Emetophobia and pregnancy/children

[PringleJess]

I am 28 and have suffered with emetophobia & related anxiety/mild OCD tendencies since I was about 11/12 with it being at its worse in my late teens/early twenties. Over the last 2-3 years I've been mostly doing ok, but this year it has been worse. I had a very bad patch in March when someone I knew was unwell & I couldn't go into work for a couple of days due to the anxiety & worry, it was one of the worst episodes I have had. It was the only time in my life where I've felt real depression, a bleak feeling with no desire or capability to do the simplest of things.

I got married 2 years ago and we are thinking more & more about having DC. I am at a stage where I would like to have a baby, but I'm just not sure how I would cope with both pregnancy and having a child. Are there any other emets out there who have children & could share your experiences? I think I'm really asking if your love & wanting to look after your children is a stronger feeling than the awful anxiety & gets you through?

I have never taken medication for my anxiety and phobia as deep down I am ashamed to admit I have these problems. I have tried hypnotherapy, but this didn't make any difference. The only people who know are my DH and my parents (my parents do not understand, but my DH is supportive). I'm also ashamed to admit that I do self medicate with alcohol, but not to extremes due to being terrified of getting drunk!

[wildernessagogo]

I am emetophobic and have been since childhood. I have 2 dcs and like you thought that pregnancy would be impossible at times. I had no ms with either of and both dcs are rarely sick but it is hard - if they say they have tummy ache I find myself spinning into panic some days. However - I cannot imagine my life without them. They are amazing and being a mum is the most fulfilling things I have ever done. I think they have had 4 stomach bugs between them (they are 8 & 3) which is such a small period of time facing it really.

I have had CBT in the past - my elder child was ill aged 3 and I couldn't cope do sought out therapy which has really helped me to cope. It is hard when they're ill, I won't lie, but support from family, FB support groups and people on here get me through!

Go for it! Honestly - go for it!! We'll be here if you need us!

[PringleJess]

Thank you for your encouragement, it's so nice to speak to someone who really understands the feelings that go with this phobia. You are right, we will have to go for it as I know deep down that I do really want to have children. I'm pretty sure I will be ok with the baby/milk stage as I've been around friends & relatives babies and have coped with this.

Work is a big part of it too, as my anxiety is always higher when I'm away from home. I work 1/2 hour from home and am always worrying about what I would do if I was to get ill at work. I do drive, but I don't like it as I've had panic attacks while driving, which have terrified me. I do love my job though and don't want this fear to make me leave

Did you do CBT privately or through the NHS? I think do you mind me asking what was involved?