It’s Christmas and you’re pregnant. Today I’m going to share 4 tips to make this holiday a little more magical when you’re celebrating for two (or three or four)! There are actually a few things you can do to make it a little more amazing — so let’s get started.
But first, how do I know so much about pregnancy at Christmas? Hi, I’m Hilary — most people know me as The Pregnancy Nurse® (but I’m also the curly head here at Pulling Curls). I have been a nurse since 1997 and have 20 years of labor and delivery experience (including many Christmases). I am a great resource for you on this!
Before we start, my best advice is to make sure baby is still moving well regardless of your busy holiday schedule. Take the time to measure your kicks and it can pay off. Get my cheat sheet here:
Watch the ice
I have to say this. As you head to parties, if you live in a land of snow, BEWARE (if you live in Pheonix with me — you can ignore this part).
Some tips you might not think about:
Wear low-heeled shoes: I know you want to show off the good stuff for holiday parties, but rethink your footwear choice. If you have ice, plus high heels, it can really be a recipe for disaster.
Honestly, think more about your footwear in general. If you’re going to be on your feet a lot for the party, think compression socks very. Many people’s feet swell towards the end, so just wear what fits you. Remember, almost no photos include your shoes.
Dismiss: Maybe ask your partner to drop you off near the door so you don’t have to run out into the cold. It might seem like the “bad” way to do it, but I don’t care. Less chance of falling if things are frozen. They will be happy to keep you and your baby safe!
Monitor road conditions: If things are very cold, prefer to stay home. Being in an accident when you’re pregnant makes things that much scarier. So safety first!
If you slip and fall on your stomach call your provider as soon as possible or go to the hospital. This type of jerky movement can be bad for the baby. If you are pre-tummy (first 18 weeks or so) call your provider and see what they think. It’s not that alarming, but they should have some tips to watch out for.
If you have an accident — the same. Call your provider if you are less than 20 weeks or so, but if you are ready for labor and delivery.
There is a possibility that the placenta will detach in the next few hours due to the sheer force of an accident or fall — so we take it very seriously.
I’m not saying this to scare you (because it’s SUPER rare) — but that’s why we want you in. They may also do some blood work and an ultrasound while you’re there.
If you like business advice like this (which not many people talk about) — join me here.
Don’t overcommit
Every family wants to see this while waiting multiple times during the holiday season, but maybe you just want to put on your leggings and watch Hallmark movies (can i get an amen)?
I’m not saying say no to every event, but if you don’t feel like it, it’s okay to stay home. Blame the baby, blame the pregnancy. Blame the fact that you’re just ridiculously tired.
I see a lot of people saying “screw it” to relationships during pregnancy. But I can’t disagree more. If you want people to help you be that “village” when the baby is born, you need to keep those relationships strong. But it can look like encouraging texts, instead of late night dinners with friends. 🙂
Another option (if that sounds better to you) is to host something extremely low-key in your home. Maybe it’s holiday games and a potluck. People will love to help and see how you’re doing. You may also really enjoy bonding with those you love.
Enjoy the current
It’s easy to think so much about what life with baby will be like and how magical life with a little one will be at Christmas (and I promise you it is).
But you will look back what you have right now and you think that time was pretty magical too.
Christmas with just my husband was also pretty amazing. I love those memories, so make sure you enjoy what you have NOW. It’s a good thing.
Get my partner’s tips here:
A great way to strengthen this relationship is to prepare together. Not every birth class is meant to do this, but this one is!
Ask for something for you
I hear a lot of people say they want simple things for the baby. And I get it. Money is tight, baby stuff seems endlessly expensive — but YOU deserve something, too.
Even if it’s small. A bottle of lotion you love or a new scarf.
It’s REALLY easy to wrap your identity around yourself as a new mom — but I can’t encourage you anymore to keep your own identity securely around you. Think of something you’d like to fit into the budget.
Even if it’s just a foot rub coupon from your husband. I’d take it in a heartbeat. 😀
Also, if you’re really only asking for a few things for yourself, make sure you’re okay with that. I don’t want you to be disappointed and in tears when you realize that your Christmas is all about diapers and diapers and you would like something nice for yourself. That’s okay — be honest with your partner and family so you don’t get disappointed.
Feeling anxious about that baby coming? Feeling prepared helps you feel less anxious, and studies have shown it helps with better births (and fewer c-sections.
Our online prenatal course for couples is the EASY way to prepare for birth. Participants feel over 50% less anxious about birth and over 60% more prepared. This is a gift that keeps on giving (especially since the package includes lifetime access). Come with me here.
Or, if you’re not ready for the full course, check out my free prenatal course — It’s your first step to becoming your own boss.
