Pregnancy and Labour Anxiety Effects on Fetal Development

There is some evidence that if a woman is anxious or depressed during pregnancy this can negatively affect a baby’s birth weight and fetal brain development. So there’s one more thing to be anxious about! Nobody wants to feel stressed or anxious at what should be one of the happiest times of your life, and thankfully there are many ways to ease your mind for a happier, more relaxed pregnancy, delivery and postpartum period. Speak to an expert
A woman’s worries about pregnancy and beyond are often based on misinformation or misunderstandings. Your GP can relieve many anxieties by explaining the realistic likelihood of problems and what your medical team can do to avoid them. Get informed
Two sayings come to mind here: “a little knowledge is a dangerous thing” and “forewarned is forearmed”. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle! Read all about pregnancy and childbirth on the very informative websites or in books, and use this information as a general guide, but remember that the vast majority of births go without any hitch whatsoever so reading about obscure or rare conditions, after effects and problems is probably going to make you worry unnecessarily. Talk to other mums
Sharing thoughts, fears and stories about pregnancy and childbirth with other mums is probably one of the best ways to quash any fears or anxieties.
Ask mums to share their birth stories and ask them how they coped, but if a gory story makes you anxious ask them to cut it short! Do some stress management
Make a list of small things that make you feel happier and calmer and make time to do them. It could be taking a long relaxing bubble bath, lunch with a pal, reading celebrity magazines, watching a favourite film or box set, looking at holiday pictures and planning your next one. If you can get used to “switching off” and relaxing, the technique of imagining yourself doing these enjoyable things can be used to cope with the pain and anxiety during labour. Keep healthy
All the things which you are told are good for fetal development – a healthy diet, moderate exercise, adequate sleep and avoiding toxins like alcohol and cigarettes are also tools for decreasing stress. Don’t suffer in silence
If you’re unsure whether your feelings of anxiety are normal seek a therapist or psychiatrist who specialises in pregnancy and postpartum health. Ask your GP for a recommendation or referral.