So, she’s been showered with gifts from family, friends, and even her coworkers. The nursery is set and has been rearranged multiple times. She’s attended birthing classes, had the fire department install the car seat, and packed her hospital bag with all the essentials: essential oils, candles, a Celine Dion CD (because why not?), a wedding day photo, and a baby name book just in case she has a last-minute change of heart. It’s the perfect time to throw some curveballs her way about the not-so-glamorous side of new motherhood.
1. Discuss the Pain of Postpartum Recovery
Everyone knows that childbirth is no walk in the park. Just check out any dramatic movie scene depicting labor, and you’ll see the screaming and chaos. But what often goes unspoken is the aftermath—like trying to sit or stand without wincing in agony. That area that just pushed a watermelon out is now as sore as a marathon runner after a race. And let’s not even talk about the idea of intimacy right after!
2. Point Out Your Body Changes
Feel free to highlight where your pre-baby body once stood. Explain how there was a time when your abs were toned, and now you’re stuck wearing shirts with an empire waist to hide the stretch marks and post-baby belly.
3. Share Your Nighttime Woes
Tell her about your six-year-old who has yet to sleep through the night. Once that initial excitement of a new baby fades and the reality sets in, she’ll start to question when her little one will finally allow her some sleep. Talk about teething, night terrors, and growth spurts—make sure to let her know, “I’m sure your baby will be a perfect sleeper though.”
4. Marriage Struggles
If she’s married, remind her that the little quirks that used to be cute will now feel like a killer whale-sized problem. Sleep deprivation, cranky babies, and figuring out new roles can put a strain on any relationship. Communication? Yeah, that might just go out the window.
5. Highlight Development Concerns
Let her know about your friend’s baby who was speaking in full sentences by seven months. This will surely send her into a spiral, worrying if her child will be smart or popular—or worse, the one that smells at school.
6. Endless Hospital Bills
Prepare her for the reality of ongoing medical bills. Just when you think everything is settled, another bill arrives. I mean, I just got one from my son’s birth, and he’s already 16 months! I can only imagine I’ll still be paying off his pediatric visits while planning his 40th birthday bash.
7. End on a Positive Note
To balance out all the stress and panic, assure her that she’s going to be an incredible mom. After all those horror stories, a little encouragement can go a long way!
If you’re curious about more tips for expectant parents, check out this insightful resource on home insemination. Additionally, for an in-depth look at the process, visit Make a Mom for expert advice. And for more pregnancy-related information, The Center is an excellent resource.
In summary, while you’re navigating the exciting yet daunting journey of motherhood, be prepared for some surprises along the way. From physical changes to sleepless nights, it’s going to be a wild ride, but a little humor and support can help make it all worthwhile.