High Stress Levels Associated With Low Birth Weight
Many pregnant women concentrate on taking it easy during their last trimester. A little less work, a little more relaxation… all very good for both Mom and baby. But what about those who are newly pregnant? Studies show that women should take a lot more off of their plates in the first trimester as well.
Researchers in the Netherlands followed more than 8,000 women during their pregnancy. These women were asked to fill out a survey detailing their workload and stress levels on the job. The results were surprising. Working in a stressful environment more than 32 hours a week directly correlated with a lower birth weight.
Since high stress on the job early in pregnancy can result in a “small for gestational age” (SGA) infant, it is important for newly pregnant moms to evaluate their workplace environment. What could be changed to make the workday a little less stressful? Do you have enough vacation time to take a few hours off a week? Or are there some projects you can put aside for a few weeks until you are further along in your pregnancy?
If there is truly nothing you can change about your workplace, then do everything you can to make home a comfortable and relaxing environment for the time you are off from work. Maybe your partner can take on a few extra chores, some shopping duties or pet clean up. After all, “it is best for the baby,” right?
