It is challenging to distinguish
typical pregnancy concerns from a more
serious anxiety disorder. Recent studies
indicate that antenatal anxiety may
be even more common than depression,
which points to an important area for
exploration. There are many possible
causes of anxiety during pregnancy, with
symptoms ranging from mild emotional
feelings of uneasiness to severe panic
and physical symptoms that mimic lifethreatening
conditions. As options for
treatment vary, it is important to weigh
the risks of treatment with medication
against the risks of uncontrolled anxiety
before a decision is made regarding management.
Antenatal anxiety is an important
issue that needs further research,
and it is essential that nurses be aware of
the current literature to properly care for
patients using evidence-based practice.