Pregnant after 35

Anxious!

Hi everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well. I’m a first-time mum-to-be, and I just wanted to reach out because I’m really struggling with anxiety around my pregnancy. I have always been a bit anxious, but ever since finding out I’m expecting, it has intensified. The worry seems to come in waves, and sometimes it feels overwhelming.

A lot of my worries are about whether the baby will be healthy, if I’ll be able to handle labour, and if I’ll be a good mum once the baby arrives. I keep finding myself thinking, “Am I doing everything right?” and “What if something goes wrong?” I’m also really scared of all the changes that are coming, and I feel like I’m not ready for any of it. Even though I’m trying to stay positive, these thoughts keep creeping in, especially at night when it’s hard to switch off.

I’ve tried talking to friends and family, but I sometimes feel like they don’t quite understand how intense these feelings are. They mean well, but they often say things like, “It’s normal to worry,” or “Everything will be fine,” which is lovely but doesn’t really take the anxiety away.

I did come across this guide, which has been helpful https://anxietyhelpbox.com/coping-with-anxiety-during-pregnancy-and-following-the-birth-a-cbt-based-self-management-guide-for-women-and-health-care-providers/ . It has some good CBT-based tips that I’m trying to follow, like breathing exercises and challenging negative thoughts. It’s been reassuring to have a practical resource, but I still feel like I need a bit more support and would love to hear from other mums who have been through this.

If any of you have experienced similar feelings or have found things that help, I’d really appreciate any advice. Did anything specific work for you to calm those anxious thoughts? I just want to find a way to feel a bit more relaxed and positive about this journey. Thank you so much for reading and for any suggestions you can offer.

Sending love to all the mums and mums-to-be out there!

Re: Anxious!

  • I totally understand these feelings, and feel like most first time parents-to-be have them!!  Talking to recent first time parents about their experiences is really helpful, along with connecting through communities like this one.

    My doctor's office (part of a larger network) also had some resources like talk support groups with other parents - maybe try looking for something like that?  It can be comforting just to hear how other people are feeling and coping!
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  • Im 35, and this is my first pregnancy I’m more so worried about the pains and also preeclampsia, although it’s something that no one has gotten so far in my family. I’m just praying for a healthy safe delivery. 
  • ghoulianghoulian member
    edited March 5
  • A friend of mine liked recommendations and tips on myivfanswers site, very practical and helpful. 
  • Hi there! I’m expecting my 2nd and am riddle with anxiety. I had a lot of anxiety the first time around and postpartum was really tough. I felt a little blindsided by how anxious I feel this time. It’s still very early so I havent had any scans or anything yet and the unknown is so hard. 

    Just wanted to say that you’re not alone. Being a first time parent is so hard! Definitely lean on your support system- tell them how you’re feeling. You can also set expectations with them that you don’t want them to tell you it’s all going to be “fine”- that can feel dismissive so sometimes it’s helpful to have someone validate your feelings and then help you work through them. I’ve been trying to do that with my spouse and it helps a bit. 

    No matter what- you’ve got this! Hang in there and take care of yourself-that’s the best way to be a great parent. 
  • You’re doing more than you think. Sometimes it’s not about eliminating the worry, but about learning to move alongside it without letting it control the joy of this season.
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