Mentally preparing for motherhood

It is hard, messy, trying, anxiety ridden, sad, full of scares.....but ohhhh so worth it. They melt your heart, laugh, play, are silly, tell you when you have a big butt and then go but love you. Kids are great and monsters all at the same time. They can piss you off to no avail to turn around and tell you you're the best mommy in the world. There is absolutely no way to "mentally" prepare. Every child is different and so is every mom. You do what works for you guys and the rest kinda seems to fall into place. Take a breathe, ask for help when needed and go your own pace. Good luck momma!!! You got this!

For the birth, it really helped me to keep in mind that it's just a day. One day out of my whole life of getting to be a mom. So even if it's rough, it's one day and then it's done, and you get to go home with a baby, Yay!With motherhood, I try to keep in mind that no one ever died or had childhood trauma from the house being a little messy, or eating spaghetti or sandwiches for dinner sometimes. Kids remember feeling loved and happy and safe. The rest of your parenting beyond that is just details. Good luck!

One thing that really helped me put it into perspective when I went through birth for the first time was to remember that the pain is only temporary. Like, at the end of the day, you KNOW you’re going to make it through with your partner’s and doctor’s help and the pain will stop. And at the end of it all, you get a teeny tiny cute little squeaky baby! I think back to the birth and realize what a small part of my life that was (in terms of time). And to be honest, I enjoy looking back on my birth now. It reminds me how strong I was and how I was able to cope with a really tough situation. When I’m having a long, hard day and it feels impossible to make it, I remember that I went through childbirth and suddenly my day feels a little easier because I know I’m capable of getting through tough stuff. Does your doctor know your feelings about birth? He or she should be able to help you create a plan regarding your pain management while you’re in labor. Many women go through the process with minimal pain after they have an epidural or another form of pain management. The experience IS partially in your control, and your whole outlook on it will be different after you’ve gone through it. Just know that you’ve got this, and you’re going to make it through! I’m wishing you and your baby a safe and amazing birth experience! Good luck!!

Seeing a therapist during my pregnancy really helped with my anxiety. You could even just talk to someone on BetterHelp.com or something

The first few weeks are tough, there is no sugar coating it!The lack of sleep is exhausting, my son was feeding every 2 hours for weeks. Me and my partner were grouchy, tired, moody. You name it, we felt it!But when you look at that little babies face it is all so worth it!My son is 11 weeks tomorrow and I honestly cannot remember what those first weeks really felt like. I mean I remember being tired but he has changed so much already.Just remember to talk to your husband about how you are feeling.I didn't do that and it caused an issue between me and my partner. We are much better now because I have been open about how I feel.Every baby is different and what happens for one family won't necessarily happen for you.Don't be afraid to ask questions.Stay strong, you got this!