Family guide to prenatal development
Your pregnancy companion
You’re pregnant!
As with all pregnancies, you likely feel mixed emotions: excitement and joy, but also stress. When you’ve received a prenatal fetal diagnosis, these emotions can be even more complicated.
You likely have many questions about your pregnancy, your baby's diagnosis, and your baby's health and development. This guide will offer you information, and point you towards resources to support you through this complicated time. You are not alone on this journey.
Starting with the basics
What to do right now
Do you want to do what's best for your baby, but aren't sure where to start? It is normal and expected to feel overwhelmed right now.
Don’t worry: we can help. We’ve highlighted the most important things you can do right now to take care of yourself and your growing family.
And remember: stillness and rest are also important. Take the time you need to process the diagnosis, and move forward at a pace that feels right.
Understanding and managing stress during pregnancy
Most pregnant people experience physical and emotional changes that can cause stress. These feelings are normal and expected.
If you are pregnant with a baby who has a heart defect, you may have even more sources of stress than is typical. Increased stress in this situation is also normal and expected. However, you can get help, and things can get much better.
Keep reading to understand some common stressors during pregnancy, and what you can do to feel better. You and your baby deserve it.
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Jenna and Quinn
Like many moms in the CHD community, Jenna learned about her baby's heart condition at her routine 20-week ultrasound. The diagnosis left her devastated, and she knew she needed support.
Jenna stayed connected with the medical team and the cardiac neurodevelopmental program throughout the remainder of her pregnancy. Clinicians helped her to process her thoughts and feelings, to manage her stress, and to prepare for her baby's birth.
Keep reading to learn more about Jenna's story.
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