Baby Talk - 2/2/17

Here are a few things you have to just “let go of” and stop feeling guilty.

• Dismissing unsolicited advice – Literally, every mom has told me stories about strangers coming up to them at work, in stores, at sporting events and social gatherings and pontificating all types of pregnancy and baby advice. Some of them did not even have children! Every pregnancy, delivery, and baby is different, so make peace with where you are at the moment and let their advice go!

• Being tired – Pregnancy is a lot of work and drains the body of energy. Allow yourself to acknowledge this and care for yourself. If this means taking a nap, cutting an evening short, or changing scheduled plans, that is what you do...and let the guilt go!

• Addressing that craving – Yes, we all want to eat healthy, exercise, and look great during pregnancy…and then reality hits. If you have to satisfy that craving for ice cream, chocolate, French fries, or some other equally unhealthy choice, do it! While you are maintaining an overall healthy diet, hormones sometimes take over and only fulfilling that craving will do. Indulge and never look back!

• Having a perfect pregnancy plan unravel – Life happens and it is no different during pregnancy. Your body is going through many changes to support a new life and no matter how much you plan and care for yourself, health concerns may arise. If you develop gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, pre-term labor, or a number of other health-related issues, realize that everyone’s body reacts differently to the physiological aspects of pregnancy. Focus on addressing the health issue and don’t for a minute feel guilty about this not being “the pregnancy plan.”

Hope these tips from seasoned moms allow you to relax and enjoy your pregnancy with a little less guilt!

What other tips do you have for “letting go of some of the guilt?” Please, share!