could result from various reasons. Adjusting to new body changes, mood swings following hormonal changes and fear of labor and birth are just to name a few. For
, this stress may get further exaggerated. Anticipation of a balanced personal and professional may lead to stress.
The stress during pregnancy may range from anxiety to serious depression. It may warrant a doctor’s consultation and guidance. Understanding the effects of pregnancy on the new born and maternal health are equally important.
Effects of Stress on Mother and Child Health
Maternal risks
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High Blood pressure:
Stress during pregnancy leads to increase in blood pressure. This may translate as high risk of developing complications. Preterm birth (earlier than 37 weeks) and having a low-birthweight baby are known complications
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Increased risk of Pre-eclampsia:
(increased blood pressure and its complications), Eclampsia (seizures) and frequent miscarriages.
- A women may experience prolonged or difficult labor
- Women with chronic stress are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes
- Consumption of cigarettes, drinking alcohol or taking street drugs due to stress can lead to serious health problems in mother and child alike
Risks to the baby
- Children born to mothers with chronic stress may have poor development of the various systems of the body
- Research has proven, that children may have issues in the brain development which may affect their cognitive function
- High levels of stress hormones in the womb can hamper the neurological and physiological development of the developing fetus
- Emotional well-being of children may be affected. Such children may develop anxiety and behavioral issues during their childhood (1✔ ✔Trusted Source
Stress and pregnancyGo to source
)
Reduce Pregnancy Stress: Health Tips
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Focus on the positive:
Engage in a positive environment. Keep a healthy outlook to life
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Practice relaxation techniques:
Meditation, yoga and breathing exercises, massages and aromatherapy help relax the mind and body alike
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Eat healthy:
The role of a balance diet rich in necessary vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants plays a major role in the pregnancy journey
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Physical exercises:
Light physical work-out helps to keep the body active and combat stress
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Emotional wellness:
Emotional wellness takes priority and can be obtained by having a positive and motivating group of well-wishers around. Listen to motivational podcasts and spiritual recitals as they help relieve stress
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Seek help:
When a stressful event becomes overwhelming and translates to chronic stress or depression, it is advisable to seek help of medical experts
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Identify the stressors:
Identify the stressors and taking all the necessary steps to control it
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Adequate rest:
It is important to have a schedule that gives adequate time to rest along with engaging in other activities
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Build your own ecosystem:
Know who your people are, and develop your own eco-system that helps you combat your slightest of worry
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Prioritize self-care:
Never neglect your self-care. It help relieves stress and paves way for a happier tomorrow (2✔ ✔Trusted Source
How to Reduce Stress During PregnancyGo to source
)
Role of Education in Combating Stress during Pregnancy
During your pregnancy journey, knowing what to expect and understanding the pros and cons from a medical expert plays a significant role in reducing the stress during pregnancy. In the world of multimedia, where information is available at a click, it is important to stay well informed and be prepared to welcome the gift of life in a stress-free manner!
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References :
- Stress and pregnancy – (https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/stress-and-pregnancy)
- How to Reduce Stress During Pregnancy – (https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/motherhood/your-pregnancy/how-to-reduce-stress-during-pregnancy)
Source: Medindia