An Experience Like No Other
Apr 30 '00
For me, being pregnant was an amazing experience. I can honestly say the bout with morning sickness, the fatigue, the weight gain, the swollen ankles, the labor, and the stretch marks were all worth it, for there is nothing like holding your newborn baby in your arms for the first time. It gives you a surge of maternal bliss like no other, and begins a bond that will last a lifetime.
I remember feeling like I'd be pregnant forever. Couldn't wait for those nine months to pass by. Working part time helped the time go by faster, although I wouldn't recommend a job that calls for standing on your feet for long periods of time in a fixed position (like a cashier), or where there is limited access to a bathroom.
The hardest hurdle for me was the first trimester, as I was constantly nauseous and unable to keep much down, and it often made it hard to embrace the joy of pregnancy. However, it all subsided during the fourth month, and I was replenished with energy and appetite. Also, during the second trimester, I had a sonogram, and was able to see the tiny life on screen, and was even assured it would be a boy, although you can't always rely on this one hundred percent. It made my husband's day at any rate. The first kick came during this period of pregnancy as well, the fluttery feeling made it all so wonderfully real to me. From that point on, my active boy-to-be would not be still. That was reassuring to me, so I didn't mind. The third trimester brought a good deal of weight gain, swollen ankles, and fatigue, but by that point you start feeling like a pro and things usually aren't as hard to deal with.
From the start, I sought prenatal care, and it really helped prepare me for everything I would experience, and insured the safety of myself and my little one-to-be. I took prenatal vitamins faithfully and focused on eating healthy, which meant cutting out those soft drinks I loved so much. The fact that I am a big orange juice drinker was a plus, for the folic acid helps guard against certain birth defects. This is effective if you drink orange juice regularly before being pregnant as the folic acid needs to be present in your system beforehand to aid in development.
Also, reading all I could about pregnancy-related information was very helpful, and made me more aware of what to expect at each stage of the pregnancy, including the penultimate act of giving birth. You can find some very useful information in magazines like American Baby and Parents, and your doctor will probably have a wealth of reading material for you as well. You local library is another wonderful source of information. Mothers-to-be in this day and age are especially fortunate to have the added convenience of online resources.
I found out I was pregnant after only three or four weeks, and was glad I didn't put off taking that test, as it confirmed my suspicions. From that moment on while I was pregnant, I vowed to put my developing baby's well being before my own, as is the responsibility of any woman with child. No alcohol at all is recommended for a very small amount can cause harm. No drugs at all, unless prescribed by your doctor. Smoking is not recommended either for it can lead to low birth weight and possible birth defects and complications. Take care of yourself the best that you ever have, for the life inside you deserves a chance to begin their life in the best possible way.
Taking regular walks is recommended although exercise should not be overly strenuous. I saw a difference in my energy level when I would make myself fight against the fatigue and become active. It tired me out, but in the long run, I felt better.
Don't be afraid to ask questions when you visit your doctor. I addressed even the slightest concerns, for worry would ensue if I didn't. It is nice to have the support of friends and family, but their advice is not always perfect, but most-often well intended. Just learn to trust your own instincts as well as trusting the advice of a professional.
I knew that my body was preparing for labor when I felt a sudden shift or movement in my body. So, I made sure to have a bag prepared for the trip to the hospital, and it made things go smoothly when the time came to go. My water broke before I went into labor, so I can't give good advice on when you should go, except that you should ask your doctor about this. I was told five minutes apart, but this varies according to distance from a hospital and so forth.
The labor and delivery were long and strenuous and that is all the more reason you should take care of yourself and your growing child, for your body needs to be in the best possible condition to handle this taxing event. However, once you see your little one and hold him or her close to you, you'll be willing to go through a hundred more pregnancies....or, at least the experience all over again.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
VeeZee
|
 - Top 1000 |
|
Member: Vanessa Cumber
Location: Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida
Reviews written: 349
Trusted by: 564 members
About Me:
Write on!
|
|
|
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.