Are you emotionally ready for a baby? - If you're uncertain about having
children or adding another child to your family, there are some questions
you can ask yourself and things you can do to clarify your feelings or
prepare yourself for a growing family.
Be alert for baby blues and depression. Almost every woman experiences
the baby blues in the first weeks after birth. A few women have depression
that last longer than that or deepens into an incapacitating problem.
It is important to seek advice and help in the early stages of depression.
Admitting to feeling sad or overwhelmed doesn’t mean you are not
a good mother.
Don't let stress drag you down - Stress is the bane of many working women's
lives. Even if you enjoy your work, have a supportive family and are enjoying
a trouble-free pregnancy, the sheer number of things you may be expected
to do in a day can make low-level stress a constant companion.
Don't let worry spoil your pregnancy. It's normal for pregnant women to
be worried. Having a baby is a life-altering event. It is also a unique
and special time. Seek help from friends and family to help alleviate
the worry so you can enjoy this first stage of motherhood.
Dressing for success while you're pregnant - Is yours a jeans-and-work-shirt
kind of job, or is a tailored suit more your style?
Emotional you: Dreams - Many pregnant women enter a strange wonderland
at night in their dreams. After all, pregnancy is a huge event in a woman's life.
Prenatal massage may help with emotional health, body aches, or swelling
of feet and hands. Washington Hospital’s Wellness Center may soon
be once again offering prenatal massage
Keeping a journal during this time may help express your emotions and offer
a creative outlet.
Mood swings? They are common. You may find yourself weeping over sentimental
advertisements, or finding humor in unexpected places.
Understanding and coping with early pregnancy loss - Pregnancy loss (miscarriage)
in the first trimester is not uncommon. Watch for signs of trouble, such
as spotting, bleeding and cramping, so that you can get help quickly if
necessary.