excessive stress because of the unknown

Anxiety Treatment during pregnancy:

Fortunately, it is possible to treat anxiety during pregnancy, without any medication. The best way to reduce anxiety is by relaxing. Here are some of the natural methods that can help alleviate anxiety levels in pregnant women:

  • Drink a cup of hot herbal tea at regular intervals
  • Listen to some soothing soft music
  • Take relaxing baths
  • Keep yourself occupied
  • Meditate
  • Enjoy a massage
  • Get an adequate amount of sleep and rest during the day

There are a couple of exercises that are good for pregnant women, such as walking and swimming. These exercises not only help in maintaining healthy weight, but also reduce anxiety to a great extent.

The methods of treating anxiety during pregnancy are quite safe however, it is essential to check with a doctor, before trying any of them. In case these natural methods do not bring about the desired results, pregnant women can consult their doctors for medication or therapy to alleviate anxiety.

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