Anxiety disorders in pregnancy

Women are particularly at risk of developing Anxiety Disorders. Both the biological component linked to gender and the pregnancy have been recognized as potential risk factors for the development of anxiety disorders. In fact, it is appropriate to distinguish pregnancy related anxiety, which includes specific concerns related to pregnancy, from anxiety disorders in pregnancy. Recently the literature has focused on the construct of pregnancy related anxiety trying to recognize its key characteristics and identifying them on an emotional, cognitive and physical level. In approaching Anxiety Disorders, it is appropriate to follow a Bio-Psycho-Social model that examines in addition to the biological component also the characteristics of the person and the environment in order to identify risk and protective factors. In order to assess the presence of anxiety disorders in the perinatal period, in addition to the administration of clinical scales, the clinical interview is important through the investigation of the key characteristics of anxiety disorders found during pregnancy. Finally, the treatment foresees a possible pharmacological treatment integrated with a psychotherapy course, following the evaluation of the potential risks and benefits.

Keywords: perinatal anxiety disorders; pregnancy related anxiety; bio-psycho-social model; interdisciplinary approach; psychotherapy.