Is it normal to feel anxious or stressed during pregnancy?

Source: NICHD, March of Dimes

Reviewed by: Julie Cunningham, RD, CDCES, IBCLC

Key Takeaways:

  • Stress is Common: It's normal to feel stressed during pregnancy as your body and life go through significant changes. Mood swings, discomforts, worries, or work-related stress can all contribute.

  • Know the Impact: High levels of stress can lead to health issues during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, preterm birth, or having a low-birthweight baby. Serious stress-related conditions like PTSD need special attention.

  • Reduce Stress: There are ways to manage stress effectively. Eating well, staying fit, practicing relaxation techniques, and seeking support from your loved ones can lower your stress level. Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

  • Prioritize Your Mental Health: Not everyone who has depression or anxiety is unable to function; sometimes it’s more subtle than that. If you believe you could have depression or anxiety, reach out to your healthcare provider. It’s not only OK to get help, it’s good for both you and your baby, and if you need medication, your provider can give you something that is safe for pregnancy. Remember that you're not alone, and support is available.

Are you an expecting mom who sometimes feels stressed or anxious? You're not alone. Many pregnant women experience these emotions during their journey. Let's talk about why this happens and what you can do.

Why You May Feel Stressed:

Pregnancy is a magical time, but it also brings many changes. Your body, your emotions, and your family life are in transition. These changes can bring new sources of stress. Some common reasons for stress during pregnancy include:

1. Discomforts of Pregnancy: Things like morning sickness, tiredness, or backaches can be challenging.

2. Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can affect your mood and sometimes lead to mood swings.

3. Worries About Labor and Birth: Not knowing what to expect or how to care for your baby can be overwhelming.

4. Work-Related Stress: Managing your job and preparing for maternity leave can be a lot to handle.

5. Support System: Problems with your partner or family, or feeling like you lack support, can add to stress.

How Stress Affects Your Pregnancy:

It's natural to feel some stress during pregnancy, but too much can have health consequences. High levels of stress can lead to problems like high blood pressure, preterm birth (when the baby arrives too early), or having a low birth weight baby. Babies born too soon or too small can face health issues.

Serious Stress—PTSD and Pregnancy:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a more serious type of stress that can negatively impact you and your baby. It can occur after experiencing a painful event like abuse or the loss of a loved one. The symptoms of PTSD can include anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and more. If you have PTSD during pregnancy, it may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

The Role of Chronic Stress:

Chronic stress, which is stress experienced for a long time, can lead to health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and other complications during pregnancy. Various factors such as financial difficulties, living in an unstable environment, or facing racism, in particular, can cause chronic stress.

How to Reduce Stress:

Reducing stress during pregnancy is crucial for your health and your baby's. Here are some ways to help manage stress:

  • Know that pregnancy discomforts are temporary. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on handling them.

  • Stay healthy and fit by eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising (with your healthcare provider's approval).

  • Delegate tasks and seek help from your partner, family, and friends.

  • Try relaxation activities like prenatal yoga and meditation.

  • Take childbirth education classes to prepare for labor and birth.

  • Plan ahead for your time away from work and use any time off you may have to relax.

  • If you're facing financial or situational difficulties, consider consulting a social worker.

Seeking Support:

Remember, you don't have to go through stress alone. Having a strong support network, which may include your partner, family, and friends, can make a significant difference. Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health:

If you believe you have depression or anxiety, talk to your healthcare provider right away. Getting treatment is safe during pregnancy and is essential for both your wellbeing and your baby's.

Feeling some stress during pregnancy is normal due to the many changes you're experiencing. But it's vital to manage stress effectively. Understanding how much stress impacts your health and your baby's wellbeing is the first step. Don't hesitate to seek support and take steps to reduce stress. You’ll feel better, and your baby will thank you for it.

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The content on this site is for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Discuss any health or feeding concerns with your infant’s pediatrician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay it based on the content on this page.