Why Do I Feel Panicked During My Pregnancy?

Feeling Panicked During Pregnancy? – You’re Not Alone and Help is Available

Our Clinician Emily during her first pregnancy

There is so much joy, excitement, and hope that can arise during pregnancy. However, the preparation process and the presence of unknowns can bring about waves of anticipation, anxiety, and even panic attacks. The hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and general life adjustments that can come with having a baby can understandably trigger feelings of fear and unease. Experiencing heightened anxiety as you enter a new season of life is completely normal, but you don’t have to struggle through the nerves and panic-related symptoms alone. Receiving support and exploring treatment options can make a huge difference in your pregnancy and postpartum journey. 

It is important for healthcare providers to screen for symptoms of panic disorder in pregnant patients and consider the types of treatment that may be most helpful in managing the impact of those symptoms. Signs that you might be experiencing panic during your pregnancy can include constant worrying, restlessness, irritability, feeling dread, and difficulties with concentration. You may also notice physical symptoms like racing heartbeat, rapid breathing or shortness of breath, lightheadedness or dizziness, excessive sweating, tension or pain in muscles, and numb or tingling feelings. If you are encountering any of these symptoms, we encourage you to talk to your doctor to gain a better understanding of the underlying causes of your anxiety, rule out any potential medical conditions, and receive the holistic care that you need and deserve.

Your provider can offer guidance on managing your mental health during pregnancy. Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Research has found that pregnant individuals with panic disorder had the best long-term outcomes when treated with antidepressant medication. Those who didn’t receive any treatment were more likely to experience ongoing symptoms of panic and distress, even after their baby arrived. These findings emphasize the potential impact that medical treatment can have on neonatal outcomes in addition to other factors like physical activity, diet, exposure to psychosocial stressors, and quality of prenatal care.

In addition to exploring professional resources to manage anxiety and panic, prioritizing engagement in self-care and engagement with social support can help ease some of the nerves and tension. You can incorporate activities that you enjoy into your daily life that allow you space to relax and connect to the present moment. Pausing to practice mindfulness, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques in moments of overwhelm can help calm your nervous system. Also, leaning on your partner, family members, close friends, or a support group can offer healing as you have a space for your emotional experiences to be heard and valued.

Therapy can be part of a supportive care plan that helps you feel more grounded, connected, and ready for the transition to parenthood. Your mental health matters during pregnancy, just as much as your physical health. Managing panic during pregnancy requires a combination of understanding, self-care, and support. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to experience anxiety, and there are numerous ways to cope with and manage those feelings. With the right tools, professional help, and a supportive environment, you can find peace and calm during this special time in your life. At The Couch Therapy, we work alongside OB-GYNs, psychiatrists, and reproductive specialists to create thoughtful, safe treatment plans for expecting parents. If you’re pregnant and struggling with panic or anxiety, reach out. We’re here to help you feel supported every step of the way.

Blog Support Reference: Uguz, F., Yuksel, G., Onur, O. S., Karsidag, C., Gezginc, K., & Arpaci, N. (2018). Neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with untreated and treated panic disorder. Comprehensive psychiatry, 87, 107–111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.comppsych.2018.10.001v