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Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

PeaceneededNew Contributor17 Mar 2025, 9:22 pm AEDT

Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

First time posting...

Content/trigger warning

I became pregnant as a result of sexual assault and have been dealing with severe depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

I had hospitalised last month but am back home now. Still not my usual pre-pregnancy/assault self.

I have regretted not terminating this pregnancy earlier. Im due to give birth next month and im having panic attacks over it. Im on daily meds for anxiety, panic attacks and depression but as childbirth approaches, i dont feel ok. I am feeling really scared. I wish i wasnt in this situation. I dont know how to overcome the phobia and extreme fears and anxiety of childbirth.

Any suggestions?

2 replies

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In response to: Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

rav3nSenior Contributor17 Mar 2025, 9:52 pm AEDT

Re: Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

welcome @Peaceneeded thanks for sharing. i'm so sorry to hear about your experience, i can't imagine what you must be going through.

i can see why you'd feel such anxiety and overwhelm over giving birth, but please know that you're not alone. we hear you and we want to support you. the panic and fear you feel is what our body feels when we go through change, when we're experiencing something new or unknown. your feelings are valid. do you have anyone you can talk to? are there any soothing/grounding techniques that have helped you in the past? things like taking deep breathes and practicing self-care can help manage some of those feelings. i'm sure others have techniques and tips that they'll be able to share too.

i also struggling encouraging reaching out to some of these services too:

Home | 1800RESPECT for 24/7 support with domestic family & sexual violence and abuse.
PANDA | Support that’s always there, for you and your family
Counselling & Support - Centre Against Sexual Assault — Central Victoria

we're here for you. 💙

p.s. i've added a content warning for a part of your post just to prevent potentially triggering other vulnerable members. just wanted to let you know in case you're wondering why i've edited your post. 😊

In response to: Re: Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

AppleblossomSenior Contributor17 Mar 2025, 11:24 pm AEDT

Re: Extreme anxiety, depression and fear regarding upcoming birth.

@Peaceneeded

That is a hugely confronting situation for a mum to be.

Not sure what the hospital will allow, but music and gentle rocking upright movements can help. A lot simply depends on your body and your bub. Google and look for advice aligned with your values. I went for natural as possible in birthing units.

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