Stress

[k8bailey]

How bad is stress for an unborn child? I've had a particularly hard couple of days, feel very stressed out and now my bump aches, so now I'm stressing that I might be harming the baby.

[ann_h]

I shouldn't worry about it, everyone has a bad few days now and then.

High-level long-term stress can possibly affect a baby's development in things like lower birthweight - BUT I'm talking about real physiological stress throughout the pregnancy like domestic violence or homelessness. Even then, adequate care after birth should make up for it. I think that in those studies that show a link, it is a continuation of those stresses causing poorer aftercare which really makes a difference.

[k8bailey]

Thanks Ann, I think I've worried and paced so much today I've probably tensed all the muscles in my stomach too much.......families eh!

[Picky]

Hiya
I lost my lovely Daddy when I was nearly 7 months pregnant after watching him lose nearly 10 stone in 4 months and suffer horrifically with oesophogus cancer, so as you can imagine my stress (and grief) levels were sky high. I was also worried about the affect on baby Picky #2, but he was totally fine, weighed in at 10lb 11oz and is the most joyful, happy, smiley baby I've ever met. Just try and keep your chin up, hope things ease off for you soon

Px

[k8bailey]

Thanks Picky, my stress seems silly compared to what you went through. I was just worrying about bump beacuse I was having palpitations and my bump hurt, but it's all calmed down now. Hope you and the little pickys are well!

[Picky]

It's all relative - I just hope you're feeling better. Take it easy!

Love Px