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TOMS RIVER, N.J., December 3, 2008– Pregnancy can be a stressful time for many women. Feelings of happiness, sadness, uncertainty and worry are all very normal emotions. However, the normal stresses of pregnancy coupled with stresses over work, family matters, or the economy, just to name a few can compound a pregnant woman’s anxiety and may even affect the health of her and her baby.
“Women have lots of common concerns that they stress over when they are pregnant,” said Robert O’Donnell, DO, an obstetrician-gynecologist on staff at Community Medical Center. Is my baby healthy? When will my baby be born? Will I be a good parent? These are all common questions, Dr. O’Donnell said. However, in today’s stressful world, other factors about loss of a job, finances, even safety and security can all compound and, according to Dr. O’Donnell, may contribute to preterm birth or low birthweight in full-term babies.
Dr. O’Donnell, who recently added a second office at 890 West Bay Avenue in Barnegat, said there are many things a woman can do to decrease and eliminate stress during her pregnancy. “The most important suggestion is to speak to your doctor about the stress you are feeling,” Dr. O’Donnell said. “Recognizing and acknowledging your feelings is the first step in addressing stress.”
Dr. O’Donnell said women should maintain a healthy diet and engage in moderate daily exercise during pregnancy. “Exercise releases endorphins into the body, which make us feel better, improve our mood and help relieve stress,” he said. Always talk to your physician before beginning an exercise program when you are pregnant.
Adequate sleep is also important. “If you are having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor,” Dr. O’Donnell said. While some women experience bouts of insomnia while they are pregnant which can be completely normal, other factors weighing on a person’s mind can lead to many sleepless nights. Meditation, writing in a journal and listening to music are all good ways to help relax when you are pregnant, Dr. O’Donnell said.
“Avoid stressful situations. If something or someone is making you anxious, try to avoid it. If you must engage in stressful meetings at work or address something important at home, try to remain as calm as possible, for the benefit of you and your baby,” Dr. O’Donnell said.
Finally, Dr. O’Donnell urged women to maintain good prenatal care. “Go to your appointments, talk to your doctor. If you feel overwhelmed, upset or unsettled, there are many resources available which your doctor can help with.”
Women who deliver their babies at the First Moments Maternity Services Unit at Community Medical Center, will experience a total concept of care for mother and baby. Advanced technology is enhanced by the human touch of dedicated health care professionals. The labor-delivery-recovery rooms combine the latest medical technology with a soothing home-like décor – each complete with its own bathroom and private shower. The unit includes a Special Care Nursery staffed by a neonatologist and certified neonatal nurses to care for babies with special needs, and a fully equipped operating room for cesarean births or high risk deliveries.
Pregnancy and childbirth are always going to be exciting, stressful times. But maintaining good health and an open dialogue with your health care provider can help offset any negative side effects of increased or undue stress during this time.
For more information on the First Moments Maternity Services Unit or to schedule an appointment with Dr. O’Donnell or any of the obstetrician/gynecologists on staff at Community Medical Center, call 1-888-SBHS-123 or visit www.saintbarnabas.com.
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