Stress and pregnancy

Stress is your body's response to the pressures of life. Healthy stress may include physical, mental and emotional reactions that help you adapt to your stressors, whether big or small. When the stressors are too strong or too many, however, stress can be harmful. This is especially true during pregnancy, a time when both a woman and her family are already dealing with additional stressors. High stress levels during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of premature delivery and low birthweight.


Causes/associated factors
The physical and emotional changes of pregnancy, in addition to the responsibilities of home and work, may create new stressors in your life. The effect is compounded if your life is already stressful. Personality, physical and mental health, living conditions, economic status, maturity and available support may all influence your reaction to a particular stressor.
For example, if you've been anticipating your first pregnancy, you may be energized by the news. If you wanted two children and already have three under age 5, however, you may be overwhelmed by the same news.

The stressors of pregnancy often include:

discomforts such as nausea, backache, heartburn and fatigue
balancing the competing demands of pregnancy, family and work
mood swings caused by hormonal changes
worrying about the baby's health, labor and delivery, or being a good parent
upcoming increased financial responsibility
Sometimes, major life stressors -- such as the death of a family member, loss or change of a job, divorce, moving to a new home or financial difficulties -- compound the stress of pregnancy.


Signs/symptoms
Too much stress may lead to physical and psychological symptoms, including:
sleeplessness
headaches
overeating or appetite loss
fatigue
backaches
upset stomach
worry or anxiety
depression
nicotine, alcohol or drug use

Diagnosis
You may recognize the symptoms of stress yourself. Or, a friend, family member or your doctor may help you recognize the symptoms. To make sure your symptoms aren't related to an illness or pregnancy complication, you may need certain medical tests.

Treatment/prevention
To help reduce your stress level, consider these suggestions:
Identify the stressors in your life, and find ways to eliminate them or decrease their impact.

Recognize that the changes brought on by pregnancy are temporary. Seek help from your doctor in dealing with the discomforts of pregnancy.

Recognize any physical limitations you may have, and modify your daily activities wherever possible. This may mean cutting back on your hours at work, getting more rest, or asking for household help.

Make sure you're getting adequate nutrition and rest. If your doctor approves, exercise regularly.

Build a support system. You may want to look to your partner, family, friends, religious leader, or a counselor or support group. Share your concerns with people who care about you, and be sure to discuss any overwhelming stress with your doctor.

Set aside 10 to 20 minutes a day for quiet meditation and relaxation. You may want to listen to music, read a book, or take a warm (not hot) bath. You may also want to learn relaxation techniques. Helpful methods are often covered in childbirth classes. Or, ask for suggestions from your doctor or a counselor.

Avoid using nicotine, alcohol or drugs to cope with stress.

Risks
High levels of stress during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of premature delivery and low birthweight. It's uncertain whether stress increases the risk of birth defects. However, it can be associated with an increased risk of infection, high blood pressure, stomach problems and other medical conditions.