Managing stress during pregnancy
Talking about issues during pregnancy helps the whānau deal with any stresses.
Pregnancy is a time of many changes – not only physically, but also emotionally.
- Sometimes these changes cause parents additional stress.
- Things that make mum feel stressed can affect her unborn baby too.
Talking about it can help
- Helping whānau identify what’s worrying them can help them find short- and long-term solutions.
- If both parents are present, it’s a great chance for them to talk about any stressful or worrying issues so they can work through them together.
- If dad’s not involved, ask mum who her supporters are and who she can talk to when she has concerns.
- Find a way to start a conversation about stress levels in the whānau.
- Use coloured pens and paper for a brainstorm session to record what’s stressing them the most.
- Remember to gather all ideas before looking at the possible solutions.
Helpful resources for whānau
