DO YOU KNOW THE SIGNS? ANXIETY IN PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM!
“As a therapist, I know firsthand how common and impactful perinatal anxiety can be. This is a topic that isn’t discussed enough or is often brushed aside or overlooked. WE ARE CHANGING THAT TODAY! I want to chat about the signs and symptoms of perinatal anxiety. So whether you’re a mother, new mother, a partner, doula, or healthcare provider, this blog is for YOU! The village has to be aware of the signs and symptoms in order to make a change in Maternal Mental Health!”
-Ja’Neen
WHAT IS PERINATAL ANXIETY?
IT’S COMMON!
Perinatal Anxiety can affect anyone, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, did you know that it’s actually very common during pregnancy and postpartum? According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist (ACOG), perinatal anxiety is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting up to 1 in 5 women. Yes you heard me, 1 in 5 women! We also know that women who have a history of anxiety or depression are at a higher risk of developing perinatal anxiety.
SYMPTOMS OF PERINATAL ANXIETY
The symptoms of perinatal anxiety can range from mild to severe and can affect women in different ways. Here are come common symptoms of perinatal anxiety.
Excessive worry or fear
Panic attacks or feelings of panic
Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating
Irritability or agitation
Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
Avoidance of certain situations or activities
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or nightmares
Physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, or rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and tension.
These symptoms can make it challenging for a woman to function daily, care for her baby, and maintain healthy relationships. Getting treatment is important because going untreated can lead to other complications, like:
Postpartum depression
Pregnancy and childbirth complications
Challenges bonding with baby
Long-term mental health effects
WHAT DOES “GETTING HELP” LOOK LIKE?
Here are a list of options a mother and her support team can look into when seeking help. Remember, if there is any threat to mom or baby the first thing we want to do is get her to the nearest ER!
Talk to your healthcare provider!
Find a perinatal mental health specialist (a therapist that has extra training in these issues)!
Consider medication: this step will be after you have completed an evaluation with your healthcare provider.
Practice self-care!
Join a support group!
Consider complementary therapies! And if you live in the Shreveport-Bossier area we have something SPECIAL coming very soon!
COVERED THOUGHTS
“ I hope this blog has shed some light on perinatal anxiety and the signs to look out for. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with perinatal anxiety, you’re not alone. It’s common and can be treated! As a therapist and doula, I want to remind you that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage. There are therapist, like myself, who are ready to hold space for you throughout your healing process. So reach out, there is absolutely no shame! And if you’re a healthcare provider, I encourage you to screen ALL pregnant and postpartum women for perinatal anxiety and provide resources and referrals as needed. As one of my favorite childhood movies states, “We’re all in this together!”
Much love “Village”
-Ja’Neen
