Essential Pregnancy Advice I Wish I Knew
This is the Pregnancy Advice that I wish someone had told me.
Many describe pregnancy as a beautiful experience, a transformational journey filled with love and anticipation. While many expecting mothers are thrilled to be bringing a new life into this world, the journey is not without its challenges. You may be familiar with some of the basics, such as the best sleeping position for a pregnant woman (on her side) or effective morning sickness remedies (ginger tea, anyone? There are many nuances which often go unmentioned. This blog is my attempt to provide you with valuable insights that will make your pregnancy more enjoyable and comfortable. Let’s examine the many aspects of pregnancy that are often overlooked. From how to deal with the common symptoms, to maintaining your identity throughout this life-changing journey.
Pregnancy as a Perfect Image
Many women imagine themselves radiant with health and wearing flowing dresses. They also picture their hair as being luscious. The idyllic images, which are often created by maternity photographers who have a high level of skill, can create unrealistic expectations about what pregnancy will be like. The glossy photos we see depict a fairytale-like scene, which many women want to recreate.
Let’s face it: not every day is perfect. You might not be able to wear that beautiful sundress because it’s too hot, or your skin might feel like the Sahara. Or you may find hair stuck on your shower walls. While pregnancy can be magical and full of joy, there are also challenges. These are not always portrayed in the pristine pictures. Accepting the realities of pregnancy will help you to prepare for emotional and physical changes.
Accepting the Reality of Pregnancy
You’re not the only one who experiences discomfort or other symptoms during pregnancy. Many others have walked this path and found ways to deal with the ups-and-downs. Here are some tips I wish I’d received before I embarked on this thrilling, but tumultuous journey.
1. Investing in Body Lotion and Tissues
Keep tissues and body lotion within easy reach wherever you are. You may notice that as your pregnancy progresses your skin will become drier, especially during the first three months. Hormonal fluctuations can cause your skin to become dry and irritated. You may also notice that your skin is cracked on your abdomen as your belly grows. Your best friend will be a rich, hydrating cream that provides relief and comfort.
Let’s now talk about the tissues. Hormonal fluctuations may cause unexpected tears. You may find yourself laughing and crying at the same time over a sentimental television show. It’s completely normal! You can navigate these emotions by keeping tissues in your car, purse or office.
2. Enjoy the comfort of heat and ice
You can use a heating pad to manage discomfort while pregnant. The increased blood flow can cause swelling in your feet, hands and other body parts. Heat pads can relieve sore hips and backs. They will also make you feel more comfortable as your body changes.
Ice can also be used to soothe breasts that are engorged and relieve headaches. Understanding when to use heat or ice will help you manage a range of discomforts and enjoy your pregnancy.
3. A Super Sniffer
A heightened sense of smell is one of the unexpected changes many pregnant women experience. You may notice that during the first trimester you cannot detect scents others would miss. This new superpower may enhance your enjoyment when it comes to fresh flowers, baked goods or other pleasant smells, but can also make you feel sick if you get a whiff from something unsavory, such as certain perfumes, or even someone else’s lunch.
Keep a tube or other pleasant-smelling lip balm with you all the time to manage this increased sensitivity. Women swear by carrying the deodorant of their partner or a scented body lotion to mask unpleasant smells. It’s okay to sniff your husband’s deodorant – after all, you are pregnant!
4. You can blame the dog
Let’s talk gas. Due to hormonal changes, you may experience more gas than ever before. You can blame your dog if you are worried about passing gas out in public. The dogs are excellent scapegoats.
Consider increasing your water consumption and adding more fiber to your diet if you do not have a furry companion. Staying active will also reduce gas. Exercise is important for digestion and to keep things moving.
5. Enjoy Your Toilet Time
You might find yourself spending more time than you expected in the bathroom. It’s not just the frequent urination associated with pregnancy. You might be seeking comfort in the toilet if you’re experiencing morning sickness or constipation in your first trimester.
Duphalac is a great way to manage constipation in pregnancy. It contains lactulose, which gently stimulates bowel movements. Consider using your bathroom breaks as a mini retreat. You can read, relax or practice mindfulness.
The Power of Humor
It’s vital to keep a sense humor despite the uncomfortable symptoms of pregnancy, such as peeling skin, swollen parts of your body, increased sensitivity to scents and gassiness. You can cope better with pregnancy challenges by laughing at its absurdities. It will also remind you that this is all part of your journey to motherhood. The humor is one of the most effective coping mechanisms for this transformational time.
Five things I wish someone had told me during my first pregnancy
You’re probably filled with dreams and hopes for your baby as a mother-to-be. The experience can be filled with surprises. This is the advice I would have liked to have received when I was first pregnant:
1. Your identity (and your body) will change
Prepare yourself for a total transformation. It will be a complete transformation from “you” into “mommy”. Your attention will switch from your needs to your baby’s, which may cause you to feel disoriented if not prepared. You should acknowledge that you can mourn the past. Keep your sense of identity by dedicating time to activities that nourish your identity. This could be reading, exercising or engaging in hobbies that you enjoy.
Accept the changes in your body whether you decide to breastfeed or to use formula. Be prepared for some unexpected physical changes, irrespective of your choice. Accept the changes you will experience as part of your beautiful journey.
2. Your relationship with your partner will shift
Be prepared for your relationship dynamics to change dramatically once your child arrives. You will change your priorities. While you might have previously viewed your partner as the most important person in your life, now your baby will be at the forefront. It can be a difficult transition, but it will also strengthen your relationship with your partner. It can be rewarding to watch your partner navigate parenthood. This can create a new type of love.
Even amid chaos, make time for your partner. Date nights can take on new meanings, and even simple moments together will strengthen your relationship. Shared responsibilities and mutual support will make your journey easier.
3. The Journey is Not Complete without Disappointment
It is common to see the birth of a child portrayed as an idyllic fairytale, full of joyous moments and wonderful experiences. It’s important to acknowledge that disappointment is part of motherhood. Be prepared to deal with unexpected situations, such as a diaper blowout at a photo shoot or having to adjust your schedule due exhaustion.
Accepting disappointment as a part of motherhood can help you face challenges with grace. Remember that it’s okay to be frustrated. These moments are a part of your story. You can appreciate the beauty of chaos by accepting the imperfections.
4. Hormones will be a rollercoaster
Be prepared for emotional ups-and-downs during pregnancy. You could go from pure joy to uncontrollable sobs in just a few minutes. This phenomenon is completely normal. Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor, a friend you trust, or even your partner if your emotions are making it difficult for you to cope.
It can be a huge help to talk about your feelings. You will also find that others have experienced similar situations. It’s ok to ask for assistance when you need it. You’re not the only one going through this.
5. Love that will rock the world is waiting
You will be overwhelmed by the love that you feel for your baby. It’s been compared to having your heart outside your body. This deep love can be overwhelming for someone who is a control-freak like me. Realizing that you can’t always protect your children from the challenges of life is a big adjustment.
Within you, you have all the tools you need to become a great mother. You are meant to be a mother, and your baby is meant to be a mother. You’re in store for an exciting ride.
Finding Support During Pregnancy
A strong support network is essential to navigating the pregnancy journey. You need to surround yourself with people who can relate. Join a pregnancy support group online or in-person to share your experiences and get advice from other mothers. Share your feelings with others and learn from them. This can have a positive impact on your emotional health during this period.
Don’t hesitate to do so
Reach out to professionals. You can seek guidance from your obstetrician or lactation consultant.
Final Thoughts
Remember that you’re not alone as you face the challenges and joys of pregnancy. It is a journey that can be full of unexpected turns and twists, but also one filled with incredible growth and connections. You can face the next nine-month period with humor and confidence if you are armed with some practical advice.
Every moment is important, even if it’s not glamorous. They are all part and parcel of motherhood. Let’s embrace every moment, learn along the way and prepare for the amazing adventure of welcoming your baby into the world. You are ready for this adventure. Look forward to your new life.
