Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Pregnancy and Anti-D's

I take 100 mg of Zoloft 1x/day for panic disorder. I am getting married this fall and with that comes thinking about starting a family some day. The reason I have panic attacks is because I am an emitophobic (fear of vomitting). I want to be a mother more than anything...but of course morning sickness is typically part of pregnancy and whenever I'm nauseated is when I need my meds the most! Anyway, I'm wondering if there are any options for continuing medication while pregnant. It doesn't have to be zoloft, I just do not want to have to deal with the added stress of panic disorder with pregnancy. Plus, before I was diagnosed my fear and panic attacks were so bad I did not eat...my logic was "if there is no food in me I cannot throw up". I know it sounds silly but when you have a clinically legit diagnosed phobia your mind takes over and is so so powerful. I just do not want to harm my future children in any way. Please help!
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Hi there.  I just wanted to tell you that I am basically going through what you are talking about right now.  I have had panic disorder for as long as I can remember.  I am 27 now, and I am just starting my 8th week of pregnancy.  One of my biggest concerns, other than the health of the baby, was what would I do about morning sickness and panic disorder?  I hate vomiting enough that I'd seriously cut off my arm to never have to puke again.  Unfortunately, whenever I get panic attacks, I wretch!  And then I a, so scared of it happening again, that the whole "panic cycle" starts.  I've been on 20 mg of Lexapro for about 6 years, and I was told to continue it through pregnancy.  I hadn't had any attacks on it for almost a year, but they started up again when I got pregnant.  I'm not sure if the hormones caused this, but I think it is a factor.  Plus, the morning sickness can be difficult, and it kind of "triggered" my panic again I think.  If you find yourself pregnant, and in a similar situation, there are steps you can take.  Continuing the medication can help, though it doesn't necessarily prevent the anxiety (b/c of how much your body chemistry changes during pregnancy.)  Some people play with upping the dosage of meds, but I am doing my best to avoid that at this point.  Also, certain benzodiazapines, when used in moderation, can be okay (check with your doc.)  In addition, breathing exercises, brisk walks, and eating little snacks throughout the day can make things a bit more bearable.  For nausea, ginger sometimes helps, as well as lemon.  I am battling this right now, so this is the most honest I can be about my situation.  Remember, not every woman experiences morning sickness.  Also, the severity varies, as well as the duration.  Best of luck to you, and feel free to contact me any time.  I hope this helped a bit!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Nothing sounds silly to us, we've been there!  I know there are medications that pregnant women can take, but I'm not qualified to say what they are. Plus, you truly want the advice of your psych and OB docs on this.  Some women don't experience morning sickness, but that doesn't mean you won't.  If you haven't tried therapy this is definitely the time to do it.  You can learn coping skills to better deal with your fear. Take care.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Have you talked with your OB about this?  I know medication is a personal choice and you are definitely doing the right thing by asking about it in advance.  
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Anxiety Community

Top Anxiety Answerers
Avatar universal
Arlington, VA
370181 tn?1595629445
Arlington, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out what can trigger a panic attack – and what to do if you have one.
A guide to 10 common phobias.
Take control of tension today.
These simple pick-me-ups squash stress.
Don’t let the winter chill send your smile into deep hibernation. Try these 10 mood-boosting tips to get your happy back
Want to wake up rested and refreshed?