How the Pandemic Change my Outlook on Pregnancy and Motherhood

Plantacion Meridienne's Clubhouse

Preparing for childbirth can be joyful and exciting, but COVID-19 restrictions disrupted many women’s prenatal care and forced some mothers to deliver their infants, without their partner or family support.

It was on March this year when my husband and I found out we were pregnant with our little boy who’s due on October. I vividly remember the joy on our faces; my husband’s teary eyes as we both look on the two red lines. It was so magical and precious and we were really excited. Until we got basically locked down in our house due to unending quarantines.

Our simple gender reveal party.

We never imagined this pregnancy would not turn out what we had thought it would be. Experiences like having loved ones not present on some memorable celebrations and rituals that commemorate our transition into parenthood like gender reveal party, baby shower, or inviting grandparents over on the delivery day have not been an option for us during this time. Lockdowns across the country and varying procedures at hospitals and clinics, have created a whole new set of limitations and concerns for new parents like us.

But just like any other parents, we always look for the beauty in it, for the silver linings amidst the pandemic; like greater ability to work from home during pregnancy, and after birth, and sustain a breastfeeding relationship. This pandemic also eased many barriers to telehealth, as health care providers shifted to online visits; this transition benefited moms like me who are still reluctant to make in-person visits.

Morning walking session at the park.

Aside from the fear of Covid-19, first time moms are also affected by stress related to the pandemic. Honestly, we worry so much about catching the virus, transmitting it to our newborn and keeping our child safe during infancy. And this stress is on top of an already high stress load for pregnant women and new mothers.

The good news on top of these all, prenatal stress during the pandemic can be reduced. A robust social support network is critical; friends and family are needed as new parents become exhausted and vulnerable to depression.  Technology – like Facetime, Facebook Messenger video call and Zoom – can be a connector. Joining support groups online for moms is also a helpful way. And I think another one major factor that helps me get through all of these aside from having a support system is having a comfortable and ‘aliwalas’ space --- our humble home and the future abode of our child.

Why having enough space for a dwelling makes it easier for first time parents like us to cope up with this situation?

•  We get to enjoy decorating and setting up the nursery room for our first born. 
• Fresh vegetables and fruits and other basic daily staples can be bought in the commercial area just outside the subdivision
• Whenever I need to catch on some quick exercise, I can worry-free go to the nearest basketball court or garden area inside the community.
• I can comfortably work from home in the other room turned into  personal work station.
• My husband who’s in charge of preparing and cooking our meals on a daily basis enjoys his task on his play area a.k.a kitchen.   
• I, who was not born with a green thumb, also enjoy growing plants on our mini garden area. I already harvested fresh calamansi and malunggay.
• We always find time to watch some good movies/series while snacking our favorite merienda in the living area.
• ‘Abutan ng ulam’ with our friendly neighbors never gets old in our block.
•  We also make it a point to always reach out and spend online ‘kamustahan’ with our family and friends.
•  And of course the comfort of ordering anything online is so satisfying, making all my food cravings delivered right in our doorsteps in just a snap of a finger. So convenient!

And those are just a few from a long list on why it’s beneficial and safe for first time parents having their own home during these times. I couldn’t be more thankful of myself for making this big decision years ago. If I did not take that step, me and my husband and ofcourse our kids would never enjoy this comfort, security and ease despite the pandemic.

Relaxing by the pool area.

I hope soon-to-be parents would take into serious decision making and planning their future home – focusing on their child’s best interest.

See you soon, Baby Zid! Your home is waiting for you.

Thinking of buying your first home? Planning ahead for your future dwelling place as a couple?
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