It’s normal to feel some stress during pregnancy - it’s an exciting time.  

But too much stress can be unhealthy for you and your baby. 

To help keep your stress levels manageable:

• talk with a professional or someone you trust
• learn to say ‘no’ to extra responsibilities
• make time for yourself every day
• be physically active every day
• get enough sleep and eat healthy foods
• practice relaxation breathing
• plan ahead, including maternity leave
• prepare your other children for the new baby
• arrange for help in your home once the baby is born
• go to prenatal classes to learn about pregnancy, birth, and parenting

Partners, friends and family members can help, too. Here are some tips for support people:

• Listen to the expectant mom’s concerns and try to understand - even if you don’t have a solution to the problem.
• Ask what you can do to help.
• Talk about your own worries and concerns.
• Discuss potentially stressful issues, like the management of finances, to help get them out in the open.
• Join a prenatal class together to learn about becoming parents.
• Create your birth plan together.
• Talk about maternity and paternity leaves.
• Laugh together

De-stressing 

When trying to manage stress ask yourself:

• What are my top two de-stressing activities?
• How can I fit those two (or more) activities into my life?

Talk it out

If you have a sudden crisis, such as the death of a loved one, loss of a job, or move to a new home, talk with someone you trust. This could be a friend, your partner, or someone from your personal support team. For advice about seeking professional help, talk to your health care provider or a public health nurse, or call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.