Stress During Pregnancy: Causes, Effects, and How to Cope

In short: Stress in pregnancy has many sources, such as money and family problems or a pregnancy after a long delay. There is no strong evidence that ordinary daily stress causes miscarriage, but severe and lasting stress may be linked to a slightly higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. To cope safely: seek support from family and professionals, take moderate exercise, practise breathing, relaxation and yoga, and try to deal with the causes. The husband’s support matters greatly.

Psychological stress is considered a condition that can negatively affect human health.

Psychological stress during pregnancy is one of the most important factors that can affect a mother’s wellbeing, so understanding it and learning how to manage it is an important part of a healthy pregnancy journey.

What is the definition of psychological stress?

It is a state of anxiety and tension resulting from exposure to a difficult situation. It is actually a natural response that prompts us to face challenges and threats in our lives.

What is the physiological response to psychological stress?

• Increased heart rate
• A temporary rise in blood pressure
• Increased respiratory rate
• Feeling tired and nauseous
• Diarrhea
• Increase appetite for food
• Loss of appetite for food with weight loss
• Headache
• Inability to sleep

What hormones rise during psychological stress?

• Adrenaline
• Cortisol

What is the effect of psychological stress on pregnant women?

• Miscarriage has not been proven to be caused by stress – ordinary daily stress or worry does not cause a pregnancy to be lost
• Premature birth
• Low birthweight

Does psychological stress during pregnancy affect the future of the child?

Some studies suggest that psychological stress during pregnancy may be linked to difficulty concentrating during childhood and certain psychological or mental challenges. It may also be associated with an increased risk of allergic diseases and asthma in the child. Every pregnancy is different, and these are general findings rather than guaranteed outcomes.

What are the causes of psychological stress during pregnancy?

• Financial problems
• Social problems
• Pregnancy after many years of infertility
• Family-related issues
• Domestic violence
• Abuse of drugs and alcohol
• The mother suffers from chronic psychological problems such as depression and chronic anxiety
• The pregnancy is not wanted

What are the possible ways to deal with psychological stress during pregnancy?

• Providing psychological, social, and family support
• Doing moderate exercise
• Adhering to a healthy, balanced diet and compensating for vitamin deficiencies
• Finding the cause of psychological stress and trying to address it (problem-solving)
• Breathing exercises and muscle relaxation exercises
• Practicing yoga and meditation
• In more difficult cases, talking therapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy) is usually the first step, and your doctor may consider a medicine that has a good safety record in pregnancy – sedatives and sleeping tablets are generally avoided except for short periods

In cases of psychological stress resulting from pregnancy after many years of infertility, your doctor may recommend more frequent visits to help reassure you about your baby’s wellbeing on a regular basis.

Is psychological stress during pregnancy limited to the mother only? No, it includes the father as well, and supporting the father during his partner’s pregnancy may help relieve psychological pressure on the mother too.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress during your pregnancy, know that you are not alone, and support is available. Dr. Najeeb Layyous and his team are here to guide and reassure you throughout your pregnancy journey — feel free to reach out to the clinic to discuss any concerns you may have.

Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist