Reducing Stress During Pregnancy
Pregnancy in
itself is stressful enough; with the events of the past few weeks, pregnant
women should take extra good care of themselves, says Dr. Donald
R. Mattison, medical director of the March of Dimes.
He notes that
some studies suggest high levels of stress may increase the risk of premature
labor or low birth weight. To lower that risk, Dr. Mattison urges pregnant
women to follow some time-tested principles of good self-care: eat regularly
and nutritiously, and drink at least 6 glasses of water a day; make time
for adequate rest and relaxation each day (many women find meditation to
be a good stress reducer); abstain from unhealthy practices like smoking
cigarettes, drinking alcohol while pregnant, or abusing drugs, and get
your health-care provider's advice before using herbal products; and seek
support from your partner, family, and friends.
For more information
on stress and pregnancy, call the MOD at 1-888-MODIMES.
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