There are many reasons for anxiety during pregnancy.  Listed below is a brief summary of the 5 reasons for pregnancy anxiety that clients often experience. This brief description of the reasons for anxiety is meant to help you know if you should speak to your doctor and therapist. Read below on the potential reasons for pregnancy anxiety and what you can do about them.

History of Anxiety

Individuals who have battled anxiety in the past can suffer from anxiety during pregnancy.  Anxiety during pregnancy can become worse depending on your current situation and if you have stopped taking prescribed medication due to fear of harming your baby.  Women are often fearful of the medication side effects that they think are harmful for their unborn baby. The best thing to do, is to inform your doctor about your history with anxiety and to discuss your current medications for further options.

Previous Pregnancy Loss

If you have suffered a miscarriage or the loss of a baby during pregnancy you can feel anxiety with a new pregnancy. The loss of a baby can cause you to feel sadness and pain.  Some women have traumatic experiences. These painful events can result in constant fear and worry with each new pregnancy.  You may find it difficult to get through the day as you fear for the baby’s safety which can lead to pregnancy anxiety.

Assisted Reproduction

Couples who have conceived through assisted reproduction often experience anxiety. Women and couples alike have often dealt with an emotional rollercoaster when trying to have a baby. The use of hormones, frequent doctor visits, and not knowing if you will get pregnant can result in feelings of anxiety. 

Relationship Conflict

Individuals and couples experiencing problems in their relationship may feel stress, fear, and constant worry.  Financial hardship, infidelity, divorce, and overall tension in relationships can cause women to experience anxiety during pregnancy. The uncertainty of the relationship and the fear of having a baby during a difficult time can lead to anxiety.

Environmental/Social Factors

Troubling times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, racial inequality, and political turmoil can make women scared to live through during their pregnancy. This type of stress can easily cause pregnancy anxiety.

Anxiety is difficult for a person to experience.  If you are pregnant and you or your partner are experiencing anxiety, please reach out today.  For more information on symptoms of anxiety read my blog post Are you suffering from pregnancy anxiety? You do not have to suffer alone.  There are tools you can learn. You can experience a peaceful and joyful pregnancy.  Schedule Your Free Consultation today.