By Sarah Lynos Bonding with BUMP
A . positive pregnancy test . is just the beginning of the loving relationship you will have with your child. As your body begins to change and your due date draws closer, you may feel disconnected from your unborn child. This is normal, considering all the new adjustments and worries you may be facing as a mom-to-be. Give yourself time to bond with your baby. Try these techniques if you want to form a stronger connection with your bump. Speak Up Babies begin to develop hearing during the second trimester and can hear their mother’s voice and heart- beat. Spend time talking or singing to your baby bump. You may notice your baby responding with pushes and kicks. Gently rubbing your belly in response to these movements is another way to bond with your unborn child. Exercise Participating in light exercise can
be a great way to connect with your changing body and bond with your baby. Taking a walk, swimming, or attending a prenatal yoga class can help you stay healthy and refreshed while giving you time to reflect on the miracle of pregnancy. Keep a Photo on Hand Sometimes pregnancy can feel sur- real until you get your first glimpse of your baby during an ultrasound. Ask for a printed photo of the scan and keep it nearby as a remind- er that your baby is growing and changing. You might also consider scheduling a prenatal photo shoot. Seeing your pregnancy captured in photographs can help you appreciate the beauty of this special time. Write It Down Journaling is a great way to record your day-to-day experiences during pregnancy. Write down how you feel, the changes in your body and other observations. These entries can be for you to look back on or for your child to read someday. You
might also choose to write your baby a letter expressing your feelings and excitement about meeting them. Putting your feelings into words can help you process the emotions and adjust- ments that come with preparing for parenthood. Prepare There are many preparations to make before your baby arrives. You will likely shop for clothes, a car seat, a stroller, and a crib, as well as register for and attend your baby shower. These activities can help you get excited about your baby’s arrival. Choosing an outfit for your baby to wear home, decorating the nursery, and planning for life with a newborn can also help you feel more con- nected to your little one. Find Your People Many women find that becoming a mother gives them an instant con- nection with other moms. Reach out to other pregnant women to discuss how you are feeling and what you
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