Word of Mom | Preconception

Severe Anxiety During Pregnancy is Really Starting to Scare Me

Severe anxiety during pregnancy is not something I have ever had to deal with before. During all of my previous pregnancies, I never once dealt with anxiety attacks or depression. Of course, after my pregnancies was a different story. While I never dealt with anxiety, postpartum depression was something that I battled after each one of my babies, and it got progressively worse with each one.

But this time, things are very, very different. I did not know what anxiety attacks were until recently. Now, I have them all the time. The doctor has called it severe anxiety during pregnancy, and he is keeping a very close eye on it. We talked about putting me on medicine for it, but when he told me that medicines for severe anxiety during pregnancy can be dangerous to the baby, we both decided it would be best to hold off as long as possible. I know that was the right choice. I don't want to do anything that could harm my baby. I want him/her to have the best shot possible at growing strong and healthy inside me.

However, the severe anxiety during pregnancy is really starting to scare me. I have anxiety attacks all the time. My pulse is never below 95 beats per minute. My blood pressure has remained at an odd level - the top number is always anywhere from 135 - 169, but the bottom number is never over 80. The anxiety attacks this time are always worse when I'm driving, too. I had been driving the kids to school every day, but on Friday, I had to call and ask how to get them on the bus. Every morning and every afternoon, when I'm driving over the mountain to take them to school or pick them up, I have a panic attack. I go from 60 mph (the speed limit) to 40, and still feel like I'm going to fast. My heart races, and I feel like I'm going to pass out. It's not safe for the kids or I to be in the car when it's like this. I know that, and I'm doing everything in my power to take care of it and remove us from the situation.

Have you ever dealt with severe anxiety during pregnancy? What was your experience? Did you go on medicine for treating anxiety during pregnancy? I'm curious to hear your story. I'd love it if you'd leave a comment below.

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