Pregnancy is a joyful, exciting, and stressful process. Many expectant mothers may face stress during this special period, both due to pregnancy-related problems and for other reasons. Problems such as nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, and back and lower back pain that occur with pregnancy can disrupt a mother's routine and cause stress, while other issues such as work life, economic conditions, and the baby's life after birth can also create pressure and stress for the mother.
Situations that Trigger Stress During Pregnancy
- problematic pregnancy
- Past infant loss
- Twin or triplet pregnancy
- Relationship problems
- stressful life events
- Getting pregnant at a young age
How does stress during pregnancy affect the baby?
Significant stress levels experienced by expectant mothers can have a number of negative effects on the baby;
- Increased risk of miscarriage.
- Risk of premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Hyperactivity
- Decrease in mental function
- Attention deficit
- Irritability
What can be done to protect against stress during pregnancy?
All women may face various sources of stress during pregnancy, but the important thing is to manage these stressors correctly. The stronger the expectant mother is physically and mentally, the easier it will be to cope with stress. Therefore, she should pay attention to her diet, eat healthily, get enough sleep, and stay away from harmful addictions such as alcohol and smoking. In addition to these, the expectant mother should:;
- You can regularly practice stretching and relaxation exercises,
- By learning more about pregnancy and childbirth, you can prevent fear and anxiety stemming from ignorance.,
- He or she can relax by doing stress-reducing activities such as meditation,
- When feeling stressed, they can practice breathing exercises. (Breathing slowly, deeply, and rhythmically from the chest, not the abdomen.)
- Instead of making decisions alone about stressful situations, they can seek support from people who are experienced in this area.
Remember, excessive stress is never healthy for either the expectant mother or the baby. By applying the recommended stress management techniques during pregnancy, you can have a more relaxed and happier time and help reduce the stress you experience.
I wish you a stress-free pregnancy…
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