December is the most magical stressful month of the year, especially when you weave in being pregnant at Christmas. The packed-out calendars, the never-ending to-do list, and the pressures to do it all can be overwhelming, especially when navigating pregnancy during this season, too!
With the symptoms of pregnancy, like nausea and body aches, you really need to listen to your body and slow down and rest, which is the polar opposite of the modern-day hectic December schedule. Whether you are newly expecting or in the final few weeks of your third trimester, it is completely normal to be torn between wanting to squeeze every little bit of magic out of Christmas and the need to slow down.
Don't worry, we are bringing tidings of good news! With some realistic boundaries drawn out, thoughtful planning and more than a sprinkle of self-care, you can enjoy a calmer festive season. We are here to help guide you through reducing Christmas stress and share practical stress-free festive season tips to support you through your pregnancy at this busy time of year. Soon, you will feel the magic of Christmas again!
Pregnancy At Christmas: The Challenges
Being pregnant for Christmas sounds top-tier magical; however, it can bring its own unique set of challenges. You are already navigating all the emotions and physical changes of pregnancy, plus adding to the mix a busy December schedule, work deadlines (that you can't circle back to in the new year), social events (how many more picky buffets can you take?), plus all the travelling in the dark (when will this winter solstice end?), it can be just too much for you to handle.
Surprisingly, the joyful symptoms of morning sickness, back pain, swollen feet and disrupted sleep do not go hand in hand with the long journeys, the standing for hours with cooking and hosting and the late nights that December brings. On top of the physical symptoms, the shifting hormones add a layer of heightened emotions, making the stress and overwhelm even more intense.
Feeling the pressure to 'do it all' while being pregnant at Christmas is completely normal; you are not alone! Acknowledging your festive limits is the first step to injecting the magic back into Christmas.
Our Guide To Having A Stress-Free Christmas When Pregnant
There is no such thing as a perfect Christmas; however, we can help you have a stress-free festive season that works for you. The following tips should help you reduce Christmas and the stress it entails. To allow you to fully enjoy the festive period in a way that feels manageable during pregnancy, because you are already doing enough, you are growing another life.
Prioritise Planning And Organisation
The most effective stress-free Christmas tip has to be to plan ahead, especially when you're pregnant. Writing things down is a huge relief and will help ease your mental load, as you have enough on your plate already!
Use our pregnancy planner to schedule in your social events and festive prep, to help you stay organised without feeling overwhelmed. Carve out Tuesday and Thursday evenings to sit down to do some Christmas wrapping alongside your favourite reality TV show. Try spacing out your social commitments instead of packing everything into a busy weekend. Also, don't forget to delegate tasks like gift shopping, decorating, or even hosting.
Take advantage of the internet and order your gift and groceries online to help reduce the physical strain and the mental overload of being in busy stores.
Set Boundaries And Manage Expectations
Whilst navigating pregnancy at Christmas (the same applies to next year with your baby in tow too!), setting boundaries is essential. It is okay to say no, thank you, to events or responsibilities that feel too much.
Managing expectations of your friends, family and work colleagues can ease the stress of Christmas and prevent the dreaded guilty feelings looming over you. So let your inner circle know you are more comfortable with shorter visits, fewer social commitments for your calendar, or opting out of hosting Christmas nibbles altogether.
Remember, protecting your well-being this season is not selfish; it is essential.
Plan Celebrations With Your Energy Levels In Mind
Listening to your body is one of the best stress-free Christmas tips you can follow. With pregnancy fatigue, your energy levels can fluctuate from day to day. Make sure you are using your pregnancy journal to map out your celebrations with this in mind.
Make socialising enjoyable by opting for low-key get-togethers over long, late nights in crowded places. Don't feel pressured to stay longer than feels comfortable, take breaks and sit down as often as you can. Remember, taking it easy will ensure you do not burn out before the big day.
Comfort Is Key
Comfort should always be a priority, but even more so when you are pregnant for Christmas. So source that one seasonal outfit that makes you feel glamorous without the restrictive waistbands, like a cosy tartan smock dress (for the ever-growing bump) or a glittery tee you can layer up to prevent overheating.
And of course it wouldn't be Christmas without treating yourself to a pair of snug Christmas pyjamas, for those days lounging around watching cheesy Hallmark movies.
Festive food can also be a little tricky if you're experiencing nausea and heartburn. So opt to eat little and often and avoid overly rich foods. Why not bring your own plate of familiar snacks to the family get-together, to help reduce the discomfort during the big celebrations?
Create And Stick To A Self-Care Routine
Self-care is self-preservation; think of it as an essential part of your day-to-day life. Building a simple routine can help you manage all the stress that comes with the festive period more efficiently.
Self-care looks different to everyone; it may be earmarking 5 minutes to reflect in your pregnancy journal, prioritising early nights, or lunch break strolls in the park. Remember, creating wind-down time in the evenings can help improve your sleep, which we all know is disrupted during pregnancy. So get out that lavender spray just before bed to help create a peaceful zone.
Simplify Gift-Giving And Budgeting
Babies are expensive, so this year set a realistic budget and stick to it; it will ease future financial stress. Why not opt for a shared present or a secret Santa this year with your girls?
If you are short on energy, remember thoughtful doesn't mean complicated gifts. Gift 'time with baby' vouchers, perhaps pencil in a picnic for the spring, give your loved ones something to look forward to in the new year.;
Or if you have been loving your pregnancy journal, why not gift your pregnant friend the joy of calm over chaos, too?
Enjoy The Festive Season Your Way
Take a step back this Christmas, start new traditions. Whether that is more cosy evenings at home or cute strolls through your neighbourhood looking at Christmas lights. There is no 'right' way to celebrate the holidays, especially when navigating pregnancy. Allow yourself to slow down and celebrate the little sparkles of the season.
Remember Your Support Network
Christmas is the season of giving, and if you need to give out some of your responsibilities, do so! Your support network is there for you in times of need, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed with it all.
Asking for help can ease the stress of the Christmas period and remind you that you don't have to take on the full load yourself.
Final Thoughts
Being pregnant at Christmas is both exciting and challenging, but by following the above steps, it doesn't have to be stressful. By planning, setting boundaries, prioritising comfort and embracing support, you can create a festive season filled with core memories.
Remember, this Christmas is all about your well-being, so take things at your own pace. Enjoy every moment of the calm before your magical bundle of joy is here next year.
