Panic Attacks When Pregnant

Updated on February 21, 2013
A.C. asks from Atlanta, GA
18 answers

This is quite a personal post for me. I don't usually share such personal information, but I don't know who else could help me. I am about 9 weeks pregnant, and for the last two weeks, I have been experiencing a lot of unexplained (illogical) anxiety. I'm pretty certain this is hormone-related because I am familiar with this feeling. I was diagnosed with PPD after the birth of my first child, and one of my biggest problems was the anxiety. It was the first time I had ever had an illogical or unexplained anxiety. It went away shortly after the Prozac kicked in, as did my other depression symptoms, and I was able to wean myself off the medication and get on with my new life with my son.

The anxiety I have been feeling lately is extremely similar to the anxiety I felt then. The major difference has been that, this time, I realize it is hormones and not real, and that has helped me cope. This anxiety does cause insomnia, which has been the hardest part to deal with because I'm exhausted from chasing after a toddler all day, but I still kind of figured I would just tough it out and hope it disappeared with the second trimester.

However, for about the last 3 nights, the anxiety has morphed into full-blown panic attacks, complete with sweating, a rapidly-beating heart, an upset stomach, and gasping for breath. It only happens at night, but it keeps me up for hours, and has been very scary for me - I have never felt anything like it before. It not only keeps me up at night but also my husband, because my husband (being a good man) cannot sleep while I am so worked up. My doctor wants to put me back on Prozac (which is what I was on for the PPD), but I do not want to go on it while pregnant (I try to avoid as many medications as I can when pregnant). I may end up having to go on it, but before I do, I was wondering if anyone else experienced anything like this while pregnant, and if they had any more natural remedies. Thank you.

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So What Happened?

Thank you to everyone for your responses. I spoke with my OB about this, and we have decided that for now, I will try the super-natural solutions of taking warm baths, drinking warm milk, and doing some relaxation and self-hypnosis techniques that I learned when conquering my needle phobia. If things get out of control, we will have to readdress it, but my doctor was reluctant to put me on anything herbal, and I remain reluctant to take any medications unless I cannot function without them. Over the course of the last two weeks, the anxiety has remained but the panic attacks are much less frequent, and so I do hope that they may disappear when we reach the second trimester. Thanks again to everyone for your advice!

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B.S.

answers from Tampa on

You and I must be the same person. I wrote about this exact problem 3 weeks ago. I'm 11 weeks with #2. I had major PPD and was hospitalized. I went to my doc and he raised my zoloft. My psychiatrist agreed. It took about a week to kick in, but I'm feeling better. I take a unisom and a benadryl at night to sleep and not stay awake with stiffling anxiety. I'm sorry for you...you and me both!

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A.P.

answers from Cincinnati on

You could try Lexapro - it's safe until the 3 trimester. I was taking this for anxiety related diagnosis when getting pregnant with my first baby and continued to take it until my third trimester when I stopped.

My son is happy and healthy! And it helped me stay grounded and happy through my pregnancy.

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M.F.

answers from Austin on

I suffer from depression and went off meds while pregnant. In hindsight though, given how bad my PPD was, maybe I shouldn't have. All of my doctors said the same thing: it would be great to be on no medication, but a depressed mom is a greater risk for a baby or child than the medications are. So don't fight too hard to stay off the Prozac. Like Diane S. said, if you needed medication for your kidney, liver, heart, etc, you wouldn't hesitate or feel that you needed to just "be strong" and do without the meds. That said, some other things that might help would be a warm bath with epsom salt before bed, breathing, yoga and meditation. Ask your Dr about the bath with epsom, but I get super relaxed from it. Slide right into bed and conk out before the anxiety hits. Deep breathing can work wonders for anxiety. Just take deep, slow breaths in and out and concentrate on your breath (no thinking. You can count to 5, 8, 10, whatever as you breathe in and out, to keep it slow and steady, and to not think about other things. ) Yoga really relaxes and calms me. A friend who suffers from terrible anxiety got into meditation and it has really helped. However, bear in mind that yoga and meditation require energy and commitment, and your pregnancy is already a huge demand on you. Plus you have your toddler. If Prozac or another med is the best way to ensure that you stay mentally and physically healthy right now, don't resist it. Talk to your doctor(s) and see what they think. Remember that it is not your fault that you're anxious, you're not weak if you need medication.

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T.D.

answers from Cleveland on

I am also one of those people that doesn't like taking medicines while pregnant so I know where you are coming from. There are a lot of natural things you can try while pregnant. For one you can start taking a fish oil capsule every day (I like to take them at night to avoid fishy tasting burps). The Omega 3's in the fish oil our awesome for helping with brain development in your baby and will help balance the chemicals in your brain to help with the anxiety. Also, for a hormonal in balance you can take a natural thyroid support supplement. If you go to your local whole foods or natural health store someone there should be able to point you in the right direction. I would also suggest a vitamin D supplement as a lot of people struggle with depression in the winter becuase of a drop in vitamin D that you would normally being receiving from the son. Once you have the baby you can continue to take all of the above to help with PPD as well as add Evening Primrose oil (also a capsule you can find just about any where they sell vitamins) which is a great supplement for women and will also help with the hormone imbalance that causes PPD. You could also try getting a night time tea and drink that before bed or during one of your attacks to help calm you. Perhaps you could even find an Essential Oil that smell helps to sooth you in the evenings (http://www.auracacia.com/auracacia/aclearn/ar_directory.h.... Oh and one more thing there is a natural supplement called "rescue remedy" that is a wonderful product you could try (http://www.rescueremedy.com/).

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N.C.

answers from Washington DC on

Hi Amanda,

I actually suffered from panic attacks in my childhood, but they went away until I was pregnant with my first child. I started to get them near the end of my pregnancy, and then after I had my son, for several months. They were scary, but my doctor said it was nothing to worry about, and that it was probably related to the hormones. Also, I had extreme blood loss for the first couple of months after giving birth, and so that made my dizziness and anxiety worse. Now, I have insomnia sometimes, but not too many extreme episodes of panic. I found that while pregnant, and postpartum, it helped me to practice yoga, and increase my intake of leafy green vegetables. I was eating a lot of kale and that seemed to help my energy and ability to help my body heal from the experience of giving birth. I feel for you, because panic attacks are no fun, and you feel so out of control... I wish you the best, and please use your intuition and consult your doctor as needed. If you want more natural alternatives, see if you can talk to a natural doctor of some kind. I have heard that osteopaths/acupuncturists/herbalists can be of some help. Best wishes, Nessa. xo.

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S.B.

answers from Cleveland on

Hi Amanda! I did not experience this while pregnant and I did not have PPD, but after I weaned my son (very quickly) the change in hormones made me very anxious. It was really strange and I didn't even know what was happening because it was as though my body was disconnected from my brain - my mind said everything was ok, but I had all of the physical symptoms of anxiety so I know a little bit how you feel!

Getting lots of exercise helped me a lot until my hormones got back to normal. You could ride an exercise bike without worrying about your balance. It's cheesy, but I also listened to relaxation meditations online (found free ones by googling). Eating more good carbohydrates like potatoes (with skin) and whole grains can help you feel more calm.

I know that lots of women take Prozac while pregnant so you may want to consider it, but I understand your concerns. You would want to ask your doctor about any "natural" remedies because they can be harmful too. I took Benedryl to go to sleep while my anxiety was at it's worst - you might want to ask your doctor about that also. I know they want you to avoid taking anything in the first trimester, but it's a medicine that's been around forever so they might be ok with you taking it, especially if they're already ok with the Prozac. Good luck and hang in there! It will get better!

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R.H.

answers from Cleveland on

I have had bouts of anxiety and anxiety attacks since I was 15 years old. It really is a scary thing. As for the the anxiety attack wih the sweating and fast heart beat you need to learn how to breath. I use to have that problem and read somewhere on the net the reason for the trouble breathing and fast heart beat is because you are hyperventalating. When this is starting you need to breath in through your nose and out through your mouth. It actually helps. Here is also a website where you can chat with others and also read very good information. E mail me back if you have any other questions. www.onestepatatime.com Find something that will help. I know it sounds stupid but I use to have a fish tank and when I felt the anxiety I would stare at the fishtank and that helped. I also read and that took my mind from the negative thoughts. Buy a water falls sounding tape or one of those flicking candle with the water and the sound might help you sleep. Listening to the fish tank filter use to give me the best sound sleep. (I can't sleep without some noise or I will hear my heartbeat and thing hhuumm sounds a little fast and then I'm off. lol.

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T.C.

answers from South Bend on

Try to avoid meds while you are pregnant. That goes for natural hormones as well. They may cause a miscarriage. (They can be a great help at other times. I like all John Lee's books.) Have you tried stress relieving relaxation exercises? A good one is to stimulate the vagus nerve.

Take a deep breath into your belly to the count of 5, pause for 1 second and then breath out slowly to the count of 5. Keep your belly soft. Do this 5 times and notice how you feel.

The vagus nerve turns off your automatic stress response and helps you relax by stemming the tide of cortisol in the blood.

Actual panic attacks typically last for about four minutes. A mug of warm milk is very soothing during anxious times. Hope this helps.

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T.C.

answers from Cincinnati on

Amanda, give Jack at Nie's Pharmacy in Independence a call and explain your situation. He knows A LOT about hormone balance and can recommend a better solution than meds. Blessings! T.

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D.J.

answers from San Francisco on

I am nine weeks pregnant and I feel weak, fatigue in the mornings between 8-10 o'clock. I think I am having anxiety problems which has Resurrected last week to now. my heart races, and my intestines feel stresses. I am at college and the work load is just so heavy. can someone please tell me what to do? am in class now and am not able to read right now. please help

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J.R.

answers from Cincinnati on

Amanda--

I had anxiety during my 3rd pregnancy, due to hormones and other upsets of pregnancy, I believe. I'd never experienced anything like it (never ever had depression, anxiety, etc. in my life). The first attack was in the middle of the night (and night is when anxiety is reported to be the worst--which tiredness adds to the anxiety). I had no idea what was going and just felt "odd."

I didn't want to take medication, but found my anxiety increased until I was never at ease. I could still reason just fine, and was very logical about the situation, but I couldn't control the emotions I felt. I eventually saw a psychiatrist and was prescribed Paxil. I stayed on it for about 2 years (through the delivery, nursing, etc.). It wasn't the easiest coming off, but if I had to do it all over again, I'd do it the same way.

If you don't want to jump right into meds, exercise is your best natural solution (and even with meds). With anxiety you have a lot of adrenaline released into the body. It takes many hours for your body to absorb adrenaline, but exercise can "burn it up" quickly and produce endorphins that help you feel good at the same time. Try exercising in the early evening. And treat yourself really well (i.e. pamper yourself).

Like one poster said, a mother who is anxious or depressed can cause unhealthy effects on herself and the baby (both before and after being born). It is not good to have chemical reactions in your body that puts your body under an "emergency" stress mode all the time. . .and certainly not good for the baby.

I'm so glad you're reaching out and not keeping this in. Seek professional help--this is a health condition--not a mental condition! And remember what many people told me when I was in need and reached out--you will get through this! It will not last forever! Now that I am better, I still appreciate people telling me that, even though it felt so scrarey and that it would never go away.

Take care,

J.

Updated

Amanda--

I had anxiety during my 3rd pregnancy, due to hormones and other upsets of pregnancy, I believe. I'd never experienced anything like it (never ever had depression, anxiety, etc. in my life). The first attack was in the middle of the night (and night is when anxiety is reported to be the worst--which tiredness adds to the anxiety). I had no idea what was going and just felt "odd."

I didn't want to take medication, but found my anxiety increased until I was never at ease. I could still reason just fine, and was very logical about the situation, but I couldn't control the emotions I felt. I eventually saw a psychiatrist and was prescribed Paxil. I stayed on it for about 2 years (through the delivery, nursing, etc.). It wasn't the easiest coming off, but if I had to do it all over again, I'd do it the same way.

If you don't want to jump right into meds, exercise is your best natural solution (and even with meds). With anxiety you have a lot of adrenaline released into the body. It takes many hours for your body to absorb adrenaline, but exercise can "burn it up" quickly and produce endorphins that help you feel good at the same time. Try exercising in the early evening. And treat yourself really well (i.e. pamper yourself).

Like one poster said, a mother who is anxious or depressed can cause unhealthy effects on herself and the baby (both before and after being born). It is not good to have chemical reactions in your body that puts your body under an "emergency" stress mode all the time. . .and certainly not good for the baby.

I'm so glad you're reaching out and not keeping this in. Seek professional help--this is a health condition--not a mental condition! And remember what many people told me when I was in need and reached out--you will get through this! It will not last forever! Now that I am better, I still appreciate people telling me that, even though it felt so scrarey and that it would never go away.

Take care,

J.

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M.H.

answers from Atlanta on

Hi Amanda,

Hormones will race but there are things that exacerbate them. Caffeine, even tea or soda, is enough to cause your hormones to act up. So remember diet is VERY important. You also need to be on a good prenatal. Ask your doctor what makes your vitamin absorb. If he doesn't know, then you're on the wrong one. Nutrition can balance hormones! I can recommend one if your not happy with yours.

I was in chiropractic care through my second pregnancy and I saw a tremendous difference in the panicky hormones...If you don't have one go to upspine.com and find one in your area. These are upper cervical specialtists. Ask them how the spine controls your immune system. If they understand the immune system, then they will understand how to help your hormones.

I applaud your diligence in staying away from meds while pregnant. There are several studies that show dangerous synthetic chemicals passing through the umbilical cord into the little one. Valerian root has been used by pregnant women with no known problems. The medical community and the natural community seem to debate this one so do your own research. I personally would trust it over Prozac...

Congratulations on your little one! God bless,

M.

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S.T.

answers from Kansas City on

Try taking a warm shower when it happens it will help you relax also try getting some relaxing cd's a play them while controlling your breathing. I have dealt with panic attacks for a very long time and I'm only 30 with two kids I take amitryptaline for mine. Good Luck!!

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D.S.

answers from Cleveland on

Read "What your Dr. my not tell you about Pre Menopause" by Dr. John Lee. Life saver with no artificial drugs... Do it under the direction of a Chiropractic Doctor or even a traditional doctor but only one who respects the NATURAL approach.

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D.H.

answers from Indianapolis on

There are natural thing out there to help you. St. Johns Wart, might help......I would check to make sure it is OK to take while pregnant, but I would think it would be. Also I am with a wellness company that makes something as well, if you are interested let me know.

I hope this gets better for you. I will keep you in my prayers.

D.

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J.C.

answers from Columbus on

The only reason I am not on a med right now is because I have had 2 premature deliveries and I was on meds with both (Lexapro one and Wellbutrin the other) and anti-depressants can cause preterm labor. HOWEVER, I am regretting not being on something at this point and will be asking my doc to try Prozac because it is reportedly the safest to use while pregnant--no side effects to baby have been reported other than recommending to come off (slowly) just prior to delivering to prevent any possible withdraw for the baby.

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K.A.

answers from Indianapolis on

This entire thread has meant so much to me! I struggled with anxiety back in junior high but didn't realize what it was 20 years ago. It went away in my late teens I think because I was more busy and didn't have the time to worry about so much. I also played sports. It came back shortly after my first son was born (9 years ago). I finally went to the doctor when I started missing work and had panic attacks there. It was a very emotional and long visit with my doctor but I ended up seeing a therapist and was prescribed a small dose of Zoloft.
The therapist specialized in pain management and taught me breathing and relaxation techniques. Six years later I still do them at night and when I feel a panic attack coming on. Starting with your toes, flex the muscles (by curling your toes or whatever), then relax them. Really concentrate on what it feels like to have the muscles flexed and then that feeling of relaxing them. Flex and relax 2-3 times. Then move on up your body. Ankles, calves, thighs, butt, stomach, back, shoulders, then on out through your arms to your hands and fingers. The theory is that relaxation and anxiety are opposites and you can't feel them both at the same time. After your arms/hands, do your neck and then the face. There are times I just do the face. Jaw, eyes, forehead. Tense then relax. I get headaches a lot and this helps with those if I can catch them early enough.

When I feel a panic attack coming on, I do deep breathing and count or do something to get my mind off it and try (but not too hard) to calm down. It doesn't always stop them but it does help shorten the time and the intensity. My anxiety is social though so I always have these in public and it's so embarrassing! People are always very willing to help and understanding though.

At night when I get in bed, I do the progressive muscle relaxation. I also play a lot of puzzle games to keep my mind from wondering. Number puzzles in books, sudoku, puzzle games on the nintendo ds, and I recently got an iPod touch and play scrabble and boggle on it in bed.

Diet does also play an important part and I'm very mindful of getting enough protein in the mornings before I venture out for the day. I also carry something sweet like a piece of fruit and a bottle of water with me everywhere I go.

I stayed on the Zoloft while pregnant as the doctor explained to me like someone else said, you have to weigh the pros and cons of having a healthy pregnancy. Zoloft is a class C drug which means it hasn't been tested on pregnant women, but pregnant women who have taken it have had no major issues. To put it in perspective, my doctor said Tums are a class C drug. And I hate taking medicine too. I think that's why that first visit with my doctor was so long and emotional. I call them my "vitamins" and realize that, as someone else said, I wouldn't question taking insulin or medicine for another physical ailment.

I hope things get better and you find a solution you're happy with and that works for you. And I'm sure it's comforting knowing there are so many people out there who understand. If nothing else, some of the responses have helped me!

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K.D.

answers from Minneapolis on

I had a miscarriage almost 6 months ago, and my anxiety issues went through the roof shortly after, which is when I realized that hormones play a MAJOR role in my anxiety. I also broke out in hives 2 weeks after the m/c, which I would have panic attacks about (cant breathe, must be swelling and dying ;) . I went on prozac and feel awesome. In fact, only now am I realizing how much my anxiety was affecting my life, for the last few years. I planned on trying to get pregnant again shortly after the miscarriage, but I gave myself some time to be on meds and relax. Now I am starting to make a plan to wean myself off the meds so I can begin trying to get preg. I am very concerned about my anxiety taking over again, so I am going to meet with a therapist and develop a relationship now, so that when my anxiety gets bad I will have someone to meet with and help me through it, and hopefully provide me with tools to get through it myself so I do not have to go on meds (i'm with you, i would be afraid to take anything while pregnant/nursing!). I am thinking that if it gets bad, I could meet with the therapist once a week even. If I get pregnant and am able to carry to term, I plan on breast feeding for at least a year, so I would need to be prozac free for almost 2 years. When I had anxiety attacks (also usually at night) I would recognize the symptoms and tell each symptom to my hubby. He would sometimes gently tease me about my flushed face or racing heartbeat. Sometimes it helps to laugh about it. I would tell him my fear (usually ended up as my child sick/hurt or me sick/hurt) and he would talk me through it. (she's fine. you're fine.) For some reason when I would verbalize it, it would lessen. Also, it helps when I remember (or he would remind me) during an attack that IT CANNOT LAST FOREVER. I would rate it 1-10, then tell myself I would check back an rate it again in 10 minutes. Then I would try to distract myself with a tv show or reading or playing cards until the adrenaline lessened. Then I would make a deal with myself, IF in a half hour (or hour or whatever), I STILL though I was gonna die (or whatever I was afraid of), then I would go to the ER. It seemed to comfort me, and since the attack never lasted that long, I never had to follow through with my deal. Silly I know, but it helped me.

I will be checking back to see the answers you receive, I may need them someday.

Good luck to you. I wish you the best.

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