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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

First panic attack at 16 weeks pregnant

10 replies

Panicattackpregnant · 08/07/2026 18:18

Name change.

16 weeks pregnant and made an unwise and impulsive decision to confront a stranger about a parking situation earlier today. I regret this decision. The situation escalated and resulted in a stranger getting in my physical space, shouting and swearing at me. I got my kids into the car and then had what I believe was a panic attack. Never had one before. For about 15 minutes I felt like I couldn’t breathe and was gasping and kind of hyperventilating? I couldn’t speak. A few other strangers stopped to help me try to regulate my breathing and get me water. I didn’t feel “normal” again for about an hour. Did anyone have panic attacks while pregnant? Or have their first one while pregnant and did it present like this? I’m scared it’s done something to the baby but from what I’ve googled it sounds like it’s not something I should go to hospital about.

Basically I’m hoping for someone who can say they had a panic attack while pregnant and their baby was fine

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Panicattackpregnant · 08/07/2026 19:30

Hopeful bump

OP posts:
Noshadowsinthedarkness · 08/07/2026 19:33

I would see your GP for a check up as you’re 16 weeks

My first panic attack was while I was pregnant with my second. I thought it was a heart attack so my husband called an ambulance… it was a panic attack.

Noshadowsinthedarkness · 08/07/2026 19:33

I hope you feel better soon. 💐

Panicattackpregnant · 08/07/2026 19:36

Noshadowsinthedarkness · 08/07/2026 19:33

I would see your GP for a check up as you’re 16 weeks

My first panic attack was while I was pregnant with my second. I thought it was a heart attack so my husband called an ambulance… it was a panic attack.

Thank you for replying, I’ll make an appointment. That’s so scary. I think if I hadn’t had the context of what had just happened I can easily see why someone would think they’re having a heart attack. I hope your baby was alright.

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Sausagedog256 · 08/07/2026 19:39

My cousin started having panic attacks when pregnant. Her baby is absolutely fine. Hope you feel better now

FlamingoBabe · 08/07/2026 20:09

That sounds horrible, I’m sorry you experienced that! I’m an NHS therapist who regularly works with pregnant women who experience panic attacks, and wanted to reassure you that baby won’t have been harmed by the experience. You could always speak to your midwife if you feel that would help but there is no evidence that suggests that a singular panic attack will harm baby. If you do notice an increase in panic/anxiety symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. I hope you’re feeling better 💐

Panicattackpregnant · 08/07/2026 20:26

FlamingoBabe · 08/07/2026 20:09

That sounds horrible, I’m sorry you experienced that! I’m an NHS therapist who regularly works with pregnant women who experience panic attacks, and wanted to reassure you that baby won’t have been harmed by the experience. You could always speak to your midwife if you feel that would help but there is no evidence that suggests that a singular panic attack will harm baby. If you do notice an increase in panic/anxiety symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. I hope you’re feeling better 💐

Thank you so much this has been reassuring to read.

OP posts:
babbi · 08/07/2026 20:34

Bless you … your wee baby will be absolutely fine 🥰
Take care of yourself … I had a vile man drive his car very fast at me when I was ( very obviously) 8 months pregnant 🤰 in a car park and couldn’t run out of the way ….
I was very shaken … baby born very healthy and chilled out … now in their 20s !

good luck with your pregnancy

teaandtoastwithmarmite · 08/07/2026 20:58

I had horrendous anxiety when I was pregnant. I do suffer but the pregnancy made it terrible. I did have panic attacks when it got too much

Noshadowsinthedarkness · Yesterday 06:34

Panicattackpregnant · 08/07/2026 19:36

Thank you for replying, I’ll make an appointment. That’s so scary. I think if I hadn’t had the context of what had just happened I can easily see why someone would think they’re having a heart attack. I hope your baby was alright.

Yes, my baby is nearly 7!

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