Second Trimester Recap
It is human nature for us to want to stick to regulated timelines and feel the need for structure. Maybe I’m slightly Type A in that way, this could be different for some people. I will say that pregnancy has been a fun challenge in letting go of my strict timelines. There are hundreds of apps and doctors out there that will tell you exactly how your baby is growing, at what rate, and the developmental aspects for each week. The science and miracle of a human life growing is fascinating to learn about in the process, and there IS structure to the development of a human life, but I’ve also learned not to cling so tightly to the human-established checkpoints. It has been the best experience to live in the realization that I am doing the best that I know how, with the knowledge that I have, to nourish myself and the baby. Even with that, it doesn’t feel like I have much control, and that gives me peace. Knowing that our Creator is doing the hard work of growing the human life inside of me. How incredible is the human body!?
That being said, according to my estimated timeline, I am just about to enter the 3rd trimester. Let’s first talk symptoms. I’ve taken on the perspective that we are not victims of our circumstances. We have overcome and Jesus has power over all situations. With pregnancy comes a lot of changes for the mother’s body. I have experienced back and pelvic pain due to the relaxin that is flowing through my joints. In response to that, my muscles have spasms at times and tie themselves in a knot. Even with this, I’ve learned it’s my body’s way of trying to protect and stabilize me at this point in time. I will be thankful for that relaxin come time for birth! Although there were some rough days with the aches and pains, I refused to sit back and let it be. The frustration for me came from knowing that it didn’t have to be this way. I sought help, mainly from a chiropractor. I believe in the healing power of prayer, and sometimes, God sends people and financial resources for us to be able to seek help and find answers from people. Within a couple weeks of regular chiropractic visits, I was mobile again and able to workout.
Workouts have changed drastically since pregnancy, but I’ve learned to listen to my body and see what it needs. After the back issue was resolved, I actually enjoyed moving and building strength in my body again. It had been a while since I felt up to it. Many of my workouts include walking, pilates YouTube videos, and my own strength training circuits with very functional movements and lighter weight. My motivation to keep healthy movement in my life has changed. Now I move and train in preparation for birth and for everything that is involved in raising and keeping up with a child. This doesn’t mean that I compromise everything that I enjoy doing. I just do those things with a different perspective in mind. It all comes down to taking care of my body in a way that honors and glorifies God, preparing it for the responsibilities that God has for me to do.
As far as preparing the house and supplies for a baby, that is a task of its own. I have slowly collected some items already, whether that is secondhand items or generous gifts from people. I have been very intentional with many of the items we choose to use with and on our baby. Investing in higher quality items that will not only last longer, but won’t expose our baby to harmful chemicals in fabrics or products. My research has also proved to me that baby products and accessories are WAY over marketed. Babies don’t need that much stuff. Yes, it is still an investment even for the essentials, but many people recommend products that are either hindering the baby’s development, or are just unnecessary. My plan is to write up a pregnancy/baby resource guide in hopes that the research I have done could help someone else in this stage of life.
Overall, the second trimester has brought more energy and motivation in my work and daily life. The baby is swimming and kicking, reminding me that there is a human life inside of me!! (still seems surreal sometimes) It may sound crazy, but I am actually EXCITED about giving birth to this miracle. The understanding and realization I’ve gained of how God created the female body has built confidence and trust in the process. I look forward to the final few months of preparation for our planned home birth and for setting up our home before the baby arrives. I am always learning and I know that won’t change once the baby is born. This is only the beginning.
