Antenatal Anxiety
Antenatal anxiety is the experience of feeling excessively anxious before the birth of a baby. It is a common psychological issue for expecting mothers and can cause physical and emotional disturbances. Antenatal anxiety can lead to depression, fatigue and difficulty sleeping, as well as difficulties in bonding with the baby after delivery. Anxiety during pregnancy may result from fear of the unknown, lack of control, negative thoughts and worries about the effects of a new baby on the family, and fear of the birthing experience. To ease antenatal anxiety, counselling or cognitive behavioral therapies can help expecting mothers to understand and manage the pressures of pregnancy. Additionally, prenatal yoga, mindfulness and other relaxation techniques can help reduce the effects of antenatal anxiety.
← Journal of Breastfeeding Biology