I admit I’m one of those pregnant moms who worry about almost everything. Which is why the article below from babycenter.com helped ease my anxieties. I also added my comments on the items which I was able to relate to.
You can view the article at http://www.babycenter.com/0_what-i-wish-id-known-not-to-stress-about-during-pregnancy_1472865.bc?bclink=section&scid=preg_2_20120209:1&pe=MlVBSVRuSXwyMDEyMDIwOQ.._
BabyCenter moms look back on their pregnancy and tell you what to cross off your worry list.
“Don’t stress if you can’t get everything done that you had planned each day. The baby won’t know if the housework isn’t done!”
“It’s okay to tell co-workers that you’re not interested in their advice. Every pregnancy is different.” – Of course, as Filipinos, our culture is very different. It may be considered impolite to say that you’re not interested in their advice. Rather, just do not take in everything that is being given to you. Choose what and what not to follow. Each pregnancy is different so just listen to your instincts and to your body.
And if you start to get uneasy with the conversation, just say a polite “thank you” and change the subject.
“Remember, every problem has a solution, and confiding in someone who’s close to you or who you think can offer help or support is a step forward. Don’t be afraid to talk to your partner, OB, or midwife.”
“Don’t stress about how you look. You’re performing a miracle — growing a person inside of you — and that’s a fantastic accomplishment.” – I’m guilty of this! I’m trying my best now to follow the advice here
“If you trust your OB, let her do her job and follow her recommendations; if you don’t, find a new doctor who you do trust. You should never be afraid to call your provider with big and small problems.” – I agree. Together with your husband, your OB will be your partner for the next nine months and thus, you should be comfortable with each other. If you’re not comfortable with her or doesn’t fully trust her, then better find one whom you can work better with.
“Don’t stress about tough times with your partner. A baby tests any couple’s relationship.”
“Don’t stress about things like food or weight. Just be sensible. There’s no need to give yourself an anxiety attack over the pint of ice cream you just finished. Take it as your special reward for everything you’ve accomplished so far in your pregnancy, and move on.” – Guilty as charged!
“If you’re doing everything in your power to make healthy choices, don’t worry so much. Women have been having babies since well before we knew what to do and what not to do.”
“Mothers-in-law don’t know everything!”
“Don’t stress too much about things in the environment you think might harm your baby, like standing too close to the microwave or pumping gas. Remember, the vast majority of babies are born healthy.”
“Don’t worry about labor. It is what it is. Just educate yourself on your options, and be ready to make informed decisions. Beyond that, just take a deep breath and go for it. It’s not as bad as you think it’ll be.” – Yes, educating yourself not just in labor but also about pregnancy will be beneficial for you and your baby.
“Don’t stress about how the baby is fending in the womb. It’s a roll cage, but your baby is probably comfortable in there.”
“Every little twinge doesn’t mean something is wrong.” – I believe since we can not see the baby inside our womb, it makes us worry about anything and everything. It is always best to ask your doctor should you have any concerns. Better be safe than sorry!
“No matter what decisions you make, someone will always disagree. Try not to let the negative comments upset you, and if you’re really worried about something, talk with your doctor or a nonjudgmental friend.” – A good and trusted friend is one of the greatest blessings a woman can have during her pregnancy with all the hormones and emotions going haywire!
“There’s no such thing as a stupid question, especially for first-time mothers. Being pregnant and birthing a child are unique experiences, and a woman will never know what it’s all about until she’s actually done it herself.” – I agree!
“It’s okay if you don’t have everything ready for your baby. Newborns don’t need a whole lot in the beginning.”
“When I accepted heartburn, back pain, lack of sleep, and moodiness as a normal part of pregnancy, they didn’t seem to bother me as much anymore.”
“If you’re worried about being a good mom, you probably have nothing to worry about. My husband keeps telling me that bad mothers don’t worry about whether or not they’ll be good moms.”
“I had never really been around children, and I made mistakes, but as long as you love your baby and are careful with the important stuff, you can’t harm him or her with small mistakes. You’ll soon get comfortable with the routine.”
“Don’t stress too much over all the “rules” pregnant women now have. A bath warmer than lukewarm won’t lead to disaster. If you accidentally eat a soft cheese you’re not sure is safe, there’s no use worrying after the fact. Our mothers had fewer restrictions than we do, and we turned out fine.”
Hope this article helps pregnant moms! Have a happy pregnancy!