Anxiety

Yes. I have really struggled with anxiety at every point. My midwife has been amazing and I'm now under specialist midwives who have had more training and expertise in supporting women who have experienced trauma/have significant birth anxiety etc

Yes I had it with my first child really bad and I was really worried it would get triggered this time round. I would suggest a few things from experience.. firstly you are not alone, get yourself a good support system built around you and who you feel comfortable sharing your worries to as crazy as they sound. Secondly, get a blood test done to check your iron, b12 and vitamin d levels. Most times the lack of these vitamins can cause for anxiety and depression to get triggered. Thirdly, prioritise relaxation methods if you are struggling with sleep to help regulate your nervous system and get you out of that flight or fight mode. Fourthly, eat on time and the right foods. Figure out what foods make you feel good and what makes you feel crappy. Pair this up with a little workout.. one I really like is grow with jo on youtube. She does fun dance workouts which is very motivating. Lastly, find your self a good hypnobirthing podcast. It is supposed to be very helpful to relieve anxiety around birth.

@Jennifer I’m seeing my midwife next week so will mention it to her, I feel like there’s such a lack of communication in my trust as well and they expect you to know what and to do things so I don’t think that’s helped me either! Thank you for your reply though I appreciate it x

@Zaiinab I’ve been on iron tablets recently due to my tiredness but my actual levels are fine apparently 🤷🏻‍♀️ thank you for your suggestions I will definitely look into them xx

Yesss meee!

Have you considered a hypnobirthong course? Even if you’re not into the whole meditation and breathing aspect it has really changed how I think about birth and the whole experience which are reinforced with positive birth stories x

I can second the iron deficiency. The pregnancy made me iron anemic and I had to do an infusion as I wasn’t absorbing suppements well enough. My anxiety dissolved completely in addition to all other benefits. Unfortunately the NHS neglects this aspect and considers low levels acceptable. Ideally your ferritin should be above 30 and haemoglobin above 120.