I was pregnant over Christmas with my first son. He was officially due December 20th, but decided to stay put for another week. (That’s another story for another post!) I was teaching 5th grade and was looking forward to Christmas because it’s my favorite holiday of the year. It also meant that I was able to be home over Winter Break. I was ready to meet my baby and snuggle him through the winter.  What I didn’t realize at the time was how many mistakes I made leading up to labor and birth–which meant that I began motherhood exhausted.

I want to share some tips with you to help this exciting time of year be more enjoyable! Pregnancy and Holidays- 5 Must-Know Holiday Tips!

  1. Remove Expectations. I had always delivered a plate of homemade cookies and goodies to neighbors and I wasn’t going to let this tradition die just because I was pregnant. I stayed up late one night getting all of the baking done and I was exhausted.  Whose expectation was this? Mine. (And this was before Pinterest!) What expectations are you putting on yourself? Decorating ? Shopping? Wrapping? Cleaning? Hosting? Make a list of the most important holiday items you want to accomplish, and then enlist help from family and friends!
  2. Gifts: Instead of tackling the mall with your swollen feet, consider shopping at smaller local businesses where you can park closer and move around easier! I also find that smaller businesses are better at answering questions and helping you pick the perfect gift. If that’s not an option, there’s always Amazon Prime!
  3. Parties: It’s hard to go to work parties, family parties, church parties, and other events when you’re pregnant. We’re hosting a work party this weekend and one of our guests in 30+ weeks pregnant. She let us know ahead of time that she’s been really uncomfortable and can’t eat much, so she will be eating before she comes. Just let your host or hostess know if you have needs–I’m sure they will be happy to accommodate you! And don’t forget to avoid the junk food! That can cause all sorts of unpleasant side effects which are even worse in pregnancy. Throw a few Larabars or other healthy snack into your purse before you go so you aren’t tempted to eat a plate of sugar cookies!
  4. Sleep: Many pregnant mothers have difficulty sleeping normally, and it can be even more difficult during the holiday. If you can, try to schedule a few extra naps in during this time. If you have older children at home, see if someone could watch them while you take a nap or rest after work. Plan a nap during the day before you go to a party that night. Can you go in to work later so you can sleep in more? Come home early to take a nap? Remember–sleep should be preparing you for life ahead and not recovering you from your day before.
  5. Understand your body and baby. This doesn’t necessarily apply to the holiday season, but it’s good to remember what your body needs to grow a healthy baby. Nutrition, sleep, & less-stress are not only good for you, they are crucial for your baby. Know what your baby needs to be healthy and keep that as your primary goal for the season. Don’t sacrifice those needs!

What other tips do you have for pregnant mothers?

Whatever holidays you’re celebrating this year, I wish you a very merry and happy everything!