Becoming a mum for first time

[Sally050608]

Hello everyone,

I'm in an amazing position where we can start a family this year, we've been speaking about it for a while and this year would be the perfect time.

But I just feel so scared and anxious. A couple of years ago I had a really bad time with stress and anxiety and it took me over a year to recover from it. I'm so concerned that it's all going to come back to me and I'll start having panic attacks again etc worrying about the baby, doctor appointments and the labour.

I've never been in hospital before or even had a blood test, so this is all new for me and I think covid isn't helping matters. I know it will be all worth it and our baby will bring us so much love and joy but something just holding me back and I keep getting really upset because I just want to be normal and enjoy becoming a mum. I work as a nanny and have a fair amount of experience with children which I'm very lucky to have.

Any one been in a similar position and can give any words of encouragement 😊

Hey OP

I’ve always suffered bad with anxiety and the second I fell pregnant it seemed to completely disappear (of course everyone is different).

This is my first baby and of course it’s bloody terrifying that you will be in charge or something and your whole life will change but like you have said, you feel ready so go for it! In terms of not being at hospital, the majority of appointments are over the phone or house visits (except for blood tests and scans but even that’s only a couple).

Are you on medication for your anxiety?xx

I was diagnosed with OCD in sept 2018 and had severe symptoms that hit me suddenly like a bulldozer. I was fortunate to have amazing cbt treatment but was still concerned about additional anxieties coming back when I decided to get pregnant. Am now 8 months and even in covid lockdown - been working extra time at a university throughout the year whilst dealing with changing symptoms etc - but have gotten this far without too much stress (especially given the circumstances!). I didn't have the feelings of being immediately besotted with pregancy, and even though planned still took time to get used to, along with the idea of such big changes from pre-pregnancy/covid life. Everyone will have different stresses and anxieties, so it's best to make sure you have the right support for you, whatever that is or who from. Best thing I've found is to be open about it all. Anxieties seem much less when vocalised.

Thank you ☺️

That's good to know, I think where we have been in lockdown I'm just overthinking everything! No I'm not on any medication, I had some counselling sessions before and that really helped me.xx

Thank you, that's really good to hear 😊

That's very true I use to hide away about my anxiety but I am very open now it helps alot when you open up. Good luck with everything xx