Are you an expectant mom? As if it’s not bad enough to feel as though you’re ballooning into a giant whale, your chances of developing an anxiety disorder will also multiply.
But why does being pregnant make you even more vulnerable to developing symptoms of anxiety, than before you had a bun in the oven?
To be clear, pregnancy is not only a monumental physical challenge. It’s also emotionally exhausting – and with raging hormones added to the mix, it’s not a coincidence that as many as 40% of pregnant women will experience some form of antenatal anxiety at some point.
So at a time that’s supposed to be joyous, how do we focus on the fun parts of pregnancy – nesting, nursery decorating, and preparing for our new arrival?
Here are four of our top stress-repelling tips for anxious expectant moms.
Get Yourself an Antenatal Team You Trust
Preparing to bring new life into the world? When it comes time to go into labor, you’ll need to put your complete confidence in the qualified hands of your antenatal team.
The prospect of giving birth in front of an audience of virtual strangers is, admittedly, confronting. Stripped down on a hospital bed, you need to know that you can trust the licensed medical professionals who will be there to support you in your most vulnerable moments.
Remember, these professionals have completed years of medical study to get where they are today. A family nurse practitioner, for instance, must complete the requisite degree – such as an online FNP program – to be able to practice in a medical setting. Similarly, an obstetrician will have obtained the relevant qualification in obstetrics and gynecology. And unless it’s their first day on the job, you’re also unlikely to be the first expecting mom your team of medics has assisted in the delivery room.
Armed with this knowledge about your antenatal team’s qualifications and experience, you should feel your anxiety around childbirth appease a little.
2. Lean On Your Loved Ones
When we experience antenatal anxiety, it’s common for us to feel guilty for harboring these emotions.
“I should be thrilled to be having a baby!” you might feel you need to remind yourself. Or, “My partner would be horrified to know that I’m not as excited as they are.”
But the truth is, there’s no shame in experiencing fears, doubts, and anxiety. If we open up about our anxieties to those around us, we might be surprised to learn how supportive they can be.
Speaking on the subject with our loved ones can also help us understand each other, and even, deepen our connection. Rather than hiding your struggle from your partner and other people close to you, open up to them. The best part? Being present and honest with ourselves and each other can help our bonds grow stronger. Shared experiences – whether joyful or otherwise – are, after all, what form the foundations of strong relationships.
If you need any more convincing – consider the baby: the truth is that he or she deserves to be brought into a supportive, nurturing, and loving environment, surrounded by people who respect, understand, and care for each other deeply.
3. Seek Therapy for Emotional Support
Speaking with a professional. It’s no secret that many of us will shy away from doing this, even when we need support the most.
To be fair – while leaning into loved ones can help us immensely, seeking advice from a licensed therapist can be even more beneficial. This is because – as a qualified mental health practitioner – they’re coming from an unbiased, non-judgmental perspective. They are also professionally trained to give you the emotional support you need.
Even if it’s just a space for you to vent, getting things off your chest and onto your therapist’s notepad could be just what the doctor ordered.
4. Schedule Some Serious Self-Care
Let’s get serious: self-care isn’t all skincare and bubble baths. Although, admittedly, putting your sore, swollen feet up can do wonders – especially if you’ve got a supportive partner picking up the slack.
But it’s more than this. Self-care also means taking care of your mental space during this challenging but special time in your life.
Our tip? Savor the glimmers in your day – the fleeting moments of joy that bring a smile to your face. Being present in these moments grounds us, and ultimately, helps us repel the symptoms of anxiety.