Hey there! I’m Jenna, and believe it or not, I genuinely enjoyed my pregnancy experience. Ducks as the tomatoes fly overhead Sharing that sentiment often feels like admitting to liking an unpopular artist—nobody seems to get it. While some may find my love for pregnancy baffling (and maybe even think I’m the antithesis of a typical mom-to-be), I’ve recently encountered many women who dreaded those nine months.
Regardless of your feelings about pregnancy—whether you cherish it, loathe it, or feel somewhere in between—here are seven insights I wish I had received during my time as a human incubator.
1. Indulge Your Cravings
That’s right! Go ahead and eat all the delicious foods your heart desires. During my first pregnancy, I was all about those savory cravings—think hearty sandwiches and mouth-watering roasts. I often felt guilty about indulging, but guess what? I gave birth and still looked like I had just had a baby. So, give in to those cravings; you’re creating a little human, after all!
2. You Don’t Have to Be Superwoman
Many expectant mothers feel the pressure to keep up with their regular routines, but you don’t have to maintain that superhero facade. It’s totally okay to take a break and use your “I’m pregnant” card when you need to. Just say, “I’m not up for that; my cape is at the dry cleaners.” Simple as that.
3. Embrace Second-Hand Goodies
When preparing for my first child, I thought new was always better, but I quickly learned otherwise. Brand-new items can easily get damaged, stained, or outgrown. Instead, consider opting for second-hand treasures—unless it comes to mattresses, which should definitely be new!
4. Ask for Support Without Guilt
I struggled to ask for help while pregnant, thinking I had to handle everything on my own. But the truth is, it takes a community to raise a child—a sentiment that’s been around forever. Don’t hesitate to lean on your loved ones when you need assistance!
5. Enjoy Intimacy in Your Own Way
I found myself loving intimacy during pregnancy, even while grappling with body image issues. My partner’s sweet words about my beauty made a world of difference, and feeling attractive can lead to a fulfilling experience. Remember, when you feel good about yourself, it enhances every aspect of your life!
6. Invest in Maternity Wear
You’ve got nine months to rock those maternity clothes, so why not enjoy it? This is a rare time when you can flaunt designer styles without worrying about sucking in your belly. Plus, you can resell them later, making it a win-win!
7. Dive into Nesting
Nesting was one of the most delightful surprises of my pregnancy. I found myself cleaning and organizing with a newfound energy, something I usually dread. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen that level of tidiness since—life gets a little chaotic with little ones around!
In conclusion, while you might feel heavier than usual, experience swollen ankles, and battle heartburn at all hours, remember that pregnancy can be a beautiful experience. It’s your time to shine before diving headfirst into the wild world of parenting. Savor those moments when it’s still (somewhat) all about you!
If you’re eager to learn more about home insemination, check out this helpful blog. For the best resources on pregnancy, visit Women’s Health. And if you’re looking for top-notch tools for your journey, Make a Mom is an excellent place to start.
Summary:
Embrace your pregnancy journey by indulging cravings, asking for help, and enjoying your body. Remember, it’s a unique experience that can be cherished if you allow yourself to enjoy the ride!