Pregnancy a mental health concern

The fear of death during pregnancy can be a distressing and intense emotion that some individuals experience. 

Pregnancy is a transformative and vulnerable time in a person’s life and the fear of death may stem from various factors.

Pregnancy often brings a heightened awareness of one’s mortality.

The realisation that life is fragile and that the responsibility for another life growing inside can trigger deep-seated fears about the possibility of death, either for oneself or for the unborn child.

Pregnancy involves significant physiological changes such as hormonal fluctuations, weight gain and increased stress on the body.

These changes can lead to feelings of vulnerability and anxiety, especially if there are pre-existing health conditions that increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is an unpredictable journey and the fear of the unknown can amplify worries about potential complications or the loss of control over one’s own body.

Concerns about childbirth and the potential risks associated with it can contribute to the fear of death.

Individuals who have experienced traumatic events in their lives such as the loss of a loved one, a difficult childbirth or a history of pregnancy complications may carry those fears into subsequent pregnancies.

These past experiences can intensify the fear of death during pregnancy.

Anxiety disorders

Pre-existing anxiety disorders or a predisposition to anxiety can heighten the fear of death during pregnancy.

Generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder or specific phobias related to pregnancy or childbirth can significantly impact an individual’s emotional well-being and increase their fear of death.

Dealing with the fear of death during pregnancy requires empathy, support and professional guidance.

Dear mummies, let’s have this conversation!