Is it OK to feel like this?

[unknownghost]

Hello!

I am currently 18 weeks and 4 days pregnant. I have always wanted to be a mother and I said that I was born to be a mother, so when I found out I was pregnant, my partner and I was very excited. However, I feel a little disconnected and I'm afraid that I'm going to feel disconnected when they are born :( I don't know why I am feeling like this! I'm so anxious of potentially having postnatel depression and I haven't even had our baby yet :(. Honestly I am so so happy to be pregnant and I'm eating, drinking and exercising well! I am just anxious.. why could this be ?

Perhaps anxiety because of the massive change to life ahead and the unknown? It could be a subconscious feeling.

It's only natural to be anxious. It's the biggest change to your life and body that you will ever experience. Sorry if that sounds dramatic but it is true. Also, for years you've been waiting for this moment with (probably unrealistic) expectations of how you're supposed to feel. Don't forget, hormones are at play big time too. Is there a family history of PND or any specific reason why you fear this so much?

I felt the exact same way, it’s a huge unknown and it will completely change your life. I think it’s normal to feel this way, please don’t be alarmed.

You won’t be disconnected when baby is here, the protective instincts are so strong, some parents immediately feel a rush of love, for others it builds over time (I’m the latter and now couldn’t imagine a world without DD). Either way is fine!

You sound like you are doing everything right, try to enjoy your pregnancy as much as you can (I found it quite tough!) and congratulations 😊