7 Tips for Navigating Pregnancy Complications

Managing pregnancy complications is stressful. You're no doubt worried about your baby, the future, and possibly your own health. However, there are ways to help you relax, get pregnancy information, and manage your complications with strength and determination. Knowing what your complications mean for you and Baby reduces fear and allows you and your family to plan for the future.

After hearing that a pregnancy has developed complications, people go through several stages. Many couples deny that there really is a problem. But gradually, most families overcome the denial and set out to learn as much information as they can find to best prepare for what's ahead. In addition to this important quest for information, there are some other things that you can do to help manage pregnancy complications. Try these simple steps to help you through this often trying time.

Write It Down

Write down as much information as you can about the problem. It is entirely normal for an expectant mother to enter a period of high anxiety upon being told that there is an issue with her pregnancy, but this state can make it difficult to digest and retain valuable information.

When you visit with your doctor, ask her to write down notes during your exam or visit. Make sure you have your diagnoses in writing before you leave the doctor's office. These notes help to ensure that you're getting all the info you need (even if you're having a hard time concentrating at the office).

Keep a pregnancy journal. Jot down summaries of your doctor's visits, keep track of questions for your next office visit, make note of how you are feeling each day, and vent those emotions! Getting it all out can help you shed stress and feel more in control of your situation.

Create a support network, and keep everyone abreast of what's going on with you and the baby. Some moms-to-be find that a sending out a weekly family email, blogging, or even regularly logging onto community boards can help ease the frustration and stress of pregnancy complications.

If your condition allows some freedom of choice in how you'll give birth, be sure to create a birth plan. Setting out your wishes in a way that your partner and doctors will understand can be a great strength to fall back on during your labor and delivery.