Effects of Disasters on Pregnant Women: Stress and Coping

Many people affected by disasters cope with a great deal of stress. Individuals handle stress and trauma in different ways?sometimes in ways that can be unhealthy, such as the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. It is important to remember to take care of your health, even during difficult times.

To learn more about dealing with stress related to disasters, please see
http://emergency.cdc.gov/masscasualties/copingpub.asp

Stress and Coping in Pregnancy

Pregnant women might be particularly concerned about the possible effects of stress on the unborn baby. When coping with increased stress during pregnancy, it is important to remember that use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs can adversely affect an unborn baby.

For more information about stress and pregnancy, please see http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/159_527.asp.

For more information about the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use during pregnancy, please see
http://www.cdc.gov/fasd, and
http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1169.asp.