How to Survive a High Risk Pregnancy with Low Stress
By: Brooke Chaplan
If you are having a high-risk pregnancy, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed, nervous, and scared for the health of your unborn child and yourself. While it may seem impossible at times, the best thing you can do for you and your new baby is to minimize stress. Try not worry, as you develop a plan with your doctor. You can find ways to decrease your feelings of stress and anxiety with these tips.
Types of High-Risk Pregnancies
You might have a high-risk pregnancy for a number of reasons. If you are the age of 35 or older, you are medically classified as a high-risk pregnancy. If you consume alcohol, smoke cigarettes, or use drugs, you are also considered a high risk. You may develop complications during your pregnancy such as diabetes, preeclampsia, or issues with your placenta. You may also have additional stresses in your personal life such as a stressful job or financial strains that could contribute to high blood pressure or strain on your baby. And, your previous medical history or if you are expecting more than one baby can also put you at high risk. Know the circumstances for your unique case and don’t be afraid to ask questions. When you are well informed you can avoid feeling lost or confused, and lower the uncertainty you may feel.
Dangers
The dangers of a high-risk pregnancy are many, however the majority are quite manageable with the proper precautions. The seriousness of these dangers often depend on the type of high-risk pregnancy you are experiencing. Many of these dangers include premature delivery, low birth weight, developmental abnormalities, and even loss of the child prior to term. Your doctor will explain the dangers in full detail, however they are likely to advise you to reduce your stress as much as possible and to stay positive and relax during these challenging times.
Your doctor might also recommend looking into after birth services like Shriner’s Hospital in Cincinnati for pediatric plastic surgery for defects, or incubation care for premature births. See if you can get these kinds of thing scheduled early to avoid added stress later.
Manage Stress
It might be easier said than done to manage your stress and relax despite the orders of your doctor, however it is imperative to try. A great start is to ensure you are eating right and avoiding drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly and follow proper prenatal care. You should also rest as much as you can and reduce your workload to be able to relax as much as possible. Another great way to manage your stress is to practice meditation and prenatal yoga to lower your blood pressure and to reduce your heart rate.
Although you might not be able to, try to exercise lightly and spend time doing things you love. Taking time to take your mind of the present can help improve your mood and stress levels significantly.
Lowering and managing your stress is the best way to achieve a healthy pregnancy and a healthy delivery during high-risk pregnancies. Do not forget to laugh, smile, and spend plenty of time with those in your life who raise your spirits during challenging times in your life. There are many people in your life both professionally and personal who will help and support you.
