During my pregnancies, I experienced significant weight gain—much more than what medical guidelines suggest. While my non-pregnant self is active and slender, my pregnant self gained nearly 70 pounds with each of my three children, all within four years. I often felt anxious about my OB appointments, anticipating the doctors’ reactions to my monthly weight increases. My emotions mirrored my fluctuating weight; as my body changed, so too did my confidence.
I longed to embrace the beauty of pregnancy and cherish the fleeting moments of sharing my body with a growing life. However, as my body expanded and my skin stretched, I found myself feeling increasingly insecure, especially in front of a camera. This struggle with vanity led me to hide in group photos and resist my husband’s offers to capture my pregnant self, even as he showered me with compliments. The idea of being tagged in social media posts was daunting, so I largely avoided the camera.
A wise friend once urged me to document my pregnancies, saying, “Your children will want to see these photos one day.” Like many unsolicited pieces of advice, I brushed it off. Now, as my youngest child is 2 ½ years old, I find myself reflecting on that advice with regret. Perhaps it’s the realization that I might be closing the chapter on having more children, or perhaps it’s because I view other pregnant women as radiant, that I wish I’d seen myself in the same light. If I could go back, I would take those photos. I might even consider one of those fashionable pregnancy photo sessions. I wouldn’t let my vanity stop me from capturing this precious time.
Fortunately, my husband, who understands me better than I often understand myself, managed to take one candid shot of me during my ninth month of pregnancy with our second child. He captured it while we were at a carousel, and it now sits proudly framed on his desk. When I look at that photo, I don’t see the weight or the swelling; I see love and connection.
So, if I may offer a piece of unsolicited pregnancy advice: don’t shy away from the camera. Embrace the opportunity to take photos of your pregnant self, even when insecurities arise. Someday, those images will be invaluable, serving as a tangible reminder of a brief yet transformative period in your life.
For more insights on pregnancy and related topics, check out this informative blog post. If you’re seeking additional resources, Make a Mom offers expert guidance on fertility, while UCSF’s IVF resources are excellent for those exploring pregnancy options.
Summary
In reflecting on my pregnancies, I realize the importance of documenting the journey through photographs, despite the insecurities that may arise. Embracing this advice can create lasting memories for both you and your children.