I want to preface this post by sharing that this isn’t my first pregnancy. I get into the details in my most recent YouTube video.
Now, at 25 weeks (yes, there will be a second-trimester follow-up post) I’ve been working on this post about the things that got me through the first trimester for months and dragging my feet to hit the “publish” button. Expecting after a loss brings a multitude of conflicting emotions from grief to guilt to moments of joy that can be followed by fear. Therefore, I’m sharing this post not to scare any expectant moms but to create a safe space for all of us soon-to-be mamas, keeping those who have lost a baby in mind. Enjoy!
Prayers and Affirmations
After experiencing our pregnancy loss earlier this year, I found myself searching for answers. Unfortunately, sometimes when we experience loss it’s difficult to speak to God or find the words needed to explain our grief. As I was aimlessly scrolling through Pinterest one day, I started finding prayers for literally everything. Most importantly, I found prayers that put words to my sadness and then used them whenever I was in a low place. Since then, I’ve relied on my Pinterest board to help with the anxiety of the first trimester. As we waited for test results, attended doctor visits, or sat with our growing baby I leaned on the prayers and affirmations that I’ve been adding to this board.
40oz Cup
Now we all know one of the first things they tell you once you’re pregnant (after cutting out alcohol) is to stay hydrated. Ten cups (80 oz) is the standard for moms-to-be and since multiple brands like Stanley and Simple Modern hold 40 oz, it’s easy to remember that two cup-fulls will get you to the daily goal. Note: I got the tumbler in the photo from Nordstrom Rack for $12, so I also recommend checking your local store before spending more on a different brand.
Meditations
A friend of mine who is already a mom and also a fellow preggo recommended these meditations. In moments of fear and anxiousness, it’s important to connect with your body, making it easier to connect with your baby. I’ve been fortunate to have a doula who has reminded me in my times of stress to breathe for three seconds, hold for three seconds, and then exhale. This naturally slows racing thoughts and signals to our bodies that everything is okay.
B2 Vitamins
B2 was a recommendation from my acupuncturist to stave off migraines. Pregnancy is notorious for throwing off hormones which can also impact headaches. If you’re like me, stress can also contribute to migraines and pregnancy, especially after a loss, can be stressful. Given that I’ve suffered from chronic migraines at various points in life, I’ve taken plenty of precautions to treat my headaches outside of prescriptions. In addition to acupuncture treatments, taking a vitamin B2 supplement has been successful in preventing migraines during pregnancy.
Coconut Water
At about ten weeks, I got to a point in the first trimester where I was chugging water and still feeling thirsty. Turns out, sometimes water just isn’t enough. According to my acupuncturist who also focuses on nutrition, electrolytes are key to maintaining hydration. Luckily coconut water is electrolyte-heavy and easy on the sugar.
Prenatal Vitamins
Not all vitamins are created equal. After trial and error, I found that certain prenatal vitamins agree with my system better than others due to the way they’re ingested. The current prenatal that I take comes in a clear capsule with a powder-based vitamin inside as opposed to vitamins that are more solid and take longer to absorb into the bloodstream. I also like these prenatals because I take three capsules throughout the day, so my body has time to process the nutrients.
Don’t forget your support system.
This is obviously crucial no matter where you are in your pregnancy journey. I’ve been forced to lean on friends and fellow moms to share my worries. Additionally, I have my besties, my mom, cousins, aunts, fellow pregnant friends, my doctor, my acupuncturist, a doula, and my husband whom I can turn to without feeling like a burden. If you’re like me and feel uncomfortable reaching out for help, tell your friends and family that asking for support is a challenge for you. I can promise you that your loved ones want to be there for you during this important time, and will be more than happy to love on you right now.