Pregnancy can be a wonderful time for you and your partner, while you anticipate and prepare for the arrival of a new-born baby. However, pregnancy also brings with it certain bodily and emotional changes, and some women find the experience of carrying a child a very stressful one. Every pregnancy is different, and it’s impossible to completely prepare for the experience, but there are certain things you can do to reduce your stress levels during this time.
Don’t Listen to All the Advice You’re Given
It’s important to remember that being pregnant often invites a great deal of advice and criticism from others. Your family, friends and partner may wish to tell you how you should be behaving, what you should eat, how much activity you should do or what kind of birth you should have, but they are not carrying your child. The details of your pregnancy and your routine should be decided by you and the relevant health professionals. You can choose how much to involve your partner in these decisions, as it is your body, not his, that is the vessel for your child.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
A certain times during your pregnancy, you may not feel like seeing or speaking to anyone, but it’s important to keep the lines of communication between you and your loved ones open. If you don’t tell those close to you how you’re feeling, they won’t be able to help you and provide for your needs effectively. Your experience of pregnancy is unique and even if your friends have previously been pregnant, they won’t know exactly what you’re going through.
Treat Yourself
Now that the ‘eating for two’ myth has been blown wide open, we know that eating whatever you like during pregnancy isn’t the healthiest option for either you or your baby. If you need to treat yourself, why not take a break from buying things for the baby’s room and get something just for you, that you can enjoy whilst pregnant. Maternity wear is getting more stylish all the time and you can even buy maternity occasion wear from retailers like Bibee Dresses.
Relaxation Techniques
If you’re feeling anxious or stressed, it’s important to try to relax as high levels of tension can cause your baby discomfort. Try taking a long bath, or booking yourself in for a massage or manicure.