Empowered Pregnancy: Elevate Your Journey, Advocate for Yourself
Attend prenatal visits. Ask questions! If you are still unclear or have concerns, ask again. There is nothing wrong with needing clarity about your body and the human you are carrying inside of you. Advocating for yourself and your unborn child can be life or death.
Seek out the provider who is the best fit for you. Speak up if your concerns are not being addressed or you feel unheard. It is important that you feel comfortable, safe, and supported during this critical time.
Seek out mental health care. Mental health does not stop just because you are pregnant. If you are taking psychiatric medication, that does not mean stop taking it. Discontinuing psychotropic medication can be detrimental to yourself and your baby.
If you are experiencing any of the following mental health symptoms, please seek out care from a trained medical professional:
Worrying all day every day, or a large part of the day
Having racing thoughts that you cannot turn off
Feeling tense in your body
Increased irritability
Feeling down most days throughout the day
Crying often
Feeling hopeless or helpless
Experiencing feelings of guilt or regret
Withdrawing or isolating from loved one
Not feeling like yourself
Lack of interest in activities that you would typically enjoy
*This post is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice from your provider.
*If you begin to experience suicidal thoughts or believe you are a danger to yourself or others, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Resources
Postpartum Support International (PSI) Hotline:
1-800-944-4773
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline:
Call or text 1-833-TLC- MAMA
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
Call or text 988