We are living in an era where digital technology is controlling most of our routine activities, guiding us into a future of greater productivity, efficiency, and comfort. But, this excess access is detrimental on various fronts by disturbing our biological clock. The blues of the blue light are turning our mental health black. So, if you are pregnant and have developed a habit of going to bed with your smartphone, then beware! You are sleeping with an enemy. Stop spending hours with screens, not just for your baby’s well-being but also for your own.
1. Blue Light and Sleep Disruptions
One of the most serious concerns is that high exposure to blue light suppresses melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. According to one of the recent studies published by Harvard Health, nighttime blue light can affect the circadian rhythm, which not only delays the sleep but also deteriorates its overall quality. However, quality sleep is pretty essential for pregnant women to maintain maternal health, hormonal balance, and the appropriate development of the fetus. The regular practice of scrolling the screen till late at night may lead to many physical and mental issues, such as insomnia, increased risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and longer labor durations.
2. Mental Fatigue and Emotional Stress
A long screen time can increase the stress level because prolonged scrolling, especially on social media, can be mentally exhausting and may impact both the mother and the baby. The constant stream of news and misleading information about pregnancy often triggers unnecessary anxiety. Besides, too much exposure to distressing or negative content can raise cortisol levels (stress hormone), which is not good for fetal brain development.
3. Physical Discomfort and Eye Strain
Physical exhaustion due to overexposure to screen time cannot be neglected, as people usually do. Backaches, stiffness of neck, blurry vision and eye strain that pregnant women usually complain about are nothing but the aftereffects of screen addiction. As hormonal changes due to pregnancy also affect tear production, women should live a more disciplined life during these important days.
4. Missing Out on Mindful Bonding
Another disadvantage of sticking to the screen for a longer period during pregnancy is missing out on cherishing and rejoicing this memorable phase. Instead of spending hours watching the screen, one should improve one’s presence in these moments by feeling the baby’s movements, practising prenatal yoga, or even writing a memoir of those very special experiences that will enrich your memories and develop a powerful bonding with the new member ready to join your family.
5. Finding Balance: Not All Screens Are Bad
Neither addiction nor complete abstinence is the solution; the right choice is maintaining a balance that will support your pregnancy journey instead of harming you or your baby. When used sensibly, various online apps and tutorials may provide you with opportunities such as teleconsultations, prenatal classes, meditation sessions, and nutrition-related tips from a pregnancy coach. Hence, to keep screen time healthy during pregnancy, use blue light filters or glasses, especially in the evenings, follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds), and avoid screens at least 1–2 hours before bedtime. In addition, replace screen time with activities like walking, reading, or light stretching, and curate your feed to follow credible pregnancy-related accounts.
Let MPL Make It Easier
With expert-backed tools, resources, and emotional support designed specifically for Indian moms-to-be, Mom’s Preg Ladder (MPL) is here to help you. Here, consultation with a certified pregnancy coach ensures that your journey is happier, healthier, and more informed.
