A–Z Glossary

Psychological distress

A state of intense emotional suffering that may include panic, uncontrollable fear, confusion, dissociation, or difficulty participating in essential care.

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Search results for: Psychological distress

Do thoughts influence pregnancy outcome

Do thoughts influence pregnancy outcome

What the question really means When people ask whether thoughts influence pregnancy outcome, they are often really asking whether fear, sadness, guilt, or hope can directly shape the fetus. The evidence does not support a mystical or instantaneous connection in which every thought is translated into fetal injury or protection. The fetus is not receiving […]

Emotions in early and active labor

Emotions in early and active labor

Early labor: anticipation and emotional space Early labor, sometimes called the latent phase, often begins with a sense that birth is approaching. Contractions may be irregular or manageable, and a person may still be able to talk, eat, rest, shower, or move around between them, depending on individual circumstances. Emotionally, this can create room for […]