If you're pregnant and stressed out, here's some news designed to make you even more stressed: Apparently your excessive fretting could place your unborn baby at higher risk for asthma and allergies.

A new study by researchers associated with Harvard Medical School in Boston indicates that expectant mothers who experience stress -- over finances, relationships or other issues --  are more likely to deliver a child with elevated levels of IgE, an antibody found in asthmatic and allergic reactions. The study was conducted on 315 moms.

This new data only confirms what seems like common sense: Being anxious and tense during pregnancy can have an adverse effect on both the mother and her child. The question is, how do we women avoid that? We can do our best to remain calm and manage our worries. But some issues arise -- problems at work, a relative's illness, a spouse's lost job -- that are totally out of our control and will inevitably cause some amount of discomfort. 

It's the classic maternal Catch 22: We know that stress is bad in pregnancy. But trying to keep that stress at bay can cause even more stress. One day, I'd love to see a study that proves stress is actually beneficial. And when that day comes, I will be the healthiest woman in town.