Anxiety after IVF

[newbishad]

Hi there,

Anyone suffer from anxiety throughout pregnancy and any tips? I am 21 weeks pregnant after 4 years of infertility and 2 ectopics. This is an IVF pregnancy. I am having trouble sleeping at night because I have developed a phobia of falling asleep due to vivid nightmares. I am also caught in a trap of thinking that my anxiety might be harmful for the baby although nothing has happened yet and all scans are normal.

Hi Newbishad

Just wanted to say that I completely understand where you are coming from. Im really sorry you are having (and have had) a tough time. I was terrified when I was pg that something would go wrong. We have primary and secondary IF. Even though the pg was so longed for I think I was actually so anxious about it I became a bit depressed.

Not sleeping is hideous.... and makes you feel so awful. Can you do some relaxation to help? (your midwife might be able to tell you about yoga or relaxation classes). Yoga really helped me relax and feel more positive. Also, your midwife/Dr might be able to help about your concerns (sometimes useful just to talk about them). Having said that our midwives were awful but hopefully yours better.

Im having acupuncture during the IVF etc - it can really help in pg too. Is there anything like that where you live?

Hope all goes well. Take care of yourself.

YOu poor thing. My second DS was IVF and I know what you mean. Vivid dreams are really common when pregnant so, in themselves, nothing to worry about. Agree that you should speak to midwife and see is she can recommend relaxation techniques. Failing that go to a class or buy a book. I had acupuncture throughout pregnancy too and it helped with relaxation. Hypnotheraphy might help too.

Hi Sticki,

I live in Ireland so it is impossible to get any support other than medication, believe me I have tried. There is a yoga class nearby but at the momment I am in England staying with my family to try and recover so there isn't one around. Relaxation techniques help.
Thanks for your support and good luck with the IVF.
Newbishad