3 Things We Aren't Doing This Pregnancy (And Why We Don't Regret It)

As a soon-to-be mom, I had grand plans of doing everything by the book. From tracking my ovulation cycle (which I did... and successfully got pregnant on the first try) to taking prenatal vitamins religiously, I didn't want to leave anything up to chance. However, as I started researching more about pregnancy and parenthood, I realized that not all of these things were necessary, or even beneficial. In this post, I'll share three things we're skipping this pregnancy, and why we think it's the right choice for us.

This might be one of the most controversial decisions we've made. Many friends and family members couldn't believe that we didn't want to know if we were having a boy or a girl. But here's the thing: it doesn't matter! The point of having a baby isn't to have a specific gender, it's to raise a human being with kindness, empathy, and resilience. By not finding out the gender, we're able to focus on what really matters - preparing for the arrival of our child, without any preconceived notions or expectations.

Don't get me wrong, I have wishlists started for a boy and a girl. As soon as we give birth, I anticipate laying in bed and ordering all of the adorable clothes, toys, and accessories I have carefully saved. The thrill of being able to get equally excited over the possibility of having a beautiful little boy or a precious little girl is truly amazing. It fills my heart with joy and anticipation for the precious journey ahead..

This decision was partially inspired by environmental concerns (did you know that disposable diapers can take up to 500 years to decompose?), but also by financial considerations. Even though cloth diapers require a bigger upfront investment, they can end up saving parents thousands of dollars in the long run. Plus, they're adorable! With so many different designs and patterns, cloth diapers are a fun way to express our individuality as a family.

This might be the most controversial decision we've made, as many healthcare providers see prenatal vitamins as a must for every expectant mother. However, after doing some research and talking toour midwife, we've decided to skip the prenatal vitamins altogether. Instead, we're focusing on a nutrient-dense diet that includes plenty of leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean protein, along with targeted supplementation based on the results of my blood work. By taking this approach, we're able to address our specific nutritional needs, rather than guessing with a one-size-fits-all approach.

Ultimately, the decision of what to do (or not do) during pregnancy is a deeply personal one. Each individual is unique, and what might seem unconventional to some is simply a reflection of the diverse dynamics within families. It's crucial to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating this transformative period. As we eagerly prepare for the arrival of our little one, we wholeheartedly embrace our distinct perspective and eagerly anticipate the remarkable journey that lies ahead.