6 Situations That Are Tough When You’re Pregnant and Sober

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Being pregnant is a unique experience that brings its own set of challenges, especially when you find yourself navigating a world that seems oblivious to your condition. For those 40 weeks (or more), you might be sipping on water, juice, or the occasional mocktail that could certainly use a splash of something stronger. Meanwhile, life goes on around you with friends celebrating, tying the knot, and indulging in all the festivities that often involve alcohol. It can be frustrating at times, but your social life doesn’t have to hit pause. You’ll still find yourself attending events, mingling with friends, and facing dinners, all while trying to keep your sanity intact. However, some occasions can be a bit tougher to handle than others. Here are the worst offenders:

1. Concerts
   I’ve hit up five concerts while pregnant, including shows by the likes of The Lumineers and Taylor Swift. Each event had its own vibe and crowd, which definitely influenced how much I enjoyed myself. While I usually don’t need a drink to vibe with the music, certain concerts, like summer festivals, can feel a bit lackluster when you’re sober. Trust me, some events just beg for a cocktail in hand!
2. Football Season/Tailgating
   Fall has always been my favorite time of year, filled with college football and Sunday Funday gatherings. I loved day drinking and the whole social atmosphere surrounding the games. But once I found out I was pregnant, it was a tough adjustment. I remember sitting outside on a beautiful fall day, surrounded by friends enjoying drinks, and wishing I could join in on the fun. The allure of a cold drink while watching the game can be almost unbearable.
3. Bachelorette Parties
   I got an invite to a bachelorette party in Las Vegas while expecting. As much as I would have loved to celebrate with the group, I knew it wouldn’t be the same without the option to drink. I attended a local bachelorette party where I opted out of the day-long bar crawl and joined only for dinner. Being the sober one in a room full of tipsy friends can be a drag. I even hosted a bachelorette party for my younger sister, planning activities like winery tours, which was a challenge for me at times. Still, watching my friends indulge had its moments of amusement—hello, people-watching!
4. Weddings
   Weddings can be a mixed bag when you’re pregnant and sober. I’ve been to three this year and have one more on the horizon. The fun factor often hinges on the guests and the atmosphere set by the couple. Thankfully, I’ve had a blast at each wedding, even without alcohol. There are perks to being sober, like enjoying the delicious food and desserts that come with every celebration. Plus, there’s nothing quite like watching the dance floor antics of your inebriated friends. But let’s be real—dancing sober is a whole different ballgame. I’m suddenly aware of my less-than-stellar moves when I’m not buzzing.
5. Vacations
   The impact of being sober during a vacation can greatly depend on where you are. For instance, I visited Puerto Rico for our anniversary and longed for tropical drinks by the pool. However, during our babymoon in New York, we focused more on indulging in food experiences instead of bar-hopping. Although vacations are typically synonymous with relaxation, for many, that includes enjoying a drink or two. It’s hard to resist a refreshing cocktail while taking a break from exploring!
6. Holidays
   Holidays are synonymous with celebration, and what better way to celebrate than with a drink in hand? Family gatherings can be especially challenging, particularly when dealing with relatives who comment on your belly size—yikes! I’ve spent the Fourth of July, my birthday, and Halloween sober, and I’m preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas with a baby in tow. Navigating family time without a drink to help you cope can be a bit of a struggle, especially when you need to muster the courage to engage with certain family members.

In summary, being pregnant and sober can make certain social situations more challenging, but it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. Whether it’s concerts, weddings, or holidays, finding ways to enjoy these events without alcohol is key to maintaining your social life during pregnancy.

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