What To Expect When You’re Expecting

We are expected to be” superwomen” as soon as we confirm a positive pregnancy test. For first-time moms, I must say that the expectations that we know it all already can really take a surprising toll on most of us. Let me confess it is not an easy road as many perceive, but the journey to motherhood is quite worth it. So here’s what to expect when you’re expecting.

What has your experience been? Please feel free to add to my list, or ask your questions or concerns below. I would be happy to help you!

“We are expected to be” superwomen” as soon as we confirm a positive pregnancy test.

You are perfectly “perfect” the way you choose to do things

I cannot emphasize enough that you are perfect just the way you are as a mom. In other words, ” there is no perfect parent, we are all on a journey of trial and error.”

As soon as your family is aware of your pregnancy, do expect the opinion of every person, whether it’s your mom, grandmother, mother-in-law, sister, etc.

Your grandmother may prefer natural birth, your mom may prefer cloth diapers and your sisters may prefer organic baby food, based on the current market trend. Your head will surely go for a spin on top of all the excitement and partial terror of bringing a new baby to the world.

The key to surviving this time is to navigate through all the opinions and do what comes naturally to you. Some you may adapt to based on your comfortability while others may send you running for sure. You will have your own preference for everything and it doesn’t have to be your grandma’s way. Do what is best for you and your family.

I am still learning that after having two boys, that my way of raising my boys and my mom’s way are now totally different and that’s completely ok.

Do not panic at the Doctor’s appointment

The visit to the Doctor for prenatal appointments can be exciting for some while terrifying for others. The fetal heartbeat checks, ultrasounds, and tests can leave many fearful and terrified of what can go wrong.

This should not be the case. Every moment to hear your baby’s heartbeat and see the progress of your pregnancy journey should be an exciting time and not a fearful one. Have strong faith as you attend every appointment knowing that your little one will be perfect when he or she arrives exactly as planned and according to your trusted OBGYN’s advice.

Squash the anxieties of motherhood

There is absolutely no need to panic about whether or not you will be a “good” or “bad mom”. It really does not matter. Motherhood instincts come naturally to every mom given the opportunity. There is never a “perfect mom” just a mom who is willing to go through the ups and downs of parenting.

You are uniquely made to take care of the child God has selected you to care for. You will realize on this journey that motherhood kicks in naturally and most fears, for the most part, fades away as you become more comfortable with what seems natural to you. So do not panic, just be who you are and it will all come naturally.

For more inspiration on your journey through motherhood visit my blog post on Overcoming The Hurdles And Struggles Of Motherhood.

Attend free birthing, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes

I loved attending these classes when I got pregnant. I wanted to have a general and less opinionated idea of what to expect in different areas of the birthing process, breastfeeding, newborn phase, etc.

These classes are usually offered for free at hospitals, doctor’s offices, programs offered through a children’s board, or non-profit organizations for women.

First, consult with your OBGYN if it’s ok to attend them and then ask her for recommendations.

Information received is actually valuable and can help with your confidence on what to expect. It also takes away some of the anxieties that can be expected as the delivery day approaches.

It is also a fun way to spend some time with the hubby while you observe him trying to change diapers for the first time with a pretend doll or doing breathing exercises with you.

Books that offer helpful advice

There are actual books that can also offer helpful advice especially when there may be questions about areas you’re not familiar with. My favorite go-to books for help are from reputable sources:

• Your Pregnancy and Childbirth Month to Month – The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

• Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy – Mayo Clinic

• The Everything Pregnancy Book – Maryann Brinley with Howard Berk, MD

Relax during the journey

Relax, relax, and relax. I cannot emphasize the need to relax during the pregnancy period. Don’t try to do it all and get everything done to prepare for the baby.

You can sometimes miss the important bonding times with baby and hubby when trying to prepare for the new arrival. Just enjoy the process as much as you can.

Get as much rest, relaxation, and restoration as you go towards motherhood.

Take a baby moon or pampering session if you can. The baby’s room for most moms really doesn’t even apply until a year later (my true story) after panicking to get it all ready before the baby arrives.

Overall, these are some of my expectations so far on my journey through motherhood. Be reminded that it can vary based on your experiences as well. Check out my other blog post as well that can also be helpful for you:

• What To Eat In The 1st Trimester Of Pregnancy
• 7 Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
• My Top 5 Pregnancy Must-Haves
• 20 Tips For Traveling While Pregnant

Did you find the strategies listed in this article helpful? What were some of your favorite tips? How have they worked for you? Leave a comment below, I’d love to know what you think.

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