Can Stress During Pregnancy Affect the Baby?

Causes of Stress During Pregnancy

The cause of stress differs from person to person. Following are some common causes of stress during pregnancy:

• Fear of pregnancy, labour, or birth.

• Hormonal changes, like mood swings, nausea, etc.

• Pregnancy discomforts, like backaches, constipation, or tiredness.

• Financial stress for raising a baby.

• Managing everyday tasks.

• Preparing your employer for maternity leave.

• Feeling a lack of support.

• Problem with family members or partner.

• Mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression.

Relationship Between Stress And Pregnancy

As per various researches, stress during pregnancy can affect the mother in several ways. It can affect the baby too. Here are the risks involved for you and your baby:

1. Preeclampsia

Research shows that if you already have high blood pressure, you’re at a greater risk of getting preeclampsia during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that affects your blood pressure and organs, and could lead to early delivery of your baby.

So you don’t have to be stressed to get preeclampsia. Nor does being stressed necessarily mean you’ll have high blood pressure or preeclampsia.

2. Miscarriage

Research shows that pregnant women who have major adverse life events or mental stress are often at a higher risk of miscarriage.

3. Preterm Birth

Even though premature infants are born more often, and most do quite well, it is crucial to avoid adding risk factors — like stress — to your pregnancy if you can (or seek treatment), because the fewer the risk factors, the better the outcome.

Effects of Stress on Your Child After Birth

Some effects of stress during pregnancy may appear later, sometimes even after many years. Studies suggest that children may be more likely to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A study also shows that there can be a possible link to developing depression as a teenager.

Stress Relief Tips During Pregnancy

Following are some relief tips by which you can manage your stress and keep yourself calm and happy.

• Talk to your friend or someone you trust.

• Get close to your family and friends.

• Work lightly and prioritise your baby in the belly.

• Be mindful of your activities.

• Do meditation or yoga to keep your mind calm and relaxed.

• Eat healthy, sleep well, and exercise.

• Satisfy all your cravings and have balanced meals.

• Listen to music and pamper yourself.