Describe the error or traumatic experience.
We had an ultrasound of our baby, and the ultrasound tech told us that the measurements in the baby's brain were abnormal. They sent us to a specialist, which we had to wait weeks to see. It turned out to be a mistake and he was normal.
Describe your anxiety episodes. Depression? Tears?
During the rest of the pregnancy, I was extremely anxious before a doctor apt. I felt like they would tell me something else was wrong at any moment. I'd often lose the entire day before, as I wouldn't be able to think straight. The anxiety was *horrible.*
Have these episodes improved over time? Or not?
Yes, once my baby was born, I no longer was anxious.
How do you deal with your anxiety attacks or PTSD?
At the time, I would just try to get through it all. I would try to distract myself. I saw a therapist, which helped. But the best "cure" was giving birth and seeing the baby *was* after all, all ok.
Do you live your life any differently now?
I don't take doctors as seriously. And in the future, if I would ever get pregnant again, I'm not sure I would want the ultrasound, which is not required.
I've always been anxious about doctor apts, because of many other bad experiences. This was just one more to add to the collection. It certainly did not help.
Lessons Learned
- Go to a therapist, even if you think what happened was "no big deal" or you feel that you should "get over it." It is a big deal if it's causing you emotional pain. You deserve to feel better!
- Talk about what happened with others. I found talking about it helped make me feel less anxious over time.
