During pregnancy the focus is on the physical health of mum and bub, but for some women, their mental health needs just as much monitoring. Pregnancy can bring with it wonderful highs and devastating lows. You might be excited about meeting your baby but the hormones, physical changes in your body and worries can leave you feeling down more often than up. Being able to manage your emotions will ensure you get through your pregnancy and be positive about the next phase of life.
A Balanced Life
Keeping yourself active both physically and mentally can help with your emotions. Being physically active or just getting some fresh air and sunshine can improve your mood and outlook.
Find something you enjoy doing. If you have had to give up a contact sport or work, take up a hobby or activity that will fill the void. Indulge in something you have wanted to do for a while but haven’t had the time or motivation. If the first activity doesn’t work out, keep looking for one that you enjoy. Staying busy won’t allow you as much time to dwell on your worries.
Support Network
Having a group of friends, family members or health professionals around you will help with the rollercoaster of pregnancy.
Every woman has a different pregnancy experience but being able to talk about your concerns with others can help you keep them in perspective. Try to stay in contact with friends and family so you feel supported now and when the baby arrives. If you are worried that you may be losing a support network in your colleagues, remember you may gain new support through mothers group, playgroup and eventually your child's school.
Worrying about the Future
During pregnancy you may realise that your life is about to change quite drastically. If it’s your first baby, you may be worried about what motherhood will mean for you or how you will cope financially being away from work. If you are expecting your second or subsequent child, you may be concerned about how you are going to have the time and energy to deal with multiple children.
If you are worried about the impending birth, talk to your midwife or obstetrician about your concerns. A quick chat can answer some of your questions and relieve some of your worries.
While it’s completely normal to have worries, don’t dwell on them. Try not to let your concerns about the future get in the way of living today. You never know, you may be worrying for nothing. Often it’s the fear of the unknown that is worse than reality. Ask yourself if there is anything you can do to ‘fix’ these concerns. If not, put them to one side and tell yourself to worry about them if and when they eventuate.
More than Normal
For some women, they need a little more help getting through the pregnancy. If your anxiety and worries are interfering with your ability to enjoy everyday life, talk to your doctor or obstetrician.
HIF Maternity Cover
The years spent creating your family are when you rely most on quality hospital cover. Take a look at the benefits included in HIF’s Maternity Cover and enjoy peace of mind knowing you have the right health cover when you need it most.