Is this normal anxiety related to my pregnancy, or should I seek help from a professional?

AAs a pregnant person your life is changing, your body is changing, and you care deeply about the baby growing inside of you. As a maternal–fetal medicine specialist, I can attest that some level of worry is common, especially in patients with high risk pregnancies, prior losses, or fertility treatments. However, when does “normal” worry cross the line into something that deserves professional help? 

This blog will help you understand:

• What “normal” pregnancy worry looks like
• Signs your anxiety may be more than normal
• When to seek urgent help
• What treatment and support can look like

The “Normal” Worry:

What does “normal” pregnancy worry look like? “Normal” pregnancy anxiety usually focuses on specific, tangible unknowns:

• Will labor hurt?
• Will I be a good parent?
• Did I eat something I shouldn’t have at lunch?
• How will we afford childcare?

You might:

• Double check fetal movement a little more often
• Worry about what you’re eating
• Feel jumpy about news stories involving pregnancy or babies

All of that can be completely normal.

When anxiety may be more than “normal”: Perinatal Anxiety

Anxiety can cross into a clinical level (an anxiety disorder) with signs that suggest you may need support if any of the following are true:

1. Intrusive, Obsessive Thoughts
Normal worry is, “I hope the baby is healthy.” Pathological anxiety is a loop of catastrophic “what-if” scenarios that you cannot stop.

2. Physical Symptoms (Panic)
Anxiety isn’t just in your head; it lives in the body. If you are experiencing heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a feeling of “doom” that is not related to a physical pregnancy complication, these may be panic attacks.

3. Inability to Function
If worry is keeping you from going to work, connecting with your partner, or attending prenatal appointments, it is time to intervene.

4. The Sleep Disconnect
Pregnancy causes fatigue. However, if you are exhausted but cannot sleep because your mind is racing—or if you wake up in a panic and cannot settle back down—this may be a symptom of clinical anxiety.

The MFM Perspective: What professional help can look like

Seeking help does not automatically mean medication, hospitalization, or losing control over your care. Here are steps if you have more than “normal” worry.

1. Start with your prenatal care team

Tell your:

• Obstetrician or primary care physician
• Midwife
• Maternal–fetal medicine specialist

2. Therapy

Seeking help from a mental health professional can be very effective for perinatal anxiety and are safe in pregnancy. Many therapists now offer telehealth, which can be easier in late pregnancy or with childcare responsibilities.

3. Medication

For some people, therapy alone may not be enough. In those cases, medication may be appropriate.

Medication decisions should be personalized and ideally involve:

• Your obstetric/maternal–fetal medicine clinician
• A psychiatrist (preferably with perinatal experience), when available
• You (and your partner/support person if you choose), fully informed

4. Support groups and peer support

Perinatal mental health support groups (in‑person or virtual) can provide:

• Reassurance that you’re not alone
• Practical coping ideas
• A safe place to say things that feel “too much” for family or friends

If you resonated with any of the symptoms of Perinatal Anxiety or if you’re asking yourself, “Is this normal, or should I get help?”, we recommend that you talk to your OB/GYN or MFM.