Pregnancy: my journey so far, well into 3rd trimester

I am well into the 3rd trimester of my pregnancy, and it is true I haven't talked about it much. I didn't want to alienate people who can't relate to it at all. But I think it's time to open up a little more - after all, this is a huge part of my life now. So here I am.

First Trimester

When I found out I was pregnant, it took me some time to really realize what was going on. To be honest, I wasn't expecting it at all. It was a mix of true deep happiness, and confusion. I didn't tell anyone until quite late into the third month - I felt like living this moment with myself only.

I was very lucky during the first trimester: no real sickness, no nausea. Well, almost. For 2-3 weeks I did feel a bit sick - and it was directly linked to taking the synthetic form of folate (folic acid) that everyone told me to start taking. My body literally rejected this fake substance. The sickness started when I took it and stopped a couple of days after I switched to its natural form, folate. Everyone is different, but it is good to know - and as always, I believe the natural form of everything is the best option.

I was tired but not extremely. My main challenge was mental rather than physical: just accepting what was changing, what it meant for my life. I was deeply happy about it - I just had to accept and work through what it meant.

Second Trimester

The 2nd trimester was an easy and joyful time. Enjoying the moment and the experience, no physical challenges at all. Feeling good, exercising regularly, traveling a lot. Watching my belly grow every week and being proud about it.

I had no special cravings. I ate as usual, with more protein and lots of good fats. Some people are surprised that I have no idea how much weight I put on. Honestly, I don't care. I listen to my body, choose the best food quality I can, rest when I feel like it and challenge myself in the gym when I feel I can do it.

Our society is so weight-focused. People rarely ask how I feel - only how many kilos I've gained. But when you are truly healthy, the questions about weight gain or weight loss simply stop being a problem. Women WILL put on weight during pregnancy, and if they don't, I don't think it is very healthy. Blood volume, lymphatic system - everything increases almost double. We have a new organ: the placenta. Amniotic fluid, and a baby. We should be embracing this miracle of nature, not criticizing or fearing the "side effects."

Third Trimester

I still feel very good, but the big belly is taking a lot of space. Moving in bed has become a workout in itself, and I have to be careful on stairs since I can't see my feet anymore.

But now I can feel the baby moving every day - quite a lot - and that is amazing. Everything is getting more and more concrete and real. My focus this week is finding the best organic cotton clothes and natural untreated wooden furniture I can. I don't want to buy much, just the minimum necessary. I truly believe a baby doesn't need many things, besides lots of love and skin-to-skin contact with both parents.

A Personal Breakthrough

This pregnancy has been an incredible test regarding my past inner struggles, particularly the eating disorder I suffered from for many years. And I am so glad to see I am definitively over it.

I love my body the way it is. The fears and negative thoughts I used to have have truly left me. Nothing is worth sabotaging my mental health and overall wellbeing. Negative self-talk might appear from time to time, but now I am aware of it and know how to stop it early. I know how to avoid bad energies around me. I am confident enough to make the best choices for myself.

No, I am not bothered about the weight I am putting on. No, I am not wondering about cellulite or stretch marks. These are the least of my thoughts right now. All I want is for my baby to grow and develop in a healthy way, in a healthy environment, listening to my piano playing and dancing with me during warm-ups.

To all mothers-to-be: congratulations, trust the journey and trust your body.

To everyone else: whether you wish to get pregnant or not - your body is an incredible gift. Take care of it. For you, for your relationships, for your life.

In Health and Happiness,

Stephanie