“What’s that smell?”: 11 unexpected things I wish I’d known about pregnancy
When you are trying to get pregnant, that is all you think about (one step at a time, right?).
But once it actually happens, and between the stories about how amazing pregnancy is, there are few little things I wasn’t expecting.
1. People may offer opinions about your baby name
Unless you’ve had your baby name picked out since you were in high school, choosing a baby name can be hard. Don’t do what I did and tell friends and family your shortlist – it will ruin everything, and you’ll have to start all over again. Read our article on baby names you don’t hear anymore.
2. Eat whatever you can to survive
Eat whatever you can. As my acupuncturist told me, eating in pregnancy is about survival. So if the only thing you can stomach is a Quarter Pounder (there’s something magic in that sauce), then eat it. Don’t be so hard on yourself.
3. Step away from Google
Expect the worst when it comes to Googling health concerns. After a sleepless night thinking something was seriously wrong with me, a trip to my GP revealed I was fine and so was baby. I was told to stop Googling my symptoms, but if I absolutely must turn to the internet, the only health website worth looking at is Pregnancy Birth & Baby. Otherwise, it’s always best to seek health advice from a healthcare professional.
4. Enjoy the ride (hormones)
You will become more emotional (and possibly more irritable) at everything and nothing at all. I spent half an hour in a café with my partner crying into my smashed avo for no reason at all. Just roll with it.
5. Everyone will tell you their horror birth stories
I don’t know what it is about parents who have been there and done that – they love to tell you their negative pregnancy, birth and fourth trimester stories. Remember: every woman’s experience is different. Just because one mum had a bad experience, it doesn’t mean you will. Plus, you can always politely decline to hear anything negative and stay in your zen zone.
6. You will want to buy everything
Thinking about popping into that cute baby shop just to browse? Think again! It’s not possible to come out without at least a few cute tiny things.
7. Lotions, lots of lotions!
Invest in good body lotions and oils. Start using them as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Apply to your boobs, belly and your bum. That’s right, your bum! No one told me my backside would be the first body part to double in size. Read cream and oil reviews from other mums.
8. Heat, ice, pillows
Buy a heat pack. You won’t regret it. Make sure you have multiple ice trays at the ready, and if you’re umming ahhing over a pregnancy pillow, buy that too. All of the above will make your pregnancy more comfortable.
9. Your sense of smell is incredible
“What’s that smell?” will become part of your everyday vocabulary. Smells that didn’t usually bother you, like your partner’s deodorant or steamed vegetables, will drive you crazy. Practice breathing through your mouth when you can.
10. People will ask you if you can feel your baby kick (even if it’s too early)
People will ask you all sorts of baby-related questions that might freak you out. I didn’t feel a proper kick from baby until after 20 weeks (my sonographer explained it’s because my placenta is at the front). But that didn’t stop people asking me way earlier, which was a little anxiety-inducing. Everyone feels their baby kick at different times and some not at all. However, if you’re really worried about your baby’s development, see your midwife, obstetrician or healthcare provider.
11. Don’t worry about being ‘pushy’
Healthcare professionals are very busy, but that doesn’t mean you and your baby aren’t important. Be the mum who follows up and chases her appointments and asks all of the questions. If you’re ever concerned about something, call your midwife. You’re not wasting anyone’s time.
