Pregnancy can be an overwhelming experience, especially by the time you reach your third. As someone who is navigating this journey for the third time in just over three years, I can confidently say that the charm of pregnancy has long worn off for me.
While some individuals cherish the experience of carrying a child, I find myself wishing it would end sooner rather than later. If one more person advises me to relish this special time, I might just roll my eyes so hard they get stuck!
The notion of enjoying pregnancy baffles me. Your body becomes a public domain, and you’re bound by a strict set of guidelines. Alcohol? Off the table. Sushi? A no-go. Caffeine? Only in small doses. Fish? It’s complicated. And then there’s the plethora of medications you can’t take. The list is endless, and on top of that, I’m juggling the demands of two toddlers.
First Pregnancy: The Honeymoon Phase
During the first pregnancy, everything feels fresh and thrilling. Friends and family shower you with attention, praising your “glow.” You’re encouraged to rest, and monitoring your progress through a pregnancy app becomes a daily ritual. You can’t help but be mesmerized by your changing body, frequently checking the mirror to admire your growing baby bump.
Second Pregnancy: The Shift in Attention
By the second pregnancy, the excitement still exists, but it’s less intense. While offers of help still come, they’re fewer and further between. You’re busy with your firstborn, but the occasional respite is still available. As your belly starts to show sooner than it did the first time, the thrill begins to fade, giving way to fatigue.
Third Pregnancy: Where Did Everyone Go?
Now in my third pregnancy, I often feel like a ghost. Friends and family seem to have vanished just when I could use their support the most. Life is a whirlwind of activities as I chase after my two little ones, leaving little time for self-care or relaxation. When someone asks how far along I am, I often can’t recall, but I can provide my due date if pressed.
The physical changes happen almost immediately, and I have lost control over my bladder—sneezing, laughing, or coughing can lead to a little accident.
Embracing the Chaos
As I approach the final stages of my pregnancy, my concern for appearances has diminished significantly. Comfort has taken precedence over style; if it fits, I wear it—regardless of how mismatched the patterns may be. Flip-flops are my go-to footwear, making it easier to slip them on and off without wasting precious energy.
My hair? It’s usually up in a messy bun, the kind that looks like it survived a tornado. I may look back and wish I had put more effort into my appearance, but at this moment, I simply don’t care.
I feel too large for my own good—too big for clothes, for comfort, and even for basic movements. Bending over to pick something up has become a strategic decision; if it’s not crucial, I might just leave it for my kids or my partner to handle.
Despite all the challenges, I recognize the blessing I have. Soon, I’ll be welcoming our third child into the world, and while not much will change about my attitude, I’ll finally reclaim my body. I can’t wait to enjoy a glass of wine again—this is a long-awaited reunion!
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In summary, while the journey of third pregnancy is filled with exhaustion and less attention, it remains a profoundly rewarding experience. As I look forward to meeting our new addition, I also anticipate the return of my personal space and the simple joys of life.
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