Pregnancy: what a huge word. When you become pregnant and throughout your pregnancy journey, a range of powerful emotions emerge. From excitement and worry to fear and doubt. These are completely normal and common feelings that many people experience since pregnancy brings about significant life changes. Many pregnancy blogs, websites and books outline the changes your body will go through and how to care for a newborn. While these are essential tools, here are a couple of tips that may help you along the way:

Find support during your pregnancy.

If you are pregnant for the first time or have had other children, you need support. However, this is especially true if this is your first pregnancy. The changes your body is going through, the questions you have about what is happening, and the future are seemingly endless and sometimes worrisome. Know that you never need to walk this path alone.

Finding support throughout your pregnancy is essential for your mental and physical health as well as that of your baby. Look for trusted resources, such as those found at Embrace Grace, to help hold you up during potentially uncertain times. There are many people out there who are ready and willing to offer their patience and care so you can focus on being healthy for you and your little one.

Counter unsolicited advice with thoughtful responses.

When you are pregnant, you will be asked questions about the baby’s gender, when you are due, and many other questions that border on intrusive whenever you leave home. Likely, you will also receive unsolicited advice at every turn. This will continue long after the baby is born. Some well-meaning friends, family members, and even strangers seem to think that other people need their help or supposed wisdom. 

Take it all with a grain of salt and know that how you approach your pregnancy, delivery, and everything beyond that moment is yours to decide. If you find it frustrating or grating to be on the receiving end of so much information that you never asked for, try being gracious, if you can. Create a standard response, such as, “I’m glad that worked for you. I have my own ideas/plans/journey/thoughts on the matter.” Leave it at that. You do not need to defend your decisions or actions or argue the merits of a particular topic. You need to take care of yourself and the baby. Move on, nothing to see here.

Watch this short video for a unique insight into how to handle the moment when other people touch your pregnant belly.

The experience of pregnancy, while commonplace, is unique for each woman. You will have your own experiences and needs and go on a journey that is yours alone. Find the support you need to create the best possible outcomes for yourself and your baby starting today. Ask for the help you want and need, and counter the unwanted information with confidence and grace.