Anxiety is an all too common condition during pregnancy. There are any number of reasons for this. For one, your body is going through a great number of changes during pregnancy. Not the least of these changes is the changing levels of hormones that takes place during pregnancy. In addition, there are often a great deal of situational factors that can contribute to anxiety during pregnancy. Most women worry, to one degree or another, about labor and delivery, and what to expect. You may have anxiety about your baby’s well being. You may be anxious about what sort of a parent that you are going to be. You might be worried about how the baby will affect your family, or your other relationships. All of these things are normal, but can create a great deal of anxiety during pregnancy.

One of the best ways to go about dealing with anxiety during pregnancy is through relaxation. Take the time that you need to rest when you need it. Slow down your pace a bit. Drink a cup of relaxing herbal tea, or listen to some soft music or a relaxation CD. Realize that everything will get done in its own time. Sit down, take a few minutes to breathe, and to think about the good things in your life. Take a relaxing bath, or read a good book. Just slow down from the hectic pace of modern life for a little while.

Another great way to deal with anxiety during pregnancy is through exercise. Of course, you will need to be certain that your exercise regimen is appropriate for your individual case by talking about it with your health care provider. And, while you’re not going to be running any marathons, especially during your third trimester, exercise can help to keep your body in shape and ready for labor. In addition to helping you deal with anxiety during pregnancy, exercise can also help prepare your body for postpartum weight loss.

If you are having severe anxiety during pregnancy, and if you are not able to deal with it, you should seek outside help. A mental health professional can help you to recognize if you are experiencing depression, for example, and help you to address it in a manner that is both effective and safe for you and for your baby.

This entry was posted in Pregnancy.