Stress and emotional health: pregnancy
The changes that occur during pregnancy can cause worry and anxiety for many women as well as their partners. It is important to know how to cope with these changes and even more important to know where to turn for help when it is needed.
How can I deal with stress?
- Join a prenatal class where you can meet other pregnant women and their partners and others who understand what you’re going through.
- Follow Canada’s Food Guide. All pregnant women need to take a daily multivitamin including folic acid and iron every day. Pregnant women also need more calories. Include an extra 2 to 3 Food Guide servings each day.
- Use relaxation strategies such as guided imagery and breathing techniques.
- Think about the things/people that may cause additional stress.
- Be aware of the things that you can do to reduce stress.
- Learn to say “no” whenever possible, and surround yourself with support and positivity.
- Ask and accept help from others when you need it!
For more information or assistance for dealing with stress and emotional health during pregnancy, visit or contact the following resources:
Canadian Mental Health Association
- sm.cmha.ca
- 705.675.7252 or 1.866.285.2642 (toll free)
Sudbury & District Health Unit Health Information Line
- 705.522.9200, ext. 342
Crisis Intervention Program 24Hours/Day
- ementalhealth.ca
- 705-675-4760 or 1-877-841-1101
Ontario March of Dimes
Heart and Stroke Foundation: Manage your stress
TeleHealth Ontario
- 1.866.797.0000
This item was last modified on June 10, 2021