While pregnancy can be a joyful and exciting time, it is also a time of change – and with change can come stress.
Sometimes, the stress is due to a difficult pregnancy or even a relationship issue. And sometimes, it is due to other factors, like your job or finances.
Whatever the cause, pregnancy can bring stress but there are things you can do.
Here are four things you need to know about pregnancy and stress. Read on:
It’s common
The fact is, about 20% of pregnant people develop some kind of mental health issue during pregnancy or after. So, if you are dealing with stress during pregnancy, you are not alone!
Taking care of your mental health is always important – but especially in pregnancy.
Coping techniques
There are things you can try to alleviate stress during pregnancy, like mindfulness and even yoga. Both of these activities encourage a mind/body connection and a time for reflection and peace.
Exercise, if your health care professional agrees, can also help with stress during pregnancy!
Self-care
Self-care is a buzzword right now, but it isn’t just bubble baths and manicures. Making sure you get enough rest, a healthy meal, quiet time doing hobbies or other calm activities – or even time with your partner or other children – can help bring you peace and reduced stress levels. It can be challenging to get everything done, but slowing down and taking care are critical during pregnancy.
Ask for help
If you are feeling like you have more than the normal level of stress during pregnancy, please, talk to your doctor or midwife. He or she is there to help you during this time so you can focus on growing that precious baby.
Everything Birth
At Everything Birth, we love supporting pregnant people and their families!