Daniel L. The Effect of Fear & Anxiety (while pregnant!)

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Question

I just found out that I am pregnant and quite upset because I am just working on my TMS symptoms. I do have fears on how my life will change and especially the hardships I will face due to this new chapter in my life. It's just that I have this thought that are those pregnancy symptoms- nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pre-eclampsia, edema etc are brought about by the same process as TMS? As these new mothers are quite pressured and it is taboo to think selfishly about themselves especially that they have a baby coming? I am just frustrated that I am having all these thoughts, feelings, worries, and stuff.

 

Answer

Thanks for your question. In mentioning your fears and these possible symptoms, it seems as though you might be scaring yourself, especially if you haven't been diagnosed with these conditions (preeclampsia, edema, etc.) by your physician. Fear thoughts can cause anxiety, and anxiety is a difficult thing to live with.

I’d encourage you to not only get confirmation from a doctor that what you’re experiencing is just a part of the pregnancy process, but also to be proactive about reducing your anxiety. Mindfulness meditation is a useful tool to help observe and reduce anxiety, but often times the act of just recognizing that you’re anxious can help to reduce it.

Secondly - you bring up a valuable point, and I think it’s important that everyone considering a TMS diagnosis think about what you’re asking. Flushing out the difference between physical manifestations of TMS and structural problems (or in your case – symptoms of pregnancy) is important. We recommend that everyone consult a TMS physician (if possible) to eliminate the prospect of any structural issues. There is a list of TMS physicians available to you here: http://www.tmswiki.org/ppd/Find_a_TMS_Doctor_or_Therapist

In your case, pregnancy can lead to a number of symptoms, and it’s important to consult an Obstetrician to verify whether or not the symptoms you’re experiencing are just a part of the pregnancy. Many of the issues you mentioned are common during pregnancy, and hopefully that knowledge will ease your fears.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to take care of yourself. It’s important for both your health and the health of the baby. It’s not selfish to take time for you – it’s what’s healthiest for everybody.

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