The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted almost everyone in some way. But if you are pregnant, or have become pregnant throughout this pandemic, you face a different set of challenges that are important to acknowledge.
Mental health concerns have come to the forefront of the medical world as this pandemic carries on. Even now, as most people are adjusting to a “new normal,” feelings of anxiety and depression are running rampant.
For perinatal women, those issues can be even greater. Why?
Grieving the Loss of a “Normal” Pregnancy
Pregnancy is supposed to be a time of celebration, peace, and joy. While not all pregnancies are easy, most women will agree that they are excited to welcome their little one into the world.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it nearly impossible to have a “normal” anything—including a pregnancy. And more pregnant women are experiencing anxiety and feelings of hopelessness.
Missing Out
As a result of these challenges, it is normal to feel as though you have missed out on a lot of important things. That includes celebrating with friends and family, having a baby shower, or being able to attend as many doctor’s visits as you typically would with your partner, your mom, your sister.
Generally, many doctors handle health care matters via telehealth services right now and only one person is allowed in the room with you. And so, unless something seems wrong, you may have had to give up a certain standard of care and experience.
Isolation
On top of the grief and loss you might be feeling, one of the major problems of this pandemic has been isolation. While social distancing and quarantining are important, it is far too easy to feel alone and unsupported due to these measures.
When you are pregnant and shortly after having a baby, having a support system in place is essential for your physical and mental health. Your spouse or partner may be there to help you, but it often does “take a village” to help with a newborn or to give you some time for yourself. When that extended support is not readily available, it makes prenatal care more difficult.
Even your birth plan might have to change due to COVID-19, as hospitals do not allow visitors, require mask-wearing for birthing mother , and your partner. In some hospitals doulas are not allowed.
Managing Your Mental Health
If you are currently pregnant or you are nearing the end of your pregnancy, those feelings of anxiety might be getting worse. Just because a “new normal” exists, it does not mean things are safe. Many hospitals are still taking extra precautions, and most local governments are encouraging social distancing and masks. You might feel lost or confused about what your next step should be or worried about how your delivery will go.
Words like “isolation” have become somewhat normal in these uncertain times. But isolation, especially when you are pregnant, does not have to mean keeping yourself from the help you need. You can find ways to take care of your emotional well-being, even in times of isolation and uncertainly.
So, what can you do if you feel as though you have missed out on a normal pregnancy? Where should you turn if it is starting to take a toll on your mental health?
Reaching out to a mental health professional can be extremely beneficial. Thankfully, even though telehealth might not feel personal or like “enough” from a physical standpoint, it is a great solution for your mental health concerns. Taking care of your mental health now will benefit you through the rest of your pregnancy and beyond.
If you find it difficult to cope with the loss of normalcy and the isolation before and after childbirth, please feel free to contact me. Together, we can work through these feelings and find ways to make you feel more connected and less alone while dealing with the challenges of COVID-19.