How to prepare for a video visit about Perinatal Anxiety - Triage

Audience: adult

Perinatal anxiety is a common condition affecting many people during pregnancy and after childbirth. It involves feelings of worry, fear, or nervousness that can affect daily life and well-being. Preparing for a video visit about perinatal anxiety can help you communicate your concerns clearly and get the support you need. This guide explains what to expect during a telemedicine visit, how to prepare, and what signs require urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can provide valuable advice and support, but it is not a substitute for in-person medical care in emergencies or complex situations. If you experience severe symptoms or danger signs, seek immediate help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby — seek emergency help immediately.
• Severe panic attacks or inability to breathe properly — call emergency services.
• Inability to care for yourself or your baby due to overwhelming anxiety or confusion — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of anxiety symptoms during pregnancy or postpartum.
• Providing education about perinatal anxiety and coping strategies.
• Monitoring mild to moderate symptoms and adjusting care plans.
• Referring to mental health specialists or support services as needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as suicidal thoughts or self-harm risk.
• Severe panic attacks requiring immediate physical intervention.
• Complex psychiatric conditions needing in-person evaluation.
• Medication management requiring physical examination or lab tests.

What is Perinatal Anxiety?

Perinatal anxiety refers to feelings of excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that occur during pregnancy or in the first year after childbirth. It is different from normal stress and can affect your mood, sleep, and ability to care for yourself or your baby. Common symptoms include racing thoughts, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical signs like a fast heartbeat or muscle tension.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider from home or another private place. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, feelings, and concerns. The provider can offer guidance, suggest coping strategies, and decide if you need further evaluation or treatment. Telemedicine is often convenient and safe, especially when in-person visits are difficult.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet, comfortable space with good internet connection. Make a list of your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life. Note any medications or supplements you are taking. Prepare questions you want to ask. Having a support person nearby can help if you feel nervous.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your mood, thoughts, sleep patterns, and daily activities. They may ask about your pregnancy or postpartum experience and any other health conditions. Be honest and open to get the best care. The provider may recommend self-care tips, counseling, or medication if needed. They will also explain when to seek urgent care.

When to Seek Immediate Help

If you experience thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, severe panic attacks, inability to care for yourself or your child, or other serious symptoms, seek emergency care right away. Telemedicine is not suitable for emergencies. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital if you have these red flags.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet place with a reliable internet connection for the video visit.
• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and how they affect you.
• List any medications, supplements, or treatments you are currently using.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.
• Have a support person available if you feel you might need help during the visit.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care plan or recommendations given by your provider.
• Schedule any follow-up appointments as advised.
• Use suggested coping strategies such as relaxation techniques or support groups.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.
• Seek emergency care if you experience any red-flag symptoms.

FAQs

What is the difference between perinatal anxiety and normal worry?

Perinatal anxiety involves intense, persistent feelings of worry or fear that interfere with daily life, unlike normal worry which is usually temporary and manageable.

Can telemedicine visits replace in-person care for perinatal anxiety?

Telemedicine is helpful for assessment and support but may not replace in-person care, especially for emergencies or complex cases requiring physical exams.

What should I do if I feel worse after the video visit?

If your symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly. If you experience severe symptoms or danger signs, seek emergency care immediately.

Are medications safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Some medications can be safe, but this depends on individual circumstances. Discuss risks and benefits with your provider during your visit.

How can I prepare my support person for the video visit?

Inform them about the appointment time, and ask if they can help you remember information or provide emotional support during or after the visit.

Sources

1. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Anxiety During Pregnancy — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Anxiety Disorders in Women — Mayo Clinic.
4. Perinatal Mental Health — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
5. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.