Baby time? Let’s Consider Some Important Things First!

Babies can be the most adorable, yet terrifying, creatures to ever crawl the earth. I do not have any children, but have firsthand knowledge from my friend’s first pregnancy. After being married for 4 years, my friend and her husband decided to take on the challenge of creating one of these special little beings. Receiving the positive pregnancy result was exhilarating, but the reality of how their lives were about to change hit hard as they realized how unprepared they felt. Panic set in, and the research ensued. They now have a beautiful three-year-old little girl. While it can safely be said you’re never completely ready for parenthood, my friend shared how she wished that she had paused to consider some of these important things first.

Things to Consider Before Baby Time

The Toll on Your Body

Labor and delivery aside, pregnancy takes a great toll on the human body. A first-time mom may be surprised by the effects of growing a little one in the womb. During my friend’s pregnancy, she continued to remind me of the constant nausea and intense cramps that occurred daily. Fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, and food cravings were also frequent visitors throughout her 9 months. However, don’t lose heart! In today’s day and age, there are plenty of natural remedies to help ease some of the symptoms you might experience during pregnancy.

Finances

The cost of bringing a new life into the world may be a little daunting. There is no question that babies cost money. Research shows that the average cost of a baby’s first year is $12,000. And the monetary expense continues to grow as your child does. It would be wise to examine the numbers and create a budget before embarking on procreation. Take some time with your partner to research options regarding the most cost-effective ways to proceed.

Time Management

Time management is often a struggle for many, but bringing home a baby introduces a new star of the show. While my friend had hoped that bringing their little girl into the world would create more time for her and her husband, this was not the reality. Their schedules revolved around her needs during infancy. It can be difficult to balance work schedules, appointments, and allotted time for your partner amidst your baby’s needs. While it’s important to confront the reality of your new life stage, remember that this is just a temporary season and there are plenty of support groups and community outlets available to ease the transition.

Relationship Dynamics

Let’s face it, going out will never be the same. But that can be ok! Being a new parent can put a strain on any romantic relationship. You will face new challenges as you learn how to adapt and care for the new member of the family. Practicing open communication and spending time with your significant other becomes more important than ever. Undoubtedly, relational change is a major consideration when contemplating when the right time comes for baby time.

I am aware that I have shared a lot of my friends’ personal experiences, but I did so for a reason. My intentions are not to scare or deter individuals away from the parenting life, but rather to inform the reader. I believe that having such information before childbearing would have helped prepare many for what was to come. That being said, my friend loves her little girl and could not imagine life without her. If you find yourself struggling with navigating life with your new family addition, please feel free to reach out to Family Therapy Associates of Jacksonville or find some additional resources like the book, What to Expect When You’re Expecting.