10 Things I Wish I Had Known About Being Pregnant
This is a list of ten things I wish someone had told me before I got pregnant. (There are certainly more than ten, but these are the highlights).
1. You don't have to live in pain.
More than half of pregnant people experience back or pelvic pain. A lot of healthcare providers say that’s normal and to be expected… just because it is COMMON doesn’t mean it’s NORMAL. You don’t have to live with that pain. The body goes through incredible changes to support human life, but you can manage those changes with the help of a variety of prenatal experts. Finding a trusted pelvic floor therapist, massage therapist, acupuncturist, exercise specialist, or yoga instructor could save you weeks, months, or years of pain.
2. You can switch providers at any time.
Literally ANY time. If you picked someone at 8 weeks just to check a box and you don’t like the way they’re brushing off your questions and concerns at 36 weeks, you can find someone new. It might be a pain and extremely stressful, but it could be worth it to ultimately have an empowered labor and birth experience.
3. Your nipples might get huge.
Why does no one talk about this? As your body gets ready for breastfeeding it goes through a lot of changes, and your nipples are no exception. Find some good body butter, nipple cream, or coconut oil, as it will become your new best friend from now until you are done breastfeeding.
4. You might have random nosebleeds.
Could just be the altitude and dry air of Denver, but nosebleeds are more common throughout pregnancy. This has to do with the extra blood volume coursing through your body to sustain your baby and placenta. It could be nice to know you may bleed on your yoga mat when moving into downward dog.
5. You might have to give up that favorite deli meat sandwich.
But do I really have to? The answer is- it is highly recommended! Out of all the different restrictions that seem to come with being pregnant, you do want to avoid the chances of being exposed to a food-borne bacteria called Listeria. We’re never here to tell you what to do, but I think Listeria is important to know about. While outbreaks have been in everything from cantaloupe to sprouts, cold cut deli meats tend to make the list quite frequently, and Listeria is not a bacteria that you want to mess with. Listeria has been linked to miscarriages, preterm birth, or still birth, and with further complications for surviving infants. So for now, it might be best to pass on your favorite turkey sandwich- and make sure to check out the CDC website for more information about food outbreaks throughout pregnancy.
6. You have choices for birth.
Why does no one talk about this either? If you want to give birth in a hospital room with your feet up in stirrups, you can. But if you don’t want to, you don’t have to! There are other options, so do some research and think about what feels best for YOU. Think about whether you want to be in your home, a birthing center, or a hospital. There are options out there, so don’t be scared to explore different ideas. This is your body and your choice.
7. Your second trimester may not be golden.
The second trimester has been deemed the “golden” one where many women report that their energy returns, nausea dissipates, and they feel great. Know that this is not true for everyone! You may still have days where you feel exhausted, nauseas, overwhelmed or just burst into tears randomly. While I hope you have many golden moments, know that it is okay if you don’t feel as golden as everyone is telling you that you should.
8. You will have to make so many decisions.
From prenatal testing to birth plans to car seats- there are endless decisions throughout pregnancy. And there are probably even more once your baby arrives. Have confidence in the fact there isn’t always a “right” decision. Everyone chooses what works best for their unique situation and experiences.
9. You can say no.
Being pregnant is like no journey you have ever been on. It comes with so many ups and downs, and not to mention this constant urge to make sure everything is ready for your newborn when they arrive. If you are anything like me, it is hard to stop moving a million miles a second- between work, social engagements, and playing in the mountains, I have a hard time saying no to different engagements. However, when pregnant, learn to say “no thanks” when you’re on the verge of over-committing yourself. Prioritizing your mental and physical health is one of the best things you can do for you and your baby. So if it sounds like it is too much, it probably is. Listen to your body and know that is 100 percent okay to do nothing. In fact- it is encouraged.
10. You can do this.
Think about all the amazing women who have gone through this before you. While at times being pregnant can feel isolating and overwhelming, know that you are not alone. You are on embarking on an incredible journey where you are producing a human life! How AMAZING. So take a deep breath and know that you got this. Enjoy the journey and make sure to find time to take care of yourself. One thing I have found to be helpful is to write- so stop what you are doing now and write a quick letter to your baby. Tell them about who you are and about how excited you are to meet them someday soon.