Unexpected Perks of Being Pregnant: More Than Just Swollen Ankles

Pregnancy can be a challenging experience for many women. The physical changes, discomfort, and hormonal rollercoaster can make nine months feel like an eternity. However, aside from the obvious miracle of growing a human being, there are some unexpected perks that pregnant women might not have considered before. In this article, we will explore ten surprising advantages of being pregnant.

1. The Kindness of Strangers
As soon as someone sees a pregnant woman, they suddenly become more accommodating and considerate. People offer to carry bags, open doors, and even give up their seats. Strangers’ random acts of kindness can be heartwarming and make pregnant women feel special.

2. An Excuse for Getting Out of Anything
Pregnancy can give women a “get out of jail free” card when it comes to attending social events or activities. Tiredness, nausea, and general discomfort can be a legitimate excuse for leaving early or not attending altogether.

3. Bigger Boobs
With pregnancy comes a temporary increase in breast size. For small-chested women, this can be a welcome change, and it might be missed after pregnancy.

4. A Deadline to Get Things Done
Knowing that there is a baby’s due date can motivate women to set deadlines and complete tasks before the baby arrives. The focus and determination that come with impending motherhood can be powerful tools to help women achieve their goals.

5. More Empathy for Others
Pregnancy can come with back pain, among other discomforts. This pain can be challenging to bear and provide pregnant women with a unique perspective on chronic pain. Women who experience this type of pain during pregnancy may have more empathy for others who experience chronic pain conditions.

6. Self-Confidence
Despite physical changes that may be challenging to accept, some women find pregnancy empowering. Knowing that the changes in their bodies are for an incredible cause can increase self-esteem and self-confidence.

7. No Hangovers
While it might be challenging to give up alcohol for nine months, the relief of not having a hangover can be a welcome change. Pregnant women can enjoy waking up refreshed and feeling rejuvenated, without the side effects of alcohol.

8. Seeing a Different Side of Your Partner
Pregnancy can bring out the softer, more emotional side of partners who are usually stoic. Emotional moments like hearing the baby’s heartbeat or discovering the baby’s sex can bring about an unexpected evolution of partners into parents.

9. Realizing Someone Else Is More Important than You
When pregnant, every decision is made with the best interests of the baby in mind. This focus on someone else can be liberating and humbling for pregnant women, reminding them of what is truly important.

10. Feeling Your Baby Kick Throughout the Day
Pregnant women can experience a unique connection with their baby during pregnancy through feeling their baby kick and move. These movements and “conversations” serve as a quiet, intimate moment between mother and child, forging a bond before the baby is even born.

In conclusion, while pregnancy can be difficult, it can also provide unexpected and unique experiences that women might not have considered. It’s important to embrace all aspects of pregnancy, from the physical changes to the emotional and spiritual growth that can come along with growing a human being.