Stress, depression and pregnancy?!


Question:

Stress, depression and pregnancy?

can stress and depression have an impact on your pregnancy and if so what kind of harm can it do to your baby??


Answers:

Hormones are surging thru your pregnant body, perhaps making you feel stressed or depressed if you were not before. You do not say how far along you are, so here is some info on emotions for all 3 trimesters. Congrats & good luck to you!
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First Trimester: Pregnancy may leave you feeling delighted, anxious, exhilarated and exhausted — sometimes all at once. Even if you're thrilled about being pregnant, a new baby adds emotional stress to your life.
It's natural to worry about your baby's health, your adjustment to motherhood and the increased financial demands of raising a child. You may wonder how the baby will affect your relationship with your partner or what type of parents you'll be. If you work outside the home, you may worry about your productivity on the job and how to balance the competing demands of family and career.
You may also experience misgivings and bouts of weepiness or mood swings. To cope with these emotions, remind yourself that what you're feeling is normal. Take good care of yourself, and look to your partner and family for understanding and encouragement. If the mood changes become severe or intense, consult your health care provider for additional support.

Second Trimester: Pregnancy is a psychological journey as well as a biological one. During the second trimester, you may feel less moody and more up to the challenge of preparing a home for your baby. Strike while the iron is hot! Check into childbirth classes. Find a health care provider for your baby. Read about breast-feeding. If you plan to work outside the home after the baby is born, get familiar with your company's maternity leave policy and investigate child care options.
As your pregnancy progresses, changes in your body's shape and function may affect your emotions. Some women feel a heightened sexuality during pregnancy. Others feel unattractive — especially as their bellies grow. If you're struggling with your body image, share your concerns with your partner. Express love and affection in ways that help you feel most comfortable.
While anticipation mounts, worries about labor, delivery or impending motherhood may preoccupy you. Remember that you can't plan or control everything about your pregnancy. Instead, focus on making healthy lifestyle choices that will give your baby the best start.

Third Trimester: As anticipation grows, fears about childbirth may become more persistent. How much will it hurt? How long will it last? How will I cope?
If you haven't done so already, you may want to take a childbirth class. You'll learn what to expect — and meet other moms-to-be who probably feel the same way you do. Talk with women who've had positive birth experiences, and find out what options you may have for pain relief. Tell yourself that you'll simply do the best you can. There's no right or wrong way to have a baby.
The reality of parenthood may start to sink in as well. You may feel anxious and overwhelmed, especially if this is your first baby. To stay calm, revel in the emotions and sensations of being pregnant.
·Write your thoughts in a journal.
·Listen to soft music.
·Talk to your baby.
·Take photos of your pregnant belly to share with your baby one day.
It also may help to review your decisions about issues such as circumcision and breast-feeding. Knowing how you'll proceed once the baby arrives can give you a greater sense of control.




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