How to Stop Worrying in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of your life that brings joy and excitement, but there might be an undercurrent of fear too. One of the more significant fears that expectant mothers face is the fear of complications during pregnancy. This fear can be super overwhelming, but but trust me when I say - there are ways you manage and overcome it!

Tokophobia is an intense fear of childbirth or pregnancy that can affect women and, in some cases, their partners. It can manifest in many different ways, including sleep disturbances, panic attacks, and extreme fear of birth defects or ill health. Recognising this fear is the first step towards addressing it, and I promise, you're not alone!

So what can you do about it??

First of all, communication is SO very important!

Openly discussing concerns with your partner, family & friends, or your midwife can provide support and alleviate fears. Sharing your worries allows you to form a support system, which can bring reassurance as well as practical help when needed and help you feel less alone.

I'm a big believer in Education and Preparation - my old school Motto still rings true:

 'If You Fail To Prepare, Then Prepare To Fail'

Knowledge, in this instance, most certainly translates into power, and understanding the process of childbirth can demystify the experience and reduce fear. Attending birthing classes or seeking the help of an experienced birth worker can provide valuable information on what to expect during labour, delivery, and recovery, as well as strategies for managing the surges of labour.

If your fear is deeply rooted, professional help such as therapy may be beneficial. Therapists can offer coping strategies and help you work through your anxiety surrounding pregnancy and childbirth.

By the same token, focusing on positive stories and outcomes rather than negative ones can help shift the mindset. Avoiding negative narratives about childbirth and seeking out positive experiences can help build a more optimistic outlook.  The internet has given us SO much information at the click of a button, but it's still down to you whether you read it or not.  Find the positive stories, the ones that speak of the journey you'd like to go on, and don't even begin to start reading the horror stories!

The fear of complications in pregnancy is a valid and common concern, but it doesn't have to dominate your experience, ultimately YOU are in control of how you feel and what you can do to feel better.  Through understanding, communication, education, professional support, and a positive mindset, You can find ways to manage and overcome any fears, leading to a more positive pregnancy journey.