Daily life can leave you in a whirlwind of excitement, happiness, and self-doubt. Even something as joyous as pregnancy might leave you feeling a bit down in the dumps or unprepared.
Don’t worry. Hormonal surges are typical during this significant life event. When stepping into the shoes of motherhood, it’s ideal for life to seem like a movie.
That’s why we’ve listed seven tips for when you’re pregnant and stressed because no one deserves to battle the emotional and physical changes alone.
Once you’re equipped with these helpful suggestions, the next nine months should flow smoothly.
Table of Contents
Are You Pregnant and Stressed?
Many women look forward to being a mom starting in childhood, while others don’t catch the maternal bug until their 20’s, 30’s, or 40’s. Regardless of when you set your sights on taking the big leap, it’s okay. We’re not here to judge.
Being a mom is hard, and any woman who says otherwise must have one or two full-time nannies if that’s you, kudos, because that’s awesome. But for those of us lacking help, we need all the expert advice out there.
So sit back and review the following recommendations for reducing stress when pregnant.
1. Get Rest
Yes, it sounds so simple to tell a pregnant woman to get more rest. But unfortunately, there are many reasons why a pregnant woman develops insomnia.
The first and third trimester seems to cause interruptions in pregnant women’s sleep. Some might experience difficulty falling or staying asleep. Causes of pregnancy insomnia include the urge to urinate, fluctuating hormones, back pain, and nausea, according to Healthline.
If you’re having a tough time sleeping, try soaking in a bath, adjust the room temperature, wear a sleep bra, drink warm milk or non-caffeinated tea, or a body pillow.
Don’t allow insomnia to progress for too long. Speak with your physician or midwife about sleep-inducing remedies.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water should be on everyone’s to-do list. But when you’re pregnant, it’s essential to the healthy growth and development of the baby.
Before a woman becomes pregnant, it’s recommended to drink eight 8 ounce glasses of water each day. Once you’re prego, that number increases to at least ten 8 ounce glasses, according to What To Expect.
If you’re not meeting your daily quota, consider eating foods high in water — salads with cucumbers, iceberg lettuce, tomato, bell peppers, radishes, and zucchini.
You might want to drink caffeine-free tea or flavored waters to help switch up your beverage intake.
We know sometimes a person doesn’t crave water. But if you adopt multiple methods of ingesting it, this can help you achieve your goal.
3. Eat Well
Being pregnant allows women to eat more food without feeling guilty or self-conscious. Since you’re eating for two, it’s natural, your daily calorie intake increases. However, if a woman is considered underweight or overweight before her pregnancy, the number of required calories will differ.
For an average weight pregnant woman, the amount of daily calories is 1,800 calories for the first trimester, 2,200 calories for the second trimester, and 2,400 for the third trimester, according to Medlineplus.gov.
If you want to ensure a healthy pregnancy try eating more foods rich in calcium, protein, folate, vitamin C, and magnesium (which might help improve your sleep). Foods such as chicken, fish, avocados, nuts, kale, spinach, citrus fruits, and more.
Be sure to reduce your caffeine intake and stay away from sushi, raw eggs, and unpasteurized milk cheese.
4. Pampering
One of the greatest things to do for yourself during those special nine months is pampering. It’s crucial to relax and dedicate time to celebrate becoming a mother.
While it might be more difficult in the later months, soaking in a hot bath is fantastic. It helps relieve tension and soothe aching muscles.
If taking a bath isn’t your thing, then try getting your hair and nails done. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t look fabulous too.
Or schedule a massage with your favorite therapist. Having those swollen feet rubbed could be the answer to your prayers.
Perhaps loafing on the couch with your favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavor while watching a romantic comedy might be what you need. Whatever you decide, make sure it’s enjoyable. Because whatever you feel, the baby feels.
5. Confide in Someone
No one said being a parent is natural. This is especially true for mothers-to-be. Taking on the responsibility of raising a child is enormous. It comes with financial, emotional, and physical stressors.
If you feel like things are getting too stressful, please talk with someone. A best-friend, significant other, parent, or counselor might be able to help you sort out your feelings and work on ways to change how you feel.
6. Prepare for the Baby
You’d be surprised at how fast those nine months fly bye. But before you know it, the baby is in your arms. Therefore, it’s essential to start preparing as soon as possible.
It’s never too early to start setting up the nursery. Giving yourself time to purchase the crib, bedding, linens, clothing, and other vital items could reduce your stress.
But buying items isn’t the only way to prepare for your child. Reading books, articles, or watching videos will help you learn.
Listening to your child’s heartbeat through a fetal doppler could give you the motivational boost you need. It’s a beautiful reminder that your baby is growing and getting ready to meet you.
7. Stay Connected
It might be tempting to hibernate during your pregnancy, but you shouldn’t cut off ties with those you love. Pregnancy is the final period of your life when it’s only you. Once you’re a mother, your life changes.
Sure, your life begins transitioning during pregnancy, but you still have time to go about your day and not worry about having a sitter or lugging a baby, car seat, and baby bag around.
Reach out to your girlfriends, and have a nice dinner. Go to a jazz club and listen to the local talent. Getting out allows your friends and family to spoil you before they fawn over the baby.
Let It Go
Whatever is you to be pregnant and stressed will resolve itself with time. Use the advice given to work out the issues causing you distress. No one should suffer in silence, especially a mommy-to-be.
Learn more valuable suggestions by visiting our Children and Parenting section.
