For the last, almost, 3 years I have either been pregnant, breastfeeding, or both!  So today I'm sharing my list of 8 things I think all pregnant women should know (and things I wish somebody had told me as a first time mom to be).

NOT EVERYONE WILL BE HAPPY FOR YOU

This one sounds so extreme but it's the truth. Some women are struggling with trying to conceive, others might be dealing with relationship issues, and some might feel they will never find the right person to start a family with. Whatever the reason, whether it's ill-intentioned or not, you have to come to terms with not everybody being happy for you.   Just don't let this stop you from enjoying every second of your pregnancy with those who are truly celebrating this blessing with you.

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL

I get it, it's hard to see your body changing right before your eyes.  You can (and should) take care of yourself all you want but there's only so much you can do so relax a little and enjoy the perks.  Your boobies are fuller, you don't have to suck in your belly anymore, and know that when your partner tells you how beautiful you look, he's telling you the truth.

EVERYBODY HAS AN OPINION

Announcing you are pregnant is the equivalent of flashing an S.O.S. sign in the air.  It will feel like every mom is telling you what you should do, "Are you sure you're eating? You don't even look pregnant!".  Every mom is telling you what you shouldn't do, "You're still working out?!  Are you crazy?"  I like to believe it's well intentioned, at least most of the time, so just nod and keep it moving.  Listen to all the advice but follow your gut and do what you feel is right for you and baby.

And remember, if you think you're hearing a lot of unsolicited advice now just wait until you have that baby in your arms.

CHOOSE YOUR TEAM

For both of my deliveries, it was just Argenis and I.  That was our personal choice.  I feel it's such an intimate moment that I only wanted it to be shared between the two of us.  But remember, this is your choice.  My friend had 10+ people in her room and absolutely loved it so it's all about choosing your support team to your liking.

TELL YOUR PARTNER EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT

Before going into delivery with our first child, I told my fiancé exactly what I wanted from him in the delivery room.  No matter how much pain I was in, I wanted him to motivate me and tell me he believed I could do it.  After 28 hours in labor, he succumbed and asked me to get an epidural and I love him for that.  Sometimes enough is enough and he just knew no matter how we had this baby, it would be the most amazing experience ever.

EACH PREGNANCY IS SPECIAL

I have two babies and I can assure you that each pregnancy is different and special in their own way.  Of course the first time is full of, well... firsts.  Everything is new, and scary, and exciting.  Second time around you feel more comfortable and like you know what you're doing but it's still just as scary and exciting.  Enjoy every pregnancy for what it is, a brand new bonding experience for not just you, but also your partner and other children.

PREGNANCY BLUES

It's normal to randomly feel sad, anxious, or even scared.  You're going through a lot so don't be ashamed for not feeling happy throughout your entire pregnancy.  Physically.  Mentally.  It's a lot.  If you notice you are seriously starting to feel depressed though or something just doesn't feel right, speak up.  Talk to your partner and talk to your Doctor.  

A MOM IS A MOM

IVF, surrogacy, adoption, whatever route you take, a Mom is a Mom.  Be sympathetic to other's fertility stories and embrace your own.

What else would you add to Things All Pregnant Women Should Know?

You may also enjoy: 10 Things All Women Should Know, Confessional: Pregnancy Weight Gain