Don’t let worry spoil your pregnancy

It's normal for pregnant women to have worries and concerns. Having a baby is a big moment in life. It looms so large that you can worry much of the nine months instead of enjoying your pregnancy.

Although worries may feel very unique and personal to you, many pregnant women tend to worry about the same things. Here are some of the more common worries with tips for what you can do:

Worrying that something will be wrong with the baby. Try to remember that most pregnancies have healthy outcomes. Put your fears to rest by doing what you can to be sure your baby is born healthy: Eat well, exercise regularly and avoid risky behavior like drinking alcohol and smoking. Keep all of your appointments for prenatal care.

Worrying that you won't be able to stand the pain of labor and birth. You know what they say: Knowledge is power. Learn all you can about what you can expect during labor and birth. Call your provider or your local hospital to find out about childbirth classes. You can learn techniques that will relieve the pain of labor. There are also pain medications to learn about. Also, if you're planning to give birth without pain medication, remember that it's not a personal failure to change your mind and ask for medication. In some instances, the medication may help you relax just enough to help move labor along.

Worrying that you won't know how to care for your baby. Taking a course in baby care at your local hospital may help you feel more prepared. Read about baby care and spend time with a friend's newborn, if possible. Ask nurses at the hospital questions, and ask them to help you practice basic baby care before you are discharged. Family, friends and books are good ways to learn more about baby care.

Worrying that something will go wrong during the birth. It's true that sometimes babies don't come into this world exactly as planned. However, having a baby is a natural event, not a high-risk disease. Chances are that you and your baby will be fine.

Worrying that your life won't be the same. Well, this is true! Babies bring nothing if not change. But that doesn't mean you won't enjoy life anymore. Your relationships will change and your interests may shift. But you can make plans to include your baby and you can still do many of the things you liked to do before. A new vista of life will open up for you, and there will be new satisfaction and meaning.

Finally, remember this: The love you have for your baby and your desire to care for him or her will see you through the practical tasks that lie ahead. After all, most people learn about childcare through on-the-job training.

Date last reviewed: October 2002.

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