A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology finds that stressful circumstances early in pregnancy can lead to underweight babies or premature births. Chinese researchers studied 1,800 pregnant women and surveyed them on their emotional health and traumatic events such as death, divorce and job loss.

They found premature birth was more than twice as likely if severely stressful events occurred during the first and second trimesters, but not the third. Low birth weight was nearly three times more likely if stress happened during the first trimester.

Stress during pregnancy causes higher levels of cortisol and adrenaline in the fetus' bloodstream.

Other studies suggest that overly high stress levels can increase your heart rate, blood pressure and produce chronic anxiety. None of these side effects are good for your baby.

So what to do if you find yourself in a particularly stressful situation?

First, don't let these studies cause you more stress. :-)

Secondly, reach out for help. Ask a friend, relative or neighbor to help you. Be specific. Tell them what you need to make your life less stressful for you and your baby. People want to help in a crisis they just don't always know what to do. Help them to  help you. Make sure they understand what you are going through. Find someone you can talk to who will just listen. You may have to ask  them to do just that. Listen, with no comments. Often by sounding out what is bothering us we are able to come to our own conclusions about what we need to do next and are able to solve or resolve some of our problems.

Thirdly, Have gratitude! Every day. Find the good in your life. If you are going through a particlarly difficult time it won't be east but strive to write down at least five good things about each day.

My forth nugget- Start a journal. Just for your eyes. Write down anything and everything that comes to mind. Writing has an amazing way of healing the soul.

Last but not least- Talk to your unborn child everday about all of the good things in your life. Listen to relaxing music while you spend this special time alone with your child. Let him/her know about all of your hopes and deams for their future. Tell them how beautiful the world is even if right now you don't really believe that. Fill your unborn child with your love and hope.