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UAE doctors advise pregnant women to avoid stress, constant news amid regional tensions
Doctors are urging expectant mothers to take extra care of their emotional wellbeing
- PUBLISHED: Mon 16 Mar 2026, 5:23 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
As regional tensions dominate headlines and social media feeds, doctors in the UAE are advising expecting mothers to stay informed but avoid constant exposure to distressing news cycles or social media updates, which can heighten fear and uncertainty.
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While sudden loud sounds such as explosions or sirens may cause alarm, medical experts say the fetus is naturally well protected within the womb. However, the stress response that fear or anxiety can trigger in a pregnant woman may influence the intrauterine environment.
For this reason, doctors emphasise that pregnant women should take extra care of their emotional wellbeing, noting that prolonged stress during pregnancy may indirectly affect both mother and baby.
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Managing information intake
Medics point out that the key lies in maintaining emotional balance.
Dr Meera Anto Thekkekara, Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at International Modern Hospital Dubai, said geopolitical tensions can take a psychological toll on expectant mothers, particularly when anxiety becomes prolonged.
“Periods of heightened geopolitical tension can create significant psychological stress for pregnant women. According to the World Health Organization and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, maternal stress during pregnancy is an important health consideration because it can influence both maternal wellbeing and fetal development.
When a pregnant woman is exposed to persistent anxiety, fear, or sudden loud noises such as explosions or sirens, the body activates its natural stress response system.”
She explained that this reaction causes the body to release hormones linked to the “fight-or-flight” response.
“This leads to increased levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. While short periods of stress are generally manageable, prolonged or repeated stress can affect the mother’s cardiovascular system, sleep patterns, and emotional health.”
Despite these concerns, doctors emphasise that the fetus itself is physically shielded by the uterus and amniotic fluid, meaning loud sounds alone are unlikely to cause direct harm. The larger concern is the mother’s stress reaction and how it shapes the environment within the womb.
Supporting mental wellbeing during pregnancy
Because of this, international maternal health guidelines strongly emphasise supporting mental wellbeing during pregnancy, particularly during periods of uncertainty or conflict.
One of the most important steps doctors recommend is managing information intake.
Constant exposure to alarming news, especially through social media, can amplify anxiety and create a sense of fear. Experts advise pregnant women to rely on credible sources for updates while avoiding excessive scrolling or repeated exposure to distressing images and reports.
Healthcare professionals recommend several strategies to help pregnant women cope with stress during periods of instability or regional tension.
Dr Shiva Harikirishnan of Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital said, “Exposure to chronic stress or repeated sudden loud noises, such as explosions or sirens during conflict, activates the maternal stress response system, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This results in increased production of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.”
Over time, she said, prolonged stress can have several effects on the mother’s health.
“In the mother, prolonged stress may lead to sleep disturbance, increased blood pressure, anxiety, panic attacks or depression, and reduced immune function.”
These hormonal changes may also cross the placenta and influence the fetus.
“Studies suggest that persistent high maternal stress levels may affect fetal brain development, particularly areas involved in emotional regulation and stress response.”
Managing anxiety during uncertain times
Healthcare providers highlight that several evidence-based strategies can help expectant mothers manage anxiety during uncertain times.
Dr Ragia Saad, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynecology, Saudi German Hospital Dubai said, “Maintaining regular prenatal care is one of the most important protective measures. Frequent communication with healthcare providers allows doctors to monitor both maternal and fetal health closely and address any emerging concerns early.”
Medics encourage expectant mothers to establish daily routines that support emotional stability.
“Simple practices such as maintaining consistent sleep schedules, eating balanced meals, and engaging in light physical activity — such as walking or prenatal stretching — can help regulate stress hormones.”
“Social support plays a critical role as well. Pregnant women benefit greatly from maintaining strong connections with family members, friends, and community support systems. Emotional reassurance and a sense of safety can significantly reduce psychological stress,” added Saad.
