Pregnancy is not all about the upcoming child. It is an experience that is full of challenges. It not only entails bodily changes, but also emotional and psychological changes. Dr Torres OBGYN states that these changes are caused by hormonal influx in the body and are natural. Even though the change will come and go, it is good to keep yourself healthy both mentally and physically. It is beneficial for you and your baby.
Pregnancy has three trimesters and in all of them, there are different psychological needs.
First trimester
There are significant changes happening here, though they may not be seen. It is at this time new mothers will feel anxious about miscarriage. Although the fear has no basis, it is completely normal to feel that way. The body at this stage produces a lot of progesterone hormone which is linked to nausea, tiredness, and crying uncontrollably with no apparent reason. You start experiencing fluctuating moods of highs and lows which may become confusing to you. If the pregnancy is planned, the emotions are less, whereas if it was unplanned, a lot of anxiety and confusion may trickle in. Every woman’s experience is different. And every pregnancy provides a different experience. Talking to a friend or a counselor may help reduce anxiety. You can also try relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation.
The second trimester
During this stage, anxiety, nausea, and mood swings have disappeared. You will tend to become more forgetful and less organized. Here you will become self-conscious of the weight you are putting on. In some women, it can cause feelings of low self-esteem as they feel unattractive toward their partners.
It is important to talk to your partner about how you feel. Try to sustain your emotional bond. You must learn to appreciate the changes happening in your body because you cannot remain as you were before the pregnancy
The third trimester
At times the forgetfulness and the disorganization that was there before is still happening. You are still experiencing major physical and emotional changes. There is anticipation of a new baby. A new anxiety kicks in of the baby’s arrival. There are a lot of worries about labor and childbirth.
At this stage people treat pregnant women in a differential way whether it is at the office or at the workplace. This treatment can sometimes bring the feelings of being helpless. At this stage, your partner should give you a lot of attention. Prepare for the baby in advance, like booking your gynecologist, a taxi, and a birth companion.
In conclusion, pregnancy is a journey towards bringing a new life. However, it is not an easy journey. A lot of psychological needs arise. As soon as you realize you are expectant, it is good to start with a good gynecologist or obstetrician who will walk the journey with you. Dr Torres OB/GYN is one of the best. A high-risk pregnancy develops when your health or your baby’s is compromised before or during birth. Certain factors increase the likelihood that you’ll have a high-risk pregnancy. Get tips for preventing and managing a high-risk pregnancy here.
