Pregnancy Complications - Anxiety
It's not uncommon for some women to experience some anxiety during pregnancy; this is especially common in the weeks leading up to childbirth.
Anxiety can manifest itself in many ways, very often taking the form of panic attacks, palpitations (racing heart) exhaustion, an inability to relax, sleeplessness, worrying about the birth and how you will cope when the baby arrives and worrying that you won't be a good parent.
In most cases anxiety can be controlled by simple relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, taking time out for yourself, attending yoga classes, getting regular exercise such as going for a brisk walk or swimming, meeting up with family or friends or just talking to someone about how you feel. You can also help to reduce your anxiety levels by cutting out or reducing stimulants such as caffeine from your diet.
However, if you find you are experiencing severe anxiety you should have a chat with your gp as you may be able to receive some counselling to help you get to the root of the problem or you may be prescribed some medication suitable for use during pregnancy to help you cope.
More Pregnancy Complications
- Gestational Diabetes
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Pre-eclampsia
- Placenta previa
- Cholestasis (itching during pregnancy)
- Hemorrhoids
- Backache
- Bleeding
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Morning sickness
- Varicose veins
- Stretch marks
- Depression (pre-natal depression)
- Childbed fever (puerperal sepsis)