Perinatal anxiety is a condition that can occur during pregnancy or after childbirth. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate that you are experiencing perinatal anxiety:

1. Excessive worry or fear:
You may worry about things that wouldn’t normally bother you, such as the health of your baby, your own health, or whether you’ll be a good parent.

2. Physical symptoms:
You may experience physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, or gastrointestinal problems.

3. Panic attacks:
You may experience sudden, intense feelings of panic or terror, accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, or shortness of breath.

4. Sleep disturbances:
You may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting enough sleep, which can make your anxiety worse.

5. Difficulty concentrating:
You may have trouble focusing or concentrating on tasks, which can make it hard to get things done.

6. Avoidance behaviours:
You may avoid situations or activities that trigger your anxiety, such as social events or leaving the house.

7. Intrusive thoughts: You may have unwanted or intrusive thoughts, such as thoughts about harming your baby or yourself.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Perinatal anxiety is a treatable condition, and with the right support and treatment, most women are able to recover and enjoy motherhood.