Stress and Pregnancy: 6 Tips to Survive

Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Now what?

Pregnancy can be such a stressful period in your life, especially if you are a first-time mom-to-be. Your body is changing, your hormones are going wild, you are ecstatic but at the same time worried… And, honestly, all that stress is not ideal for the baby.

Luckily, there are ways that you can help yourself be less stressed out and enjoy your pregnancy while it lasts.

Prioritize yourself

You and your baby are now the number one priority and focus. To you, to your partner, to your surroundings. Now is the time to learn to say ‘No.’ Say no to all the things that don’t make you happy, or that may cause nausea, discomfort, or even pain.

Try to relax as much as you can, because your body is working extra hard to make those cells, and ultimately – a baby.

Sleep well

Even though most pregnant women go through at least a phase of pregnancy insomnia, that is simply a phase. A good night’s sleep is important for a healthy pregnancy, and your mental health. No one is in a good mood if they are exhausted. Add to that exhaustion raging hormones, and that is not going to be a pleasant experience for whoever is on the receiving end.

If you are already a parent, you must know how hard it is to get a break. But it is necessary, so get your partner or your parents/inlaws involved if needed, to be able to get some sleep.

Eat healthily

Pregnancy cravings are no joke. Your body suddenly needs insane food combinations or things you never liked before, and it is such a strong urge that you simply cannot escape it.

However, eating junk food is the last thing you need to be doing.

Eating healthy pregnancy food can only benefit both you and your baby. Foods that are rich in fibres, vitamins A, D, and C, as well as calcium and potassium, are the perfect choice for a healthy pregnancy.

Opting for porridge with almonds, chia seeds, and blueberries for breakfast, instead of a croissant is a better choice for your body’s needs and will give you more energy throughout the day.

Exercise

Even though it sounds crazy, doing exercise when pregnant, is highly recommended.

Doing light exercise like walking, or even jogging if the doctor has approved, will help you gain strength in your core muscles. If you are further along and jogging would be painful, opt for a pilates ball and do some light exercise and stretching on it.

You would be surprised to learn just how easier it is to go through labour if you have exercised during pregnancy, than if you haven’t.

Make a financial plan

Money can be the worst stressor of them all. If you don’t have savings, or you decided to be a stay-at-home mom to raise your child and now your family is down to only one income, it can be very nerve-wracking.

However, try to make the best plan to cover all the baby’s needs. If you fear the money will be difficult to stretch, try to cancel all the subscriptions that may be excessive.

Cut down on eating out, and eat at home more, and don’t go for a cup of coffee to your local coffee vendor, but make one by yourself in the morning.

Your life is going to change drastically either way, so cut down all the non-necessities now.

Learn what to expect in labour

It might sound scary right now, but knowing what to expect once you go into labour is drastically going to help you calm down your nerves.

Fear of the unknown can be even increased if it is this big of a change. So, learn all you can as to how to know the labour has started, when can you expect the baby to come, how much is it going to hurt and what you can do to lessen that pain, how your partner can help you, and so on.

Get educated now to know what you need to do when the time is right.

Try to enjoy this magical time in your life. Everything will fall into its place, and you will soon meet your bundle of joy to hold and call your own!