When it comes to pregnancy, advice seems to come from every corner—doctors, friends, family, and countless blogs. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant barrage of “shoulds” and “should nots.” While many recommendations are well-intentioned, they can often feel unrealistic or downright impractical. Here’s a candid look at ten pregnancy recommendations I’m skipping, because let’s face it, I’m still a person with needs, too!
1. Kegel Exercises All Day, Every Day
Yes, Kegels are designed to strengthen your pelvic floor for the big day ahead, but let’s be real—who has time to remember to do them repeatedly each day? Sure, they’re beneficial, but fitting 10 reps multiple times a day into a busy schedule is just not happening. I’ll do them when I can, but I refuse to stress about it.
2. Avoid Heavy Lifting
The guideline to steer clear of lifting anything over 20 to 25 pounds is a nice thought, but let’s face it: if you have other kids, you’re going to need to pick them up. Sometimes, heavy lifting is simply part of being a parent. So I’ll use proper form and move on with my day.
3. Eat Only Healthy Foods
We all know that fruits and veggies are great, but do I really need to consume four servings of each daily? Sometimes a greasy burger or a slice of pizza is just what I need. After all, this is the one time I can indulge a little without guilt!
4. Just Relax!
Telling a pregnant woman to relax is about as helpful as telling a fish to climb a tree. Stress is part of the experience—between preparing for a baby and managing existing family chaos, relaxation is often a fantasy. I’ll take my moments of peace when I can find them, but I won’t stress over it.
5. Get Enough Sleep!
If only it were that easy! Between the physical changes and the constant need to pee, sleep can feel elusive. And with little ones at home, sleep often happens in brief snippets rather than long stretches. I’ll sleep when I can and not worry about it.
6. Regular Exercise is a Must
Sure, exercise is beneficial for both mom and baby, but when you’re feeling nauseous or just plain exhausted, lying on the couch sounds just fine. Self-care matters, and if that means taking a break from workouts, then so be it.
7. No Wine, Ever
The debate about whether an occasional glass of wine is acceptable during pregnancy seems to vary by culture. While the U.S. leans toward total abstinence, I think it’s up to each woman to decide what feels right for her. A little moderation can go a long way.
8. Always Wear Protective Gear While Cleaning
Cleaning can be a chore, and while it’s important to be cautious, I’m not going to suffocate myself with a mask while doing it. Sometimes, a little dirt is just part of life, and I’m okay with that.
9. Deli Meat is Off-Limits
When cravings hit, I’m not about to deny myself. Yes, it’s advised to avoid deli meat, but a quick heat-up can solve that issue. If someone gives me a look for indulging, I’ll be ready to defend my delicious sandwich!
10. Stay Away from Microwaves
Come on—who can live without a microwave? It’s practically a lifeline for busy parents. I’ll continue to use it while cooking up a storm for my family!
People will always have opinions about pregnancy, but it’s crucial to remember that each experience is unique. I’m all for making informed choices, but at the end of the day, it’s my pregnancy and my body. Do what works for you!
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Summary:
Navigating pregnancy advice can be overwhelming, but it’s important to prioritize personal needs and comfort. From Kegels to avoiding deli meat, there are many recommendations that can be adjusted or ignored in favor of a more balanced approach to pregnancy. Remember, it’s your journey, so embrace it in your own way.
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