6 tips for reducing stress during pregnancy

Stress during pregnancy is normal, and treating it is relatively straight forward.

1. Identify your stressors.

6 tips for reducing stress during pregnancy

“We first try to identify the source of their stress so we can devise a personalized and targeted plan to help her relax,” Richlin says of his patients. By identifying specific areas of tension, you can work to remove them from your life or minimize their effect.

2. Get regular exercise.

For stress relief and to help moderate weight gain, keep a regular exercise regimen.

“Pregnant women should absolutely continue their favorite physical activities, especially if it is something they’ve done for many years,” says Richlin, though he cautions against trying new exercise programs or those that could result in a loss of balance.

3. Lean on your support system.

When you’re pregnant, the people around you tend to want to nurture you. Let them, and lean on them when you need someone to talk to.
“Sometimes I recommend my patients take nightly walks with their partners,” says Richlin, who says the activity kills two birds: getting moderate exercise and strengthening the relationship. He also suggests mothers continue to socialize and have fun with their friends.

4. Be honest about your finances.

For many expectant mothers, the financial stress of having a child can be overwhelming. Labor and delivery, even with insurance, can cost thousands. Add that to the approximately $12,000 in additional annual expenses you’ll have with a new mouth to feed, and there’s definite cause for concern.


Take an honest look at your financial situation, and budget for the upcoming expenses as much as possible. If it’s overwhelming, enlist the help of a financial advisor experienced in helping families of all income levels plan for their new arrival.

5. Talk with your doctor.

You doctor may have resources to help you manage stress including support groups, fitness plans specific to pregnancy, or counselors trained in helping women cope with all of the changes they experience during this phase of life.

6. Relax.

With so much effort to prepare for the baby, sometimes pregnant women forget to relax. Now is a great time to try yoga or meditation, or simply carve out some alone time. Before you know it, you’ll be chasing your little one around, and quiet moments will be few and far between.