7 Things This Mom-to-Be Learned While Pregnant

Shazmin, Larchmont, New York

I wish I knew…that I’d be making sacrifices before baby was even born.

My pregnancy has been very physically and emotionally challenging. I suffered from hyperemesis gravidarum, or severe morning sickness, which was sometimes scary for me—especially early on in the pregnancy. I learned that at times, you just have to go with the flow and remember there’s a wonderful light at the end of the tunnel.

I wish I knew…that my husband and I would get closer.

I think the relationship between my husband, Scott, and me has actually grown stronger. (Read Scott’s take on the pregnancy experience here.) We’ve been able to celebrate the milestones—like finding out we’re having a boy—together, and Scott has been wonderful helping me when I’ve been sick or feeling defeated.

I wish I knew…that I can’t do or know it all.

I am a big planner and welcomed all of the lists, doctor’s appointments, and changes in nutrition and exercise. To avoid getting overwhelmed by it all, I just focus on everything week by week. There is too much information out there, so I force myself to be in present moment.

I wish I knew…how much I’d have to trust my doctor.

I’m very nervous about delivery, and I’m prepping for it by attending a six-hour birthing class next month. The great thing is that I trust my doctor. She’s really been the best guide possible throughout my pregnancy. So I’ll go in with my list of things I’m okay with during delivery, but I’m also willing to go with the flow.

I wish I knew…about the endless baby gear options!

Who doesn’t love shopping? I’ve looked at various baby lists to narrow down all of the necessities for our registry. To ultimately decide what items to get, I asked my friends who recently had children.

I wish I knew…that feeling comfortable financially would lift a huge weight.

Scott is great at budgeting and has taught me several lessons over the years. We started saving money before we tried to conceive and have continued to each month. It’s been great, and now I feel confident with the amount of savings we’ll have when our baby is born.

I wish I knew…how much I’d look forward to seeing someone I’ve never met.

I am so excited to finally see our baby boy! I just don’t know what to expect with his personality and looks, and the anticipation is killing me. I’m really looking forward to watching all his little accomplishments and milestones.