Pregnant and high anxiety

[janetkay80]

- I am 30 years old and am seven weeks and a half weeks pregnant.  This is my second pregnancy as I had a miscarriage Summer of '10. I started to have small panic attacks around four weeks, but they were not severe and didn't tell my doctor. I did tell him that I had previous depression/anxiety when I was in my early 20's but have not taken medication for it in years as the stress of college is no longer there.  I am nearing the time that I had the miscarriage last time the panic attacks are getting worse and I am anxious if I am alone. I have found that talking to friends on the phone or distracting myself with the internet will help, but once I am no longer on the phone or computer my anxiousness takes over and I start to worry.  My husband is wonderful through all this, and has completely taken over all the housework and most of the cooking. I emailed my doctor and he said not too worry,  I am on 200 mg of progesterone a day and I think it makes the hormones go crazy.  My best friend has been great as well, she will sit on the phone with me, even if we don't talk she is there listening in case I need her.  Does anyone have any suggestions? I really don't want to take medication, but I am afraid it is going to get worse before it gets better.  

[ProudMumToBe]

I suggest seeing a therapist as it might help to discuss all this with a professional in person who can also help You with stress techniques and possibly discuss the safety of different medications on the baby throughout pregnancy.
Stress is no good on the baby or Yourself, You need to try and relax.

[jul04]

Congratulations on your pregnancy.  First of all your hormones are all over the place because of your pregnancy and then when you add the worry of the miscarriage/timing etc on top of that it is no wonder you are having panic attacks.

It sounds like you have a great support system around you which is good.  However I think it might be a good idea if you speak to a therapist.  They are trained to help people with anxiety and you will learn coping skills that will help you with the anxiety.

Also keeping a journal might not be a bad idea.  Sometimes just writing down your worries and fears helps to get them out and that in turn helps with the anxious feelings.

Make sure you are getting enough sleep and exercise.  Exercise helps alot with anxiety.  So if you find yourself feeling anxious go for a walk.

I think once you pass the time in which you had your first miscarriage you will be less anxious.

I do hope you start feeling better soon.  Best of luck....