Infant Journal
Browse articlesAnxiety: an invisible complication of pregnancy
Depression is commonly diagnosed during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. While it is largely recognised as a problem, anxiety is often misdiagnosed as depression. Anxiety during pregnancy and in the postpartum period can hinder maternal-infant bonding and manifest as an inability to cope. Pregnant and postpartum women should be screened for anxiety disorders frequently to engage in proper treatment.
Catherine A. Pankonien
Assistant Professor
catherine.pankonien@msutexas.edu
Sandra M. Groth
Assistant Professor
Cesar Alvarado
Assistant Professor
Midwestern State University, Wilson School of Nursing, Wichita Falls, Texas, USA
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Keywords
maternal anxiety; postpartum anxiety; postpartum depression
Key points
- Anxiety is often misdiagnosed as depression and treatments may not work effectively.
- Postpartum anxiety can negatively affect the maternal-infant bond and subsequently breastfeeding.
- Healthcare professionals can support pregnant and postpartum women by recognising the difference between anxiety and depression and providing education and support for women to seek help.
Also published in Infant:
VOLUME 13/ISSUE 3, MAY 2017
This article reviews the diagnosis and treatment of tongue tie for newborn infants with breastfeeding difficulties. It highlights differences of opinion between professional groups and why these exist and suggests how the issues could be resolved with a well designed randomised controlled trial.
