Navigating Pregnancy During a Pandemic

Being pregnant during a pandemic is so far from what you probably imagined. I had my daughter at the peak of lockdown in 2020, so I really do understand how tricky and strange it feels. I’ve had a few conversations with couples in my childbirth classes about the whole experience, and wanted to put together a list of things you can do to support yourself to have the best pandemic pregnancy experience possible.

~ There’s a lot about the current situation which we can’t change - choose to focus on what you CAN control Read pregnancy/birth books, do some education classes, find practices like meditation/breathing exercises/connecting with your baby that feel really good for you

~ Find ways to connect with other families/pregnant people - maybe an online Yoga/Pilates class, an online parents’ group, or a group birth education class might give you the opportunity to chat to others going through the same unique experience of growing a baby amidst a pandemic that you are.

~ Find creative ways to document and celebrate your pregnancy from lockdown. Things like maternity photoshoots, baby showers, and even things like going shopping for baby things might be off the table, but you can still find ways to mark this special time in your life. Ask your partner to take some photos of your bump, maybe organise a virtual baby shower, or spend some time doing some DIY bits and pieces for baby.

~ Know that all you feelings are completely valid, and seek whatever support you need. Pregnancy during a pandemic doesn’t look like you imagined, and it’s completely normal and ok to be disappointed and frustrated about it. Express those feelings how you need to, and access services which can help you if you are struggling. (A couple of useful resources you might want to have a look at if you are looking for some extra support: @pandanational @pregnancy_birth_and_baby)

I hope this helps, as always feel free to reach out if you’d like to have a chat!

Laura x