Holiday Planning Tips for Pregnant Moms

Here are a few of our holiday planning tips for pregnant women:

Cut back. First and foremost, when holiday planning, slice your "to-do" list in half. The cookies don't all have to be made from scratch. Then, as you're hopping from store to store, and popping from friend to friend, make sure you catch your breath (literally) in between all those holiday errands. Give yourself some "down time," even if it's just resting in the car for a few minutes.

Eat smart … and often. When you go to holiday parties, nibble on crackers to ward off morning sickness which, many pregnant moms unfortunately realize, doesn't just happen in the morning. Eat smaller meals throughout the day, rather than a big holiday dinner in order to keep heartburn at bay.

Be kind to yourself. This is a great time to practice taking care of yourself and setting healthy boundaries. If mom's not healthy, then your family isn't healthy. Additionally, you want to demonstrate to your children how to take care of themselves.

Celebrate selectively. When holiday planning, only accept the invitations that are most important to you so you won't burn out. For those you do accept, limit your activity. For instance, instead of worrying about whether you'll hurt the hostess feelings by leaving a couple of hours before the party ends, remember that your first priority is taking care of you. Even if the celebration is at your home, put your feet up and let others wait on you, instead of you serving them.

Practice accepting help. One of the most damaging myths of motherhood is that you should be able to do it all yourself, and it's a weakness to ask for help. This myth can add to postpartum depression. Start practicing by accepting help—it's definitely not a weakness, it's healthy.

Be gracious (and thoughtful of yourself, too). Many people feel odd as a guest walking in to a party empty-handed. If you're one of those, bring along some sparkling apple juice to the function instead of a beverage you can't drink, like alcohol.

Get support. Hormones and holidays can put your moods on a rollercoaster. When holiday planning, make sure you get the support you need—both personal and professional. A few visits with a qualified therapist to help you through the rough spots can be priceless. If you're experiencing mood ups and downs that get in the way of your daily life, the best step you can take for everyone's sake, including your baby's, is to talk to a healthcare practitioner you trust. You may have pre-natal depression or anxiety and that needs treatment—not necessarily medication, maybe just a solid plan of action so you can feel more like yourself.

Be glamorous. One day you'll be able to wear your favorite sleek, form-fitting glittery dress for New Year's again. For now, celebrate your growth (it's a healthy sign) and dress up in something that makes you feel beautiful. Show off that fantastic baby bump with a tight or loose glittery tip! You glow, girl!