How to overcome fears about the baby
Right about now, the honeymoon phase of pregnancy is on the horizon. Morning sickness (or toxicosis) is tapering down and your partner will likely feel a resurgence in strength and energy.
However, many pregnant women start to feel a different kind of anxiety at this time. New tests will be due soon, and since they mostly screen for chromosomal abnormalities and birth defects, future parents can be understandably worried [1]. Any prenatal diagnostic procedure can cause emotional stress in a pregnant woman [2], and that can translate to all sorts of things in daily life, such as becoming irritable or not sleeping well.
As pregnancy becomes more of a shared experience, the male partner is more actively involved [2]. Studies have found that women reporting effective prenatal partner support have lower anxiety in mid-pregnancy and reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms from pregnancy to the postpartum period [3].
It’s quite common for parents-to-be to worry about their baby’s risk of having a congenital abnormality, and every prenatal test or ultrasound can be a source of stress. But the chances of your baby being born healthy are overwhelmingly in your favor [4].
While fear and nervousness regarding your baby’s health are normal, support from a partner and loved ones can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping things in perspective. So keep supporting your partner, because being great parents is also well within your capabilities.
