It’s confirmed! You’re pregnant! Now what? Over the next few months you’ll probably read lots of books and get loads of advice from well-meaning friends, family members…and strangers. But still, despite an information overload, most women become overwhelmed with the realities of pregnancy, the birth and becoming a mother.
We’ve got a few facts to help you cope with it all. It could be pregnancy acupuncture Melbourne moms-to-be swear by or simply creating a detailed birth plan that makes all the difference for you. Here are the tips you wish others would send your way.
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You and Your Baby: No Rules Apply!
Do some people wonder why you look so small although you’re already a few months along? That’s enough to make one worry, but actually you need to simply ignore all this talk. And once your baby is here, don’t fall into the trap of comparing him or her to Instagram babies or even the milestones you see in your parenting books.
Of course, there are some growth milestones which your pediatrician can help you monitor, to ensure the health of the child. But no baby grows and develops exactly like others or follow the list of milestones to the letter.
Use it as a general guideline to know what lies ahead, but know that your baby will move on at his or her own pace. Some babies crawl sooner than others. Some show teeth early on—but not all of them do. And all these babies are still normal and healthy.
Make a conscious decision not to compare your bump or your child to others, so you can enjoy your own unique journey.
You can Safely Use These Pain Remedies
During pregnancy and after the birth, there are various causes for discomfort and pain. Your body is going through immense changes, such as handling much more weight than usual. It’s normal for joints, muscles and ligaments to feel sore. But you can do something about it!
Many women find relief in procedures that are efficient but still safe for pregnant women. Simply make sure you receive the treatment from someone who understands your body’s unique needs during pregnancy and the dos and don’ts when treating a pregnant lady.
Safe remedies include:
- Pregnancy massages: The therapist must avoid certain treatments to avoid early onset of labour. But when done correctly, you can enjoy great pain relief.
- Acupuncture: This ancient remedy is safe to use during pregnancy, as long as you’re using a reputable vendor.
- Chiropractic treatments: During pregnancy your body undergoes changes. By actions like realigning the spine, a chiropractor can treat many side effects ranging from nausea to back pain.
Sleep Patterns Change—You WILL be Tired
Part of the goal during your nine months of being pregnant should be to prepare yourself mentally for what’s coming. If you have a realistic expectation of how that little baby will change your life, some of the realities won’t cause as much shock.
So, dear lady. Here’s the truth: you will miss sleep!
Firstly, during pregnancy you’re bound to experience discomfort, especially during the third trimester. You may also have the urge to urinate often during the night.
Furthermore, once your bundle of joy arrives, your sleeping patterns will probably never return to what you knew as ‘normal’. The exhaustion new parents experience due to loss of sleep and broken sleep is immense.
Do yourself a favour and consider your support system. Are there family members close by who you can ask to take over for an hour or two when you feel you’re reaching the end of your rope? Talk to them before the baby arrives, so you have the courage to ask them for help when it’s needed.
You Need a Birth Plan
You may have a romantic idea of what the delivery will be like but it may take some planning. Whether you want a natural birth in the comfort of your own home or prefer to go to hospital, you’ll probably have midwives, doctors, nurses or family members around you. To ensure they help you have the day you dream of, outline your preferences in writing and share it with role players who will be there on the day.
Consider the following:
- Do you want music playing during the delivery?
- State your preferences on the use of pain medication.
- Will you have someone present to take photographs?
- Would you or the father want to cut the umbilical cord?
Having this guideline on hand helps others respect your wishes. You can never predict how the delivery day will go, but you can help others assist you in having the best possible experience.
Last Thoughts: The House Won’t be in its Best Shape for a While
Now, once you get home, make peace with the fact that you’ll have other priorities than keeping the house in order. As parents you’ll be overcome by the need to spend time with the miracle you brought home. Also, you’ll be tired and have many new tasks to do such as changing nappies. Give each other permission to be more laid back about housework, so you can enjoy the new season of your life.
