Stress, Anxiety & Pregnancy
Now, if only it was all so easy and calming.
This can be a great tool for in the moment refocus but we know that anxiety can go much deeper. With all the joy of a wanted pregnancy anxiety is often wrapped into that first trimester dance to getting through that last few weeks anxiously waiting for your baby to come earthside. In the lead up to birth it’s important to pay attention to your thoughts, triggers and stressors. Don’t be afraid to tap into your support system if you are struggling - that could be your ob, primary care physician, significant other or doula.
Below are some resources around stress, anxiety and mental health.
Anxiety Disorder vs. Stress During Pregnancy (Mind Body Pregnancy)
What I Didn’t Know: The Truth About Prenatal Anxiety and Depression (Medium Blog)
Advances in Perinatal Anxiety Research: Perinatal anxiety is starting to get the scientific attention it deserves (Seleni Institute)
Anxiety and panic attacks in pregnancy (Tommy's)
Mental Health in Black Moms Is Largely Ignored—5 Ways We Can Improve It (Self)
Often with these conversations the focus turns to ways to work through stress reduction, mindfulness, yoga and meditation. Journaling, deep breathing and massage are great options. Below are a few more resources that you can explore and incorporate into your journey.
Nancy Bardacke: Mindful Childbirth (YouTube)
Four Reasons to Practice Mindfulness During Pregnancy (Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley)
Mindful Birthing: Training the Mind, Body, and Heart for Childbirth and Beyond (Amazon)
5 Amazing Benefits Of Doing Breathing Exercises During Pregnancy (Mom Junction)
Calm - Meditation Techniques for Sleep and Stress Reduction (iOS)
Yoga for Pregnancy (Yoga Journal)
Blog Contributor, NBDA Member, Jovan Sage
