Pregnant at Thanksgiving
Author: Heather Slee
Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday for many; family, food, and fun. But when you're pregnant, sometimes you're just not the life of the party. Maybe your pregnancy has been great and you've got that "glow" that everyone talks about-good for you! But if you're like the rest of us, here are some tips that can help you survive the holiday.
Super-human smell. One side effect of pregnancy that many women experience is an enhanced sense of smell. Another way to put it is you can tell when your neighbor takes off his shoes from three houses down. And while Thanksgiving is generally full of pleasant smells of turkey and pumpkin pie, even the most delicious odors can become overwhelming, making your stomach churn.
To combat this super-human sense of smell, here are a couple tricks. One, find a candle scent that you still like that doesn't make you feel ill. Then buy a couple and place them strategically around the house. Two, crack a window. If it's cold and people complain, play the pregnancy card and tell them you're roasting like a turkey. Three, if it's really serious, spritz a little fragrance or body spray that you still like into a cloth napkin or handkerchief and keep it in your pocket. Then when a smell hits you the wrong way, you can put it up to your nose.
Another unfortunate side effect is fatigue. Carrying the rolls to the table can wind you. And during get-togethers, you may feel obligated to be the perfect host or the perfect guest, so fatigue can really put a damper on your plans.
But here's the deal: you have a license to nap. Don't be shy or embarrassed about excusing yourself to your bedroom, or if you're celebrating at someone else's home, asking if you could lay down in a guest room or a bedroom. Even just fifteen or twenty minutes can rejuvenate you. You will be much happier and more pleasant to be around if you're well rested and not falling asleep in your mashed potatoes.
Lastly, another side effect you may be experiencing is sensitivity. You know, when someone innocently offers you some ice cream with your pie, and you burst into tears because they forgot you were lactose intolerant? Holiday gatherings of family and friends can be a blessing, but if your hormones are going crazy and you're easily upset, they can be pretty stressful.
If you feel the emotions about to get out of control, here are a couple strategies. First, excuse yourself. Go to the bathroom, step outside, pretend you left something out in the car, take the dog for a walk, etc. This way, you can be alone for a few minutes, take a couple deep breaths, and prepare yourself for the next round. Second, use the buddy system. This buddy can be your husband or partner, your sister, your friend-anyone who you can safely vent to. You can even have a codeword; every time you say "cranberry sauce," meet in the other room for a hug and a quick vent about Aunt Eunice. And third, know the difference between innocent comments and actual jerky comments, and act accordingly. This can be difficult when everything seems nefarious, but use your critical thinking skills. If someone is actually being a jerk to you, stand up for yourself, politely, but firmly.
Keep these tips in mind when you prepare for your Thanksgiving celebration. And remember, even if it is stressful, be thankful to have your loved ones near and try to cut them a little slack, too. And if that doesn't work, just keep telling yourself it's only one day!
