As an expectant mother prepares for her new arrival—having celebrated multiple baby showers, set up and rearranged the nursery, and meticulously packed her hospital bag with everything from essential oils to a Celine Dion CD—this is a prime opportunity to share some of the less-discussed realities of motherhood. Here are seven ways to unintentionally cause her a little anxiety.
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Discuss the Physical Discomfort Post-Delivery
Childbirth is notoriously painful, as depicted in countless films showcasing the chaos of labor. However, what often goes unmentioned is the physical toll that follows. The area that just moments ago endured the passage of a newborn may feel as sore as if it had run a marathon. Sitting, standing, or even resuming intimate relations can become a daunting challenge. -
Point Out Body Changes
Remind her of how her body may transform after giving birth. You might casually note where her pre-baby figure used to be, or share how your own body has adjusted, leaving you in search of clothes that can accommodate the new shape, like empire-waisted garments designed to disguise any lingering stretch marks. -
Mention Ongoing Sleep Deprivation
Once the initial thrill of a newborn wears off and the reality of sleepless nights sets in, new moms often find themselves questioning when their baby will sleep through the night. Share your experience of how your child, now six, still struggles with sleep, thanks to teething or growth spurts. A supportive smile while mentioning this may not alleviate her concerns. -
Highlight Marital Strain
If she is in a relationship, emphasize how the challenges of parenthood can magnify even the smallest of problems. The stress from sleep deprivation and navigating the demands of a newborn can put a strain on communication and partnership, making it seem like every little issue has transformed into a massive obstacle. -
Share Milestones to Worry About
Tell her about your friend’s baby who was constructing sentences at seven months. This might spark her anxiety about whether her own child will meet developmental milestones or be perceived negatively in social settings. After all, her baby isn’t even here yet, so why not pile on some concern? -
Remind Her of Ongoing Hospital Bills
Let her know that the financial implications of childbirth can linger long after the baby arrives. For instance, I recently received a bill from my son’s birth that arrived years later. If these bills are just now surfacing, she might find herself worrying about expenses well into her child’s adulthood. -
Encourage Her as a Future Parent
While the previous points might induce some panic, a gentle reminder of her potential as a great mother can provide reassurance. After sharing all the daunting realities, a bit of encouragement can go a long way in alleviating her worries.
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Summary:
Navigating the journey to motherhood can be overwhelming. While sharing the realities of postpartum recovery, body changes, and the challenges of new parenthood can be daunting, a little encouragement can help ease the fear. It’s important to balance concerns with support and understanding, ensuring expectant mothers feel prepared for the ups and downs ahead.
Keyphrase: Ways to Distress an Expecting Mother
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