How to Cope with PTSD While Pregnant

Pregnancy
can be an emotionally overwhelming experience for just about anybody. But for
women with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it can be downright scary.
Sadly, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of information to be found about how PTSD
can impact a pregnancy, leaving many moms-to-be with even more questions and
concerns.

The
few studies that examined how PTSD affects pregnancy
are mixed. Some say women with PTSD experience fewer symptoms when expecting,
while others cite higher risk of complications due to PTSD. However, the
studies did find that PTSD symptoms during pregnancy require treatment and
care just as much as the pregnancy itself.

Self-Care During
Pregnancy is Key

Self-care
during pregnancy is important for all women, but it is particularly necessary
for those suffering from PTSD. Without a keen sense of how you are feeling and
putting your emotional needs first, you may find your mental health will begin
to deteriorate.

If
you are living with PTSD and are pregnant, here are some things you can do:

Make Coordinating Your
Psychiatric and Prenatal Treatment a Priority

It
is really important that you are completely transparent with all of your
doctors during this time and share critical information. For instance, maybe
you’ve told your therapist that you are pregnant, but neglected to mention that
you’ve stopped taking your medications at the recommendation of your OBGYN.
Maybe your OBGYN knows you have taken antidepressants in the past, but does not
know you are currently battling PTSD. Not sharing pertinent information with
your specialists will make it difficult to determine the right treatments at
the right time.

Be Realistic with What You
Can Handle

Now
is not the time to try and be superhuman. Instead, be realistic and set your
priorities. Do the dishes really need to be washed? Do you really have to
return those emails? What about painting the nursery? The answer is no, those
chores can wait. Focus on getting rest and relaxation while you can.

Talk with Family and Friends

Keeping
your emotions and concerns inside will not help you manage your pregnancy. You
will require a loving support group of family and friends that understand what
you are going through, as best they can. Openly discussing your pregnancy and
PTSD can provide strength and comfort during those particularly rough times.

If
you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD and are pregnant, but are not currently
working with a therapist, consider doing so. They will be able to help you
navigate your anxiety and depression during this very crucial time.

If
you would like to explore treatment options, please contact me. I would be more
than happy to discuss how I may be able to help.