Pregnancy & Postpartum Mental Health
Pregnancy and the postpartum period can be emotionally complex, even when everything appears to be going “as planned.” Many women seek therapy during this time for pregnancy-related anxiety, which is a heightened and often unexpected response to the physical, emotional and hormonal changes taking place.
Anxiety during and after pregnancy can feel intense and unsettling. Intrusive thoughts are common and most often misunderstood. These thoughts may appear suddenly and feel disturbing or shameful. It’s important to know that while frightening, this is a common symptom of anxiety and does not reflect most people’s values, intentions or abilities to care for their babies.
Pregnancy anxiety also can focus on constant monitoring of your body and baby during pregnancy. For example, not feeling a baby kick right away may trigger catastrophic thinking or inaccurate conclusions, despite medical reassurance and guidance. Normal health conditions such as gestational diabetes or other pregnancy-related conditions can further amplify worry and a sense of losing control.
Age-related considerations add yet another layer. A pregnancy at age 35 or older is often referred to as “advanced maternal age.” While the term is common, the label alone can spark fear and feelings of self-doubt. Even when risks are well-managed, the emotional weight of medical terminology, frequent testing and heightened vigilance can take a toll.
Additionally, postpartum depression can bring deep feelings of shame, guilt and self-doubt. Some parents may notice difficulty bonding with their baby, persistent thoughts of not being a “good enough” mother, loss of interest in daily life, increased fatigue or a strong desire to sleep most of the day. These experiences also can create strain within relationships, leading to increased tension or disconnection between partners.
At Mountain Laurel Therapy, we approach pregnancy and postpartum mental health with care and sensitivity. We help clients understand anxiety as a response to vulnerability and change, not a personal failing. Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches, we work together to identify anxious thought patterns, reduce the intensity of intrusive thoughts, and restore trust in your body and instincts.
You don’t have to carry this alone. Therapy offers a space to talk openly about fears, uncertainties, and the realities of pregnancy and early parenthood. With the right support, it’s possible to feel steadier, more confident and connected during this transformative time. Take the first step by scheduling an appointment today.
