A Very Merry Pregnant at Christmas Time

Whether you have just found out you're expecting or are about to give birth, there is no doubt being pregnant at Christmas makes the festive season that bit more special. After all Christmas is the celebration of life and the nativity so there is no season quite as special as Christmas to those couples who are expecting.  

While it may be hard to avoid the social drinking and you may be getting tired quicker in all the hustle and bustle this time of year brings, there are many aspects of this season that fit in perfectly with pregnancy. Midwife Rebecca has chosen just a few to share with you and we would love to hear from you your own favourite aspects of this season.  

1. The cosiness this season brings, together with the time spent with loved ones is sure to release plenty of oxytocin, the love hormone that's so important for pregnancy & birth. So grab those blankets, hot cocoa and put on that soppy Christmas film to give yourself, your baby & your partner that oxytocin boost. While we are on the topic of hormones lets not forget those darker evenings and twinkly lights! Fairy lights make a lovely addition to any birth environment, allowing for an atmosphere that again boosts your oxytocin, so if baby is coming in the next few weeks, maybe don’t put away those fairly lights and consider having them up for labour & birth!  

2. While it doesn’t seem the 3 wise men had the most practical gifts to bring to a new born baby (realistically some nappies & warm food must make a better gift for a postpartum mum), frankincense is actually one of the essential oils that can be used at the end of pregnancy, in labour and postpartum for emotional balance and relaxation.  

3. Finding time for rest, the season really is a busy one, but if you are fortunate enough to have a job that allows for time off around Christmas do get some extra rest, your body & mind will thank you. If you have the kind of work that gets busier this time of year then ask for help as needed and remember you don’t need to do it all, all the time.  

Above all embrace the season, while it may feel and be a different kind of Christmas this year, remember next year you’ll have your bundle of joy to share it with!  

A Very Merry Christmas from all of us here at Positive Birth Malta