Tips to Navigate Societal Standards and Expectations in Pregnancy

Navigating Societal Standards and Expectations in Pregnancy

August 21, 2023

Hiiii friend,

Having personally experienced many challenges of adhering to societal norms as a woman, it was really tough to learn that pregnancy adds a whole new level of expectations and guidelines. It can be incredibly difficult to have the kind of pregnancy (and motherhood) you so long for, while being bombarded with a slew of opinions and expectations from those around you.

And surprise.. We don't like that. Not. One. Bit. So hereʼs our top recommendations on how to best navigate all the societal standards for pregnancy, in hopes that it gives you some inspiration to experience more of the pregnancy you dreamed of having (and more of the mother you want it to be too).

1. There is No Correct Way to Do Pregnancy

A common theme youʼll see in each of these recommendations is that, regardless of what you do, someone is going to think itʼs wrong. This is your reminder that there is NO RIGHT WAY to do pregnancy. Trust your gut and go with whatever it is that feels right to you!!

Women have an unbelievable ability to connect with their bodies – listen to it! If something feels wrong, then it probably is; if something feels good, lean into it! Also remember that everyone's pregnancy journey is completely unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Even for women who have more than one pregnancy, each can be radically different from the one that came before it. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you. Your body knows best!

2. Your Pregnancy, Your Way

I canʼt speak for all women on this one, but I do know that a lot of us dreammmmm about pregnancy and what it will be like! Similar to the way we dream about our weddings – from what weʼre going to wear, to what we want the nursery to look like – you probably have a dedicated Pinterest board detailing exactly what you hope it will be like!

And however your path to becoming pregnant journeyed you - or how it ends up being along the way (yes, there ma be many things arenʼt in your control) - iiʼs so important to remember that you deserve to get the pregnancy you want, especially with the parts you can control!

Your Pregnancy, Your Way

3. Drown Out the Opinions

Iʼm not sure why, but from the second you announce youʼre pregnant, people are armed and ready with soooooo many opinions on what, how, and when you should do everything (like, everythingggggg!!). From what you can and canʼt eat to the ʻcorrectʼ birthing positions, to even having an opinion on what to name your baby! There are so many opinions out there and it's typically incredibly overwhelming.

So what can you do to prevent it? Unfortunately not a whole lot, other than reminding yourself were perhaps they all coming from. Everyoneʼs experience in pregnancy - or around it - is totally different and just because it worked/was helpful for someone else, doesn't mean itʼs right for you! Be open to what people have to say, and then decide for yourself whether you agree with it or not. Ultimately, take control. This is YOUR pregnancy after all.

Drown Out the Opinions