Anxiety is a normal and natural human experience but it can affect a person’s feelings, thoughts, behavior, and physical well-being. Many Kenyan women – and generally women all over – are surprised and disappointed when they find themselves feeling anxious during pregnancy. But there is a lot of other challenges and changes going on during this period that can make anxiety more likely during this time in a woman’s life.
Here are a few fears that women go through
1. Am I eating the right foods for my baby?
To ease this fear, aim to eat a balanced diet from all food groups. Vary your diet, and your baby will grow just fine.
2. Will I add too much weight during my pregnancy and how will I lose it all?
Avoid eating junk food and fatty foods. Pace your foods. Instead of eating big meals, eat small meals spread out through the day
3. Will my baby be normal, have all the limbs etc?
Ensure that you eat well, and take your prenatal vitamins e.g iron and folic acid and your baby will grow healthy. Some nutrients that help baby grow well are:
• MAGNESIUM: Magnesium helps maintain the pregnancy. Great food sources include eggs, green vegetables, nuts, brown rice and bananas.
• SELENIUM: Selenium helps avoid a miscarriage and is found in eggs, whole wheat, carrots, mushrooms, and broccoli.
• MANGANESE: Manganese helps prevent abnormalities and behavior problems. Eggs, bananas, strawberries, apples, pineapples, onions and legumes are great sources for manganese.
4. Will I be a good mother?
Babies do not come with a manual. However, every woman has an inner wisdom that guides how you care for your baby. You will follow your instinct but also learn from others: your mother, friends, doulas and other people as well
5. Relationship anxiety
You may worry if your relationship with your partner will change? Discuss your expectations with your partner. Communication is key.
6. Fear of miscarriage
Your body has the capability to carry your baby to term. Learn also the signs of miscarriage and seek medical help promptly.
7. I am vomiting too much; is my baby getting enough to grow?
Your baby is like a little ‘parasite’; they do tend to get the nutrients that they need to grow. See your doctor to see ways of managing nausea and vomiting.
8. Going into premature labour
Studies estimate that only about 10% of pregnancies go into premature labour. Keep your weight gain within normal range and you should be ok. Learn also the signs of premature labour and seek prompt medical help.
9. Will having sex hurt my baby?
Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, you can continue to enjoy sexual relations with your partner. Experiment with comfortable positions for you.
10. Fear of the birth and labour
Most women will get anxious about labour and birth. Attend a childbirth preparation class. Information is power and the more informed you are, the less anxious you will be.
