Persistent, debilitating worrying

[Amila]

I have a long history of OCD and health anxiety, but now that I am pregnant again it is just awful. I worry about every little thing. It takes over my life and consumes me. Just last week I *seriously* had myself convinced that my DD had Leukemia because she has a few swollen glands that won't go down, and so the doctor ordered a Complete Blood Count. I actually envisioned her to have symptoms that weren't even there, like I swore she was walking dizzy and falling a lot. Turns out everything is fine, of course.

Then I have my pregnancy woes, like the fact that I have to take Valtrex all through my pregnancy, and it makes me worry that it will hurt the baby even though my midwife constantly reassures me it is FINE.

I am so sick of living like this. I have an appt with my old therapist next week, so I am hoping that helps, but this is like living in a hell of my own making. I just want to relax and enjoy this pregnancy!

[AnyMama]

Have you tried Calm's Forte or Rescue Remedy?

You might google Bach Floral Remedies and see if any of them sound like you. All of these suggestions are homeopathic and safe for pregnancy.

Worry is normal, all consuming worry is hard to live with.

[elizaMM]

I KWYM, that kind of worrying stinks.

I know this may sound bad, but worry is also optional. I don't know valtrex, but I'm taking two antidepressants/antianxiety meds through this pregnancy and, although I wish with all my heart I could do it all-natural, my lack of worry is notable. It even annoys me how What to Expect When You're Expecting seems to have one goal: alleviate worry (though this is totally legitimate and I'm sure very helpful for many women). My midwife keeps saying "I wouldn't worry about it." about everything. But the fact is, I'm not. I guess its a stretch to say I'm not worried about anything, but no worry nags at me, I am not consumed by anything, I feel calm and rational.

Glad you have an established relationship with a therapist to lean on!

Good luck!