So, finally I’m pregnant again. This time around is a little bit more difficult than the first. I’ve been experiencing some issues that I obviously had during my first pregnancy, but they are more pronounced this time around.
- Carpal tunnel-I’m reminded that my first time around I had some minor issues with my fingertips tingling when I would try and twist my hair, so I’d have to take frequent breaks. I didn’t think too much about it because no one ever mentioned that being an issue. This time around once I hit 24 weeks, my left hand and wrist began hurting terribly and I could barely use it. When I went to the doctor and mentioned it, I was told, “Yeah, that’s carpal tunnel. It’s common in pregnancy.” Interestingly enough most of the people I’ve mentioned it to have said they never heard or knew that and were as surprised as I. It has switched from my left to my right hand, and at times I’ve experienced the pain and numbness in both simultaneously. I think that is probably the worst. I was told that it should go away after childbirth, but I was also told that it is a possibility that it will not.
- Boldness of people-I already knew this one, but during my first pregnancy is when it was revealed. People want to comment on your weight (whether you’re losing or gaining). It’s none of your business!!! I really cannot stress this enough. I already have enough body image issues and don’t need your input. If I choose to share that’s one thing, but for the most part, please leave me alone and mind your business. I don’t care if you think it looks like I’m doing well because I haven’t gained much or if you think I’ve gained too much. WORRY ABOUT YOUR OWN BODY. The only reason it isn’t so bad this time around is because of quarantine.
- Pain in the lower extremities-This time around things began aching much sooner. It’s like your body remembers the previous time(s) and is just preparing earlier or something. I don’t know. Either way I find movement a little more difficult this time around especially when it comes to working out. I’m trying to be kind to myself because after all, I am literally growing a new life inside of me.
- Exhaustion-First trimester and last trimester have been the worst. During the second trimester things were pretty smooth. It was actually one of the first signs that lead me to believe that I might actually be pregnant.
- Fear-Whether it’s the first one or another one, it’s scary. Having PCOS has made me very paranoid along the way. You worry about whether or not you’ll be able to conceive, then when it happens, you worry about whether or not you’ll be able to sustain a pregnancy. You wonder what the adjustment will be like trying to acclimated to having a new baby in the house. How will your life change? Will you suffer from post-partum? Will you have all of the help and support you need along the way? There are so many questions that you might have that you won’t really know the answers to until the time comes. There are some questions you don’t even know about in advance. Hopefully when these things come up, you’ll be able to get answers.
All in all, pregnancy and it’s symptoms vary from one person to another and also from one pregnancy to the next. You might become someone you don’t even recognize, but the one thing for certain is that you’re preparing to bring a new life into this world. That in itself is so beautiful. I am in awe of the abilities that the female body has. Even when you feel the weakest and most vulnerable, your body is being so strong and doing something so beautiful. Be kind to yourself along the way, and I hope that others are kind to you too.
Until next time,
It’s Me