Third Trimester, Here I Come
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I officially enter my third trimester tomorrow. Last night, the baby kicked me in the ribs for the first time. While I’m still not huge by my perceptions of what a woman who is seven months pregnant should look like, the baby has shifted further up, is very active, and, in spite of my previous post about loving pregnancy, everyday tasks are getting to be a challenge.
When someone asks me if I can do them a favor, I frequently respond with, “As long as it doesn’t require bending down.” I found myself winded after washing the floor yesterday. And I’m still hungry all the time!
All in all, I shouldn’t complain. This has been a stress-free, relatively easy pregnancy so far, and I still feel pretty good. I can still imagine doing this again. Ideally, so that I’m pregnant through the winter, and not the hottest months of the summer!
The worst part is finding myself gasping for air for no reason at all. Sitting up straight helps; I will probably buy an exercise ball this evening to keep my back straight while I work. (And strengthen my abs while I’m at it, something that will certainly help during labor and delivery).
I also get tired more quickly, once again. I have a feeling that is from the shortness of breath, however. I do wish this baby would move!
I’m trying to maintain my healthy eating, get plenty of calcium and iron, and continue with at least 30 minutes of cardio a day (even if it’s just walking around the mall shopping for baby gear!)
I’ve also noticed another emotional (hormonal?) side effect of pregnancy that’s a bit disconcerting–I feel as if the world should revolve around myself and this baby I’m growing. I don’t like this trait in myself. I’ve seen it in other pregnant women, and faulted them for it.
But I feel like I am doing this important task, and I deserve special consideration for it. I want the closest parking spots. People should get out of *my* way in stores (and traffic). Men should give up their seats on the subway for me. After all, I’m a mother-to-be.
I want to talk about myself, my pregnancy and the baby constantly. Everything else pales in significance to growing a life. It doesn’t help that being pregnant does afford a woman some added attention from friends, families and acquaintances; that only fuels the fire. I want more. I want it all. We’ve all heard of bride-zilla. Is there such a thing as mom-zilla?
How do I keep this in check, while also getting through some of the physical challenges ahead of me in the next three months? I remind myself that billions of women have done this before me. While it is a beautiful thing, a miracle, it is indeed, a common miracle. Keeping this in mind reminds me that 1). I’ll survive all the physical discomfort and 2). yes, it’s special, but other people have lives, too, and their achievements, concerns and feelings still matter.
Or do they?
As my due date draws near, I can’t shake the feeling that it’s all about me, my husband and our little girl. That is what my life is about right now. Is that so wrong?
Reality checks, advice and observations are welcome… What odd feelings and physical symptoms have other moms out there experienced?
