Pregnancy, Stress and Emotional Wellbeing: Why Nervous System Support Matters

Pregnancy is a time of anticipation, excitement and change — physically, hormonally and emotionally. During this period, the nervous system works continuously to help both mother and baby adapt.

Rather than trying to eliminate all stress (which is impossible), the goal is to support regulation — the body’s ability to move smoothly between activity, rest and recovery.

The connection between maternal regulation and baby development

Research shows that the mother’s nervous system environment plays an important role in early development. When the mother is well supported — physically and emotionally — it helps create a more stable environment for the growing baby.

This does not mean mothers must feel calm all the time. It simply highlights the importance of:

• Rest

• Supportive care

• Gentle movement

• Emotional connection

• Predictable daily rhythms

Physical comfort also supports emotional wellbeing

As pregnancy progresses, changes in posture, joint mobility and muscle balance can place increased strain on the spine and pelvis. Discomfort, poor sleep and tension can make it harder for the nervous system to settle.

Gentle chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on:

• Supporting comfortable movement

• Encouraging pelvic balance

• Helping the nervous system regulate more effectively

Many mothers report feeling:

• More comfortable

• More relaxed

• Better able to rest

• Better able to adapt to the changes of pregnancy

Supporting calm through simple daily rhythms

Small daily habits can help regulate the nervous system:

• Gentle walking or stretching

• Slow breathing moments

• Regular meals and rest times

• Warm baths and relaxation routines

• Supportive, reassuring care

Pregnancy is not only about preparing for birth —it is also about supporting the regulation and resilience of both mother and baby.

📚 References (supporting literature)

Pregnancy stress and maternal–fetal physiology

• Dunkel Schetter, C. (2011). Psychological science on pregnancy: Stress processes. Current Directions in Psychological Science.

• Van den Bergh, B. R. H. et al. (2017). Prenatal developmental origins of behavior and mental health. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews.

Movement, posture and musculoskeletal pregnancy changes

• Wu, W. H. et al. (2004). Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain. European Spine Journal.