How to recognise when you may need help

• Distress and heightened anxiety when a pregnancy is confirmed.
• Feelings of being out of control and trapped, agitation, irritability, stress, restlessness and nervousness.
• Feelings of isolation, loneliness, being misunderstood and unsupported.
• Negative thoughts about being abnormal and different to people around you.
• Self-doubt about your ability to go through labour and birth and caring for your baby.
• Repeated negative thoughts or fear of pain around labour and birth.
• Intrusive thoughts and memories (images) of a previous traumatic birth.
• Fear of harm or death as a result of birth (in relation to both mother and baby)
• Increasing distress and anxiety throughout the pregnancy and especially in the last trimester
• Symptoms of anxiety, which can include: altered sleep pattern, nightmares, rapid heartbeat, tension, abdominal pains, and panic symptoms, difficulty relaxing
• Avoidance of talking about/thinking about birth/ antenatal education
• Worries about the impact having a baby will have on you and your relationship
• Partners and fathers may have similar fears and worries

If you think you may be experiencing any of these feelings or have any concerns or questions about your emotional wellbeing, please speak with your midwife or GP. They will be able to provide help and advice and be able to discuss with you the most appropriate supports for your individual needs. The earlier you can get help the better. Also, speak to your partner and family/friends if you feel comfortable doing so.