9 Ways to Cope With Stress During Pregnancy

Ebube Imana

Did you know a pregnant woman experiencing prolonged high levels of stress may be at a higher risk of high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, having a premature or low birth weight baby, among other dire complications? While stress during pregnancy cannot be totally prevented or eradicated, it can be managed such that your health, baby’s and mood are not adversely affected. Here are helpful tips to note:

1. Rest, Rest, Rest

Steal a few minutes of sleep during the day, or better still, find somewhere to put your feet up and relax during lunch break at work. Don’t bite more than what you can chew as that could put your health and productivity at risk in the long run. At home, don’t push yourself too hard, if you must, cut down on the chores, especially ones that leave you spent, and whenever you feel tired, catch a quick nap to rejuvenate yourself.

2. Talk to Someone / Vent

I must say I did this quite a bit. Okay, maybe a lot. My husband was first on my list since “he put me in this condition,” (that’s what I always told him), then, my friends who were pregnant and had kids. They could relate with whatever I was going through per time. It helps a lot to know you can talk to women who have been through similar experiences. It helps you calm your frayed nerves and realize you won’t be pregnant forever after all.

3. Laughter

This indeed is the best medicine and will lift your spirits! Go for shows, watch a funny movie, hang out with fun loving friends, just find countless ways to excite yourself. Have fun! As far as nipping stress in the bud is concerned, I can guaranty that this works tremendously.

READ ALSO: How Stress Can Affect Your Chances Of Getting Pregnant And What To Do

4. Healthy Bites

Fill up with healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or salads, juices (natural fruit juice). These feed your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and knowing that you are supplying your baby with the nutrients it needs gives you one less thing to worry about.

5. Comfortable Clothing

Wear comfortable clothes and footwear with good arch support. Find sassy loose or stretchy clothes that will allow you to breath. Shop for clothes that flatter your new silhouette. Keep your hair tidy and groomed, look clean, fresh and pretty, as this will help give your self esteem a lovely boost.

6. Regular Exercise

Light exercise can help reduce stress and help prevent common pregnancy discomforts. If your hospital has a physiotherapist, make an appointment. Mine was very helpful and taught me so many things that came in handy pre and post pregnancy. You should also get in the habit of having a massage regularly (ask your spouse for help). This soothes your nerves, relieves backache, helps with proper blood circulation, and fosters a good night’s sleep.

7. Listen to Music, Dance

Listen to calming, refreshing and wholesome music. This can lift your spirits and provide encouragement. Sing to your unborn baby if you can, this can help calm both of you and put you in a good mood. Don’t forget dancing is a form of exercise too, so move your body to the beat and hum along.

8. Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing does not only help when it’s time to push, but also helps you stay calm and relaxed. When you are upset or stressed, take deep breaths before you react and you’ll react in a more controlled manner.

9. Getting Organized

From your work, to your home, to the highly needed finance for your hospital bills, baby’s shopping, and so on, set a realistic road map to avoid being caught off guard. It also helps to have a reasonable reserve fund to meet unforeseen expenses or bills if you can afford it.

You are responsible for yourself and your developing baby, so, commit to better health; don’t let stress eat you up!