Anxiety disorders and panic attacks are not uncommon for pregnant women. Some
women experience anxiety disorders and panic attacks before getting pregnant and
some experience it after getting pregnant or during postpartum. Pregnancy can be
very stressful, especially if you are a chronic worrier.
Both positive and negative events can cause stress. For example, pregnancy is
actually a positive and joyful event but it can also be the most life-altering
experience as your body going through big hormonal changes. This creates a lot
of tension and stress which could lead to panic attacks.
During pregnancy, the serotonin (chemical which the body produces during times
of fear or worry) level could become imbalanced in the brain, this can trigger
depression, mood disorders and even panic attacks. It's no secret that having a
baby is a very stressful situation, and for someone who is a chronic worrier,
the additional stress could generate even more severe panic attacks. The effect
of panic attacks during pregnancy can impact on the women's ability to cope with
family and the birth of the baby.
The symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders during pregnancy could include
shortness of breath, racing heartbeats, hot flashes and dizziness. But there are
also psychological effects which include fear of losing control, fear of dying
and fear of inadequacy. Symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety can be confused
with life threatening physical disorders. Please consult your doctor to
determine the source of your symptoms.
Here are some tips to help you control your anxiety during pregnancy:
1. Breathe slowly. When you feel anxious, put your left hand over your stomach;
inhale slowly and deeply; you should feel that your stomach expand or move out
when you inhale and move in when you exhale. Just do it slowly, it will help
take your mind away from your worry.
2. Pay attention to your diet. Eat enough protein (such as lean meat, fish,
poultry, egg whites, and beans); eat more fruits and vegetables. They are good
for your body and mind, producing the chemicals needed to help calm your mind.
3. Exercise regularly will help you reduce the stress. However, please get some
professional assistance to help you build an appropriate exercise program during
pregnancy.
4. Rest well at night. Quality sleep is very important as your body is doing
self-healing and self-recovery during sleep. No medication in the world can beat
the natural self-healing given by your body.
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