easy pregnancy journey

The Mom Kind

Autism, Parenting, & Mental Health

Pregnancy Journey: What happens Step by Step?

Pregnancy can be a nerve-wracking journey for a mother-to-be. The months leading up to your child’s birth can bring a whirlwind of emotions and decisions.

What Can I Expect From My Pregnancy Journey?

Understanding how the pregnancy journey works can help prepare you for what lies ahead and make the entire experience more enjoyable. From conception to labor and delivery, here’s an overview of what may happen during pregnancy.

Preparation work

When pregnant, you should ensure that your body is in its best shape for the baby. Preparing for pregnancy can help strengthen your body, reduce stress levels, and ensure proper nutrition and exercise habits.

It’s essential to visit your doctor for a complete health check-up. This will help identify any health issues that might be affected by pregnancy. Your doctor can also provide tips on staying healthy during pregnancy, such as lifestyle changes and nutrition advice.

Exercise, such as low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga, are excellent ways to stay active while still allowing your body to rest. Eating a balanced diet and taking prenatal vitamins can help make sure you get the nutrients you need.

Regarding paperwork, you may need to make some changes to your insurance coverage. Ensure you have all the information about your policy and what it covers during pregnancy. Some people think you must have a birth certificate before having a child. Still, it occurs after the child is born, and getting a birth certificate is relatively simple.

Stages of labor

Several stages happen when a woman goes into labor. The first stage of labor is the most difficult and lasts the longest. It begins with regular contractions that cause the cervix to dilate and efface. As the cervix dilates, the contractions become more intense and frequent.

The second stage of labor starts when the cervix is dilated and ends with the baby’s birth. This stage is shorter than the first and is often described as a pushing stage.

The third stage of labor begins immediately after the baby is born and ends when the placenta and umbilical cord are delivered. This stage is typically the shortest and most straightforward. Nevertheless, it is an essential part of the delivery process, as it helps to ensure that the mother and child are healthy and well-cared for.

Potential complications during childbirth

Despite breakthroughs in modern medical care, several potential complications can occur during labor.

One complication is a perineal laceration when the tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus is torn during delivery. Perineal lacerations can range in severity from first-degree tears, relatively minor, to fourth-degree tears, which involve the anal sphincter muscle. Treatment typically involves stitches to repair the tear; in some cases, additional surgery may be required.

Another potential complication is uterine rupture, which occurs when the uterus tears along the seam where it was previously cut (such as during a Cesarean section). This can be a severe complication, and emergency surgery is often required to repair the uterus and deliver the baby. Fortunately, uterine ruptures are rare, occurring in less than 1% of all births.

Cesarean sections

The Cesarean section , also known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby instead of a vaginal birth. It involves making an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus, then delivering the baby through the incision.

C-sections are typically performed when complications during childbirth make a vaginal delivery impractical or dangerous. For example, a C-section may be necessary if the baby is in a breech position or if the mother has placenta previa (a condition in which the placenta covers the cervix).

In some cases, C-sections may be elective, meaning the parents choose them for personal reasons. While C-sections are generally safe, they carry more risks than vaginal deliveries, so pregnant women should weigh their options.

Life outside the womb

A newborn baby’s transition from life inside the womb to life outside can be challenging. Their bodies are still adjusting to the change in environment, requiring special care and attention.

In the first few weeks of life, newborns need to be kept warm and clean, and they need to be fed frequently. They also need to be protected from too much stimulation, as their sensory systems are still developing.

In general, newborns need a lot of love and care in those first few months to help them adjust to their new surroundings and start growing and developing typically.

Understanding the Pregnancy Journey

Childbirth is a complex and often unpredictable event, but proper care, support, and planning can be a safe and rewarding experience. Even if you experience complications during labor and delivery, many of them can be effectively managed and treated with modern medical care.

Ultimately, the best way to prepare for childbirth is by talking to your doctor and learning as much as you can about the process. By being informed, you will be more prepared to handle whatever comes your way during labor and delivery.

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50 Best Pregnancy Journal Prompts

By: Author Jamie

Posted on Last updated: April 25, 2024

Categories Featured , Pregnancy

As a mom of five, I can confidently tell you that pregnancy goes fast. Like way faster than you think. When it’s over you’ll almost definitely find yourself wondering whether you actually enjoyed it. Sometimes it will feel like you don’t even remember most aspects of being pregnant. These 50 journaling prompts will help you document your pregnancy and dig deeper into how you feel about becoming a mom (or becoming a mom again!

Related: 50 Best Morning Journaling Prompts!

Related: 50 Inspiring Journaling Prompts for Overwhelmed Moms!

How did I feel when I first found out I was pregnant?
Describe my emotions when I saw my baby’s ultrasound for the first time.
What are my hopes and dreams for my unborn child?
Reflect on how my body is changing during pregnancy and how I feel about those changes.
Write a letter to my baby, expressing my thoughts and feelings about becoming a parent.
What are my biggest fears or concerns about childbirth and parenthood?
Describe a moment during pregnancy when I felt a strong connection with my baby.
How has my relationship with my partner changed since we found out about the pregnancy?
List three things I’m grateful for about being pregnant.
Write about a pregnancy craving I’ve had and how I satisfied it.
Reflect on the advice or wisdom I’ve received from other mothers during my pregnancy.
Describe a special tradition or ritual I want to start with my baby once they’re born.
What are some things I want to remember about this pregnancy journey?
Write about a prenatal class or book that has been particularly helpful or insightful.
List three things I’m looking forward to experiencing with my baby after they’re born.

Related: Simple Bullet Journal That Will Skyrocket Your Productivity!

Reflection Journal Prompts for Pregnancy

Reflect on a time when I felt overwhelmed during pregnancy and how I coped with it.
Describe a dream or vision I have for my child’s future.
How has pregnancy influenced my thoughts and feelings about motherhood?
Write about a memorable moment shared with my baby’s father during pregnancy.
What are some self-care practices I’ve implemented during pregnancy to nurture myself?
Reflect on the ways in which I’ve bonded with my unborn child.
Describe a piece of advice or encouragement I would give to other expectant mothers.
How has my perspective on life and priorities shifted since becoming pregnant?
Write about a song or piece of music that resonates with me during pregnancy and why.

Dig Deeper – What Kind of Mom Do I Want to Be?

List three qualities I hope to instill in my child as they grow up.
Reflect on the ways in which my relationship with my own mother has influenced my journey to motherhood.
Describe a favorite memory from my own childhood that I hope to recreate with my child.
What are some practical preparations I’ve made for my baby’s arrival?
Write about a challenge I’ve faced during pregnancy and how I’ve overcome it.
How do I envision my life changing once my baby is born?
Reflect on the ways in which I’ve grown or changed as a person during pregnancy.
Describe a book or story I want to share with my child as they grow older.
List three things I want to teach my child about the world and their place in it.
Write about a moment of joy or excitement I’ve experienced during pregnancy.
How do I envision my relationship with my child evolving over time?
Reflect on the support I’ve received from friends and family during pregnancy.
Describe a special bond or connection I feel with my baby.
Write about a lesson I hope to learn or a challenge I hope to overcome as a parent.
How has pregnancy influenced my thoughts and feelings about my own upbringing?
What are some traditions or values I want to pass down to my child?

Gratitude Journal Prompts for Pregnancy

Reflect on the ways in which I’ve prepared emotionally for motherhood.
Describe a moment when I felt proud of myself during pregnancy.
Write about a place I want to visit or experience with my child in the future.
List three wishes I have for my child’s happiness and well-being.
How has pregnancy deepened my appreciation for the miracle of life?
Reflect on the ways in which I’ve connected with other expectant mothers.
Describe a favorite pregnancy milestone or moment that I’ll cherish forever.
Write about a moment of gratitude I’ve experienced during pregnancy.
How do I envision my relationship with my baby’s siblings (if applicable) evolving after the baby is born?
What are some ways I plan to nurture and support my own well-being as a mother?

No matter where you are in your pregnancy journey, it will only benefit you to start journaling about it. Pregnancy can bring up a lot of unexpected thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Documenting them all will be helpful now, but also may be something you want to reflect on later. Work your way through this list as consistently as you can and your mental health will be all the better for it.

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My Journey to Pregnancy & Motherhood (and 1st trimester)

August 2, 2018

Holy moly. So, first of all, I just wanted to say, THANK YOU guys for all for the incredible love, support, excitement and prayers that have been flooding in, after our little announcement a few weeks ago. I can’t even count the amount of encouraging messages and uplifting words so many of you have shared– they’ve been giving me life lately, so thank you, truly.

And as promised, through this whole journey, I want to be able to share my (real) story and answer all your questions along the way, as honestly as I can.

Because more than anything, the journey to deciding to have a family or not, and the process of getting there — mentally, physically, and emotionally–is so different for every woman, each filled with beautiful things, and also some not-so-fun stuff along the way.

So, no matter what phase or season of life you are in, I hope you know that you are all are welcome here. This isn’t going to turn into a pregnancy or motherhood blog anytime soon, but my hope is that in sharing my story (and some updates along the way), there will be something helpful or encouraging, or confirmation that you’re not alone, no matter what season you are in.

I know for myself, that there have been so many times along the way, that I searched for and asked for so many other women’s real stories and journeys, and was so thankful to those who were brave enough to tell theirs- imperfect and all.

So, this is mine.

And, just a note: I do also know that some of you will not be able to relate to many parts of my story. The subject of pregnancy and motherhood in general, can be a very sensitive and personal one, and I want you to know that I see you and I feel you. This post has taken me way too long to write, because of it.

Why? I’m afraid that some of you might judge me for some of the thoughts I’ve had at various points along the way. Or that my journey wasn’t hard enough. Or that it might trigger some of you. So, please, all I ask is that you do the best to take care of yourself. If this type of story is not something you should read, then just click out of this post. They’ll be so many other great things coming for you here in the next few months.

But for those of you that have been filling my inbox and DM’s with questions about my journey to pregnancy, motherhood, you know….all the things, well, here they are:

Let’s jump in, right from the beginning:

Q: Did I always know I wanted to have kids?

Short answer: Yes! Definitely.

But to completely honest– I have never been one of those women that just couldn’t wait to have a baby, with hearts and stars and rainbows in their eyes as they talked.

It was the same with getting married, actually too.

I wanted both of those things of course, but I guess was more of a realist about it. I knew that both took a lot of work, a lot of time, a lot of self-lessness, and a lot of sacrifice– as most beautiful and worthwhile things in life, do.

Whenever I thought about my life when I was old and gray, sitting with Kyle holding hands and drinking coffee on a big porch somewhere, I always imagined having a big family around us. Lots of love, and lots of little grandkids shrieking and running around.

It wasn’t just kids in general that I wanted and dreamed about in these visions, it was building a family, a life, and a legacy together, and with him.

We both wanted that, and talked about it a lot before we got married.

But, I also knew that I wanted to feel ready.

I didn’t want to do it because it was just the next step , or because everyone else around us was (and truly, they were by the dozen, lapping us with their 2nd, 3rd or 4th children coming).

But I knew that I personally wanted to feel fully present in that stage, whenever it might be. Intentional. Excited. And as prepared as I could be for the full life transition and change it would bring.

So, this whole journey started for me, as most big things in life do: emotionally and mentally first.

Of getting quiet and tuning in. Of ignoring what everyone else was doing, and trusting what my own path and what my intuition was saying:

Yes. But not right now.

After getting married 2 years ago, this was my truth.

Kyle and I both had traveling we wanted to do, we were both in the prime of our careers, we had a house to remodel and design, a new cookbook to create for me, etc. And plus, I loved just being married. Because we found each other “later” than our friends, I wanted to just revel in our time together just the two of us.

Truly, I loved our life, as is. I wanted to treasure every moment. I didn’t feel like there was a void to fill, I guess. I loved our freedom. I love my business, and in many ways that has been my baby for years already. I loved my marriage and our relationships around us. I felt fulfilled and so satisfied with how things were.

We decided to wait at least a year of being married before talking about it again, to just enjoy the stage we were in, without any pressure.

Knowing that the time was coming eventually though, and doing what I do for work, I started getting mentally ready, in some small ways:

I started more seriously tracking my cycle on my apps (the flo and the glow app are my favs), just to make sure everything was all good and regular and that I’d be able to know exactly where I was at in my cycle at all times, when the time came.

Side note: this was one of the best things I ever took the time to learn, and is something I would encourage any woman to do, no matter the season you’re in.

I read more books on hormones and how to optimize them, naturally. I started to do a little more yoga and less super-super high intensity workouts, and added in some high quality extra supplements to boost everything up. I got even more serious (if it was possible) about upgrading almost all of my beauty and personal care products (because so many of the chemicals in them are hormone disrupters).

I got all my blood work done with my naturopath, so I’d have a baseline.

A year passed, quickly it felt like.

And still, to my surprise, no crazy baby urges came for me.

Life felt busy and full enough. But I also knew that at 32 years old, I couldn’t really wait forever, biologically speaking. Even if I was the healthiest human, I knew from so many friends that the process to starting a family can take a long time, and is not always a smooth ride.

Secretly, I’d get mad about it sometimes, my feminist self, frustrated. Why was it that women had this time limit- right in the prime of their rising careers? Men can just continue on and up, never having to stop or pause or take a step back to create and grow a family, if that’s what they want. It just didn’t seem fair.

I took a closer look at all the women entrepreneurs ahead of me that I admired and loved following in business, with exploding careers.

None of them had kids. Literally, not one.

Noted. Alright..

But deep down, I knew those were also just fears of mine that were rising up.

Stories I was telling myself about how there is only one way to create and do life. Getting distracted by what other people are doing, instead of trusting the path of my own life.

It was time to really take closer look. If having children was something I did truly want, what else was getting in my way of getting closer?

As with making all big decisions in life, I knew I had to get super honest with myself to tune in a little more. Was there any tiny fears I had to release in the way way back of my mind?

(Most often, whenever I feel stuck with things in life, this is always the case).

I took some time to write it out– forcing myself to journal is the best way to make myself get super honest with myself. Anyone else?

And it was true.

As I started writing, I realized that in very back of my mind, I connected having a baby to meaning I would probably lose all of those things I loved so much (myself, my self care, my identity, my business would suffer, my marriage would take a toll, my freedom would disappear).

And then, the next question came right back at me: why was I imagining it going the worst possible way?

It’s something I talk so much about in the simply real life program and with my one-on-one clients: about seeing things through a lens of fear versus love. And how we get to choose what thoughts we’re letting ride through our heads.

And mine, with babies, apparently still had some fear lingering with it.

So, it took some time for me to work through that stuff, and release them gently, one by one.

And by time, I mean another 3-6 months, easy.

I went to work, to address a lot of those things that were keeping me paralyzed from moving forward with ease and excitement: getting help and more support in my business, learning to scale it just beyond me and my time in a day, and realizing that my story and my life, are part of my business, not separate.

And that it’s ok for it to change and grow as I do.

It also took me finding some other examples of mammas who inspire me– who don’t lose themselves completely, who run businesses and have passions and have great marriages and still travel and make time to take care of themselves. And do it with intention & as much laughter and light-heartedness as possible.

To find examples of all the ways that motherhood can work, and look.

It helped so much.

It was a year and a half at that point. I was feeling so much better about taking the next step, and we started talking about it even more.

Physically , I started to slowly start to prep my body as best as I could, shifting things around with my food and workouts (types and timing), and adding some helpful things to help optimize my body. (I’m more than happy to talk more specifics on this if anyone is curious– just leave a comment below so I know)

But there was one more thing.

It was something that I had been slowly and very privately working on the past year and a half as well: my cycles weren’t regular at all– they were long, consistently. It was a sudden change that had happened to me just 3 years before. At first I just thought it was from stress (aka, in the midst of writing, shooting and producing the 1st cookbook in 6 short months).

But, it didn’t just go away. So for next 3 years I had spent so much time studying and trying to fix my cycles naturally with food, incorporating some different supplements and adaptogens, yoga, acupuncture, meditation, energy work, breathwork, you name it.

I’d upped all those things in the last year, but nothing really changed. So I knew the road might be a little bit longer and/or more complicated than most. But with all the other stuff cleared, I knew this one last piece was something we’d only know once we started trying. The rest I could figure out along the way.

Alright, then. Let’s do this thing.

So, we started “trying”.

But with unpredictable and skipped cycles, I knew that something was off.

I went back in to my naturopath, who knew me (and my daily lifestyle, well). She suggested getting a ultrasound, just to check things out, because I was doing all the things that should help, and nothing was. And even though I had no other symptoms to suggest that something could be off, she trusted my intuition with it.

In March, I went in for the test. A few days later I got a call back from the doctor, with a confirmation they did find something to be aware of.

That day, I was diagnosed officially with PCOS (Polycyctic Ovarian Syndrome.)

Usually found in women who are very overweight, have blood sugar issues, not great eating habits, and even male-pattern baldness. But it’s also when your ovaries either can’t ovulate because they have cysts on them, or you do ovulate but spontaneously and/or randomly, and not often.

I had none of the other symptoms, they said, because I ate so well, and took great care of myself and my health daily. And that if I hadn’t, things could be a lot worse.

They proceeded to tell me that if I was lucky, I might ovulate around 2-3 times a year (instead of the normal 12). So 4-6 days total out of 365 that it would even be a slight possibility of a chance.

Not great odds, really.

But, something I guess. More than a lot of people get, I thought.

The next step would be going to a fertility specialist, to be put on medication to try and help.

Immediately, thoughts filled my brain.

It wasn’t fair.

I ate so healthy.

I worked out (but you know…not too hard or crazy, just the right amount)

I cared and took my emotional and mental health and lifestyle so seriously.

Why is this happening to me?

I do everything right.

I came home in tears that night, telling Kyle. He hugged me, and wiped my tears, just standing there in the kitchen.

I’m not worried at all, he said. We’re gonna have a family somehow, some way. Plus, you know this is always God’s way of working though you . He gives you tough health things that you’re able to somehow figure out and rise above, so that then you can help others with.

I looked up at him with tear filled eyes and cried some more. But, deep down, I knew he was right.

Don’t stress, he said. It’s gonna be fine.

After a day or so of being sad and scared (and after way too many hours googling “PCOS and healthy pregnancy stories” and “can you get pregnant with PCOS? and “how to heal PCOS naturally”). … and finding no positive answers, I knew it was time to just surrender and trust.

This was my next assignment, being handed to me.

I made a commitment right then, that I was not going to be a victim in this, or defined by it. Because what we tell ourselves is what we physically manifest.

I would not feel sorry for myself. I would not let a diagnosis like that overtake me and get me down, but instead I was gonna look at what I COULD do about it.

And would do about it.

In all my work, and in all of the other cases where I’ve healed my body from things that were deemed “non-healable” (SIBO and hyperthyroid especially), I knew that the energy I brought into it, while thinking about it, and my attitude mattered so much.

I was determined — yet again– to try and heal with real food & taking my self care to the even next level. I know for some, this act would stress them out. But for me, it’s the number one power source that we can control, so why wouldn’t I?

So, I decided to step up my game even more. It became my goal, to heal my sweet body, however I could.

And give myself the best chance possible at getting pregnant— without making myself crazy or trying to be perfect at it, in the process.

I did a lot in those next weeks, all as an act of love, not feeling spited or annoyed:

I reduced the coffee intake to a bare minimum (a thing especially for PCOS), and switched to matcha most days.

I added in some more nourishing superfoods daily for cellular health (like spirulina, collagen peptides and chlorophyll drops ).

I made sure I had a little fat or protein with my veggies at both my meals, so my blood sugar and therefore hormones would stay extra balanced and calm.

I took methylated vitamins (all women should do this, if you have it or not– look for activated versions of vitamins, especially a multi with activated folate like Thorne prenatl or Seeking Health brands), based on my bloodwork.

I got back into weekly acupuncture, changed up my workouts yet again, got into the infrared sauna weekly, and just chilled out, knowing that our story would play out as it was supposed to.

That was the physical healing part.

But mentally and emotionally, there were also things I knew I needed to look at.

Sorry if this is too #woowoo for you guys, but I have found over the years that whenever you are in need of healing (usually physical of some sort), that you also need to pay just as much attention to the mental, emotional, and even spiritual work that’s required.

It’s never just one area that holds and gets affected by things.

We get blocked in all of those areas, and they require some extra care and attention to tune into, to fully get better. It’s all a part of our life and health: addressing just one area often times won’t get you where you want to go, or it takes 10 times as long.

I’d mediate and write out my manifesting list to just heal my body, and surround it with love, knowing and trusting that I was being taken care of. And that somehow, someway I’d become a mamma.

Most mornings, I’d read it and pray over it, as a reminder to shift my energy up. And bring in the higher vibes.

I was finally ready to call it in. With peace. And love. And trust.

I did the things I could control, and then let go of the rest: of the timing, my healing, and what our story would be.

I kept testing for ovulation every day, on those weird little strips (thanks Amazon for the mega packs), and starting taking my temperature each morning.

I had daily rituals that helped me calm and take the stress around it, and take the pressure off. Out of LOVE and care to learn my body. And curiosity.

Everyday, I’d imagine my cells filling with vibrancy, getting strong.

I started writing a blog post that’s still sitting in my drafts, this past April on getting diagnosed with PCOS, and what that meant, and what I was doing to try and boost and optimize my chances- just in case it might help anyone else.

With all of these things combined, a totally normal ovulation cycle happened that next month, that I only caught because of the strip testing and temperature taking combined.

(Side note to those of you who are maybe trying: I know those tests can drive people crazy, but if it was up to me to guess and just based on my app and how I felt, I would have picked the wrong days completely. Nowadays I’ve heard about new saliva tests and wrist tracking watches that women can wear if their cycles are more tricky– and, thank goodness.)

I was so excited. A legitimate chance. One of three that we might get for the year.

A few weeks later, I had a feeling.

I waited to test until it was on the later side of things, so I’d know for sure. I was trying to be casual about things, and just trust.

A few days later, early early in the morning, I did.

It was positive.

The darkest line I had ever seen after months of doing a test of some sort daily.

I don’t think anyone expects changes or healing to happen that fast. And maybe it was just a coincidence that we caught one of the 3 times a year that it could have happened, and it did.

But, I cried. It was a feeling of a complete miracle. My body could do this.

But I say all of this, not to say: oh just make these changes and it fixed everything.

Or that there was one thing that made it happen.

Instead, I’m sharing this (in TMI detail, I’m sure) to just show the complete journey of the full process for me, and the un-blocking of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual pieces, all together.

Which I think is something that speeds up any process in life, whether it’s healing, getting healthier, getting pregnant, making a career change, choosing a life partner, etc.

It’s not the path you take, it’s being all in.

Taking care of yourself, on all levels, for healing of all kinds.

It’s aligning. Reminding yourself daily. Doing your part, of course, but trusting in the bigger picture. And then being able to surrender it all.

This sweet little baby is such a gift to me already, in a true testament to that. It’s something I hope I’ll be able to pass on to him one day.

I’m crying a little as I sit here, typing this. I feel so genuinely thankful, and like it’s been a true miracle I’m witnessing unfolding.

Q: How have you felt?

I wish I could say oh, it’s been so great . No big deal. That all that prep work and healthy food really helped me enter pregnancy in a great and super healthy way.

But, in truth, I’ve felt pretty um… horrible.

Not just a little sick or a little nauseous or tired here and there, but nauseous all day, everyday, and throwing up a few times a week, way past my first trimester. Like, last night.

In the first trimester, I couldn’t look at my computer screen or phone for more than 15 minutes at a time, because it would make me so much more nauseous. I definitely couldn’t look at my blog, instagram or pictures of food. I’m sure some of you noticed, but I went a little MIA there, which felt stressful in itself.

(me, in bed at 1pm onward most days)

But, life must go on. Especially when you run a business.

I was shooting the 2nd cookbook. Working on a book deal . (!)

I had a lot of travel that was already planned.

I had meetings that were huge for my career. Women are amazing, you know that? I’m still in awe, now knowing what some women experience while not being able to tell people anything.

So, when I found out, I was in the midst of a back-to-back 6 week travel schedule, flying all over the country non-stop. Let me just tell you– there was a lot of airplane bathroom moments, throwing up secretly in between business meetings, and ginger chews binges in those first beginning weeks.

I tried all the things to help– ginger chews, ginger teas, ginger anything (which I now can’t even look at), lemon, peppermint, spearmint, and cinnamon essential oils , drinking lemonade, drinking ginger beer, wearing sea bands everywhere but the shower, getting acupuncture twice a week, using magnesium spray nightly, taking my vitamins at night, taking B6 and unisom together, etc.

I tried eating every 2 hours, and in a low moment, even bought a pack each of jolly ranchers, hot tamales, and chewed my way through a pack of mint mentos on an airplane– all based on suggestions from other nauseous friends that swore by them. Verdict: mint mentos actually helped– or delayed the throwing up until I was at least off the plane.

But still, nothing has really helped besides just trying to stay off screens all day and sleeping when it got too bad. Not exactly convenient when you run a business and online platform, but I know it was a lesson in grace and giving myself space and letting up on the pressure. I’d cry everyday being so thankful for my angel assistant, who just kept the ship running while I was in bed.

It’s something I’m sure I’ll be using and tapping into way more this next year- being ok with needing help, and knowing that I can’t do it all.

Q: What have you been eating?

In all realness, for the first 3 months, all I could keep down was fruit and cereal (which I had never bought before as an adult, or since being gluten-free. The healthier stuff came right back up, so for a good 16 weeks there, honey nut cheerios, and rice chex it was).

By 2pm I’d be in bed, and by 5pm I was on the couch usually in tears from the pain and intense sickness when Kyle would come home.

Up through week 17, the only other food I could usually only get down a few bites of refried beans and rice from the somewhat sketchy mexican joint down the street for dinner– that Kyle would pick up in bulk orders.

Not even GF toast or GF pasta sounded good. I’d wash it down with a glass of natural lemonade, cream soda or ginger ale (the weirdest, but something about the sugar and carbonation helped).

Now, at week 19, I’m finally over the refried bean phase being the only solid food I could eat (thank god).

But still not feeling great or back to my usual self.

So, as of late, I’ve been able to try and add back some other things. Lately I’ve been existing on fruit, cereal, iced tea with lemonade, some kinds of veggie based soup, and now GF mac and cheese.

Ok. Mac n’ cheese. I don’t even like it. Never really have. And if there’s any confusion here– this isn’t a more “real” homemade kind, but Annie’s boxed kind. The white cheddar kind, to be specific, because orange cheese freaks me out.

Update: Lately I’ve been able to add a little vital proteins collagen powder to the cheese powder, because lord knows I’m not able to get any other types of protein down yet. Also, I just found a company called Banza that has chickpea pasta based mac and cheese, so I tried that too yesterday and was so happy…. until I paid for it all afternoon. Well, I’m just gonna keep trying.

Is it totally pure, real food? No. It’s close. And it’s the best I can do and it stays down. I don’t get too bent out of shape about it, because I know it’s temporary.

Now, at 19 weeks, some other great news: I’ve upgraded my morning cereal game to Kashi Honey Oats, gluten-free oatmeal with raisins, and Mesa Organic Sunrise Flakes with Raisins.

And. If that wasn’t enough, I was also able to eat the Photoshoot Salad twice last week, which was just about the first vegetables and/or “normal meal” to enter my mouth in months. Lentil or split pea soup has worked too, some days, which I am thrilled about, even in this 90 degree heat.

It’s the little things, ya know? I feel proud of it.

Other new thrilling additions just this 19th week: sliced heirloom tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and sea salt on toasted gf baguettes, peaches and cherries got added to my OK TO FRUIT list, and sometimes I can do dill pickles, or cottage cheese with fruit. And iced tea mixed lemonade EVERY DAY after lunch has been saving my life.

It’s so funny how my body just knows what it might be able to keep down– and what it can’t. It’s fascinating, and really just a reminder that I’m not really in charge or in control, so to just go with it.

I do still feel sick most days, especially in the afternoons and nights, even though I’m way past 1st trimester and almost to the halfway point next week.

But, I try to laugh about it as much as I can, because the whole thing is so weird. And I’m thankful just to be pregnant. So I’m just trying to do my best, take pictures to document it, and take one day at a time.

So, there you have it. Life as of late.

Q: Have you been working out?

For me, consistent workouts have always been a part of my daily life, for as long as I can remember. So, even on the sickest days, working out and getting in some fresh air or movement of some kind helped me, and continues to do so. Maybe it was purely out of routine and making me feel like my normal self, or maybe it was the movement itself. Either way, that’s still been a big non-negotiable in my day.

I’m not running marathons or doing crossfit or anything crazy, but my normal spin and/or free weights classes (30 mins of each), TRX, barre classes, and walking all feel great. I’m aiming for at least 7,000 steps a day, although I’m a little slower than usual at getting there. I was doing my normal yoga classes in the beginning, more so for mental reasons- but now those feel weird. Time for a little pre-natal yoga action I think.

Either way, my goal is to just keep moving every day, keep listening to what my body needs, and to keep taking care of myself this way, doing what feels good.

And, a love note to Lululemon’s Align pants . They were already all I wanted to wear before, but they are literally saving my life lately. I’ll get a pair in the next size up as I need, but am so thankful for the 2 I have now that still work.

Q: Are you taking any supplements?

Yes, I’m taking Seeking Health’s Chewable Prenatal (because 1) the regular non-chewable ones were coming right back up, and 2) because they use activated/methylated folate and B vitamins— which you need if you have the MTHFR gene. If you don’t know if you do or not, it can’t hurt to stick with methylated kinds for prenatals. Oh, and make sure your vitamins are made with activated or methylated folate, not folic acid). I’m also taking activated B-12 from Seeking Health , and magnesium spray on the inside of my arms and feet at night, which I was doing before pregnancy.

Q: What foods or things do you miss the most?

Ok, don’t roll your eyes at my answer, but I really really do miss my veggies. I miss salads– especially kale salads– and green smoothies and how I feel eating those foods daily. I also miss my foursigmatic mushroom coffee , and adaptogen powders (they’re not suggested during pregnancy because they can help regulate and balance hormones. Which is usually a good thing, but when pregnant your hormones are doing their own crazy thing, and it’s better not to mess with it). I miss my matcha too. Soon enough. I def miss rose and wine for sure this time of year, although I feel to sick for it to really sound good. Also grilled salmon/burgers and protein sounding good.

I think more than any one specific food, I more so just miss being joyful and excited about food overall. And having options. You guys know that’s my thing. Right now it feels more like forced feeding, so hopefully with some time this will trickle it’s way back in.

Q: Will you still run your business?

Yes! I’m planning to take a maternity leave for a few months (thank goodness for my tiny but mighty team!) but as anyone who runs their own business knows, there’s no such thing as a true break or time off for more than a few days at a time. So, I’ll be doing the best I can to plan and prep a lot of stuff ahead of time so they keep running without me, and most importantly: stay present, focus on what’s important, and to not have guilt, no matter which way things go.

After that, yeah baby. Working mamma entrepreneur life, here we come! I’m excited to navigate it, and create a way to do it that feels good to me.

Next up? Our 20 week and halfway point ultrasound next week. If you’re the praying and sending good vibes type, please send them this way for a healthy update.

Ok, well…. I think this might be one of my longest posts, so I’m gonna stop here.

Do you guys want updates on this part of my journey? Let me know below. And def let me know what other questions you have over on instagram at @simplyrealhealth, or below.

Welcome to your journey for creating a healthier you

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Pregnancy: Everything you need to know for your journey

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Key takeaways:

Arm yourself with tips, tricks and information to prepare for your pregnancy journey., find out what to do before you get pregnant., learn about early pregnancy., see what to expect during pregnancy. .

[7 MIN READ]

Whether you’re a new or experienced parent, you may have a lot of questions about your pregnancy. At Providence, we are devoted to creating a patient-centered, caring and open environment designed to celebrate your pregnancy and help you find joy while relieving your anxiety.

Before you get pregnant

If you’re planning on having a baby, you’ll have nine months to prepare for motherhood but what about getting ready for pregnancy? There are important steps to take before you try to conceive. Read on and make sure you’re as healthy as can be — for yourself and your baby.

7 things to do before you get pregnant

See your physician Schedule a doctor’s appointment to discuss your family’s health history and any ongoing conditions, such as diabetes or asthma. Ensure that your immunizations are up to date and inform your provider of any medications or supplements you’re taking. If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory or search for one in your area.

Stop smoking and drinking Smoking and drugs, including alcohol, may make it more difficult to get pregnant. If you do get pregnant, these substances can increase the risk of miscarriage, SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), preterm birth , fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other disabilities. Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor if you need help quitting. Also, it’s a good idea to dial down your caffeine consumption. Drinking too much caffeine (more than two cups of coffee or five cans of soda daily) may make it harder to conceive.

Eat a nutritious diet Cut back on empty calories, such as sugary drinks and junk food. Fill up on high-protein foods, produce, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Seafood contains mercury, which may cause birth defects. Limit your seafood to 12 ounces of fish a week and avoid large ocean fish, such as shark.

Reach a healthy weight Ideally, you want to hit your target weight before you get pregnant. To boost your chances of having the healthiest pregnancy possible, it’s best not to be underweight or overweight. Regardless of how much you weigh when you get pregnant, don’t try to lose weight during pregnancy.

Take vitamin B Folic acid, a B vitamin, decreases the risk of birth defects, particularly in the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Start taking a daily vitamin with at least .4 milligrams (400 mcg) of folic acid before you get pregnant, as a baby’s brain and spinal cord begin to develop early in the pregnancy.

Exercise regularly Exercise can help your body better handle the changes and stress that pregnancy brings. If you already exercise, you can probably stick with the same program for the majority of your pregnancy. If you don’t exercise, aim for 30 minutes of brisk activity five days a week and continue that schedule while you’re pregnant.

Kick back Try to minimize the stress in your life. Get as much rest and relaxation as you can. You’ll miss those peaceful moments once the baby comes!

Learn what to do before you get pregnant .

Early pregnancy

Are you pregnant? Pregnancy symptoms can vary, but one of the most significant signs of pregnancy is a missed period. Other possible symptoms include:

Swollen or tender breasts
Spotting or light bleeding
Fatigue or tiredness

To be sure, take a pregnancy test at home. Simply knowing for sure will bring you some peace of mind and allow you to start planning for a healthy future. At-home pregnancy tests are up to 99 percent accurate when they’re done properly and at the right time. They can be purchased at most grocery stores, pharmacies and even some discount stores.

All at-home tests work by measuring the amount of HCG hormone in a woman’s urine. HCG levels increase as a pregnancy matures. You’ll get the most accurate results if you take the test five days or more after you ovulate. The closer you are to the date when your next period should start, the more accurate the results will be. If you take the test too soon, the HCG level may be too low to indicate pregnancy.

If you get a positive result on an at-home test, make an appointment with your health care provider as soon as possible. For most women, this first visit takes place between the eighth and tenth week of pregnancy. The sooner you see a health care provider, the sooner you can get prenatal care for you and your baby.

Learn more about early pregnancy.

Choosing a healthcare provider

When it comes to prenatal care, you have choices. These health care providers are experts in caring for pregnant women and their unborn babies, but each type of specialist has a different skill set.

Certified nurse-midwife Certified nurse-midwives or CNMs are registered nurses who have advanced training in women’s health and maternity care. Along with female reproductive care, such as annual exams and Pap tests, CNMs offer prenatal, labor and postpartum care.

CNMs usually treat women with uncomplicated pregnancies but, if they consult with an OB-GYN, they can treat women who have high-risk pregnancies. If you choose a CNM as your prenatal care provider, you may be able to deliver your baby at home, at a birth center or in a hospital. Ask your CNM where she delivers babies and tell her if you have a preference.

Family medicine / Family practice doctors Family practitioners are doctors who specialize in preventive health and medical care for people of all ages. Some family physicians deliver babies, but many do not. If you have a family physician, be sure to ask if he or she delivers babies. Also, they are not surgeons, so if a mother needs to deliver her baby by cesarean section, the family physician will call a surgeon to deliver the baby.

If you select a certified nurse-midwife or an OB-GYN for your prenatal care, you can transfer to a family practitioner after your baby is born. The family practitioner can provide all primary care you and your family, including your new baby, need now and in the future.

OB-GYNs The abbreviation, OB-GYN, stands for obstetrics and gynecology. An obstetrician is a doctor who delivers babies. A gynecologist is a doctor who treats diseases of the female reproductive organs. OB-GYNs offer prenatal care, manage labor and delivery, and provide postpartum care for mothers. Roughly 85 percent of women receive prenatal care from OB-GYNs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

If an OB-GYN delivers your baby, you will need to select a pediatrician, a family practitioner or a nurse practitioner to be your baby’s primary care provider after he or she is born.

Doulas A doula is a woman trained to provide physical comfort and emotional support to expectant moms before, during and after childbirth. Doulas are not medical personnel, but they can provide information, help during labor and advocate for the mother.

Some women hire doulas months before their babies are born. If you do this, you can expect the doula to spend time getting to know you, answering your questions about pregnancy and labor, and helping you create a birth plan. If you have a doula, she will stay with you during labor. She will help you change positions and use relaxation techniques to ease labor pains. Doulas may also support the new family at home during the postpartum period.

Many doulas undergo training and complete certification programs in order to provide support to patients during labor and delivery. Research studies show that having a doula present during labor can be associated with health benefits, such as shorter deliveries, fewer c-sections, less use of medications, increased breastfeeding and more satisfying birth experiences for mothers. The benefits vary, however, based on the doula’s training and skills, the cultural setting, and family support available to the mother among other factors.

7 bodily changes to expect during pregnancy

Everyone knows the main sign of pregnancy: an expanding waistline. Some of the other physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy take mothers-to-be by surprise. Pregnancy actually affects every part of a woman’s body, from head to toe. Here are seven of those changes you might expect when you’re expecting.

Women undergo a range of dramatic changes when pregnancy hormones are released into the body. Led by estrogen and progesterone, this potent cocktail of hormones is responsible for mood changes, the skin “glow” of pregnancy, nausea, fatigue, blemishes and a host of other side effects. Of course, these hormones are also critical for the development of a healthy baby, from the moment of conception to birth. If you’re planning to become pregnant, it’s important to learn how hormonal changes might affect you before they kick in. If your mood seems out of balance, consult your doctor for advice.

Hair and nails

It is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their hair and nails during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can cause both hair loss and hair thickening. You may even see hair start to grow where it doesn’t belong. Most of these changes return to normal after the baby is born, but excess hair on the face, for example, can be removed cosmetically. Nails often grow faster during pregnancy. While this may be a welcome change, they may also become more brittle or misshapen. Changing your diet to include foods that boost nail strength, such as lean proteins and leafy green vegetables, can help prevent nail breakage without resorting to chemical nail strengtheners.

During pregnancy, some women experience vision changes, such as increased blurriness, nearsightedness, dryness or eye sensitivity. The specific causes of these changes aren’t entirely understood, but it is thought that hormones, fluid retention and blood circulation all play a role. Vision typically returns to its pre-pregnancy state after the baby is born, but some pre-existing vision conditions can worsen – or improve! Be sure to see an ophthalmologist during and after your pregnancy if you have any concerns about pre-existing conditions or have unusual symptoms.

Mouth and teeth

Here, again we can thank hormones for pregnancy-related changes, in this case affecting the mouth and teeth. Some women experience gum disease or tooth decay because increased hormones can affect resistance to bacteria in the mouth. And, if the mom doesn’t get enough calcium in her diet, the growing baby may “steal” the calcium it needs from the mom’s bones and teeth. If you’re pregnant, get your teeth and gums checked regularly and observe good dental hygiene by flossing and brushing at least twice a day.

Breasts go through a series of changes during pregnancy. As breasts grow larger in preparation for feeding the baby, they typically feel tender and may leak an early form of milk called colostrum. The areola may enlarge and darken. Veins may darken. Stretch marks may develop, and the nipples may protrude more than they did before pregnancy. Be sure to wear a well-fitting bra to support your breasts. If you develop small, painful lumps in your breasts, they may be caused by blocked milk ducts. Massage and warm compresses (applying a warm washcloth) may help clear the ducts. If the lumps don’t go away after a few days, have them examined during your next doctor visit.

Weight gain and fluid retention

As the unborn baby grows and the pregnant woman gains weight, she tends to move less. This leads to fluid retention, which can account for 25 percent of pregnancy weight gain. This additional weight slows down the circulation of blood and other bodily fluids, especially in the lower limbs. Swelling of the legs, feet, hands and even face can result. To ease the discomfort of fluid retention and swelling, avoid standing for long periods, eat more potassium, and reduce the amount of caffeine and sodium in your diet.

Many women experience changes in the appearance of their skin during pregnancy. Most of these changes are temporary although some, like stretch marks, can be permanent. Stretch marks are caused by the physical stretching of the skin combined with the effects of hormonal changes on the skin’s elasticity. They may appear on the breasts and abdomen during the third trimester. Another change is called hyperpigmentation. It occurs when areas of the body or face develop a deeper color. Sun exposure worsens the discoloration, so be sure to use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen daily during pregnancy. Also, the color of moles and freckles can darken, and you might develop pregnancy-specific rashes or boils. While these are generally harmless, it’s a good idea to have your skin checked if you see something unusual.

Learn more about bodily changes during pregnancy .

During pregnancy

You might have a lot of questions when it comes to exercising during pregnancy. Is it safe? Do I have to? The truth is, exercise is important during pregnancy — it can help with some common discomforts and even prepare your body for childbirth.

According to the American Pregnancy Association , exercising for 30 minutes on most or all days can benefit your health during pregnancy. In fact, exercising for just 20 minutes, 3 or 4 days a week is still beneficial. All you need to do is be active and get your blood flowing. Benefits include:

Reducing backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling
Helping prevent or treat gestational diabetes
Increasing your energy
Improving your mood
Helping you sleep better
Keeping you fit during pregnancy

If you are doing a certain type of exercise regularly before becoming pregnant, it’s probably fine to continue to participate during your pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association. But it’s important to avoid high-impact exercise and not to overdo it.

Your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac, which is nestled in the uterus and surrounded by organs, muscles and your physical body. This creates a safe environment for your developing baby.

Health and nutrition

During pregnancy, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the nutrients both you and your baby need. Healthy eating during pregnancy is critical to your baby’s growth and development, which is why it’s important to eat from a variety of food groups. According to the American Pregnancy society, you should consume an extra 300 calories a day.

Make sure you’re getting enough foods from the following food groups:

Fruits and vegetables: These contain important nutrients like Vitamin C and Folic Acid. You should have at least 2-4 servings of fruit and 4 or more servings of vegetables daily.
Bread and grains: These are the body’s main source of energy. These contain nutrients like iron, B Vitamins, fiber and some protein. You should consumer between 6-11 servings of bread and grains daily.
Protein: Things like meat, poultry, fish, eggs and beans contain protein, B vitamins and iron. However, fish that contain high levels of mercury should be avoided. You should consume three servings of protein daily.
Dairy: Calcium is found in dairy products and is essential for building strong teeth and bones, normal blood clotting, and muscle and nerve function. You should aim to consume at least 1,000 mg daily to support a pregnancy. This equals about four servings of dairy products daily.

While your main source of vitamins and nutrients should come from your diet, a daily prenatal vitamin can help fill small gaps. Prenatal vitamins should be taken up to three months before conception, if possible.

The 5 most common misconceptions about pregnancy

“As an expectant mother, you need to learn what truly is and isn’t safe for you and your developing baby, based on the best available medical evidence,” says Lina Wong, DO , a board-certified OB/GYN at St. Jude Heritage Medical Group . “With all of the frequently poor advice and even misleading material about pregnancy found online and in popular books, it's important that you ask questions and listen to your OB/GYN or perinatologist, your primary care physician and other trusted, medically-trained experts you may have on your care team, such as a laborist, certified nurse midwife or obstetrical nurse.”

Dr. Wong dispels some common misconceptions about pregnancy:

Don't get vaccinated when pregnant

Centers for Disease Control guidelines generally recommend certain vaccines, like Tdap and inactivated flu vaccine, for use in pregnant women. In fact, many vaccinations you get while pregnant help protect your baby until he or she can be vaccinated after being born. Other "live vaccines" for human papillomavirus (HPV) and measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) are not generally given to women known to be pregnant. Dr. Wong says, "It's imperative that you to talk to your doctors to see which vaccines you should receive to safeguard your health and the health of your baby from serious diseases like hepatitis A, hepatitis B and influenza."

Be sure to talk to your doctor about the COVID-19 vaccine and what is safe for you during your pregnancy .

Expectant mothers don't have to worry about drinking alcohol during pregnancy, as long they drink in moderation.

A recent report from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pregnant women avoid alcohol completely. Aside from potentially measuring low on the growth curve for height and weight, babies who have mothers who abuse alcohol during pregnancy are at risk of damage in their speech, learning and neurological development, or any other number of extremely serious conditions on the spectrum of fetal alcohol disorders.

Exercise during pregnancy will send you into premature labor

You may have heard that exercise during pregnancy could harm your baby or cause premature birth. However, regular daily exercise can help you manage the common discomforts of pregnancy and increase your chances of having a vaginal delivery free of complications. Exercise can also aid in postpartum recovery.

You can't eat any fish and cheese until after the baby is born

Many pregnant women have been told that they should avoid fish and cheese altogether, but there are some safe options. Salmon and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids like DHA help your baby’s mental and visual development. Avoid larger fish that tend to be higher in mercury , like swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tuna steaks. Cheese is a terrific source of calcium, and hard cheeses like cheddar, Gouda and Parmesan are generally considered safe for pregnant women to eat. It’s best to avoid soft cheeses like Gorgonzola, Brie and goat cheese because they are more likely to contain listeria , a type of germ. If you become infected with listeria while pregnant, your baby could become infected as well, and you could be at increased risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.

When you're pregnant, you need to eat for two

Carrying a baby does not require you to double your caloric intake. "There are certain nutrients you need more of, like folic acid, but overeating isn't good for either of you," says Dr. Wong. "If you gain too much weight while pregnant , you are at increased risk of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. You may also be more likely to need a C-section due to having a larger baby."

Learn more about misconceptions about pregnancy .

Stay tuned for additional information that we will add regarding childbirth and the postpartum period.

Find a doctor.

If you have questions about your pregnancy, talk to your OB/GYN or another member of your care team. If you’re thinking about starting a family and want to speak to a professional, you can find a compassionate expert through our provider directory or search for one in your area:

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Everything To Know About Pregnancy: Trimesters, Symptoms, and Delivery

Carrying life for three trimesters is no easy feat. Here’s some guidance on what to expect and how to navigate every checkpoint.

Jazmin Kylene

Published Feb 02, 2024

No matter how conditioned we are to it, the miracle of life will never not be awe-inducing. Whether it’s your first kid or your seventh, the love of parent and child is a feeling that words can only do so much to describe. For those who want it, however, it can be challenging to navigate pregnancy amidst all the inner and outer changes, dangers to consider, and societal expectations of what it “should” look like.

Approximately 61 million women in the United States are of childbearing age (15 to 44), and by the time they reach their early 40s, around 86% of them have become mothers. Though it’s all around us, carrying life for 40 weeks, three trimesters , or a little more than 9 months is no easy feat. Here’s some guidance on what to expect and how to navigate every checkpoint along the way.

Getting Pregnant

Conception is the initiation of your pregnancy journey, though it’s certainly not as easy as it’s made to seem. For those trying to conceive, you’ve got a short ovulation window every menstrual cycle to work within. In an average 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period for 12 to 24 hours. However, each person’s cycle length may differ, and the time between ovulation and the beginning of the next menstrual period can vary.

There are many reasons why falling pregnant may be complicated for an individual, ranging from damaged fallopian tubes to age to hormone imbalance . Some of these conditions, including endometriosis and adenomyosis, not only make conceiving difficult but also can elicit a high-risk pregnancy, shares scientific director of MIT’s Center for Gynepathology Research Linda Griffith. “For those who do become pregnant, endometriosis increases the chances of miscarriage, preterm birth, and a condition called placenta previa, in which the placenta forms over the cervix, increasing the risk of dangerous bleeding during labor and delivery.”

Because of these possible roadblocks, many turn to natural methods to boost their fertility, from raspberry leaf tea to consistent sessions of acupuncture. Luckily, when all else falls, we are part of the generation that has both built and benefitted from technological innovation, especially in pregnancy. Options like surrogacy and IVF have helped many of those struggling with conception to achieve motherhood.

In vitro fertilization, commonly known as IVF, is a form of fertility treatment in which an egg is fertilized in a laboratory with sperm, allowing the embryo to develop before being transferred to the uterus to increase the likelihood of pregnancy. This method is usually turned to once more straightforward treatments to boost fertility are deemed unsuccessful.

Whichever route you take to get there, seeing that faint plus sign on your pregnancy test is the very beginning of a transformative and miraculous journey.

READ MORE: Here’s How Long You Should Wait After Unprotected Sex to Take a Test

READ MORE: Signs of a Successful Implantation That Aren’t Just Spotting

Your First Trimester – 1 Week to 13 Weeks

Marked by morning sickness and rollercoaster hormones, your first trimester is typically the most taxing to get through, though luckily, it tends to go the fastest. Your body is going through a major transformation by suddenly growing new life, so it’s essential to be patient with yourself and assist your body in any way you can, from drinking plenty of fluids to eating ginger for nausea.

Many confuse PMS symptoms for early pregnancy symptoms due to their overlap. You may find yourself experiencing:

Mood swings
Swollen breasts
Nausea and vomiting
Heartburn and indigestion
Food cravings and aversions

While many are put off by the phenomenon, losing weight during the first trimester is not uncommon. This is typically due to changes in appetite and sudden shifts in lifestyle. However, this should end within the first few weeks and it’s imperative to begin your prenatal care the moment you’ve become aware that you’re carrying.

Upon your first hospital visit, you’ll assess your overall health, identify any risk factors with your pregnancy and determine your baby’s gestational age. To calculate your due date, your healthcare provider will typically count 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period. After this first visit, you’ll probably be asked to schedule checkups every four weeks for the first 32 weeks of pregnancy.

READ MORE: Early Signs of Pregnancy: First Week Indicators You Could Be Pregnant

READ MORE : Sharing The Joy: Pregnancy Announcement Captions

Danger Signs of Pregnancy in the First Trimester

While these all aren’t necessarily indicative of something dire going on, they’re all worth addressing as soon as possible to rule out any danger.

Cramping and/or bleeding from the vagina
Low pelvic pain
Severe pain or cramping
Pain or burning with urination
Severe nausea or vomiting
Rash or unusual skin sore

Emotionally, you’re also confronted with the reality of parenthood during your first trimester, which can be terrifying and euphoric all at once. It’s important to surround yourself with an uplifting team of loved ones who can support you during all the emotions pregnancy can bring.

Your Second Trimester – 14 Weeks to 27 Weeks

Entering your second trimester can feel like a big sigh of relief. Many of the most daunting symptoms may be diminishing, though some new ones are certainly introducing themselves. These include:

Bigger belly and breasts
Changes in skin

Your second trimester may also introduce you to Braxton Hicks contractions. These are mild, irregular contractions that feel like a slight tightness in your abdomen, usually felt after physical activity. They could, however, be a sign of preterm labor if they become regular and increase in strength, so it’s important to contact your doctor immediately.

Similarly, it’s important to keep an eye on your discharge . Changes in texture and consistency are completely normal, and you may notice yourself producing more sticky, clear or white vaginal discharge. It is only cause for concern if the discharge becomes strong smelling, unusual in color, or accompanied by pain and itchiness in your vaginal area.

Many inquire “When do you start showing in pregnancy?” The second trimester is your answer. Typically, a pregnant person’s bump becomes noticeable between 16 to 20 weeks. This, however, can of course vary from pregnancy to pregnancy.

With an increase in energy from your first trimester to your second, this is a good window of time to engage in light exercise, take childbirth classes, and prepare for parenthood by learning as much as you can. At this stage, the highlight of your prenatal visits might be listening to your baby’s heartbeat and finding out their sex, if you choose.

READ MORE: 11 Weird Pregnancy Symptoms You’re Usually Not Warned About

READ MORE: Orgasming When Pregnant: Everything To Know If You Are Too Shy To Ask

Creating a Birth Plan

There’s nothing more unpredictable than labor, and chances are, things may go a little differently than you envision. However, it’s helpful to cultivate a birth plan and get clarity on what matters most to you during the process. It also serves as a helpful way to communicate to your healthcare team what kind of labor you’d like what you want to avoid.

Usually thought about during the second trimester, some important points to cover in your birth plan include:

Where you’d like to give birth
Who you want as your birth partner
Your preferred labor positions
The type of pain relief you want to use during labor
If you’d like music during labor
Plans for your placenta
Request for special facilities, like a birthing pool
If you have any special requirements, including religious customs to be observed.

Your Third Trimester – 28 Weeks to Delivery

The most uncomfortable leg of your journey, the third trimester is when your stomach is at its largest, making it difficult to navigate everyday activities like sleeping and walking. This is the best time to invest in a pregnancy pillow , as your baby’s size and position might make it hard for you to get comfortable.

Alongside the anxiety and anticipation, you can expect symptoms like:

Braxton Hicks contractions
Shortness of breath
Frequent urination

You’ll also most likely be seeing your doctor more often. During the third trimester, you may be asked to come in every two weeks beginning at week 32 and every week beginning at week 36. Because you’re the closest to delivery, your third trimester is when you’ll be taking more screening tests for things like gestational diabetes, iron deficiency anemia, and Group B strep. These are common precautions to ensure the safest possible arrival of your newborn.

By this home stretch, your full-term baby m is usually between 19 and 21 inches long and between 6 and 9 pounds. They’ll also begin to pivot head-down in preparation for delivery. At week 36, the baby’s head should begin to move into your pelvic area, also known as lightening. It will stay in this down-facing position for the last 2 weeks of your pregnancy.

READ MORE: How To Use A Pregnancy Pillow and Get the Most Pain Relief

READ MORE: How To Fight Third-Trimester Nausea

Your Delivery

It’s also important to remember that while the due date is a guiding light, it’s incredibly common for it to come and go uneventfully.

While by this stage you would have opted for either a C-section vs vaginal birth, ultimately, that decision lies in the organic course of events during labor. It’s also possible that you may be induced. This is when your healthcare provider provides you with medicine or uses other methods, like breaking your water, to help initiate your labor.

During active labor, your cervix will dilate from 6 centimeters to 10. Your contractions will become stronger, closer together and regular. If the discomfort ever reaches a level of unbearable, you can request pain medication or anesthesia. Speaking up and advocating for yourself is crucial during your entire pregnancy, but especially in this stage. “Historically, women were expected to ‘tough it out’ when it came to pregnancy,” Dr. Kristin Myers says. “For the most part, the sentiment was if someone is facing a pregnancy problem, then that is their problem, not a societal problem.”

While your healthcare team will partner with you to make the best choice for you and your baby, only you can truly evaluate your level of pain and tolerance. The intensity will wax and wane over the course of hours (and sometimes, days) but can be managed by breathing techniques, different physical positions, and a supportive team and labor partner.

While unpredictable and at times painful, labor doesn’t have to be dreaded. Your body was made to be able to handle birth, and with proper research and preparation, you’ll make it through stronger than ever and reap the greatest reward of all: motherhood.

READ MORE: Is an Orgasmic Birth Possible? Apparently, It Is

READ MORE: Missing Your Period After Pregnancy? Here’s When You Should Worry

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Your first trimester guide, tips for the first 13 weeks of your pregnancy..

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Congratulations – you’re about to be a mother! Becoming a parent is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also feel overwhelming at times and you likely have lots of questions. That’s to be expected and we hope this guide will be a useful companion throughout your pregnancy. During the first 13 week of pregnancy, your body is growing and changing, and so is your baby’s. Here’s what to know as you start this amazing journey together.

Test your knowledge

True or false.

How you're feeling

Your body is about to undergo some major changes as it prepares to grow a new life.

You may start to experience symptoms such as nausea or fatigue – or you may find that you have an increased level of energy! Listen to your body and make adjustments to your routines as needed. Every woman is different, and so is each pregnancy.

Early signs and symptoms of pregnancy

The earliest sign of pregnancy is a missed period for women who have a regular monthly menstrual cycle. Sometimes, implantation bleeding can occur. This is a bleed very similar to a light period or spotting. Though this is completely normal, you should check with your health-care provider if you experience any bleeding during your pregnancy.

You may also begin experiencing a handful of the symptoms below early on in your pregnancy such as fatigue, nausea or more frequent urination.

Common symptoms

The changes in your hormones during your first weeks of pregnancy affect your whole body. While no two pregnancies are the same, some symptoms you may experience during your first trimester include:

Breast tenderness
Extreme changes in mood
Nausea or vomiting (morning sickness)
Frequent urination
Weight gain or loss
Extreme fatigue
Lower back and pelvic pain
Cravings for certain foods
New dislike of certain foods
Constipation

Symptoms in early pregnancy can be uncomfortable to say the least. For some relief, give these tips a try after checking with your health care provider first. Remember, choices should always be made based on your preferences and what is available to you.

For nausea or vomiting , try ginger, chamomile, vitamin B6 and/or acupuncture.
For leg cramps , try magnesium or calcium.
For constipation , if dietary modifications suggested by your health-care provider are not working, wheat bran or other fibre supplements can be used for relief.

Healthy foods and regular exercise are important for your entire pregnancy. Continue your daily physical activity for as long as you feel comfortable doing so. The more active you are during pregnancy, the easier it will be for you to adapt to your changing body. Make sure to nourish your and your baby’s growing bodies with nutritious food. Make sure you are getting adequate energy, protein, vitamins and minerals by eating a variety of healthy foods, including vegetables, meat, beans, nuts, pasteurized dairy and fruit.

>Read What to eat when pregnant

How your baby is growing

This period is the most crucial to your baby’s development. During the first trimester, your baby’s internal systems and body are beginning to take shape. These early organ and bodily developments include:

Brain and spine
Cardiac tissue
Fingernails
Cartilage for the hands, feet and limbs
Muscles of the mouth, eyes and nose
Webbed fingers and toes

Fetal growth can vary significantly for a number of reasons, but during the first trimester, your baby will grow from about 0.64 cm (.25 in) at the end of the first month (smaller than a grain of rice) to around 10 cm (4 in) by the end of week 12 and will weigh around 28 g (1 oz) [Figures from the Cleveland Clinic ]. For information for your country, please refer to your ministry of health.

When should I meet with my health-care provider?

You should schedule at least one appointment with your health-care provider during your first 12 weeks of pregnancy, ideally as early as possible. For recommendations in your country, please check with your ministry of health or health provider.

Things to look out for

While all women experience pregnancy differently, you should speak to your health-care provider if you experience:

Severe cramping
A fever over 38° C (100° F)
Odorous vaginal discharge
Painful urination
Vaginal bleeding
Severe vomiting

Explore stages of pregnancy

First trimester | Second trimester | Third trimester

Pregnancy Journey: Tips For an Easy 9 Months

by Healthy Living | Babies and Pregnancy

Although they may not feel like it, your pregnancy months are actually some of the easiest months you are going to have as a new parent. However, some pregnancies are more difficult than others, and your pregnancy may take a toll on you both physically and mentally. However, there are a few things you can do to make your pregnancy journey a lot easier. Keeping these tips in mind will go a long way in helping you have a healthier and significantly less stressful nine months.

1. Folic Acid

If you have never taken prenatal vitamins and supplements, it is a good idea to start taking them right from the first month of your pregnancy journey. Folic is especially strongly recommended for pregnant women because it is essential in reducing the risk of brain and spinal cord abnormalities in the developing baby. Every pregnant woman should take them if they want to significantly increase the chances of getting a 100% healthy baby. You should also consult your doctor and find out whether you require any additional supplements on top of the folic acid.

2. Nausea and Pregnancy

For many women, nausea comes with the territory of being pregnant . Serious nausea usually sets in at about the second month of pregnancy. If you cannot bear the smell of food, it is probably the extreme hormonal changes that your body is going through that are affecting your eating habits. It is completely normal to have these symptoms. However, in extreme cases, nausea can affect your quality of life. If you are going through this, a good strategy is to include bland food in your diet which does not trigger nausea symptoms. Foods like dry crackers can really help you maintain a healthy eating habit even with nausea. If all else fails, anti-nausea medication may be what you need.

3. Supportive Bras are Lifesavers

During pregnancy, your breasts will gradually become more and more sensitive. They will also grow larger, and you need a bra that is supportive of them. The best bras are comfortable, the perfect size, and they are designed to support the increasing breast weight. If you do not use the right bra for you during your pregnancy months, you may find yourself experiencing constant fatigue and back pain, which can make those mood swings way worse.

4. Travel while you still can

You may not realize this yet, but your pregnancy months are the last months you are ever going to have when traveling with the baby is relatively easy. So get all those travel plans out of the way by traveling as much as you can whenever you can. A great strategy is to fit all your travel plans when your body is feeling its best. For many women, this is during the second trimester. The first trimester is usually marked by nausea and morning sickness, and by the third trimester, they are usually too tired to think about anything other than when the baby will get out of them. So that leaves the second trimester. Just be sure to get the go-ahead from your doctor before you start packing those suitcases!

But, make sure to pick a city that does not involve slope-like streets that would exhaust you. If you are located in Europe, we recommend you visit London for two reasons. London is rather flat and the weather is not so hot, so it is not inconvenient while you are taking a London walking tour. If you plan to stay for a longer time, it is recommended that you rent a car and obtain an international driving permit to get around more easily.

5. Exercise

Making exercise a part of your daily life is a great way to deal with those constant back pains. By around the 5th or 6th month, as the baby inside you continues to grow and increase in weight, your body will start feeling the effect of the added load. This is why back pains and body aches are completely normal. Luckily, there is an easy solution to this: exercise! If you simply take a 30 to 40-minute walk every day, you will find that your body will become stronger, and the stamina you build in this way will even help to ease labor. There are other options for exercising, such as bike riding. A gas-powered bicycle is a great option for people who have less energy but still want to get some exercise and get around. Using electric bikes seems to work perfectly for pregnant women.

You should also keep in mind that as your body gets more and more tired, you also need more rest as you get closer to the final month. Consider investing in a good-quality mattress. Your back will thank you for it!

Furthermore, when it comes to exercise, we do not simply mean physical. There are a lot of ‘to-be moms’ who for some reason experience speech problems and due to pregnancy stress, it becomes even harder for them to communicate. Therefore, we recommend you take speech therapy services and overcome the problem while the baby is still not born.

6. Read Widely and Study

Reading birth stories and other pregnancy-related content not only helps you to have a good idea of what to expect, but it also serves to keep you mentally sharp, and you won’t experience too much of the infamous pregnancy brain. Consider creating a pregnancy study plan and allocate a specific time each day to reading and researching relevant topics. A good idea would be to start a pregnancy blog and share your knowledge with others. You could even use this time to study and develop your skills. No worries, you don’t have to get out at all, there are many online options that offer online classes that you can attend from your own bed. But remember to take breaks whenever you can. As The Osmosis Team says “ Break time can be just as important as study time. Time off allows you to recharge, which is why scheduling breaks is so important. ”

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! 5 of the best tips for an easier pregnancy journey . Remember, you only have 9 months to be pregnant, so you better enjoy them as much as you can. This is the only time almost everyone will treat you like royalty, being allowed to jump ahead in lines generally enjoying special treatment everywhere you go. Enjoy it while it lasts, and remember, you won’t be pregnant forever. Do not stress yourself about it, and always think of your precious cargo in everything you do. Being pregnant means you are living for two, so make smart choices, live a healthy life, and try to take things easy. And everything will be just fine.

The 20 Best Pregnancy Journals of 2024

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Verywell Family / Kevin Liang

Whether you’re a first-time mom or anxiously awaiting the birth of your third child, pregnancy is exciting, joyful, scary, and confusing all at once. Keeping a pregnancy journal is a great way to record all of the beautiful changes and thoughts that pop up throughout those long, tiresome months. “Pregnancy journals serve a number of purposes, such as a scrapbook, a health record, and/or a personal narrative,” says Joyce Marter, a licensed psychotherapist with 25 years of experience.

Whether you decide to keep one as a memorable keepsake to look back on or as an easy way to record your medical history, keeping a pregnancy journal should be easy, fun, and joyful. “A pregnancy journal is a beautiful, simple way to acknowledge the process and honor the good, the interesting, and memorable moments of pregnancy,” says Jennifer Jolorte Doro, certified doula, lactation counselor, clinical nutritionist, and co-founder/chief culinary officer at Chiyo.

When searching for the right pregnancy journal for you, it’s important to consider your intentions. “Deciding to keep a pregnancy journal is entirely a personal decision. There are many positives, but expectant mothers already have a lot on their plate, so only choose to keep one if you want to do so,” Marter adds. She recommends considering what type of journal you’d like to keep, whom you’d like to participate in the journaling process, and any special features—like prompts or slots to hold photos or sonograms. When searching for the best pregnancy journals, we relied on personal experience, industry research, and expert advice. Based on our research, here are the best pregnancy journals for expectant families.

How We Selected
What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Family

Best overall, a keepsake pregnancy journal.

Bookmark helps you jump to specific pages

Guided prompts help inspire entries

It isn’t a weekly log, so you can write whenever you want

Doesn’t have slots to hold photos

This sweet, affordable diary is a great way to record all of the little details of your pregnancy that you might otherwise forget. With 144 pages—both blank and prompted—it provides an opportunity to record long, detailed thoughts and memories, as well as little snippets, like an entire page devoted to the nicknames you have for your baby. The hardcover construction means it’s durable and sturdy, so you can save it as a keepsake for years after your little one has arrived. Despite its heavy-duty backing, it’s still small and compact enough to carry along with you to doctor’s appointments or meet-up groups.

Overall, this is a versatile book that is a good choice for many types of families. It has multiple blank pages and a few pages with guided questions, so it’s open-ended with a few extra details. It’s not particularly specific or geared toward a certain demographic, so it’s a great option for a variety of families. This journal is not broken out into weekly logs, which means you can start it whenever you like, and you don’t have to worry about skipping pages or entries.

Price at time of publication: $15

Type: Diary | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 144

Best Budget

From bump to baby and everything in between.

Includes slots for photos and other keepsakes

Comes with stickers to decorate

This is geared toward the expectant mother, so it’s not ideal for fathers or adoptive parents

For an easy, affordable book that can be adorned with pictures and stickers, check out this pregnancy and baby book combo. With 64 pages that take you from pregnancy to delivery, this is a great book for mothers who want to record pregnancy details without engaging in long, intricate journal entries. Each page comes with guided prompts that help initiate inspiration and spark creativity. There are pages dedicated to medical details—like the first prenatal visit—that can be helpful in tracking medical history.

We love that this book has slots and storage pockets to hold pictures, sonograms, and other small items. That means you can save it as a keepsake for years to come, and thanks to the extended period of time it covers, you can even keep writing after the new baby is born. Keep in mind that this book is specifically geared toward expectant mothers, so it isn’t ideal for dads or adoptive parents who might be looking for a more inclusive book.

Price at time of publication: $10

Type: Scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 64

Best With Prompts

Sweet beginning keepsake journal.

Has pages to hold pictures

Has space for monthly reflection as well as weekly planning

Includes a page for delivery and coming home

Spiral binding makes it easier to flip pages

It’s a bit larger than a standard journal, so could be difficult to carry around in your purse

This sweet, neutral book is totally versatile, which means it’s a great choice for a variety of families. The color palette is particularly good for families who don’t know what gender their baby is yet, or prefer neutral shades. This book comes from the voice of the expectant mother and includes simple, approachable prompts on every page. Things like the first sonogram and cravings and aversions are easy to track, thanks to the guided pages. We love that it’s broken out into weekly reflections and a monthly summary, so you can look back and reference your likes, dislikes, fears, and joys as the weeks go on. The weekly and monthly breakdown also makes journaling more approachable—you can keep a detailed log without the pressure of needing to journal every day.

This book has a hard cover that is durable and sturdy, but the interior spiral binding makes the pages easy to turn. It’s easier to write in, too, because the pages lay flat against the book. It features spaces for 4 x 6, 3 x 3, and 4 x 4 photos, so you can include full pictures of mom and dad as well as sonogram images. This is a beautiful keepsake that can be cherished for years to come, and the thoughtful design serves as a reliable account of the details of the pregnancy.

Price at time of publication: $35

Type: Diary and scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 76

Best Customizable

Personalized pregnancy planner.

Spiral binding makes pages easier to turn

Can be personalized

Gender-neutral

Not as heavy-duty as other options

This cute book is easy to personalize with your family’s name or your baby’s name. The spiral-bound book comes with over 100 pages filled with thoughtful prompts that help new moms record their thoughts, emotions, and everything in between. The decorative, neutral design is great for both genders, so it’s a good option for families who haven’t yet found out the sex of their baby.

This book is broken out week-by-week, with sections for recording mom’s thoughts, cravings and aversions, and notes on names, things to do, and more. It also features pages that are dedicated to the initial doctor’s appointments, the “home stretch,” and a hospital bag checklist. Keep in mind that this planner doesn’t have a hard cover, so it might not be as durable or sturdy as some other brands. Although it has pages where you can tape photos, it doesn’t have dedicated slots to hold them in place.

Price at time of publication: $37

Type: Diary | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 100

Best for First-Time Moms

Mom’s pregnancy journal.

Inspiring quotes help add to the decorative style

Includes trimester checklists

Comes with prenatal size charts and tips for managing pregnancy symptoms

Available in spiral-bound, hardcover, and paperback styles

This is a guided journal, so there isn’t a ton of open-ended journaling space

It does not include slots to hold photos

For first-time moms who might not know where to start a pregnancy journal, this book makes it easy, thanks to guided prompts. Each page is filled with helpful ways to document important notes, like the first month and mom’s first craving or pregnancy symptom. It also comes with tips, tricks, and advice for new moms-to-be. It’s broken out into trimesters, and each one comes with a checklist for that specific stage. It also comes with activity pages for brainstorming baby names and daydreaming about their future personality. We love that this book can be purchased in different styles depending on your preference—it’s available in spiral-bound, hardcover, or paperback options.

Because this is a prompted journal and activity book, keep in mind that there isn’t as much space for open-ended journaling as in some of the other options on our list. It’s also designed for the pregnant mom-to-be, so there isn’t a ton of space for dad to participate.

Type: Diary | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 168

Best for the Second Child

Growing you: keepsake pregnancy journal and memory book for mom and baby.

Gender-neutral design

Pocket for photos and sonograms

Spiral binding helps it lie flat

It doesn’t have as many prompts, so it’s better suited to open-ended journaling

This is a more open-ended journal that relies less on pregnancy prompts and more on freestyle journaling. Instead of recording details like mom’s first trip to the doctor, it’s a beautiful keepsake that focuses on the baby’s growth, birth story, and the first few days or weeks of the new baby’s life. If you have other children, this is a great way to stop and reflect on this specific child and pay some special attention to their unique way of coming into the world. We love that it includes a section where you can write letters to the baby, making it the perfect keepsake, especially for kids in larger families. This is a versatile book, too, so dads and other caregivers can easily participate in the journaling process.

This is a spiral-bound book with a hard exterior, so the flat surface makes it easy to write. The hard cover is durable and sturdy, so you can carry it around with you and hang on to it for years to come.

Type: Diary | Prompts: Some | Pages: 168

Best for Adoptive Parents

Artifact uprising here begins the story of you.

Artifact Uprising

Customizable with seven color schemes

Spiral binding makes it easy to write in

Gender-neutral prompts are designed to fit any type of family

Comes with a pen and adhesive for securing photos

Not broken out into trimesters

Not meant for planning or tracking medical details

This is a combination baby book and parenting journal, so it doesn’t focus too heavily on pregnancy or mom’s symptoms. As a result, it’s a great option for adoptive parents and non-birthing caregivers. The first few pages document how the expecting parents shared the news, as well as a few notes on names and how they brainstormed them. Aside from that, the majority of the book details the baby's arrival home and the people who are most important in his or her life. It’s a versatile option that’s inclusive of any type of family.

With 100 pages, there is space to add photographs, sonograms, and even a letter to the new baby. The hard cover is sturdy and durable, and the linen construction is soft and attractive. This book is made with a spiral spine that can open and close like a binder, so you can easily take out pages. It comes in seven gorgeous colors.

Price at time of publication: $99

Type: Picture book and journal | Prompts: Some | Pages: 100

Best for Dads-to-Be

The first-time dad journal: monthly prompts and to-dos for pregnancy and beyond.

Includes monthly to-do lists

Comes with status updates about mom's and baby’s health each month

Doesn’t have a ton of open-ended space for unguided journaling

Doesn’t have pockets for photos

Pregnancy is a time that can leave expecting dads feeling lost, confused, and out of the loop. This immersive guide helps dads become a bit more involved in the pregnancy process through lists, advice, and monthly updates. It’s both a pregnancy journal and an informative book, thanks to the pages of necessary fatherhood prep. With thoughtful prompts, dad can record his emotions and memories throughout the pregnancy journey.

This is a thoughtful gift for new dads to help them process the news of the pregnancy. It’s a helpful way to record memories and gain necessary guidance while remaining thoroughly immersed and involved in the journey.

Type: Planner and journal | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 174

Best Daily Planner

Bloom daily pregnancy planner planning for joy.

Comes with weekly and monthly views for long-range planning

Meal plan pages can help keep nutrition on track

Baby gift log helps track presents and thank-you cards

Tabbed sections are easy to navigate

Designed for the expectant mother, so it’s not ideal for non-birthing parents

This is more of an organizational tool and less of a keepsake

Pregnancy is filled with daily changes—in terms of both medical health and emotional health. Having a daily planner is a great way to keep on top of doctor’s visits and other appointments. This versatile planner is packed with organizational tools like daily, weekly, and monthly logs that help make planning for a baby a little less overwhelming. The tabbed sections are easy to follow and help families stay organized. The first section of the planner helps you record sentimental things like a family tree, birth plan, and pregnancy tips from family and friends. Next, the planner is broken out by trimester, and each one has a weekly and monthly log. The medical log helps parents track appointments, immunizations, and other necessary tests.

This spiral notebook is designed to keep parents organized, but it isn’t particularly sentimental or memorable. If you’re looking for a special keepsake item, this probably isn’t your best bet.

Price at time of publication: $45

Type: Daily planner | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 128

Best Keepsake

Axel & ash becoming mama pregnancy journal.

Linen cover is soft and elegant

Subtle style is gender-neutral

264 pages allow for extra details

Includes helpful information from industry professionals

Isn’t spiral-bound, so the pages don’t lay flat when you’re writing

This gorgeous memory book is a great keepsake for expectant mothers. The jacket is made of soft linen in a subtle yellow, so it’s gender neutral, classic, and timeless. It’s one of the biggest books on our list—the generous 264 pages allow for ample note-taking and the recording of detailed memories. The pages have simple prompts and therefore allow expecting mothers to focus on their feelings and the things they want to remember about each stage.

This special book also includes advice from industry professionals. For example, it contains a checklist of the most important items to pack in your hospital bag. Although it doesn’t have special slots or pockets to hold photographs, it does have designated areas where you can easily tape them in.

Price at time of publication: $40

Type: Journal | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 264

Best Spiral-Bound

As you grow.

Ranges from pregnancy to age 5

Includes a pocket to store keepsakes in

The pregnancy section is limited, there are more pages dedicated to baby’s birth and the first few years

This beautifully illustrated journal is the perfect way to document your emotions while waiting for a baby to arrive. The elegant cover is made of linen, which means it’s soft and elegant. The gender-neutral styling makes it an ideal keepsake or gift to buy, even if you haven’t yet found out the gender of the baby. As the name implies, this book documents the many milestones and emotions of a child’s life, from pregnancy all the way up until age 5. As a result, it’s a meaningful and sentimental keepsake that your child can cherish long into adulthood.

This is a scrapbook-style baby book, so there are pages and sections to tape in photographs and sonogram images. It also has a section to record a family tree, details about the child’s nursery, and a section for footprints. The spiral binding means the pages lie flat, so you can write easily. Keep in mind that this book is more of a baby book rather than a pregnancy journal, so there are more pages dedicated to the child’s life once he or she arrives.

Type: Scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 160

Best Modern

The pregnancy journal: a modern keepsake journal for mom and baby.

Soft and elegant linen cover

Includes calendars to track appointments

Includes a weekly layout separated by trimesters

Doesn’t include slots to hold photos

Not spiral bound

This two-in-one organizer combines the benefits of a pregnancy journal and planner all in one. The linen cover makes it softer and more elegant than a standard planner, but the layout of the pages inside means it’s designed as an organizational tool. It has detailed calendars for tracking appointments, as well as daily and weekly logs to track things like mood, emotions, cravings, and energy levels. Each page has a section for practical notes like cravings and aversions, as well as sentimental sections to log special moments you’d like to remember.

The planner also has empty space for open journaling, as well as areas to tape in photos and sonogram images. This practical book has a section to track baby shower gifts and brainstorm baby names. This compact journal is small enough to keep in your purse, so pregnant parents can carry it around to appointments and meetings to take notes when needed. This is more of a practical organizational tool rather than a sentimental keepsake, so it’s a great gift for parents looking for a little help with planning—whether it’s their first, second, or third baby.

Price at time of publication: $25

Type: Journal and Planner | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 96

Best Classic

Le petit baby book.

Hard cover is durable and sturdy

Includes a storage envelope for photos and sonograms

This has less pages than most of the other books on our list

This sweet gift is the epitome of a classic pregnancy journal. Whimsical illustrations and a fabric spine are elegant and special. The book is more compact than others—it only has 72 pages—so it’s approachable and easy to manage, even for busy parents. Thoughtful prompts help spark writing inspiration, and folders to hold photographs and sonograms help make it a special, meaningful keepsake.

The woodland theme is perfectly charming, and the sweet design is suitable for both baby girls and baby boys. This is a small, classic pregnancy journal that’s simple and sweet.

Price at time of publication: $30

Type: Journal | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 72

Best Illustrated

Studio oh bump for joy: a pregnancy journal.

Durable and sturdy hard cover

Includes five storage envelopes for photos and sonograms

Spiral binding and uncoated pages make it easy to write in

Doesn’t have a calendar for tracking appointments

This sweet scrapbook has it all—it can be used as an organizational tool to track pregnancy progression or a special keepsake to hold photographs and sonogram images. The hardcover book is durable and sturdy, and the pages are spiral bound to help it lie flat so you can write more easily. The versatile book has beautifully illustrated pages that make it so much more than a standard journal, with decorative pages to record a family tree, a Venn diagram to brainstorm baby names, and special tips to help the expectant mother feel more prepared.

This is a sweet, classic book that has plenty of prompts to help busy moms keep a thoughtful, meaningful log of their pregnancy that they can look back on each year. The illustrated book even comes with plenty of slots to hold photographs and keepsakes, so it acts as a scrapbook, too.

Price at time of publication: $20

Type: Journal and scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 144

Pearhead My Little Bump Pregnancy Journal

Linen cover

Durable hard cover

Open-ended pages are easy to personalize

Only contains 50 pages

This scrapbook-style pregnancy journal comes with seven sections and open pages to include photos, sonogram images, or keepsakes. Each section has prompts to help parents record special details of every moment of the pregnancy, starting with the day they found out about it. This book is a special keepsake geared toward the expectant mother, and it’s a great place to record thoughts, emotions, and memories. However, this isn’t a great organizational tool for mothers who are looking to track appointments, meal plans, or health records.

Price at time of publication: $28

Type: Journal and scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 50

Best Scrapbook

Pearhead hello beautiful scrapbook.

Includes pages to tape in birth announcements, shower invites, and photographs

Has pages up to baby’s fifth birthday

Available in blue, pink, or gray

Not a gender-neutral style

Not spiral-bound

Scrapbooks are a fantastic way to keep track of different photos and keepsakes throughout your pregnancy, and this book is a sweet and streamlined way to do it. With 50 pages featuring different prompts and lists, this guided book helps you track the most memorable parts of a pregnancy journey. It has pages to include birth announcements, shower invitations, and photographs of mom and dad. It also features sections to list shower gifts and visitors.

Though this book is a pregnancy scrapbook, it’s also a baby book. That means it has sections dedicated to mom’s hospital stay, with space to list who visited and what presents they bought. This sweet scrapbook goes all the way up to a child’s fifth birthday, so you can record all of the baby's “firsts,” like first word and first food. Keep in mind that this is not a planner, so there isn’t space to track appointments or meal plans.

Type: Scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 50

Best With Templates

Paper peony press the baby book: a modern baby memory book.

Linen cover

Has a storage envelope for photos and sonograms

Includes pages up to baby’s fifth birthday

This elegant, classic pregnancy journal is destined to become a family heirloom. Each page comes with a template that’s easy to follow, and thoughtful prompts help parents keep a detailed log of the pregnancy with minimal effort. The book is simple and sleek, with a few gender-neutral illustrations—like a decorative family tree—that help make the book easy to read and write in.

The hardcover book is coated in linen, which gives it a soft, elegant feel. The book includes a keepsake envelope in the back for storing photos. Though this is a pregnancy journal, it also includes a few pages dedicated to the baby's first years. That way, you can record things like their first food, first steps, or first words in the book as well. Keep in mind that this isn’t a pregnancy planner, so it doesn’t have a calendar to track appointments.

Type: Journal and scrapbook | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 98

Best Food Journal

The healthy pregnancy journal: a weekly guide for reflecting on your pregnancy and preparing your heart, body, and mind for motherhood.

Includes nutritional advice and birthing tips

Has open-ended journal space to record thoughts and memories

This is more of an organizational tool and less of a sentimental keepsake

If you’re looking for a practical way to stay on top of your health throughout pregnancy, keeping a food journal is a great way to do it. This book is designed to help moms stay organized and healthy. It contains inspiring journal prompts that make it easy to record thoughts, cravings, and aversions. It also contains open-ended journal pages to inspire pregnant moms to write about their hopes, dreams, and worries. Geared toward promoting a healthy pregnancy, we love that this book includes nutritional advice, tips for stress relief, and notes about the baby’s development.

This food journal is also a great way to learn about all of the different body changes that come with pregnancy. However, it’s not designed to be a sentimental keepsake—it’s more of a practical, organizational tool rather than a special memento. Also, keep in mind that different people may have specific nutritional needs, so be sure to follow your healthcare provider's guidance when it comes to your nutrition during pregnancy.

Price at time of publication: $18

Type: Food journal | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 216

What Our Experts Say

“Pregnancy can be overwhelming, so a pregnancy journal can allow you to notate any dietary changes—which allows you to pinpoint specific foods that may be more helpful than others. Every pregnancy can be different, so using a food diary and tracking pregnancy changes can be a vital part of the journey.” — Jennifer Jolorte Doro, certified doula, lactation counselor, clinical nutritionist

Best Photo Book

Shutterfly modern baby photo book.

Choose from multiple customizable layouts

Six sizes to choose from

Comes with a soft cover, hard cover, or premium leather cover

Doesn’t have open-ended space for journaling

This completely customizable photo book is a fantastic visual diary of your pregnancy. The album can be personalized with six different sizes and a variety of page layouts. The theme is gender-neutral, so it’s perfect for twins or for parents who haven’t yet found out the sex of their baby. Though this is traditionally a baby book, parents can fill it with whatever photos they like, and it’s versatile enough to double as a pregnancy album, too.

This is a classic, tasteful photo book that your family can cherish for years to come. Keep in mind that this is a visual diary rather than a journal, so there isn’t space for open-ended journal writing, and there aren’t journal prompts to fill in.

Price at time of publication: $120

Type: Photo Album | Prompts: No | Pages: Customizable

Best Gender Neutral

Growing together: a gender neutral keepsake pregnancy journal and baby memory book for expecting moms.

Subtle earth tones are decorative yet gender-neutral

This is geared toward expecting mothers, so it’s not ideal for non-birthing parents

This stylish pregnancy journal is a fantastic gender-neutral option, because it’s decorated with subtle earth tones that are appropriate for both girls and boys. That means it’s also a great option for twins or for parents who haven’t yet found out the sex of their baby. The hard cover is coated in linen, so it’s soft and elegant while maintaining a durable, sturdy construction.

This book includes over 100 prompted pages that help moms record the most special memories from pregnancy. There are sections for baby names, ideas, letters to baby, and a family tree. Though it is a guided, templated book, there are also open-ended pages to write and add photos and other images. Keep in mind that this is a true pregnancy journal, so it’s not ideal for non-birthing parents.

Type: Journal | Prompts: Yes | Pages: 108

How We Selected the Best Pregnancy Journals

In order to find the best pregnancy journals, we relied on personal experience, industry research, and expert advice. For this piece, we spoke with:

Jennifer Jolorte Doro , certified doula, lactation counselor, clinical nutritionist, and co-founder and chief culinary officer at Chiyo, an Eastern food and medicine-inspired meal delivery service for the entire pregnancy journey through postpartum
Joyce Marter , licensed psychotherapist and internationally published author specializing in self-esteem, empowerment, and mindfulness. She has experience working with women in areas such as fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum.

What to Look for in Pregnancy Journals

Preferences .

Pregnancy journals come in many styles, so make sure to assess your goals in order to properly select one. “There is a type of pregnancy journal for everyone,” says Jolorte Doro. “If you're looking for a memory keepsake, there are specific ones that truly allow you to capture every single moment of a pregnancy,” she adds. “There are others that provide writing prompts to help put onto paper the emotions and moments throughout a pregnancy. There are also others which are more detailed and ask about doctor's visits, appointments, and even remind you the size of the fruit the baby is compared to,” says Jolorte Doro. Make sure to consider how much you’d like to write in each entry, too. If you want to keep detailed notes of the baby's progression, finding a more open-ended journal with plenty of space to write would be a good choice. If you want to include pictures, sonograms, and keepsakes, selecting a scrapbook-style journal, like the “ Pearhead Hello Beautiful Scrapbook ,” would be a better fit.

Additionally, Marter recommends considering whom the pregnancy journal is for, and who in the baby’s life would like to participate. “Some pregnancy journals are just for the mothers, a few are just for fathers, and others are for couples,” she says. “It might be nice to ask your partner if they would like to be included or would rather pass. This gives them the opportunity to be included if they would like to,” Marter adds. If dad wants a journal all to himself, the “ First-Time Dad Journal: Monthly Prompts and To-Dos for Pregnancy and Beyond ,” is specifically designed for him.

Inclusivity

The right pregnancy journal should be a good fit for you and your family. It should serve as a useful tool that’s geared toward you and your needs, so make sure to consider inclusivity or specific demographics before purchasing one. “Ask yourself if you have any special demographics that you’d like to be taken into consideration. For example, if you are part of a same-sex couple, you’d want to make sure that the one you select is not geared toward opposite-sex couples. Or perhaps a pregnancy journal for Black moms, first-time moms, adoptive parents, or a Christian-focused pregnancy journal would be a good fit for you,” says Marter. Whichever type of pregnancy journal you choose, make sure it is one that will suit you and your family on a more inclusive level.

Though having a completely open-ended journal can be great for long diary entries, pages and pages of blank space can be intimidating and overwhelming for busy parents. Having a journal with some thoughtful prompts, like the “ Sweet Beginning Keepsake Journal ,” is a great way to start the writing process. “There is a type of pregnancy journal for everyone,” says Jolorte Doro. “The journals that provide writing prompts help pregnant mothers put onto paper the emotions and moments throughout a pregnancy,” she adds.

Before selecting the best journal for you, consider if you’d like more space to document your emotions, thoughts, and stream of consciousness. If that’s the case, it’s best to select an open-ended journal with a lot of blank space and minimal instructions. If you’re looking for an easy, approachable way to document the many milestones of pregnancy, finding a journal with thoughtful prompts, like the “ Becoming Mama Keepsake Book ,” is a great idea.

Our list includes options for all tastes and preferences. If you’d like more free writing space, our top pick, “ Expecting You—A Keepsake Pregnancy Journal ,” offers plenty of room for creativity and is small enough to carry around with you so you can write when inspiration strikes. But if you’re more of a photography person and don’t really want to write much, the “ Shutterfly Modern Baby Photo Book ” lets you create a visual account of your journey.

“When considering pregnancy journals with various features, you might ask yourself what is the intention of your journal,” Marter says. “For example, if you are using it as an emotionally cathartic release, you might want more free writing space or prompts. If you are keeping it as more of a scrapbook, you might want more space for photos, ultrasounds, and other keepsakes. Or perhaps you really want to keep good track of your medical and health records, either for your own reference or for your children’s,” she says. A few options on our list are specifically designed to help moms stay organized throughout their pregnancy, including the “ Bloom Daily Pregnancy Planner ” and “ The Healthy Pregnancy Journal .”

Frequently Asked Questions

A pregnancy journal is a fantastic way to keep track of all the joyous and exciting moments a pregnancy can bring. It’s a great place to record your emotions, hopes, worries, and even the changes in your diet or food preferences. From doctor’s appointments to weight gain, keeping track of the different details of your pregnancy can help make some of the symptoms a bit easier to manage. “Food aversions can be difficult to keep track of, severe nausea can seem impossible to manage, fatigue may seem inevitable, but a pregnancy journal can help record what foods were helpful, compared to those that were not so favorable,” says Jolorte Doro. “One day, you might love avocados, and the next you never want to see one again. A pregnancy journal can help you remember those caveats and bring that information to your next doctor or midwife check-in,” she says.

“There is no right or wrong way to keep a pregnancy journal,” Marter says. You can start one at the beginning of your pregnancy, or you can pick one up at a point in the process when you feel moved to record your thoughts and emotions. If you feel that you need more help keeping track of medical records, you can start one as soon as you’d like. They don’t all have to be a special keepsake or family heirloom; sometimes pregnancy journals are used to help mom keep on track with all the big changes coming her way. “ The Healthy Pregnancy Journal: A Weekly Guide for Reflecting on Your Pregnancy and Preparing Your Heart, Body, and Mind for Motherhood ,” for example, is specifically designed to help parents monitor their nutrition and well-being. Others are more of an emotional exercise: “Pregnancy journals can be kept for yourself personally—as a private sounding board for you to process your thoughts and feelings,” says Marter.

Depending on the style you choose, pregnancy journals can cost anywhere from $10 to $120, with most options on our list priced around $30. The lower end of the price range will get you a smaller, simpler journal, like the “ From Bump to Baby and Everything in Between ” keepsake book. A more elaborate option, like the Shutterfly Modern Baby Photo Book , can cost upwards of $100, but each page is fully customizable and printed professionally.

Laura Denby is a product reviews writer who covers everything from food to kitchen products to parenting and child-development products. She is a trained chef with a degree in culinary arts from the Institute of Culinary Education, and she has over five years of experience working as a chef in professional kitchens. Through her product reviews, Laura seeks to help her readers run a more organized, efficient, and happy home. Laura is mom to a 16-month-old daughter and a three-year-old German Shepherd mix. Her product reviews can be found on FoodNetwork.com, Food & Wine, Parents.com, Forbes Vetted, Real Simple, and Taste of Home.

Exploring The Common Question: Is It Normal To Have An Easy Pregnancy?

Last updated Dec 15, 2023
Difficulty Beginner

Category Mental health and wellbeing

Pregnancy is often portrayed as a challenging and difficult journey, filled with morning sickness, swollen feet, and sleepless nights. However, for some fortunate women, pregnancy can be a surprisingly easy and enjoyable experience. While it may seem uncommon to have an easy pregnancy, it is important to remember that everyone's pregnancy journey is unique and that there is no normal when it comes to pregnancy. In this article, we will explore the concept of having an easy pregnancy and shed light on why some women may have a smoother ride than others. So, if you're curious about whether it is normal to have an easy pregnancy, keep reading!

What You'll Learn

What are the factors that contribute to an easy pregnancy, is it common to have an easy pregnancy or is it more of an exception, how does having an easy pregnancy affect the mother's overall health, are there any common complications that can arise during an easy pregnancy, how does having an easy pregnancy impact the labor and delivery process.

Pregnancy is a transformative and joyous time for many women. While it can come with its fair share of challenges and discomforts, there are several factors that can contribute to an easier and more enjoyable pregnancy. These factors range from maintaining a healthy lifestyle to seeking proper prenatal care. In this article, we will explore the various elements that can help make pregnancy a smooth and positive experience for expectant mothers.

A Healthy Lifestyle: One of the most important factors in promoting an easy pregnancy is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A nutrient-rich diet can provide the necessary vitamins and minerals required for the baby's development and overall maternal health. Regular exercise, such as prenatal yoga or swimming, can also help improve circulation, reduce discomfort, and boost energy levels during pregnancy.
Adequate Prenatal Care: Seeking proper prenatal care is crucial for a smooth pregnancy. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider allow for monitoring of the baby's growth and development, as well as early detection and management of any issues or complications that may arise. Prenatal vitamins, recommended by healthcare professionals, are also important for ensuring that both mother and baby receive the necessary nutrients.
Emotional Well-being: Pregnancy can be an emotionally charged time. Stress and anxiety can have negative effects on both the mother and the baby. Engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or seeking support from loved ones or a therapist, can help reduce stress levels and promote a positive mindset throughout the pregnancy.
Supportive and Informed Partner: Having a supportive and informed partner can make a significant difference in the ease of pregnancy. Partners who actively participate in prenatal appointments, educational classes, and the preparation for the baby's arrival can provide emotional support and reassurance for the expectant mother. They can also help alleviate household responsibilities and ensure that the mother-to-be gets adequate rest and relaxation.
A Safe and Comfortable Environment: Creating a safe and comfortable environment plays a vital role in a smooth pregnancy. Ensuring that the home is free from hazards and toxins, such as lead-based paint or chemicals, is crucial for the health and well-being of the mother and baby. Pregnant women should also prioritize rest and relaxation by creating a comfortable sleeping space, practicing good sleep hygiene, and avoiding strenuous activities that could put unnecessary stress on the body.
Education and Preparation: Being well-informed about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care can help ease anxiety and make the entire process smoother. Attending prenatal classes, reading educational materials, and seeking advice from healthcare professionals can provide expectant mothers with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate pregnancy and early parenthood successfully.

In conclusion, several factors contribute to an easy pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking proper prenatal care, focusing on emotional well-being, having a supportive partner, creating a safe environment, and gaining education about pregnancy are all essential elements that can make the journey of pregnancy more enjoyable. By prioritizing these factors, expectant mothers can have a smoother and more positive pregnancy experience.

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Pregnancy is a unique and transformative experience that varies among women. Some women may have a relatively smooth and problem-free pregnancy, while others may encounter various challenges and complications. So, is it common to have an easy pregnancy, or is it more of an exception?

The answer to that question is a bit nuanced. A perfect, trouble-free pregnancy is more of an exception rather than the norm. While many women do have relatively easy pregnancies, it is important to remember that each woman's journey is unique. There is a wide range of experiences when it comes to pregnancy, and what may be easy for one woman can be incredibly challenging for another.

Scientifically speaking, pregnancy is a complex process that involves numerous changes and adaptations in a woman's body. From hormonal fluctuations to physical changes, the body undergoes a series of transformations to accommodate the growing fetus. These changes can often lead to discomforts such as morning sickness, fatigue, back pain, and swollen feet. While these discomforts are considered normal and expected during pregnancy, they can still impact a woman's overall experience.

In addition to the physical changes, pregnancy can also bring about emotional and psychological challenges. Hormonal shifts and the anticipation of becoming a parent can trigger mood swings, anxiety, and even depression in some women. The emotional aspect of pregnancy is often overlooked but plays a significant role in a woman's overall well-being during this time.

Furthermore, it is important to note that complications can arise during pregnancy. Conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta previa, and preterm labor can make a pregnancy more challenging and require additional medical attention. These complications are relatively common but can vary in severity and impact from woman to woman.

While it may seem discouraging to hear that an easy pregnancy is more of an exception, it is crucial to approach pregnancy with realistic expectations. Every pregnancy is different, and comparing your experience to others can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. It is essential to focus on your own unique journey and seek support and guidance from healthcare professionals along the way.

It is also worth noting that although some women may have a relatively easy pregnancy, they may encounter challenges with other aspects of motherhood, such as labor and breastfeeding. Each stage of the journey presents its own set of hurdles, and no two experiences are exactly alike.

In conclusion, an easy pregnancy is more of an exception rather than the norm. While many women do have relatively smooth pregnancies, it is important to remember that each woman's journey is unique. It is crucial to approach pregnancy with realistic expectations and seek support from healthcare professionals when needed. Remember, the most important thing is the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby, regardless of the challenges that may arise.

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Having an easy pregnancy can have a positive impact on the overall health of the mother. Pregnancy is a unique and life-changing experience for women, and an easy pregnancy can make this time much more enjoyable and less stressful. In this article, we will explore how an easy pregnancy can benefit the mother's physical and mental well-being.

Physical health benefits:

Reduced discomfort: During an easy pregnancy, many common discomforts such as morning sickness, backache, and swollen feet are minimized or absent altogether. This allows the mother to go about her daily activities without constant discomfort or pain.
Stable weight gain: With an easy pregnancy, the mother tends to have a healthy and gradual weight gain, which is important for both her and the baby's well-being. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
Normal blood pressure: Easy pregnancies are often associated with normal blood pressure levels, which reduces the risk of developing preeclampsia—a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage.
Adequate nutrition: When pregnancy is easy, the mother is more likely to have a good appetite and be able to consume a balanced diet, providing her body with the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.
Better sleep quality: Easy pregnancies are generally accompanied by better sleep quality, as the mother experiences fewer discomforts that disrupt her sleep pattern. Sufficient sleep is vital for the mother's overall health and well-being.

Mental health benefits:

Reduced stress and anxiety: Easy pregnancies are often associated with lower levels of stress and anxiety. The absence of complications and discomforts allows the mother to feel more relaxed and enjoy the experience of being pregnant.
Increased bonding with the baby: When a pregnancy is easy, the mother can focus more on connecting with her baby. She can spend quality time reflecting on the changes happening within her body and feel a stronger sense of attachment to her growing baby.
Positive mindset: An easy pregnancy can contribute to a positive mindset and overall emotional well-being. The absence of complications and discomforts allows the mother to feel more confident about her ability to handle the challenges of motherhood.

Overall well-being:

Increased energy levels: Easy pregnancies often come with higher energy levels, as the mother is not battling with severe fatigue or constant discomfort. This allows her to continue with her daily activities, including exercise, which is essential for maintaining overall health during pregnancy.
Improved self-esteem: A smooth pregnancy can boost the mother's self-esteem and body image. When she feels good physically and mentally, she is more likely to have a positive perception of herself and her changing body.
Smooth recovery postpartum: An easy pregnancy sets the stage for a smoother postpartum recovery. The mother's body is less stressed and better equipped to bounce back after childbirth, leading to a quicker return to pre-pregnancy health.

In conclusion, having an easy pregnancy can greatly benefit the mother's overall health, both physically and mentally. It allows her to enjoy the experience of being pregnant, maintain good physical well-being, and have a positive mindset.

Remember that each pregnancy is unique, and even if a pregnancy is considered easy, it is essential for the mother to seek regular prenatal care and consult with medical professionals to ensure optimal health for herself and her baby.

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During a pregnancy, many women hope for a smooth and easy experience. However, even in the most uncomplicated pregnancies, there can be some common complications that may arise. It's important for expectant mothers to be aware of these potential issues and to seek medical advice if necessary.

One common complication that can occur during an easy pregnancy is gestational diabetes. This is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. It can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and baby, such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and macrosomia (a larger than average baby). Gestational diabetes can usually be managed through diet and exercise, although some women may require insulin injections.

Another complication that can arise during an easy pregnancy is preeclampsia. This is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, such as the liver and kidneys, after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Preeclampsia can restrict blood flow to the placenta, which can lead to poor growth and development of the baby. It can also increase the risk of preterm birth and other complications. Regular prenatal check-ups and monitoring of blood pressure and urine protein levels can help detect preeclampsia early and prevent further complications.

In some cases, an easy pregnancy may be complicated by preterm labor. This is when labor starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm birth can lead to a range of health problems for the baby, including respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, and developmental delays. It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, pelvic pressure, or back pain. Depending on the circumstances, healthcare providers may recommend interventions to delay labor or provide necessary medical support for the baby's health.

While these complications can occur during an easy pregnancy, it's important to remember that most pregnancies progress without any major issues. Regular prenatal care, a healthy lifestyle, and early detection and treatment of potential problems are key factors in ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and baby. By staying informed and seeking medical advice when needed, expectant mothers can increase their chances of having a smooth and successful pregnancy.

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Having an easy pregnancy can greatly impact the labor and delivery process. When a woman has a smooth, uncomplicated pregnancy, it often translates into a faster, easier labor and delivery. In this article, we will explore how having an easy pregnancy can positively affect the labor and delivery process.

Physical Preparedness:

During an easy pregnancy, the woman's body is generally healthier and more adaptable, which can contribute to a smoother labor and delivery. When a woman is physically fit and healthy, her body is better equipped to handle the rigors of childbirth. This means that she may have more stamina and strength, which can facilitate a quicker and easier labor.

Mental Preparedness:

Along with physical preparedness, having an easy pregnancy can also contribute to mental preparedness for labor and delivery. When a woman has a smooth pregnancy, she is more likely to feel confident in her body's ability to give birth. This can help reduce anxiety and stress, leading to a more relaxed and positive mindset during labor and delivery. Mental preparedness is crucial during childbirth as it can impact the body's response to labor.

Reduced Risk of Complications:

During an easy pregnancy, the risk of complications, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, is generally lower. These complications can prolong labor and delivery and increase the need for medical interventions. When a woman avoids these complications, she is more likely to have a straightforward labor and delivery process.

Shorter Labor Duration:

One of the most significant benefits of having an easy pregnancy is a shorter labor duration. An easy pregnancy often means that the woman's body is well-prepared for the demands of childbirth. This can result in a more efficient labor, with fewer delays and a quicker progression. A shorter labor duration can reduce the overall discomfort and exhaustion experienced by the mother.

Reduced Need for Interventions:

Labor and delivery interventions, such as the use of oxytocin to induce or augment labor, epidurals for pain relief, or cesarean sections, may be less necessary in women with easy pregnancies. These interventions can have their own risks and complications, so avoiding them can be beneficial for both the mother and the baby. In an easy pregnancy, the body is more likely to naturally progress through labor without the need for interventions.

Postpartum Recovery:

Having an easy pregnancy can also contribute to a smoother postpartum recovery. When a woman experiences minimal complications during labor and delivery, her body is more likely to bounce back more quickly. This means that she may experience less pain, fatigue, and overall discomfort after giving birth.

Sarah had an easy pregnancy, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet. Her labor and delivery experience reflected her physical preparedness – it was a smooth and relatively quick process. She only required minimal pain relief and was able to get up and walk around shortly after giving birth.

On the other hand, Emily had a more complicated pregnancy, experiencing gestational diabetes and requiring medication to control her blood sugar levels. Her labor and delivery process was longer and required interventions such as an epidural and oxytocin to progress the labor. She felt more discomfort and required a longer recovery period after giving birth.

In conclusion, having an easy pregnancy can have a significant impact on the labor and delivery process. Physically and mentally prepared bodies, reduced risk of complications, shorter labor durations, and reduced need for interventions are some of the benefits of an easy pregnancy. It is essential for women to prioritize their health and well-being during pregnancy to increase their chances of having a smooth labor and delivery experience.

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Frequently asked questions.

Yes, it is normal to have an easy pregnancy. While many women experience various discomforts and challenges during pregnancy, some women have relatively smooth and uncomplicated pregnancies. Factors such as overall health, genetics, and lifestyle choices can contribute to a woman having an easier time during pregnancy.

Having an easy pregnancy typically means that a woman experiences minimal or no complications or discomforts throughout the duration of her pregnancy. This can include having no morning sickness, little to no swelling, manageable weight gain, and a relatively smooth labor and delivery process.

While having an easy pregnancy may seem desirable, it is important to note that every pregnancy is unique, and there can still be potential risks involved. Even if a woman has an easy pregnancy, it is still important to receive regular prenatal care and monitor the baby's growth and development. It is also crucial to follow healthcare provider's guidance and recommendations to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Several factors can contribute to a woman having an easy pregnancy. These include being in good overall health prior to conception, maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, having a low-stress pregnancy, and having a strong support system. Additionally, genetics can play a role, as some women may naturally have an easier time during pregnancy.

Generally, an easy pregnancy does not negatively impact the health of the baby. However, it is still essential to prioritize regular prenatal care and follow healthcare provider's recommendations to ensure the baby's well-being. Even in cases of easy pregnancies, monitoring the baby's growth and development through routine check-ups is crucial to detect any potential issues early on.

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Is anyone having an “easy” pregnancy?

Just curious. I feel like I’m having the worst pregnancy. Bad morning sickness and exhaustion first trimester, heart burn like crazy, sore back/hips, fatigue, I mean just about everything. If I’m not constipated it’s bad diarrhea. Sleeping terrible. I feel sick most days. Only some days to I feel ok enough to get things done.

When I’m complaining to family about how hard pregnancy is, I feel like they don’t understand and/or think I’m exaggerating. Does everyone else have these symptoms or are other people having decently easy pregnancies?

my pregnancies are pretty easy. The first trimester sucks, but other than that I am the person people like you hate. �� I love being pregnant but many of my friends hate it

How to have a healthy pregnancy and baby

Now that you're pregnant, it's more important than ever to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. These healthy pregnancy tips will get you off to a good start.

Healthy pregnancy tips

Of course, many things aren't in your control during pregnancy – including pregnancy complications that may arise. But by following these suggestions, you can boost your chances of having a smooth pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Get good prenatal care

Good prenatal care is essential for you and your baby. If you haven't yet chosen a doctor or a midwife to care for you during pregnancy, start asking for recommendations from friends, family, and any of your other healthcare providers. If you don't have health insurance or need low-cost prenatal care, there are options. It's important to find a pregnancy caregiver who makes you feel comfortable and safe.

Once you get a positive home pregnancy test , call your healthcare provider right away and schedule your first prenatal visit . During that visit you'll be screened for certain conditions that could lead to complications. Your provider will also review any medications you're taking and discuss the risks and benefits before making the decision to stop taking any medicines.

(Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, don't suddenly stop taking your medication on your own. There are a small handful of medications that need to be discontinued right away, but most are safe in pregnancy. And when some conditions go untreated, that can be riskier than the medication itself.)

Your provider will give you a schedule of appointments. You can expect to visit every 4 weeks for the first and second trimesters . In your third trimester , you'll visit every two weeks from 28 to 36 weeks and weekly from then until you deliver. If you have a high-risk pregnancy , you'll probably visit your provider more often for monitoring. You may even need to see a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) doctor who is especially trained to manage high-risk pregnancies.

Go to all of your prenatal appointments, even if you feel perfectly fine and aren't having any problems. It's important that your provider monitors your pregnancy and addresses any problems that arise as soon as possible. It's also an opportunity for you to ask questions and talk about any concerns you're having. Prenatal appointments can be fun and very reassuring, too – when you hear your baby's heartbeat , for example!

Be honest with your prenatal care provider. Tell them if you're feeling depressed or anxious , or if you smoke , drink alcohol , or use drugs . Share any health conditions you have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure .

Keep up with your oral health, too: Brush, floss, and get regular dental care . Increased progesterone and estrogen levels can cause the gums to react differently to the bacteria in plaque, resulting in swollen, bleeding , tender gums (gingivitis). So see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning now if you haven't had a visit in the last six months. Tell the office that you're pregnant when you schedule your appointment.

Focus on eating well

Keep plenty of healthy snacks on hand, and plan your meals around whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. (Learn the 12 best foods to eat when pregnant .) Limit calories from saturated fats and added sugars. If you're on a special diet (for diabetes, a food allergy, or food intolerance, for example) or are a vegetarian or vegan , you may find it helpful to consult with a dietitian for help making sure you meet all of your nutritional requirements during pregnancy.

Make sure you get plenty of protein , which is the building block of cells. You now need about 70 grams a day compared to 45 grams before you got pregnant. You also need:

Folic acid (600 mcg daily) to help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs)
Iron (27 mg daily) to help red blood cells deliver oxygen to your baby. Iron also helps prevent anemia.
Calcium (1000 mg for women over age 18, 1300 mg for women 18 and younger) to build strong bones and teeth and develop a healthy heart, nerves, and muscles
Iodine (220 mcg daily) to help with brain, skeleton, and nervous system development
Choline (450 mg daily) for brain and spinal cord development
Vitamin A (770 mcg RAE daily for women ages 19 and older, 750 mcg RAE for women ages 18 and younger) for your baby's eyesight, organs, and bone growth
Vitamin C (85 mg daily if 19 years or older, 80 mg daily if 18 or younger) to help build strong bones and muscles. Vitamin C will also help you absorb more iron.
Vitamin D (600 IU daily) to build your baby's bones and teeth
Vitamin B6 (1.9 mg daily) to help build your baby's brain and nervous system
Vitamin B 12 (2.6 mcg daily) to make healthy red blood cells and ensure proper brain and spinal cord development
DHA , an omega-3 fatty acid (at least 200 mg) for the development of your baby's brain and eyes

While you can meet many of your nutrient requirements with a healthy diet, you may need supplements to get everything you and your baby need. Your prenatal vitamin may fill in any blanks, or you may need additional supplements. Talk with your healthcare provider or a dietitian if you need guidance.

There are certain foods to avoid during pregnancy . Steer clear of undercooked eggs and meat, unpasteurized dairy products and juices , raw seafood , and cold deli meats . Also avoid certain fish that may contain high levels of mercury or other contaminants.

Be sure to stay hydrated , too. Your water needs increase during pregnancy, and drinking enough will help support your body and your pregnancy. It will also help reduce swelling and prevent constipation , hemorrhoids , and urinary tract infections . Drink water throughout the day, aiming for about 10 cups daily. Beverages other than water count, too, but limit those that are high in sugar and empty calories (such as sodas ), and curb caffeine consumption.

Take prenatal vitamins

Your nutrient needs increase during pregnancy – you're building a baby, after all!

Even if you eat a healthy, well balanced diet, it can be hard to get all the nutrients you need during pregnancy. If you have any dietary restrictions, health issues, or pregnancy complications, it can be even harder. Taking a prenatal vitamin will ensure that you're getting all the vitamins and minerals you need each day.

Prenatal vitamins aren't the same as standard multivitamins. They're formulated specifically for pregnancy needs. Most contain more folic acid and iron than you'll find in a standard multivitamin, for example.

Ideally, you'll start taking your prenatal vitamin even before you're pregnant. Getting enough folic acid before you conceive and early in your pregnancy can reduce your baby's risk of neural tube defects and other birth defects . And your body absorbs synthetic folic acid better than the folic acid found in food.

Your prenatal vitamin will also provide the iron you need, but note that gummy vitamins usually don't contain iron, so you may need to supplement with an iron pill. Your iron requirement increases significantly during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters. If you find that the iron in your prenatal makes you constipated, try including more fiber in your diet, and be sure to drink plenty of water. Exercise may also help. Talk with your provider about using a stool softener, if necessary.

More is not necessarily better when it comes to vitamins and minerals – taking too much of certain things can actually be harmful. Don't double up on prenatal vitamins or take any additional supplements or herbal preparations without your caregiver's okay. (Using a weekly pill organizer can help you avoid accidentally taking two prenatal vitamins in a day.) If you need more of a specific nutrient than your prenatal vitamin provides, talk with your practitioner and take the additional amount as a separate supplement.

Exercise regularly

A good exercise program can give you the strength and endurance you'll need to carry the weight you gain during pregnancy , help prevent or ease aches and pains, improve sluggish circulation in your legs, and help you handle the physical stress of labor . It will also make getting back into shape after your baby's born much easier.

What's more, exercise is a great way to reduce stress, and research suggests that staying active may boost your mood and cognitive function.

Find out eight great benefits of pregnancy exercise .

Walking, swimming , aerobics, dancing, and running are great for cardio, while yoga and stretching will help you remain flexible, and weight training will tone and strengthen your muscles.

Don't worry if you feel too exhausted or nauseated to exercise in early pregnancy. Just pick it up when you can. In the meantime, an occasional walk in the fresh air counts – and may help you feel better.

Once you're able to exercise, remember not to push yourself too hard or let yourself get overheated or dehydrated. (You'll also need to avoid hot tubs and saunas while you're pregnant.)

Learn when not to exercise while pregnant .

Get some rest

The fatigue you feel in the first and third trimesters is your body's way of telling you to slow down. So listen up and take it easy as much as you can. If you can't swing a nap in the middle of the day, at least put your feet up and rest. Give yourself a break and let your other responsibilities slide a little.

Ask friends and family members to help lighten your load, whether it's doing laundry or providing an hour of childcare. If you're financially able to, add hired help to your village – for housekeeping, errands, and childcare, for example. The demands of work, home, and other children don't come to a screeching halt just because you're pregnant. Even though it can be hard to ask for help, it's important.

Relaxation techniques such as yoga, stretching, deep breathing, and massage are all great ways to combat stress and get a better night's sleep .

By the way, the best sleeping position during pregnancy is on your side, because it provides the best circulation for you and your baby. If you're used to sleeping on your back or tummy, try to make the transition to your side early in pregnancy, while sleeping is still pretty comfortable. Try placing pillows under your belly, between your legs, and/or behind your back.

Just say no to alcohol, drugs, and smoking

Don't drink while you're pregnant: Any alcohol you drink reaches your baby rapidly through your bloodstream, crossing the placenta, and your baby can end up with higher levels of blood alcohol than you have. There's no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy.

Because your baby is developing throughout pregnancy, there is no safe time to drink alcohol, and all types of alcohol are equally harmful.

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases your risk of miscarriage and stillbirth . And children who are born to mothers who drank alcohol during pregnancy are at risk for a range of disabilities known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).

Women who have eight or more alcoholic drinks a week or three or more drinks on any one occasion are at much greater risk for giving birth to a baby with FASD. But problems can occur with less consumption. So play it safe – avoid alcohol completely.

Any drug you use gets into your baby's bloodstream as well, and babies are much more vulnerable to the effects of chemicals and toxins than adults. Some studies suggest that marijuana may restrict a baby's growth and increase the risk of preterm birth and placental abruption . And using drugs like cocaine or opioids is extremely dangerous during pregnancy.

Smoking deprives your baby of the oxygen they need to develop. It increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects (such as a cleft lip or palate and heart defects), preterm birth, low birth weight, and SIDS .

If you're struggling to quit drugs, drinking, or smoking, ask your caregiver for help. They may be able to provide referrals and recommend products (that are safe during pregnancy) to help you quit.

Cut back on caffeine

The March of Dimes and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advise women to limit their caffeine consumption intake to less than 200 mg per day, an amount you could get from one 8-ounce cup of strong coffee.

Caffeine crosses the placenta into your baby's bloodstream. Research is ongoing, but to date most experts believe that moderate caffeine consumption (less than 200 mg a day) doesn't cause problems such as low birth weight, IUGR, miscarriage, or premature birth.

Caffeine has no nutritive value and makes it harder for your body to absorb iron, something pregnant women are already low on. It's also a stimulant, so it can raise your heart rate and blood pressure and make it even harder for you to get a good night's sleep.

Limit your coffee drinking to one (small) cup or consider switching to decaf. And check the caffeine content of other products you consume, like tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, chocolate, and coffee ice cream, as well as over-the-counter drugs, such as headache, cold, and allergy remedies.

Get vaccinated

Three vaccines are not only safe , they're recommended specifically for pregnant women:

The flu (influenza) vaccine , which can reduce your risk of hospitalization from the flu while pregnant . (Pregnant women are at higher risk for severe illness from the flu than women who aren't pregnant.) You'll also pass antibodies to your baby, protecting them for several months after birth. You can get the flu vaccine any time in pregnancy, but it's best scheduled annually by the end of October. Get the inactivated influenza vaccine, not the nasal spray, which is made from a live attenuated virus.
The Tdap vaccine will protect you and your newborn (who will receive antibodies from you during pregnancy through the placenta) from tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). You'll need one dose during every pregnancy, during your third trimester.
The COVID-19 vaccine will help protect you from COVID-19. (Pregnant women are about three times more likely to be admitted to the hospital and the ICU if they contract COVID-19 than women who aren't pregnant.) And – because you'll pass antibodies to your baby through the placenta – it will protect your newborn, too. Get any of the three authorized COVID-19 vaccines plus your COVID booster shot.

Your healthcare provider will review your vaccinations with you at your first prenatal visit.

Ask for support at work

Some women wait to tell their coworkers and employer about their pregnancy until they're past the first trimester . But if you're experiencing morning sickness , need to take time off for prenatal appointments, or are concerned about your work tasks or workload, you may need to tell your boss and coworkers sooner.

Some things to consider about working while pregnant :

You may need to modify your work. If you're doing very physical work – on your feet for hours at a time or doing heavy lifting – you'll want to talk with your supervisor about making adjustments.
Consider taking an occasional day off, if you have PTO days to spare, to get some rest.
If you have maternity leave, consider starting it a week or two before your due date , so you can rest up and prepare for your baby's arrival .
Identify and avoid hazardous substances. If you're routinely exposed to chemicals, heavy metals (like lead or mercury), certain biologic agents, or radiation, you'll need to make changes as soon as possible, as these substances can be hazardous to you and your developing baby. Keep in mind that some cleaning products, pesticides, solvents, and lead in drinking water from old pipes can also be harmful. Talk to your doctor or midwife about what your daily routine involves, so you can come up with ways to avoid or eliminate hazards in your home and workplace.
Some pregnancy complications may require you to reduce hours or stop working.

Staying active and having fun is important. But there are certain activities to avoid during pregnancy . These include any activities that increase the risk of trauma to your uterus from a fall or sudden, stop-and-start movements. Don't ride roller coasters, bumper cars, water slides, four wheelers, or motorcycles, for example. Skip contact sports such as soccer and basketball that can result in a collision or fall.

Be sure to always wear a seat belt while pregnant . Use a three-point restraint (a lap belt and a shoulder strap), and secure the lap belt under your belly (low and snug on your hipbones), not across it. The shoulder belt should fit snugly between your breasts and to the side of your belly. Don't put it behind your back or under your arm.

Take care of your emotional health

Many women feel like they're on an emotional roller coaster at one time or another during pregnancy. Mood swings are common, thanks to hormonal changes. Sometimes you may be feeling stressed or fatigued, or anxious about becoming a parent. Other times you may feel excitement and joy.

Share your feelings with your partner, and talk with friends. Take good care of yourself by getting plenty of sleep, eating well, and exercising. You might find it helpful to keep a journal , practice meditation or prenatal yoga, or use affirmations for pregnancy.

If your mood swings are extreme or interfering with your daily life, however, you may be suffering from pregnancy depression or an anxiety disorder.

If you've been feeling low for more than two weeks and nothing seems to lift your spirits – or if you're feeling particularly anxious – share your feelings with your caregiver. Both therapy and medication can be helpful in treating mental health conditions in pregnancy. Your doctor or midwife can provide a referral for counseling, and they can also help you weigh the risks and benefits of antidepressant medications during pregnancy.

Again, don't suffer alone. Reach out to family, friends, or a professional for support. Consider joining a support group of other moms struggling with depression during pregnancy. (Ask your provider to help you get in touch with local groups.) You can also find support in BabyCenter's Community .

Also let your caregiver know if you're in an abusive relationship . Pregnancy can cause stress in any relationship, and it's a common trigger of domestic violence, which puts your health and your baby at risk.

Learn more:

Your pregnancy week by week
Sex during pregnancy

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

ACOG. 2020. Depression during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/depression-during-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

ACOG. 2020. Moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2010/08/moderate-caffeine-consumption-during-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

ACOG. 2021. Nutrition during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/nutrition-during-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

ACOG. 2020. Physical activity and exercise during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

ACOG. 2020. Tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/tobacco-alcohol-drugs-and-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Araji S et al. 2020. An overview of maternal anxiety during pregnancy and the post-partum period. Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology . https://www.mentalhealthjournal.org/articles/an-overview-of-maternal-anxiety-during-pregnancy-and-the-post-partum-period.html Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

CDC. 2021. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/alcohol-use.html Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

March of Dimes. 2017. Prenatal care checkups. https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/prenatal-care-checkups.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Mayo Clinic. 2020. Prenatal vitamins: Why they matter, how to choose. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-vitamins/art-20046945 Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

OWH. 2019. Staying healthy and safe. U.S. Office on Women’s Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/staying-healthy-and-safe Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

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10 Early Signs The Pregnancy Will Be Easy (And 10 Signs It'll Be Hard)

"Even the roughest pregnancy may get easier when a woman gets proper medical care and practices appropriate self-care."

Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. Some ladies are lucky enough to sail through all nine months, while others find pregnancy uncomfortable and gruelling. Most women have good and bad phases during the three trimesters. This list is designed to help women figure out if they're going to have rough pregnancies or not.

Even the roughest pregnancy may get easier when a woman gets proper medical care and practices appropriate self-care. For example, a woman who's plagued with severe morning sickness may want to talk to her ob-gyn about what she should eat to ease morning sickness (dry toast, crackers), or experiment with the Sea-Band wristband, or other medication-free therapies that are proven to soothe nausea.

Pregnancy is a journey. It brings significant changes. It's all worth it. Women who've really had it rough during pregnancy often forget their aches, pains and illnesses when they see their beautiful babies for the first time. Women often forget their labor pains, too. Motherhood is the greatest, but getting there is sometimes tough. Pregnancy takes its toll. Now, let's look at ten signs that women are going to have an easy time of it while they're expecting...and ten signs that things may be harder for them.

20 No Morning Sickness: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

If you're pregnant and you're not having any morning sickness, and your ob-gyn is happy with the way that your pregnancy is going...you're lucky! I know from personal experience that morning sickness can be intense. It really sucks, especially if you need to get yourself to work in the a.m.

So, what causes morning sickness, anyway? Well, it's triggered by higher-than-average hormone levels during the initial weeks of pregnancy. Some women, such as Salma Hayek, had to deal with morning sickness the whole time that they were pregnant.

If you're not getting sick in the morning, you may be one of those fortunate women who is going to be blessed with an easy pregnancy.

19 Normal Growth: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

If you're pregnant and gaining weight just as you should be, that's a good sign. When you're in the normal range, it bodes well for an easy (or relatively easy) pregnancy. Women who gain too much or too little may be in line for more problems.

Of course, there are plenty of other variables which play a role in whether a pregnancy is easy or not. That being said, weight gain is one thing that ob-gyns do keep an eye on.

To boost the odds of a smooth pregnancy, figure out how much weight you're supposed to gain. Most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during their pregnancies.

18 Good Energy Levels: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Pregnant ladies who feel energetic, just like they did before they became pregnant, have a high likelihood of enjoying easy pregnancies. It's quite common to get exhausted during pregnancy. Growing a baby is a big job and it's hard on a woman's body. If you're not falling asleep all of the time, or wishing that you could get away from your everyday responsibilities and just lie on the couch with the remote control for a few days, you're one of the lucky ones.

Even if you have lots of energy, remember to rest. Conserve this precious energy. Don't do too much.

17 No Swelling and Bloating: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Water retention is not uncommon in pregnancy and it can make pregnant women feel mighty uncomfortable. If you're not experiencing this type of swelling and bloating, which is also known as edema, congratulations. Maybe you're drinking lots of pure water and other healthy fluids, and flushing out sodium and/or impurities that contribute to bloating. Your healthy hydration habits may be paying off.

2.3 litres of fluid per day is the recommended amount of hydration for a pregnant women. That equates to ten cups of fluid. Drinking a lot of water is definitely the best way to avoid bloating. It's also a good way to keep energy levels high.

16 Very Few Mood Swings: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Pregnancy hormones tend to trigger some wild mood swings. Women who aren't moody during pregnancy, at least sometimes, are few and far between. If your mood isn't going up and down like a Yo-Yo, it may be sign that your pregnancy isn't going to be too stressful.

Emotional equilibrium during pregnancy makes it easier to handle the other challenges that pregnancy brings, from swollen ankles to lower back pain to heartburn. When a pregnant woman is moody, it's tougher for her to handle discomfort and other pregnancy issues. Whatever you're doing to keep your mood on an even keel, keep doing it.

15 No Cramps: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Pregnancy sometimes triggers cramps. These cramps are generally caused by the expansion of the uterus. When the uterus does expand, muscles and ligaments that support it start to stretch out. This is something that many women feel, and it doesn't feel particularly good.

While cramping is possible anytime, it's actually most common during the second trimester, so it may strike later, even if you don't experience cramps during trimester one. However, some women don't get cramps, and you may be one of the lucky ones. No cramps early on is a good sign. Every woman knows that cramps are the worst.

14 No Lower Back Pain: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

When the front of the body gets heavier, the lower back has to carry more weight and this can lead to lower back pain. Normal, non-pregnancy weight gain may cause a woman to develop back problems, even if they are minor back problems. This is why exercise experts and doctors advise non-pregnant woman to stay in the normal weight range and strengthen their cores through exercise.

During pregnancy, weight gain is inevitable, but keeping it within normal ranges may shield you from lower back pain. If you're not feeling it yet, maybe you won't get hit with this common pregnancy symptom.

13 No Weird Pregnancy Food Cravings: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Some women develop some bizarre food cravings during pregnancy. There are pregnant women who feel compelled to eat dirt or paper or very odd food combinations. Obviously, a woman should never eat non-food items, even if her pregnant brain is telling her to do it. Also, a woman shouldn't gorge on weird food combos a lot while she's pregnant, or she might get sick.

If you don't have any strange food cravings, it's possible that you're going to be one of those fortunate ladies who has the easiest pregnancy ever. One tip is to avoid eating a lot of high-sugar fruit during pregnancy, as eating too much fruit may boost the odds of gestational diabetes.

12 You’re Not Getting Headaches: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Headaches can sometimes be a bad sign during pregnancy. Usually, they are caused by hormone shifts, and hormone-related headaches are typically harmless, if extremely annoying. Women who get a lot of headaches during pregnancy may be dealing with pre-eclampsia, which is quite serious. Pre-eclampsia happens when blood pressure rises and a lot of protein is found in urine.

So, it's a good sign if you're headache-free.

Any woman who is concerned about headaches during pregnancy should definitely talk to her ob-gyn. Frequent headaches while expecting a baby are something that a doctor should know about. A doctor will be able to help.

11 No bathroom Problems: Pregnancy Will Be Easy

Constipation is one of the irritating side effects of being pregnant, but you may escape this tiresome symptoms. Eating a diet that's high in soluble fiber is a good way to stay regular while you're expecting a baby.

If you have healthy eating habits, and do get fiber from whole grains and other sources, you may find that your good eating habits help you to enjoy an easy pregnancy.

Some pregnant women get hit with constipation even when they do all of the right things, such as drinking lots of water and getting enough fiber. It usually happens because hormones which relax the muscle in the intestine are affected by hormones.

10 You’re Feeling Really Nauseous: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

Nausea isn't a small thing. When pregnant women feel nauseated every morning, or all day long, it saps their strength and makes them feel miserable. Hormones in pregnancy trigger nausea and it can be extreme. If you don't have nausea, you're missing out on morning sickness and this means that you're missing out on one of the very worst pregnancy symptoms. If you're lucky, you'll sail through pregnancy, from trimester one to labor.

Women who do have severe morning sickness should definitely talk to their docs. They should never have to deal with it in silence. A Sea-Band wristband or change in diet may help.

9 Your Chest Is Very Tender: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

When we're pregnant, we all get a lot more...voluptuous. Changes to the size of our chests tends to trigger a lot of tenderness. When parts of the body change so much, we're going to feel it. If this is happening to you, you will find that wearing a bra that's more supportive is very helpful. Also, go for clothes that aren't too snug in the chest area.

Some women benefit from putting cold compresses on their chests, or find relief when they take warm baths or showers. If these tips don't help, talk to your ob-gyn about pregnancy-safe pain relief.

8 You Have Aversions To Certain Foods: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

Aversions to certain foods during pregnancy is a sign that you have a sensitive system. It doesn't mean that anything is wrong. It's just one more thing that you'll need to worry about while you're expecting. It's another layer of stress, because it may make it harder to eat a balanced diet.

In general, pungent foods cause the most intense aversions. For example, I personally found that strong-smelling cheeses, such as Romano and Parmesan, were truly yucky while I was expecting. I could not stomach them and still can't, because my aversion during pregnancy was so intense. It's wild how those cheeses grossed me out so badly while I was expecting.

7 Some Odours Make You Feel Sick: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

I couldn't eat Romano or Parmesan cheeses while pregnant, and the mere smell of them was enough to make me feel sick. You may find that certain odors make you feel ill, too. Usually, it's food odors that make pregnant women feel ill, but they may be sensitive to other scents, too, such as perfumes or body lotions. Even cleaning products or air fresheners may make you react.

It's a good time to shield yourself from gross-out odors, as much as you can. Turn your home into a safe space where you can escape from strong odors. Consider using green cleaning products and fragrance-free personal care products.

6 Your Back Hurts A Lot: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

If your back is killing you while you're pregnant, it's likely to get worse, because you are going to continue putting on weight as your unborn baby gets bigger. It's unfortunate that you're dealing with back pain, but it's not uncommon. Women who are carrying big babies may get hit with the worst back pain, just because their bellies are bigger.

To deal with back pain, try to get healthy exercise. It should be pregnancy-safe exercise, such as prenatal yoga or swimming. It should be exercise that isn't too aggressive or intense. Talk to your ob-gyn to find out which forms of exercise will be best for your back.

5 You Have Zero Energy: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

Pregnancy often brings intense fatigue. It's often very difficult for pregnant woman to stay awake. Their bodies are crying out for sleep. It's natural to need more sleep at this time. It's restorative. It gives the body a chance to recover from all of the changes that it is going through. Unfortunately, some women really don't have time to rest as much as they should.

For example, a woman who's pregnant and has a toddler to care for, as well as a job, may feel stretched way too thin during pregnancy, and feel very burnt out. Pregnant women who are exhausted need to reach out for help from their support networks. This is so important.

4 You’re Feeling Really Moody: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

If you're feeling moody while you're pregnant, you're not alone. Those hormones are wreaking havoc. Don't feel bad if you have the urge to cry once in a while, or feel angrier than usual over little things that irritate you. Try to stay calm. Let the people around you know that you're dealing with mood swings. Ask them to be patient with you.

Of course, being pregnant isn't an excuse to take out your bad moods on everyone else. You'll have to dig deep to remain mature as your moods ebb and flow. Meditation will be really helpful. Also, giving yourself space to rest and just be alone for a while is a good idea.

3 Your Food Cravings Are Out Of Control: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

If you have the urge to eat weird things while you're pregnant, which don't even classify as food, talk to your ob-gyn. Also, obviously, don't eat the weird things. There is a disorder that some pregnant women have that compels them to eat non-food items. It's called Pica. This disorder is not a good sign, and it's something that you should seek out medical attention for. A doctor will help you to handle it. In terms of food cravings, indulge, as long as the food isn't too bad for you. I wanted McChickens and other chicken sandwiches. I craved chicken. Maybe my baby wanted the heme iron in the meat.

2 You’re Getting bigger: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

If you're gaining a lot of weight rapidly, you may want to talk to your ob-gyn. Of course, we will gain weight in pregnancy, but it shouldn't be too excessive. We're supposed to gain between 25 and 35 pounds over the course of our pregnancies. Lots of women gain more.

If you're eating for three or four, rather than two, you may need to set limits. Eating too much may cause weight gain that makes you feel very uncomfortable. Here is a general guideline to follow: during trimester one, eat 1800 calories. During trimester two, eat 2,200 calories. During the final trimester, eat 2400.

1 You’re Not getting big enough: Pregnancy Will Be Hard

Gaining too much can be bad. Gaining too little can be worrisome. We're all built differently and our pregnancies differ, too. This is why an ob-gyn is the best resource when it comes to assessing your weight gain and whether it's normal or not. Our tips are helpful, but they aren't designed to be a substitute for medical advice from a licensed ob-gyn. If you're worried that your baby bump is too small, talk to your doc. He or she has years of training and education and will be able to let you know if your pregnancy is going well, or whether you need to eat more calories, or whatever.

References: Parenting.com, Webmd.com, Fitpregnancy.com

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11 Secrets to an Easier Labor

From exercise to water therapy, check out our guide to what helps—and what doesn't—when it comes to preparing for and coping with labor.

Labor and childbirth is a monumental event. It's the culmination of many long months of pregnancy and preparation. And after all that waiting, you may find yourself wondering how to have a fast labor and delivery. Here's our guide to having an easier labor.

"Pregnant women who stay in shape tend to have shorter labors," says Tekoa King, a certified nurse-midwife and an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of California at San Francisco . "Fitness improves endurance, and if you're better able to tolerate labor, you're less likely to end up needing medical intervention."

So, talk to a health care provider about which exercises are safe for you. Walking, swimming , and prenatal exercise classes are good options for most people.

Take a Childbirth Class

Familiarizing yourself with the stages of labor and practicing comfort measures before the big event will help you feel less anxious, which can make for an easier labor, says Robert Stern, M.D., co-chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Vassar Brothers Hospital in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Shop around for the right childbirth classes , suggests Teri Shilling, director of Passion for Birth and past president of Lamaze International . Look for a small class (with fewer than 10 couples), a certified instructor, and goals that mesh with yours.

Enlist Good Support

Even if your partner will be by your side throughout labor, you may want to line up additional help. According to a study in the Journal of Perinatal Education , people who had continuous care provided by a doula (a person trained to support a laboring person and their partner) were less likely to need a C-section , instrumental vaginal deliveries, and labor augmentation. In addition, they experienced shorter labors than those without doula care.

Community doula care may be especially important for Black parents , who experience disportionate rates of maternal mortality and morbidity. In fact, it is one component the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is utilizing to address the Black maternal health crisis. So, discuss labor support with your prenatal health care provider: Both of you should be comfortable with the doula you hire.

Distract Yourself

In first-time pregnancies , active labor lasts an average of 12 to 14 hours. So when contractions begin —you'll feel them first in your lower back or as lower-abdominal cramps—try to stay calm, King says.

"If you start worrying from the onset, counting contractions, and breathing through every ache, you'll wear yourself out," she says. So instead, lose yourself in other activities, like taking a walk, enjoying a shower, or baking cookies. Anything that relaxes you will help speed things along.

Snack Carefully

A light snack in the early stages of labor , while you're ideally still at home, will help maintain your energy level. But avoid fatty or hard-to-digest foods because a too-full stomach could make you feel nauseated and cause vomiting during the later active stages of labor. Muscle contractions and rapid breathing during labor can also cause you to lose fluids quickly.

A 2013 Cochrane review found that when people do not freely drink fluids throughout labor, intravenous (IV) fluids at double the standard rate can reduce the length of labor. However, the study authors note that it may be possible to increase oral fluid intake rather than increasing IV fluids. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests drinking clear liquids throughout labor and administering IV fluids as needed. Either way, staying hydrated is important to maintain stamina in labor.

Take a Shower

"Pain can cause you to tense muscles all over your body, which creates even more discomfort," says Marcie Richardson, M.D., an OB-GYN with Artrius Health (formerly Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates) in Boston.

"A warm shower can counter that response." For massage-like labor relief , aim a showerhead at the small of your back or wherever contractions are most intense. A shower is fine at any stage of labor.

Get in the Tub

Soaking in a warm bath can work wonders to increase comfort during labor. Some people find that the weightlessness they experience in the water can offer relief and allow them to change positions easily. In addition, aiming the tub's Jacuzzi jets at your lower back can help ease intense contractions.

According to ACOG , immersion in water during the first stage of labor may shorten labor. So, even if you don't plan to have a water birth , using a tub for relaxation in early labor may be just the thing to keep things moving.

Get a Massage

In a small 2017 study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice , researchers found that lower back massage during labor significantly reduced labor pain and increased satisfaction with birth.

"When you stimulate an area that's in pain, whether with pressure or heat, you soften the pain messages sent to the brain," King explains. Let your partner know what feels best. For example, you may want a shoulder or neck rub in labor's first hours, then firm pressure on your lower back or your hips during the intense transition stage. By the same token, there may be times when you don't want to be touched at all.

Don't Lie Down

Staying upright throughout much of labor lets gravity work to your advantage: The baby's head pressing on your cervix will help it dilate . And trying a variety of positions —standing, kneeling, or squatting—can lessen discomfort and move labor along. "Movement helps widen your pelvis, allowing the baby's head to pass through," King says.

Be Open to Medication

"If you're in active labor and dilated past 3 centimeters, an epidural will not significantly prolong childbirth or increase your chances of a C-section ," says Philip Samuels, M.D., an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus. In fact, if you're tense, the anesthetic injected into the space outside your spinal cord can speed dilation by relaxing your muscles.

Epidurals are considered safe, but like all medications, they carry some risks. For example, according to ACOG, if an epidural contains opioids, a fetus may experience side effects like changes in heart rate, respiration, drowsiness, and trouble breastfeeding. Fortunately, these effects do not last long.

Since an epidural can limit mobility, some people opt for an analgesic, such as butorphanol, given via an IV. "Analgesics don't entirely take away the pain, but they do dull pain perception," Dr. Samuels explains. Also, while not widely available in the U.S. , nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can reduce anxiety and make labor easier to tolerate.

Keep Breathing

Patterned breathing not only helps you focus during contractions, but taking slow breaths between the intense cramps also helps you rest and relax, Shilling says. During labor, draw on relaxation strategies that help you in everyday life—deep breathing, visualizing a favorite place, or listening to music.

Above all, remember that although there are few certainties about labor and birth, there is one you can count on: Every labor eventually ends. And that end signals the beginning of a new life—your baby's and your own as a parent. That's why even the toughest labor is probably the most worthwhile work you'll ever do.

Ask Amy: Reader seeks advice on involving family in pregnancy journey

Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 7:30 a.m.

Ask Amy: Reader seeks advice on involving family in pregnancy journey Getty Images

Amy Dickinson

Dear Amy: My boyfriend and I are in our late-teens and we recently learned that I am pregnant.

We have a lot to deal with but we are doing our best to handle this situation that neither of us really feel ready for. We both have great families and they are supportive.

We saw my boyfriend’s sister last weekend, and she told me that she wants to go with us to our doctor appointment so that when we learn the gender of our child she can then host a “gender reveal” party. (She is married and has a child.)

I know that some parents do this, but I don’t think I want to do it.

Should she come with us to the appointment? Should we let her do this?

Dear Nervous: No – and no.

You and the baby’s father should go to these appointments. If you would like more support at an appointment, you could invite her or another family member, but this invitation should come from you – not the other way around.

Establishing respectful boundaries can be a tough job. But this is the beginning of your life as parents, and you have the right and responsibility to develop good boundaries and good judgment about what you believe is best for you and your child.

(You can email Amy Dickinson at [email protected] or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook .)

Stories by Amy Dickinson

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Ask Amy: Gaslighting or misunderstanding? Reader seeks clarity on family dynamics

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Surrogacy 'unicorn' is pregnant with baby No. 11 and would do it again 'in a heartbeat'

April 21-27 is National Infertility Awareness Week. All week, TODAY will be sharing stories to raise awareness of what it is like to experience infertility.

In the last 13 years, 37-year-old Emily Westerfield has delivered 10 healthy babies. Three were her own biological children. She acted as a gestational carrier for families of the others. Twice, she carried twins.

She is now 28 weeks pregnant with baby No. 11.

“I’m probably the unicorn in this industry,” Westerfield tells TODAY.com.

Her incredible success in navigating the surrogacy experience led her to give birth to Carrying Dreams , her own full-service agency designed to help egg donors, surrogates and intended parents on their parenting journeys in a way that works best for them.

So, would Westerfield consider having baby No. 12?

“In a heartbeat,” she says.

Planting the seed for surrogacy

Westerfield and her husband, Max, live in Celina, Ohio, with their three biological children: Mckenna, 13, Jack, 11, and Charlie, 10.

In 2010, Westerfield spent a lot of time bonding with Max’s cousin, who had been having trouble sustaining a pregnancy for years. She was suffering from secondary infertility and struggled to bring a pregnancy to term.

“She just continuously kept having loss after loss , and it was heartbreaking,” she says.

Westerfield was able to conceive and deliver her three biological children with relative ease, making her feel “guilty” every time she shared the news with her husband’s cousin. Without knowing much about the process of surrogacy, Westerfield offered to be a gestational carrier for the cousin’s embryo.

The Westfield family: Emily; her husband, Max; their daughter Mckenna; and their sons Charlie, left, and Jack.

“They did not feel that surrogacy was the path that they wanted to take,” she explains, “but I knew that there were probably so many other people in the world who needed help in a very similar way. Maybe I could help.”Even while she was pregnant with her third (and last) biological child, Westerfield mentioned to her husband that she was interested in becoming a gestational carrier.

“I was shot down by him so many times,” Westerfield says with a laugh. “The more and more I shared to educate him, I think the more and more he felt comfortable with it. Or he just got sick of me nagging.”

The first surrogacy journey

After her son Charlie completed their family, Westerfield activated her search to find another family to assist via surrogacy in earnest. She joined an online forum that no longer exists. “It was almost like a Craigslist of everybody in the infertility community,” she says. Surrogates, egg donors, sperm donors and intended parents used the site to help create families.

“I created a profile and just put myself out there,” says Westerfield. “I was overwhelmed with the response and just inundated with emails and queries. The more and more that I got into this, the more I realized there’s so many more people out there that need the help than the people that are willing to help.”

Westerfield had initial conversations with a handful of hopeful parents and ultimately chose a couple that seemed like a good match in terms of personality, age and location. They were an easy three-hour drive away.

But the decision wasn’t easy. Each story was more heartbreaking than the one before. The family that Westerfield ultimately decided to help already had two children. During the second birth, the mother needed an emergency hysterectomy, leaving her unable to complete their family with the third child they so desperately wanted.

Calling to tell the couple the good news “was so emotionally overwhelming and exciting and nerve-wracking, all at the same time.” Using the embryos the couple had already created, Westerfield delivered their third child, a girl, in December 2015.

“And that’s when everything started,” Westerfield says.

Westerfield says, “I noticed that as soon as I had the first one, I wanted to do this again. It was almost just like, ‘Now who else can I help?’”

She delivered healthy babies in 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022. She is currently pregnant and due in July.

“I’ve been able to completely just have wonderful pregnancies,” she says. Even so, at age 37, she knows that she may have a limited window in which to continue.

The process of being a gestational carrier is markedly different than being pregnant with your own child, according to Westerfield. For instance, there are screenings and contracts and psychological evaluations. Her husband did not accompany her to appointments. She keeps in mind that the end goal is to deliver a healthy child so that another couple can “start, build or complete their family.”

Wondering if it’s ever hard to let go of a baby you have physically carried for nine months? Westerfield says it’s not.

“I get attached like a loving aunt,” she explains. Knowing the heartbreak that the couple has gone through in the past, “you want to hand that baby over when you get to the end of this.”

Westerfield started her own surrogacy agency in August 2023 in part to help educate and provide resources for both potential surrogates and intended families.

“I feel like there’s so much information out there that it’s overwhelming,” Westerfield says. “And a lot of it is outdated or incorrect, and I want to be able to speak from personal experience going through this process.”

She also helps match families with gestational carriers and helps hold their hand through a stressful process, making sure they are on the same page for important topics like physical or chromosomal abnormalities, geographic location, contact preferences after birth and even vaccination status.It’s difficult to find gestational carriers who are willing and fit all of the qualifications. Westerfield also thinks it’s essential for gestational carriers to have completed their own families before helping others grow theirs. She has about six prospective couples for every one potential surrogate.

Westerfield takes a lot of pride in helping families grow, especially those she has carried children for. She stays in touch with each family in some capacity via text or social media, and she tries to remember to send birthday gifts.

“I am so proud to be able to do this for other people. I know my time is very limited as we’re getting closer and closer to how many people I’m able to help, but still I’m young enough and I’m healthy enough to be able to do so,” Westerfield says. “And I’ll continue to help as long as my body and my family allows me to.”

Rosie Colosi is a reporter for TODAY Parents.

More than teddy bears: Willowick mother sending comfort to families grieving pregnancy and infant loss

WILLOWICK, Ohio — Inside Elizabeth Michalski's Willowick home, there are numerous tributes to her son, Teddy.

"It's a weighted teddy bear, so it weighs 15 ounces, which is exactly how much Teddy weighed when he was born," said Michalski, who runs the non-profit "A Touch of Teddy."

Michalski lost her son Theodore at 22 weeks. She remembers him with pictures and teddy bears. Michalski said her journey to become pregnant was far from easy.

"I have PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. I was told as a teen that I was going to have trouble getting pregnant," said Michalski.

Elizabeth and her husband Alex consulted infertility specialists who found cancer on her thyroid.

"Maybe Teddy knew that I was still sick, and that's why he had to leave. Medically, we might never know if that was the cause," said Michalski.

Her journey is not uncommon but often not shared. one in six people worldwide experiences infertility, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Infertility can impact men and women and doesn't discriminate. Because of that, trying to start a family can sometimes cause distress, trauma, stigma, and financial strain.

National Infertility Awareness Week is from April 21-27, encouraging people to open up about their own infertility and pregnancy loss stories.

"There's been a recent survey that up to 40% of people that are experiencing issues with fertility don't share that struggle with friends or family," said Whitney McSparron, a licensed professional counselor at Thriveworks.

If a friend or family member opens up to you about their infertility journey, therapists recommend listening,

"You want to make sure that you're being validating and not minimizing, so that's avoiding saying things like 'Oh, it will happen for you' or 'Hey at least you still get to sleep in,' or 'Just relax, and everything will be fine.' Those are the kind of responses that can do more harm than good," said McSparron.

Thriveworks recommends scheduling individual and couples counseling if you feel overwhelmed. After their loss, Michalski and her husband found a lot of support at University Hospitals.

"They had a bereavement group for families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss," said Michalski.

In Teddy's memory, Elizabeth is on a mission, sending little teddies across the globe.

"48 states, three different countries, to date we've sent over 1,100 teddy bears, and that was just last year," said Michalski.

The bears connect and support men and women who have experienced loss. Michalski added, "it's not a club we want to be in, the loss mom club, but you find comfort in the loss and the community."

Michalski feels lucky to hold her two children, Delilah and Nathan, tight. Successful fertility treatment brought her the son and daughter she calls her rainbow and pot of gold.

"I have them helping me package up the bears too, so making them a part of what I'm doing in Teddy's memory is a huge part of it, and it will be going forward," said Michalski.

If you would like to send a bear to a family member or a friend, click here.

"A Touch of Teddy" is hosting a Zumbathon on Mother's Day weekend on Friday, May 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Eastlake North High School in the gym. All proceeds go directly to sending more bears to grieving families. You can sign up here.

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More than teddy bears: Willowick mother sending comfort to families grieving pregnancy and infant loss

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Michalski lost her son Theodore at 22 weeks. Michalski said her journey to become pregnant was far from easy.

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Titans first-round pick JC Latham's journey an example of ability to embrace change

JC Latham was born to do this.

Just the sheer size of the man, 6-foot-6 and 342 pounds, suggests the Tennessee Titans' first-round NFL draft pick of 2024 is ready for whatever is thrown his way.

A physically imposing offensive tackle with powerful, long arms and a mean streak, Latham was the overall No. 7 selection, and the Titans are confident he can stabilize an offensive line built to protect its franchise quarterback, Will Levis.

No pressure.

Latham has dealt with that since he was a freshman defensive end at Catholic Memorial in Milwaukee. He was handling some of the nation's best high school defensive linemen as a first-time offensive lineman at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, 1,300 miles from home. He was mauling the SEC's top defenders in three seasons at Alabama.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

"The journey has been incredible to watch," Jerome Latham, JC's father, said. "We're blessed that it gets to continue."

JC Latham had to leave to grow

JC Latham, accompanied by his family, was smiling Friday during his introductory news conference at Ascension St. Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, the culmination of his decision to leave Catholic Memorial for IMG after winning a state championship in 2018.

"Everywhere I've been, my whole family has been able to be a part of it," he said. "Being able to celebrate the biggest moment of my life was very special to me."

The separation was not without its stress. JC Latham was right at home in Bradenton despite being more than 1,300 miles away — more at ease at IMG Academy than his family was at letting him go. He was a 16-year-old living the life reserved for college students, still two years from joining coach Nick Saban in Tuscaloosa.

Langston Latham, 18 months younger, decided it was easier for him not to call his brother too much. While JC was thriving at IMG, Langston was missing his best friend.

"He asked me what I thought he should do when he was deciding on whether to stay or go to IMG," Langston said. "I told him he could take his game to the next level. You have to go. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to say to anyone."

JC, who was born in Meridian, Mississippi, moved to Milwaukee when he was 5 and lived with his father and brother. JC's mother, Monique Pruitt, lived in Chicago, so family has been at the center of JC's life. When he arrived at IMG Academy in 2019, though, he adapted quickly.

"His adjustment was incredible," said former IMG coach Bobby Acosta, who coached Latham for one season.

Latham's family had a harder time adjusting to his departure. Langston Latham was a freshman, JC a sophomore when Catholic Memorial won the Division 3 Wisconsin state title. Langston, a linebacker, thought they'd stack up titles together for years.

"I thought that'd continue forever," Langston said. "Then he was gone."

JC Latham thrives in journey

Pruitt admitted there was some trepidation with her son so far away.

"When you're sending a 15- or 16-year-old child away, it's like sending him away for college . . . early," she said. "I believed he could do it. I was pretty sure he could do it, but it's like . . . what if?"

While Langston went on to win two more state titles at Catholic Memorial, JC's IMG Academy team finished the 2020 season as the No. 1-ranked team by USA TODAY Super 25.

"JC has always pushed himself," Jerome Latham said. "He's self-motivated. He wanted to challenge himself after Catholic. I told him if he wants to be the best, he has to play against the best."

As soon as Latham shifted from defensive end to offensive line at IMG, he was dominating four- and five-star defensive linemen on the team.

"He would just swallow them up," Acosta said.

ESTES Tennessee Titans drafted a project in JC Latham because of trust in Bill Callahan

Latham got to Alabama and was named second-team All-American by USA TODAY, starting every game at right tackle for the Crimson Tide. He allowed only two sacks in more than 400 passing attempts last fall and is slotted to play left tackle for the Titans . It shouldn't be a problem for a guy who played left and right tackle as well as guard at IMG.

Latham's easy demeanor shapes his character

But what kept Latham grounded was his fun-loving nature.

"He's a jokester," Jerome Latham said.

When NFL commissioner Roger Goodell called JC Latham's name Thursday in Detroit, the new Titans player with the 35⅛-inch arm length wrapped Goodell in a bear hug and lifted him clear off the stage floor.

"That's JC," Kate Meyers, Jerome's former girlfriend who helped raise JC with Jerome and Monique, said with tears welling in her eyes. "It was emotional for sure because he's such a great man, and a great player. No one deserves this more. We're all proud."

Reach sports writer George Robinson at georgerobinsontheleafchronicle.com and on the X platform (formerly Twitter) @Cville_Sports.

Women leaders in Djibouti speak out against gender-based violence and harmful practices

A group of women smiling and speaking together outside

25 April 2024

DJIBOUTI CITY, Djibouti – “There are so many young girls who get pregnant and have hidden, illegal abortions. Young girls are forced into sex work, and many are forced to undergo female genital mutilation.”

Nafisa, 44, is a community leader from Djibouti City and founder of the Rasmy women’s association, which is supported by UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. A chance encounter in 2011 spurred her to take up the cause as an advocate. “Fifteen years ago my place was at home, with the children – that was it.”

One day she struck up a conversation with a neighbour, Fardoussa*, who was a sex worker. Fardoussa confided that she had been subjected to violence from some customers, and was living in insecure housing along with several other sex workers. She felt isolated and vulnerable, she said, because of discrimination from others in their community.

The neighbours soon became close friends, and Nafisa came to realize that social norms, taboos and silence were at the root of many problems the women and girls in her community were dealing with. “She's a woman like me – in many ways, we’re the same.”

That’s when she launched Rasmy, to help fight harmful social norms and break the silence surrounding them. What began as a small, informal group soon grew into a community where women felt safe to express themselves without judgement.

Now members of Rasmy provide support for survivors of female-genital mutilation and gender-based violence, as well as advice on other sexual and reproductive health and rights issues. “Thanks to our outreach, many more mothers are aware of their daughters’ suffering, and many more girls are being saved,” said Nafisa.

Two women stand in the doorway of another woman’s home, handing her an information leaflet.

Building coalitions

“My first period came after my mother died, so I had to talk to my dad about it,” said Imane, a community leader in Balbala, in the south of Djibouti City. “It was hard. The taboo made it very difficult to talk about issues of female intimacy with him.”

Imane had been subjected to female genital mutilation as a child, which was causing painful periods. Lacking knowledge on the problem, she turned to her father. “He listened and learned to support me. Afterwards he also refused to have my younger sisters cut.”

Djibouti has one the highest rates of female genital mutilation in the world, with more than 70 per cent of women aged between 15 and 49 put through the practice – although thanks to advocacy and legal initiatives, this has dropped in recent years from 93 per cent .

“I'd like to create more men like my father,” said Imane. “Too few men speak out, so my mission is to give them courage. To save girls, we must reach their fathers.”

Imane's father works alongside her, lobbying to end female genital mutilation with the NGO Caravanes et Savoirs du Désert , a travelling group of actors who perform plays to raise awareness on sensitive topics such as female genital mutilation and other forms of gender-based violence. Together with UNFPA, they hope to build a coalition of men and boys against harmful practices.

“I learned to distinguish between the positive aspects of our culture and the darker areas that must be brought to light,” explained Imane. “Men must understand that female genital mutilation is not just a woman's burden – violence is never just a women's issue.”

A woman speaks to a group of women, raising her hands

Breaking the silence

Nafisa and Imane’s associations are part of UNFPA’s Elle&Elles (‘She and Her’) network, launched in 2021 to provide support and training for female leaders advocating for women's health and rights in some of Djibouti’s most deprived areas.

“Joining the network opened up a new path for me,” said Imane. “My association was trained, and we all became peer educators. Now I share my story with young girls who are looking for someone to listen to, just like I was.

“My story, once shrouded in silence, has become my symbol of hope and resilience, supported by the strength of my father's listening and love.”

The network is so far made up of eight associations, each with six UNFPA-trained educators who engage in outreach on unintended pregnancies, drug addiction, gender-based violence, sexually transmitted infections and female genital mutilation. Members are also trained to liaise with communities to prevent and refer cases of gender-based violence.

“The Elle&Elles network embodies the strength and determination of these women and girls who are dedicated to their communities,” said Aicha Ibrahim Djama, head of UNFPA’s Djibouti office.

Since 2021, the network has reached more than 4,000 people. With UNFPA’s support, Nafisa’s organization has since become Djibouti’s first and only shelter for survivors of gender-based violence that provides refuge, advice, food and clothing.

“We give women courage,” said Nafisa. “We give them hope, and if I can help just one person, it’s a success.”

*Name changed for privacy and protection

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