When expecting a child, one quickly learns that the world around them continues to operate as usual. While you are navigating the 40-plus weeks of pregnancy without alcohol, sipping on water, juices, or various mocktails that would be infinitely better with a splash of something stronger, social gatherings persist. Friends are getting married, hosting parties, or simply enjoying evenings with a bottle of wine. How inconsiderate, right? However, just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to stop attending social events. There will be plenty of occasions to engage with friends and family. Yet, being sober at some of these events can be more challenging than others. Here are the top offenders:
1. Concerts
I’ve attended multiple concerts throughout my pregnancy, featuring artists like The Lumineers, Hozier, and local bands. Each event occurred at a different stage in my pregnancy, creating unique atmospheres with distinct groups of friends. Although concerts can be enjoyable without alcohol, they often feel less thrilling when you’re not partaking. A festival like Lollapalooza, on the other hand, is a different story—being sober there is a true test of endurance.
2. Football Season and Tailgating
Fall is synonymous with football, and I have always loved the energy of game days. The idea of tailgating and day drinking has always been appealing to me. However, during my pregnancy, this has become quite a challenge. I vividly recall a perfect autumn day when I found myself surrounded by enthusiastic fans, wishing more than ever for a cold beverage.
3. Bachelorette Parties
When invited to a bachelorette party in Las Vegas during my pregnancy, I opted out due to other commitments, but I was relieved. The thought of being in Vegas without the option to drink felt daunting. I did attend a local bachelorette event, where I skipped the bar crawl but joined for dinner. Being the sober one in a room full of intoxicated friends can be less than enjoyable. I even organized a bachelorette party for my younger sister, filled with activities like winery tours. The initial excitement was overwhelming, but I eventually found joy in people-watching.
4. Weddings
Attending weddings while pregnant can be a mixed bag. I’ve been to several weddings this year, and the level of enjoyment often hinges on the couple and the guests. Thankfully, I’ve had fun at each event, even without alcohol. One advantage to being sober is the opportunity to indulge in delicious food and dessert—often a pregnant woman’s saving grace. Plus, witnessing the antics of intoxicated guests on the dance floor is always entertaining. Although I’m not the best dancer, being sober makes me painfully aware of my moves.
5. Vacations
The impact of being sober during vacations varies by destination. A trip to Puerto Rico was challenging without being able to enjoy fruity cocktails by the pool. However, our babymoon in New York shifted the focus to culinary delights, allowing me to have a good time. For many, vacations are synonymous with relaxation, and for most, that includes having a drink—or several. The experience is often enhanced by enjoying a nice wine while taking a break from exploring.
6. Holidays
Holidays typically call for celebrations, often involving alcoholic beverages. They also present opportunities for family gatherings, which can be tough to navigate without a drink to help cope with the awkward moments. The Fourth of July, my birthday, and Halloween have all been experienced sober, with Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching. I hope to celebrate with a new baby in one hand and a drink in the other by year’s end. After all, navigating family dynamics is much easier after a drink or two—especially when dealing with comments about your growing belly.
In summary, while being pregnant and sober presents its own set of challenges, it can also offer unique experiences and opportunities to enjoy life in different ways. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, consider visiting WomensHealth.gov, and if you’re interested in exploring the world of at-home insemination, check out Cryobaby and Babymaker for valuable resources.
Keyphrase: Being Pregnant and Sober Challenges
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