Claire Holt Reminds Moms It’s Okay if You Don't Love Being Pregnant

In the world of social media highlights, you can find plenty about the blessings and wonders of pregnancy. Happy faces abound on your Instagram feed as you scroll through cute maternity outfits, pregnancy-safe workouts and nursery decorating ideas. But for every mom you see loving the pregnancy life online, there are many other soon-to-be mammas plagued by guilt when they find themselves struggling to find happiness during what’s been branded as the most magical time in their life.

To help these mothers struggling in silence feel less alone, The Originals actress Claire Holt recently shared her pregnancy journey on Instagram. “I’ve cried more in the last week than I have in a year, I have the patience of a hungry 3-year-old and I move like a dugong,” Holt captioned the post. “I love having kids but I REALLY don’t love being pregnant. Don’t cancel me. Thanks.”

Holt’s reticence to admit her pregnancy struggles and her fear of being “canceled” reflects just how much pregnancy has been idealized over the past decade on social media. Between picture-perfect maternity shoots to constant bump updates, anything less than over-the-moon excitement can make moms feel out of place. Thankfully Holt isn’t alone in her struggles, other parents and fans chimed in to let her and other moms-to-be know it’s okay to not love being pregnant.

”My pregnancy was horrid. Not something I enjoyed at all. Doesn’t mean I don’t love the child that came with it,” wrote one parent. “It’s so toxic hearing people judge you for not liking it or people who always say how wonderful it is,” added another. “I’m 39 weeks with my first, thanks for sharing. Feeling exactly the same. I just want her in my arms now! Sending love,” replied an expecting mom.

The conversation Holt sparked serves as an important reminder that everyone experiences pregnancy differently. If you are worried you’re alone in your pregnancy stress or struggles, take heart in knowing there are others out there who know what you are going through and are eager to help.

Looking for a nonjudgemental, open and honest place to connect with other expecting mothers? Check out The Bump’s Community forum, where you can ask question questions and chat with other Bump parents about everything from the isolating parts of pregnancy to travel tips and hospital bag go-tos.