From the time of conception to the first gynaecologist visit, all expectant mothers feel exhausted with the advice pouring in about what to do and not do during pregnancy.
What no one seems to be concerned about is the identity shift a woman goes through during this phase and how to help her during this roller-coaster ride.
Termed matrescence, the period of transition to motherhood, is a fight of the hormones, which leads to feelings of self-doubt and apprehension about the future.
One of the fierce issues a pregnant woman faces is the fear of blame in case of miscarriage or infertility, feelings of shame and self-guilt if she feels incapable of bearing labour pains and how she struggles to cope with body shaming post-delivery.
The aches and pains that a woman bears through pregnancy shows a contrasting picture to the beautiful motherhood life every woman dreams about.
An expectant mother can be freed of this emotional turmoil if her partner and family lend an empathetic hand.
Maintaining a healthy loving relationship between spouses becomes equally, or more, important after becoming a parent, which is only possible if the couple has an insight into how they can share their emotional, financial and domestic issues.
Some basic tips to help tide over these issues are to never strive to be the perfect mother, because no human being is perfect. You can only try to do your best.
Excessive worry adds to sleeplessness and unhealthy eating during pregnancy, so stop worrying about what is not in your control – like the gender of your baby or having a natural birth.
While it is good to be well planned, you should also be ready to face any situation especially if things do not turn out the way you expected it to.
Never skip your prenatal vitamins or your appointments with the gynaecologist to ensure good prenatal care and feel free to discuss your pregnancy-related queries with your gynaecologist instead of searching the Internet for remedies.
Exercise is one magic pill which can boost your mood due to the rush of endorphins it produces in the body.
Any form of exercise which suits your body will work including yoga, brisk walking or low-impact aerobics (aerobics should be practised under the supervision of an instructor).
Intimacy during pregnancy is perfectly safe and can lighten up your mood and improve partner bonding although it is not advisable if the woman has a low-lying placenta, high risk of miscarriage or is at risk of premature labour.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Al Hilal Hospital and avail of nine months’ pregnancy care at BD120 with 20 per cent discount on delivery booking.
Available in all branches for a limited period only, Al Hilal Hospital wishes a very Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers and mothers-to-be.