Dr. Sedki Al-Shazly Al-Sheikh
Doha, Qatar: During pregnancy, women experience natural physical and emotional changes. They may also become more sensitive to stress and pressure as a result of hormonal changes and the responsibilities associated with expecting a new baby.
Through clinical practice in the mental support section, it has been observed that some pregnant women may become particularly sensitive to distressing or widely circulated news, especially when the information is unclear or contradictory.
Therefore, paying close attention to mental health during this stage is essential.
Clinical Psychologist at Al-Mashaf Health Center at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Dr. Sedki Al-Shazly Al-Sheikh explains that continuous exposure to news through television or social media may increase feelings of anxiety, particularly when it occurs repeatedly throughout the day.
For this reason, it is recommended to limit news consumption to specific times, such as twice a day, and to avoid following distressing news in the evening or before bedtime, as this may lead to excessive thinking and difficulty relaxing.
It is also advisable to reduce constant browsing of news on mobile phones and instead spend this time engaging in calming activities such as reading, light walking, or spending time with family.
These activities can help restore a sense of calm and emotional balance.
Taking occasional breaks from social media can also be beneficial in reducing exposure to anxiety-provoking content.
If it is necessary to stay informed about current developments, pregnant women may consider receiving only essential information from a trusted person, such as a spouse or a close family member, who can follow the news and share the key updates calmly and in a manner that considers the woman’s psychological well-being during this period.
Maintaining a consistent daily routine can significantly support psychological stability. Pregnant women are encouraged to keep regular times for sleeping and waking, while also organising meals, rest periods, and daily activities.
A structured routine can help reduce constant preoccupation with news and external events, while fostering a greater sense of stability and calm.
Certain simple activities can help pregnant women reduce stress and improve mood. These may include light walking or engaging in suitable physical activities after consulting a doctor and ensuring they are appropriate for the individual’s health condition. Other helpful practices include deep breathing exercises, reading, or engaging in a favourite hobby.
Some women may also find comfort in spiritual practices such as reading the Quran, engaging in remembrance (dhikr), or making supplication (duaa). Such practices can promote feelings of tranquility and inner peace. Incorporating these activities into daily life may help calm the body, reduce stress levels, and enhance emotional comfort and stability.
Good sleep plays a vital role in maintaining both psychological and physical balance during pregnancy. Proper sleep patterns are linked to the regulation of hormones associated with stress and mood, such as cortisol and melatonin, which play an important role in controlling the body’s sleep–wake cycle.
Pregnant women are generally advised to aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per day to support their physical and mental health during pregnancy.
Healthy sleep habits, such as reducing phone use before bedtime, avoiding distressing news in the evening, and creating a calm and comfortable sleep environment, can help improve relaxation and overall sleep quality.
Emotional support from a spouse or family members plays a key role in reducing anxiety levels among pregnant women. Research in psychology and mental health indicates that social support is one of the fundamental factors that enhance feelings of safety and emotional stability during pregnancy.
Talking about feelings or concerns with a trusted person can help pregnant women express their worries in a healthy way, which may reduce stress and increase feelings of reassurance.
Dr. Al-Sheikh adds that it is normal for pregnant women to experience some anxiety at certain times, especially in the presence of concerning events. However, in some cases, anxiety may become severe or persistent enough to affect daily life.
