Worrying about a healthy pregnancy

To the Mama Who is Worried Everything Will Go Wrong: Read This.

Hi there.

If you are reading this, you are probably pregnant, and you are probably worrying. Maybe you are analyzing every cramp. Maybe you are staying up late Googling statistics.

I want to tell you something important: Worrying is a sign that you already love this baby. But let’s try to lower the volume on that worry so you can actually enjoy these nine months.

Here is the truth about having a healthy pregnancy. It isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being present and practical.

Step 1: Get a Co-Pilot

You don’t have to fly this plane alone. Your doctor or midwife is your co-pilot. Go to every appointment. Ask every “silly” question. That is what they are there for. When you have a professional watching over you, you can let go of the need to micromanage everything yourself.

Step 2: Be Kind to Your Body

Your body is running a marathon right now without your permission. Be gentle with it.

• Feed it well: Give it the nutrients it needs (and forgive it when it only wants toast for three days straight).

• Move it gently: Go for a walk. Get some fresh air. It clears the cobwebs in your mind.

• Let it rest: If you are exhausted, sleep. The laundry can wait.

Step 3: Get Out of Your Head

Anxiety lives in isolation.

• Talk it out: Tell your partner or a friend when you are scared. Usually, just saying it out loud makes the monster under the bed look smaller.

• Stop the scroll: Stay off the scary parenting forums. Read books that empower you, not websites that terrify you.

Step 4: Breathe

You are doing a great job. The fact that you care this much proves it. Take a deep breath, trust your body, and take this one day at a time.