Anxiety disorders in pregnancy

Epidemiological studies indicated that anxiety disorders are more frequently observed in women compared to men. Anxiety disorders are usually occur in reproductive period of women. Pregnancy, an important reproductive event, may affect course or occurence of these disorders in women. The prevalence rate of anxiety disorders were reported to be 15-20%. Panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder have been more studied compare to other anxiety disorders. There is no specific guidelines for treatment of anxiety disorders during pregnancy. However, psychotherapy methods, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, seem to be appropriate treatment option in mild or moderate conditions. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are generally recommended as first-line pharmacotherapy method, although we have some minimal concerns about their usage during pregnancy.