People say a lot of things about pregnancy and childbirth. Before I had my baby, there were things I thought I knew, things I thought I was prepared for, and things I was sure would happen. I was aware of this because people always speak about it — the morning sickness, mood swings, and the best feeling in the world when you hold your baby in your arms! But when I look back, I can see that there is so much more to pregnancy and childbirth than what we’ve been told. Your body and your life does a one-eighty.
There are so many things I wish I had known about pregnancy and childbirth before I got there. I know that there’s no such thing as being “fully prepared”, but a little bit of a heads up occasionally could have made a world of difference. I also know that every woman’s experience with pregnancy and childbirth is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to this experience of life. But despite this, I’m about to share with you a few pearls of wisdom I wish I’d known sooner!
It’s Okay To Feel Unprepared
You’re about to be a mother. That’s a one-way ticket with no going back. During your pregnancy, you may feel like you’re not ready to be a mother yet. Or, you may feel like the responsibility of taking care of a child is suddenly too much to handle. And guess what? That’s alright. It’s normal to feel that way. What starts off with excitement and hope can turn into fear and regret. Guilt, too, for feeling this way is relatively common.
You need to know that this does not make you a bad human, nor does it mean that it will make you a bad mother. It just means that you’re going through a lot physically and emotionally, and any sort of transition can make anyone overwhelmed (1).
Having said that, if you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you, to the point where you feel depressed, anxious, or even suicidal, reach out for help. Help is always available, no matter what, and some people can help you navigate through all your inner turmoil.
Your Relationships Can Change Too
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Although you’re the one who is going through the process of pregnancy and childbirth, you need to understand that others have a role to play as well. Your partner has to transition into the role of a father, your parents will soon become grandparents, and your sister or brother is about to become an aunt or uncle. All this means that they too, must be experiencing an emotional rollercoaster of their own. This particularly holds true for your partner. There may be instances when you have to deal with their crankiness, just like how you expect them to deal with yours. All this can take a toll on your relationships, but being prepared for it can help you get through it with much ease.
You Might Want To, But You Don’t Have To Overeat
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We’ve all heard of the pregnancy appetite. It’s supposedly monstrous. That’s not exactly true. According to the NHS guide, you only need to up your food intake by an extra three hundred calories during the last three months of your pregnancy. There will be times when you crave a whole lot of junk food, and it’s okay to indulge once in a while. However, don’t go overboard with your food intake, as it really isn’t necessary. It is an incorrect and outdated pregnancy myth that you should overeat at this time. Stick to a well-balanced nutritious diet, drink plenty of fluids, and take your prenatal vitamins regularly. Also, incorporate a daily workout routine, and you’re sorted (2), (3).
That Surge Of Beautiful Emotions Post Childbirth? Yeah, Might Not Happen
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We’ve seen it in movies, we’ve read it in books, and we’ve heard most mommas talk about it — that sudden rush of love when you hold your baby for the first time after childbirth. The chances are that you may not feel any of that. Don’t be surprised, shocked, hurt, or guilty if you can’t. You’re not the first mother to go through this, nor will you be the last. You’ve just pushed a watermelon-sized human out of your nether regions, or maybe your tummy is sliced open (graphic, we know, but true). You’re in pain, pumped with medication, and terribly tired. It may take some time for you to come to terms with the fact that your little one is here. Some women may also experience postpartum blues or depression (4). It’s alright; cut yourself some slack. Give yourself some time to heal physically and mentally before you can feel what you “have to” for your precious bundle of joy.
You Don’t Have To Overspend On Baby Stuff
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It may be tempting to cash out on all the baby stuff that’s out there, but you don’t really have to. Get all the essential things such as diapers, onesies, socks, and a feeding bottle. But you don’t really have to get that pram or car seat — you can borrow it from a friend who doesn’t need it anymore. Your baby will grow faster than you think, and before you know it, none of those things will be useful anymore. If you can’t borrow it from a friend, you can always look them up on online stores that have sales or excellent bargains going on.
Most importantly, it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Motherhood can be a wholesome experience that is filled with some of the most precious moments, and you’ll love every bit of it. Even if there are a few not-so-pleasant moments as well. What’s something you wish you had known about pregnancy sooner? Let us know in the comments below!
