Finding out your pregnant is incredibly exciting, but with it can come worries about finance, relationships and the thought of birth.
Midwife Sue Rowland gives her expert tips in the video above on how to manage stress and anxiety to protect your unborn baby.
"Making sure you relax is important," she said. "And there are lots of ways to do this."
1. Exercise.
"Any sort of exercise including swimming or walking and that kind of thing is really good," suggested Rowland.
Choose a type of exercise that you enjoy doing so you don't dread going outside to do it.
2. Talking.
If a mountain of worries are building up in your head about pregnancy, being a mum and everything in between, it won't do you any good.
"Talking about how you feel in pregnancy is very important," added Rowland. This can be to anyone from other mums to your midwife and doctors.
3. Sharing.
"Sharing things with your partner or birth supporters is always a help," said Rowland.
Let those who are closest to you and are likely to be there at the birth to understand how you want your birth to go and how they can support you during your pregnancy.
4. Preparation.
The fear of the unknown is one of the biggest factors of bringing on stress.
Rowland advises women to be prepared for pregnancy and the birth by attending antenatal classes, reading books and chatting to other mums-to-be.
If you find your anxiety or stress is overwhelming, watch the video above to hear what Rowland suggests you do next.
SEE ALSO:
Midwife Advice: 3 Things Pregnant Women Can Do To Make Giving Birth 'Shorter And Faster'
Should You Take Supplements During Pregnancy? Midwife's Advice On What Vitamins Women Should Have
