Effects of Panic Attacks on Baby?

knottie69f2953659183260

Hi everyone,

I’m just over 14 weeks and am thankful to say things have gone well with my pregnancy so far.  Generally, I’m a little uptight but I wouldn’t describe myself as “anxious” most of the time, and find that I’m able to calm myself down pretty easily.

However, I struggle with a couple of specific phobias, and my anxiety only acts up when I actually encounter the things I’m scared of (insects, and needles).

During my last lab work (NIPT test) I had a panic attack. Today, I had a scary encounter with a HUGE bug in my yard, and had a panic attack. Crying, hyperventilating, shaking. Lasted less than five minutes.

I know anxiety can be linked to low birth weight and preterm birth— wondering if anyone has had experience navigating anxiety in pregnancy. Again, mine is less chronic and more circumstantial, so it’s not constant. Would one or two more make or panic attacks over the course of pregnancy likely hurt my baby?

(Also, because I know people are going to tell me I need help, I have a therapist and am being treated).

Thank you!

norma_xxoo

Hi!! I am 27 weeks pregnant! I’ve dealt with some anxiety / panic attacks during the pregnancy and my doctor says it doesn’t affect the baby. She actually made a good point saying that women who are pregnant in third world countries/ wars / poverty/ horrible conditions etc, end up having perfectly healthy babies especially with the amount of stress / anxiety they deal with in their daily lives. 

I would say don’t Google anything because it’ll stress you out. Your baby will be fine !