Question:
I was wondering if anyone can tell me what the effect of emotional
stress could be in the first trimester (10 weeks pregnant now). I am
currently going through a very rough time indeed with my mother and
wish that at least it wouldn't affect the baby, if it is affecting me.
Answer:
I wouldn't add to your stress by worrying about how
it is affecting the baby. Just do your best to find ways
to cope with the stresses you have and be sure to take some
time each day, even if it's only a couple of minutes, to
find a little peace for yourself. Stress can affect the
baby, but it's much more of an issue in the second half
of pregnancy.
He's laid back, sensitive to others, resilient, intelligent, physically
gifted and darn cute. Pretty easy personality always. He cried when he cut
teeth but that's normal. He's been out of diapers for over a month, loves
his sister, and shoots baskets over his head. He can jump into the pool,
come up for air, swim to the side and climb back out. Talks well for his
age. His teeth look fine so far. He has a mild pilonidal dimple, but no
health problems. He was born at 11 pounds @41 weeks. I'd hate to think
what a powerhouse he'd be if I'd been happy during his pregnancy (giggle).
Everyone just loves him.
Perhaps the effects of maternal stress have really something to do with
maternal diet? Or substance abuse?
Can't speak from experience as DD is only 7 months old but I read another
group where this issue comes up and they often find that a particular food
acts as a diuretic in the child. Could be anything, but wheat is a common
one. When the frequent peeing is sorted the child seems to have better
control and not be taken by surprise.
I would completely let it go. I believe sometime around 3 years old is the
average for being potty trained. When your DD is ready, it will take just a
few days. Why agonize and stress the both of you for months on end until
she's really ready? Just sounds like a lot of wasted effort to me.
