Thanksgiving and Pregnancy: Here's What You *Can* Do
Thanksgiving and Pregnancy: A "Yes, You Can" Guide
Cara Terreri, LCCE, CD(DONA)
If you Google "Thanksgiving and pregnancy," you'll find pages of articles about the kinds of food, drinks, and activities to avoid on the holiday. Of course, it is important to know what to avoid for health and safety reasons, but constantly hearing about the amount of restrictions placed on a holiday that's all about abundance feels like a real bummer. That's why we wanted to share with you a guide to the many things you can enjoy over the Thanksgiving holiday.
Second helpings. After all, you're kind of eating for two. Plus, it's Thanksgiving -- second (and third) helpings are expected and welcome.
Saying no thanks. On the flip side, if you're dealing with a queasy stomach or just not that into something, you have every right to say, "no thanks."
Time off your feet. No need to feel guilty if you find yourself sitting more than usual this year. Swelling in your feet, lower back pain, and even first trimester nausea all are great reasons to find a comfortable seat and put your feet up. No one will give you a hard time, and if they do, ask them to be more useful and bring you something to drink while they're up.
Extra attention. I know that not everyone loves the extra attention from other people during pregnancy (and that is A-ok!), but for those who do, you can be sure it will come on Thanksgiving day if you're surrounded by family and friends. Whether it's someone giving you a pass to sit out from washing up, an offer to get a drink, a shoulder rub from your auntie, or just lots of extra talk about the baby, try to soak it up and enjoy. If the attention makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up or get up (and leave). You don't have to subject yourself to anything you don't like just because "it's family."
An afternoon nap. Being pregnant is the best excuse to fall asleep after Thanksgiving dinner. Find a nice, quiet bedroom (with a lock) and catch a few winks.
A "get out of jail free" card when you want to go home. Of course, this only works if you're at someone else's house. If you're at your own house, it's perfectly acceptable to call it a night and head to bed, even if your guests are still there. If you're hosting, it's also ok to respect your boundaries and put an ending time on the festivities.
The most comfortable seat in the house. Whether it's for watching football or simply sitting around catching up, hopefully, people will offer you a choice of a more comfortable place to sit. If not, speak up and claim your spot!
Changing up the tradition. If you're just not feeling up to the hoopla this year, it's ok to sit the holiday out -- at home. Or, out to dinner with a loved one if you're feeling it! There's no rule that says you have to go to Grandma's/Mom's/Aunt Sue's annual dinner. It's important to respect and preserve your boundaries and well being, and sometimes that means taking a leave of absence from a family gathering.