Unexpected Symptoms of Perinatal Anxiety You Might Miss

The Subtle Side of Perinatal Anxiety (And What You Can Do About It)

Pregnancy and new parenthood come with a whirlwind of emotions- but what if the worry, tension, or physical discomfort you’re feeling isn’t just part of the ride? Perinatal anxiety is more common than most people realize, and it doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. In fact, many signs are so subtle that they’re easy to dismiss or chalk up to something else.

Let’s talk about the less-talked-about side of perinatal anxiety- those sneaky symptoms that can quietly wear you down- and how getting support can make a real difference.

So, What Is Perinatal Anxiety?

Perinatal anxiety shows up during pregnancy or after giving birth- and no, it’s not just being nervous about becoming a parent. It’s deeper and more persistent. You might feel on edge all the time, stuck in loops of worry that just won’t turn off.

These aren’t fleeting stress moments. They can show up as constant fears about your health, the baby’s safety, or your ability to manage it all. And while anxiety can happen at any time in life, perinatal anxiety is specific to this huge, life-altering chapter.

Unexpected Physical Symptoms

When we think of anxiety, we often focus on racing thoughts or fear- but your body often gets the message too. Here are a few physical signs that might surprise you:

• Headaches: Especially tension headaches or migraines that seem to pop up out of nowhere.

• Digestive issues: Nausea, stomach cramps, or sudden changes in appetite.

• Sleep struggles: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up already exhausted.

These might seem like “normal” pregnancy or postpartum stuff- and sometimes they are. But if they persist or feel overwhelming, it could be your body waving a red flag that anxiety is in the mix.

Emotional and Mental Red Flags

Perinatal anxiety can cloud your thoughts and emotions in ways that make everyday life feel harder than it should. You might notice:

• A constant sense of dread or worry, even when everything seems “fine.”

• Feeling mentally exhausted from second-guessing every decision.

• A sense of being overwhelmed that makes even simple tasks feel huge.

It’s not just stress—it’s like your brain is running a marathon while you’re trying to keep up with daily life. And that’s exhausting.

Changes in Behavior You Might Not Notice

Anxiety doesn’t always look like panic. Sometimes, it shows up in the little things you stop doing.

• Avoiding social plans: Things you used to enjoy—like meeting friends or going out—might now feel totally draining.

• Repetitive behaviors: You might find yourself checking the baby monitor dozens of times a night, or constantly googling health concerns for reassurance.

These behaviors might feel like coping tools, but over time they can add to the stress and isolation.

Getting Support: How Perinatal Anxiety Therapy Can Help

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to just “ride it out.” Therapy can be a lifeline. Perinatal anxiety therapy gives you a space to unpack your worries, understand what’s driving them, and learn tools to feel more in control.

Whether you’re dealing with constant what-ifs, sleep struggles, or feeling emotionally on edge, therapy can help you find relief. It’s not just about reducing anxiety- it’s about helping you reconnect with yourself and feel more present during this important chapter of life.

If you’re in California or Michigan, specialized perinatal therapy is available to support you every step of the way.

You Deserve to Feel Like You Again

This season of life is intense- beautiful, yes, but also overwhelming. If anxiety is making it harder than it needs to be, know that you’re not alone. The earlier you get support, the easier it is to start feeling better.

Therapy offers a path back to feeling grounded and clear-headed. It helps you navigate the ups and downs so that joy doesn’t get lost in the worry. You deserve that peace- and you can find it.

Ready to feel more grounded and in control? Let’s get you the support you need. Azra A. Kim, LCSW, LMSW offers perinatal anxiety therapy in California and Michigan, helping new and expecting parents move forward with confidence and clarity.