Prenatal stress is the stress that women experience during their pregnancy. The ongoing life events, her work, her responsibilities, and changes in her routine are some causes of stress for a woman during her pregnancy. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations cause mood swings that may affect emotional stability. The anticipation of labor, the excitement of parenting, and the thoughts of managing the financial and emotional demands of being a parent are some more factors that add to the stress.
It is essential to identify the symptoms of stress in pregnant women to treat it on time. Most of the time, the changes in their behavior and health issues are mistaken to arise due to hormonal changes. Their mood swings and pregnancy cravings do not receive proper attention. This stress, when not controlled on time, adds to a form of anxiety and depression. We know that stress negatively impacts our physical and mental health. However, for a pregnant woman, this stress may prove equally fatal for the child. The biochemical changes induced in the mother’s body due to stress will adversely affect the developing fetus. It may cause adverse pregnancy outcomes that will lead to long-term effects on the development of the child’s brain, behavior, and emotional functioning.
Stress management during pregnancy is incomplete without family support. The expecting mother and her family should be aware of the pregnancy discomforts, like body aches, morning sickness, and problems sleeping and walking. These discomforts add to the stress, and insufficient family support elevates it. Secondly, women should be encouraged to remain healthy and fit. They should have a balanced diet, sleep well, and stay hydrated. They should follow an exercise routine under medical supervision. Yoga, meditation, and relaxation activities are also very beneficial. One more solution to remove stress is to give time to your hobbies and read books. Reading is a relaxing and educational experience. It helps develop a bond with the child. Reading spiritual books during pregnancy gives happiness. Moreover, women should avoid doing the tasks they are unable to perform; it is better to seek help from someone around. Women should try to have a good support network of family and friends to share their experiences. Still, if a pregnant woman is stressed, it is better to talk to a counselor or seek medical support.
Awareness should be raised on the sources of stress and the methods to deal with it for the women and their families and friends. Managing stress during the prenatal period is required to reduce the risks to the physical and mental health of both mother and child.