4.06 Psychological Characteristics of the Pregnant Patient during the Third Trimester

a. Altered Self-Image.

The patient is vacillating, going from being special, beautiful, and pretty to being ugly, awkward, unsexy, and feels fat.

b. Fear.

She dreams about the infant and what the future holds for the new baby. She is concerned for the health and well-being of her baby. She is also concerned for her own safety and “performance” during labor and delivery.

c. Aggravation.

The patient is aggravated over things she can’t do for herself due to her size.

d. Fatigue.

She becomes tired easily.

e. Obsession.

She is concerned with delivery.

f. Wondering.

The patient wonders what kind of parent she will be.

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