Ten Things Women Wish They'd Known about Pregnancy
No two pregnancies are exactly alike, even for the same person. Each is
as unique as the babies who are born. But there are many experiences that
women share -- and some they say they
wish they'd known. Here are the top ten from our informal survey among
new moms we know. What do you wish
you'd known about pregnancy?
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How tired I'd be. Many women experience tremendous fatigue in the first trimester of pregnancy,
although some manage to avoid it until the third trimester. Recognize
that your body is literally building a new human and that the process
requires a lot of energy. Accepting this fact will go a long way toward
acclimating to this level of tiredness.
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How important nutrition is. We've all heard that adage about "eating for two," but it's
actually more important to increase vital nutrients and vitamins than
to increase the volume of food. Calcium to help build healthy bones and
folic acid to help reduce spine and brain defects are especially important.
Omega 3s provide essential building blocks for brain development. For
more about what to eat during pregnancy for the optimal health of both
mom and baby, see our nutrition blog post here.
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How often I'd be visiting the restroom! The pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus and baby often mean
more trips to the restroom. Thankfully, this is short-lived, and your
capacity returns to normal after you've given birth.
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How much support I’d need. Pregnancy is a time when it's both appropriate and expected that extra
support will be needed. Whether it's getting more help around the
house or deciding who will be supporting you during delivery, don't
be shy about enlisting help.
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That nausea could last
all day, not just morning. "Morning sickness" is not aptly named in the experience of many
pregnant women. Nausea can occur at any time of day, and for some, beyond
the first trimester. Eating small meals every few hours can make a difference.
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That my gums might bleed when I brush my teeth. Many women are surprised to find that their gums bleed and worry that
this isn't normal. It is normal, in part because blood volume increases
by 50% during pregnancy. But bleeding gums can also be a sign of gingivitis,
which 40% of women experience during pregnancy. Regular dental exams during
pregnancy will help address this issue.
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That I could avoid gestational diabetes by being a little more active. Gestational diabetes is a relatively common condition that women may experience
during pregnancy, and it can have serious adverse effects on both baby
and mom. Limiting sugar intake and being physically active can go a long
way to ensuring a healthier pregnancy.
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That I could be so forgetful! There's a lot on your mind during pregnancy. Add to this fluctuating
hormones and fatigue, and it's no wonder many women find themselves
feeling a little "foggy" during pregnancy.
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That I could easily love my second baby as much as my first. It's a common worry that it won't be possible to love another
child as much as the first. But love doesn't divide; it multiplies.
This is one worry you can cross off your list.
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How uncomfortable heartburn can be. If you've never experienced heartburn, it can come as a rude awakening,
especially during the third trimester. For most women, taking an antacid
makes a difference. And fortunately, the heartburn tends to disappear
after birth.
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How indescribable this experience would be. Pregnancy is a time of wonder and awe. It's difficult to explain to
anyone who hasn't been pregnant. Many women find that their pregnancy
was also a time of personal growth – spiritually, not just physically.
Keeping a journal to record your thoughts and experiences can be a valuable exercise.
When it comes to pregnancy and babies, CBHA delivers. Literally. Whatever
it is you’d like to know, we hope you’ll consider us a partner
in your health during your pregnancy and beyond. We strive to make each
woman’s pregnancy journey personalized for her unique concerns,
conditions, and needs. We’d love to be part of your journey.