1. Morning Sickness Isn’t Just For Mornings

For some it’s the evenings, for others maybe the afternoon, I’m not sure how it got the title “Morning Sickness”. Some women may never experience nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (lucky them!) some may experience it for a few weeks- normally in the mid to end of the first trimester, however there are some, approx 3% of women who will experience Hyperemesis- extreme nausea and vomiting that affects daily life, causes weight loss and may continue through the entire pregnancy. Ginger and snacking may help, ice lollies are also great at keeping you hydrated, and there are always anti-sickness medications available from you G.P. if it’s getting too much.

2. Don’t Underestimate The Pregnancy Fatigue 

Your body is working overtime growing your baby, which requires a lot of energy- and why it can sometimes feel like you’ve run a marathon by lunchtime! Listen to your body and know that it’s okay to say “No” to things if your feeling exhausted, your body needs the rest. 

3. Body Changes Beyond The Bump

The ever growing bump is bound to be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of body changes in pregnancy, however pregnancy can affect so much more, your breasts may grow, you may swell in places you don’t expect and some women notice changes to their skin, hair and nails too. Each pregnancy is different but being prepared can help you accept and adjust to your changing body. 

4. The Pregnancy Hormones Are Real

Along with the physical changes, our body undergoes many more changes that we can’t see, including our hormones. It can be hard to keep up with the swinging emotions-one moment laughter, the next tears, but please know this is normal and try not to be too hard on yourself. 

5. Can You Smell That? 

While we’re on the topic of change, you may notice your sense of smell becomes heightened causing scents you previously enjoyed like coffee, or perfume, to become overwhelming. Similarly you may experience some change in your sense of taste, it’s not uncommon to crave foods you would previously never have thought twice about. 

6. The Importance Of A Good Support System

Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster, both emotionally and physically, and having that support network to turn to whether that be figuratively or literally is so important. Surround yourself with people who can provide comfort, answer questions, and be there for you through all the highs and lows. 

7. To Google Or Not To Google…

Google (or your search engine of choice!) has become such a staple in our lives, and there are definitely things that can be searched for- the NHS website has a plethora or pregnancy related advice, and you’ll also find other baby related websites- like this one! But there are definitely things that shouldn’t be Googled, in fact if you’ve got specific medical questions, they are always better to be directed to the professionals- most Maternity Units will have a 24hr Triage phone number you can access if you’ve got a burning question about thrush at 2am (pun intended)!

8. How To Advocate For Yourself In Medical Settings 

This is one that’s often easier said than done, and often takes some practice, however start with asking questions, taking notes, taking someone with you for moral support, and don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion if something doesn’t sit right with you, the BRAIN acronym is also a really useful toool for decision making. 

9. To Write A Birth Plan, Or Not?

Truth be told, I hate the term “Birth Plan” I much prefer “Birth Preferences” birth is something that we can prepare for, physically and mentally, but it’s not something we can necessarily plan. However what we can do is look at what is inside our control- who we have with us, the lighting, the music, having an open mind and keeping some flexibility can make the experience much more empowering. 

10. The “Babymoon” Period Goes Fast

That first trimester might feel like it’s dragging- especially the lead up to the first scan, but the rest of it? Well that flys by and before you know it baby is here. Creating memories during your pregnancy can be really beneficial to your overall we-being, perhaps a spa day, a trip with your partner, journaling your pregnancy or even taking antenatal classes can help make this time special. 

Pregnancy taught me so much about myself and while every experience is different, these are a few of the things my followers and I wish we’d known sooner. If your starting your pregnancy journey remember to take each day as it comes, stay curious, and most importantly- enjoy it! 

Ali x