Stress & Anxiety in Pregnancy: Learn How to Manage the Risks
There may be many reasons to feel stress and anxiety in pregnancy, such as…
- You have a history of anxiety or panic disorder and this pregnancy has triggered new worries and fears;
- You have gone through IVF treatments, suffered previous pregnancy losses, or have been labeled as “high risk;”
- You have experienced or are experiencing a recent stressful event such as a job change, marital difficulties, loss of a loved one, etc.;
- You are fearful or preoccupied with giving birth and the pain or uncertainty of what will happen to you or your child;
- Your pregnancy was unplanned;
- You feel unprepared to become a mother or worry that you will be able to juggle work and family;
- Your partner is un-involved or unavailable and you feel like you are alone in the pregnancy or planning of this child;
- You or others would describe you as having a “Type A” personality;
- Your partner suffers from depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, or other mental health issues.
Are you worried about the effects of stress and anxiety on your unborn baby?
If you are like other pregnant women I have worked with, then you are probably worried about the effects of stress and anxiety in pregnancy to your unborn child. While there is research that supports this concern; however, there is also research that supports that managing your stress and anxiety can substantially minimize these risks and produce very good outcomes both for you and your baby.
Risks Associated with Stress and Anxiety in Pregnancy
- Increased chance of developing postpartum depression (also known as perinatal mood disorder);
- Difficulty with breastfeeding;
- Challenges with bonding with the baby or mother-infant interactions;
- Temperament or sleep challenges of the baby;
- Developmental issues/delays.
- premature labor
- low birth weight
Evidenced based counseling can help you develop tools and strategies to cope and manage with anxiety and stress in pregnancy and mentally and emotionally prepare for becoming a mom or adding to your family.
(754) 223-6584 | info@phoenixrisingcounselingservices.net