Anxiety in early pregnancy is more common than most people realize

Evidence suggests up to 20% of people experience anxiety symptoms significant enough to affect their daily life and wellbeing during early pregnancy. These numbers almost certainly underestimate what's really happening, as many people don't tell others how they’re feeling, and many don't realize that what they're experiencing is anxiety.

You may expect to feel only excited, joyful and grateful in early pregnancy. In reality, all kinds of emotions may be experienced, including fear, or a sense that something may go wrong. It can be deeply confusing, especially when there’s no medical indication that you should worry. Some people feel guilt for feeling this way, while others assume they're just not coping well. Neither is true.

There’s no single reason early pregnancy can feel so unsettling. Open any of the topics below that sound like you.

When anxiety is a signal worth acting on

Anxiety that comes and goes, or that softens as you get more information and support, is part of the emotional texture of early pregnancy for many people. But some things are worth sharing with your care provider.

Consider reaching out if:

Starting the conversation doesn't have to be complicated

Research suggests that anxiety during pregnancy that goes unaddressed can make things harder in the months after birth, which is a good reason to get support early, for now and for what's ahead.

You don't need a diagnosis to ask for help. You just need to notice that something isn't right. The hardest part is often just saying something out loud. At your next appointment with your midwife, GP or OB, you can say:

Your provider should be able to take it from there. If they do not respond in a way that feels helpful to you, there are resources available that don’t need provider referrals/diagnosis. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are among the most common complications of pregnancy and are highly treatable.