Dear Mama’s to Be (A Love Note to You)
Some people enjoy their pregnancy, some people don’t and I am one of those who has found pregnancy to be one of the most challenging times of my life (thus far). I know motherhood will bring its challenges as well, but until I experience that, I’m going to say pregnancy has been the hardest thing I’ve had to go through so far. In the last 7 months, I’ve been to the hospital twice for emergency visits. Fortunately, both of those visits did not affect the baby in any way.
The first trimester was filled with morning sickness, heartburn, acid reflux, food aversions, fatigue, and lots of hormones. I was let go from a project because of how my pregnancy symptoms were affecting my ability to physically show up on-site. My second trimester introduced me to Braxton hicks, restless leg syndrome, and the beginning of how uncomfortable it is to be in one position for too long. The third trimester has been about the difficulty of sleeping, sciatica pain, and the realization of how quickly time is suddenly flying by. I’m at 32 weeks now and the thought of giving birth soon has given me all sorts of anxiety. As we work on the nursery and start preparing for our baby, I’ve gone through such a rollercoaster of emotions. Don’t even get me on my anxiety about the postpartum care and recovery process.
Despite pregnancy not being a smooth ride, it still has been incredibly beautiful because it does challenges you in ways you never thought possible and shows you just how strong you truly are, even when you don’t think you can - you do. You will always find the strength and the will to get things done because of the love you have for your child. This human being that you haven’t even met yet but you just want to be the best version of you for them and if that means pushing through the day after throwing up and not being able to eat a single thing, you will find a way to do it. It is a privileged journey that shifts your focus and pushes you to re-evaluate your life and priorities, and changes you as a person. Granted, it will also change your relationships and your lifestyle along the way, but for the good.
So here’s to all the mamas surviving pregnancy. You are strong, you are doing amazing, and you are going to be the best mother to that little one. Just because we did not enjoy our pregnancy or have the best experience doesn’t mean we’re ungrateful or love our baby any less. If anything, it is our love for this little being that keeps us going and makes us stronger for them.
