What is the most common emotional reaction a woman may initially have to pregnancy?

The most common emotional reaction a woman may initially have to pregnancy is ambivalence. This feeling is characterized by mixed emotions or uncertainty about the pregnancy. Many women experience a range of conflicting feelings during this time, including excitement, fear, anxiety, and doubt about the changes that pregnancy brings. It’s not uncommon for a woman to feel joy about the impending arrival of a child while simultaneously grappling with concerns about motherhood, lifestyle changes, and the future. This ambivalence is often a normal part of the emotional adjustment to pregnancy, as it prompts women to consider both the positive aspects of becoming a parent and the potential challenges they may face.

Acceptance, jealousy, and depression, while possible emotions throughout the pregnancy journey, are typically not the predominant initial reactions. Acceptance often comes after the ambivalence as women adjust to the reality of their situation, while jealousy and depression might arise due to specific circumstances or personal experiences but are not the most common reactions at the outset.