Everyone recognizes the enlarging abdomen of
pregnancy, but unless a sister or close friend has been pregnant, you may not be familiar with the other amazing
physical and
emotional changes taking place.
Pregnancy is a steady stream of new
experiences, and some may make you
wonder if everything is going all right. You may also wonder if and when you should call your caregiver. Your experiences will be less distressing if you know the common physical and emotional changes during pregnancy.
Also, keep in mind that pregnancy and early
parenthood initiate major changes in your relationships with your mate, your parents, other relatives and friends. Be patient with yourself. Do not expect everything to go perfectly. No childbirth experience exactly matches expectations.
Whenever possible, make allowances for the demands of pregnancy. Look at your body and its incredible ability to grow and nurture a baby. Try to flow with your new experiences. Give yourself time to get used to the realities of parenthood as you consider your plans or make different commitments for the future.