10 Biggest Pregnancy Myths Debunked

As a pregnant lady I remember devouring all the magazines, books, articles about the 'do's and don'ts' around pregnancy and the birth. I got caught up in the 'better not', 'can't, mustn't, won't' world of caution and probably was a doom merchant in the process! My desire for everything to be perfect and for me to be the perfect mother during the pregnancy and beyond was massive. Maybe this added to the postnatal depression that developed? Was part of it because the reality didn't match my expectations? Maybe regardless of all the caution and urge to 'do the right thing' backfired? I am not saying that you should throw caution to the wind and just be reckless and impulsive, but maybe a more relaxed approach might be better for everyone? Be kinder to yourself.

You may find this blog at Nursingschools.net interesting to help ease some worries.
http://www.nursingschools.net/blog/2010/11/10-biggest-pregnancy-myths-debunked/ 

I think we are pushed towards being prepared for the birth but very little to prepare for the huge emotional changes that happen.

I know I have mentioned this book before but I loved it! Lynn Bertrams' 'Supporting Postnatal Women in Early Motherhood' http://www.amazon.co.uk/Supporting-Postnatal-Women-into-Motherhood/dp/1857757335 has some great ideas for topics and discussions to help new mothers acknowledge some of these changes.

Meanwhile I am excited at being Auntie tomorrow night to Sophie, now 8 months, and babysitting whilst her parents and mine go to see 'Blood Brothers' at Liverpool. Those of you who have read my book will realise the significance of this! Sophie is now at the age Dominic was when I was so ill. Spending time with her and seeing that delightful bond she has with her mother is bitter sweet for me because I am thrilled for them but it saddens me that I missed out on the magic of that stage.

It also keeps the fire and passion in me to continue to make early parenthood happier for others.

Elaine Hanzak

www.hanzak.com