What is certain is that the isolated periods of stress we all experience from time to time will have no harmful effect on you or your baby. As to whether long-term stress such as that caused by marital disturbances or emotional abuse will harm your baby, some studies have suggested that prolonged, severe stress in early pregnancy can increase your chances of pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia and premature birth. However, other experts have questioned the validity of these studies.
Some research has shown a link to hyperactive disorders in pre-school children where there has been long-term anxiety and stress during pregnancy, so it is very important that you seek help and support if you are finding stress a problem. Exposure to long periods of stress when the baby is in the womb has also been related to incidence of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure later in life.
Tips to help you calm down
• Don't fret if you aren't able to finish your household chores or are unable to do all the things that you were before getting pregnant.
• Many women tend to develop irregular patterns of eating and may snack on unhealthy foods when they are under stress. Eating a healthy and balanced diet will make you feel better and more adept at handling stress.
• Anxiety about your pregnancy can be reduced by keeping yourself informed about how your body changes and how your baby develops.
• A regular exercise routine that is apt for your level of fitness will help you stay active and handle stress positively.
• Talking about your worries and concerns may make you feel better. Create a support group of friends and family who may be able to help you through the difficult periods in your pregnancy and motherhood. You'll also find a wealth of support on our community boards.
• Meditation and relaxation techniques are useful in calming down. You may want to borrow a relevant book from a local library to teach yourself these techniques.
• Some people find that turning to religion also increases their faith and confidence in themselves. Others may turn to nature for comfort. The sound of gushing water, the sight of fresh colourful flowers or a walk through the neighbourhood park may help you forget your worries for a while.
• Indian mythology suggests that you can influence the development of your baby while he is in the womb by exposing him to good sanskars, music and literature. It is believed that music from string instruments, such as the sitar and violin are particularly effective in encouraging a positive temperament in your baby. Though there is not much evidence to back the effect of soothing music on your baby's temperament, it is definitely a great stress buster for you!
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