Pregnancy Update: Lessons Learned

Pregnancy update . . . 

I have officially hit the third trimester and am a few days into my 29th week. Baby Girl is healthy, growing + kicking up a storm and scheduled to arrive at the end of December. With a couple months to go, here’s another pregnancy update of things I’ve learned.

Clothes Really Don’t Fit

I knew I’d outgrow my favorite pair of jeans, but I wasn’t expecting to need a completely new wardrobe. Luckily, I’ve made some existing pieces work like last fall’s tunics, and I’ve picked up a few oversized boyfriend shirts from Old Navy’s sale section. The most overlooked item? Intimates. You definitely want to invest in quality pieces–I’ve found seamless styles tend to be the most comfortable.

Body Butter is a Lifesaver

Between the change in season and the constant need for hydration, pregnancy really takes a toll on your skin. I’ve been applying this lotion (ON SALE!) as part of my nightly routine, and it instantly soothes those itchy, dry patches. Plus, the mixture of shea butter, argan oil and cocoa butter has kept the stretch marks at bay. Win, win.

Pregnancy Hormones are a Mixed Bag

When it comes to pregnancy hormones, each woman experiences them a little differently. Emotional mood swings, body aches, hair loss and acne are some common side effects, and chances are you’ll experience at least one.

Personally, I’ve noticed an increased sense of anxiety and overwhelm. This is especially true when it comes to managing every day stress. You can read more about that in my 2nd trimester update. Activities like a long shower or a 30 minute walk help me refocus and minimize the stress. 

Less is More (with EVERYTHING)

I am a to-do list maker and derive a positive sense of self when I accomplish tasks. Pregnancy has definitely thrown this for a loop. Instead of getting frustrated, I’ve had to force myself to prioritize what’s most important. This sometimes means having to say no (which is another issue in itself). Basically, I’ve learned to adjust my expectations and that it’s more than ok to just stick with the basics.

Don’t Take Offense

Most people don’t know what to say about pregnancy, your current weight, the size of your bump or the lack there of. It’s not something we’re taught in school, and it tends to be one of those things you have to learn through good/bad experience.

At this stage in life, I’m on the receiving end. This means getting comments about things like looking fat rather than pregnant. Slow to show, it’s something I’m extremely self-conscious about and sensitive to. I know it’s best to let it roll off my chest, but that’s easier said than done. When stuck in these situations, I’ve found that a couple of deep breaths go a long way in helping to respond nicely.

Enjoy the Little Things

It’s so easy to get caught up in the negatives surrounding pregnancy. Rather than dwell on having nothing to wear or the swollen feet, I’ve made a goal to think of five things each day that I’m excited about or grateful for. It can be anything from a healthy report at your latest checkup to finally ordering the perfect crib for Baby Girl’s room. This is the fun stuff, and it keeps me looking forward to the day she’ll arrive.

Can you relate? Have your own wisdom to share?

You can expect another pregnancy update coming soon. It’s crunch time!

photo by Haley Nord