It’s more than me

‘I always had regular periods, but when three days passed in July without any sign of it, I suspected something big was happening in me,’ says Joy Kemunto and excitedly tells Pregnant more.

When I brought up the issue, my hubby immediately suggested the test kit and, oh! What a joy it was when the good news showed. The following week we visited the gynae who confirmed that we were expectant. This marked the beginning of a sweet journey.

Cravings

Cooked bananas now form a large part of my daily diet and at some point; my husband even had to go looking for them around the estate at 10pm.

As much as I knew most of the greengrocers were closed then, I was not backing out on my request. After a determined search, he spotted one grocer closing his shop and quickly made the precious purchase for me.

Other bananas and finger millet (wimbi) porridge are more delicacies.

My bag is always armed with them. If they run out, life temporarily stops. I actually thirst for the porridge more than I do for water. When my hubby is up to mischief, he hides it to see my desperation.

The dislikes

All forms of flesh have quit my menu. Before pregnancy, I was largely a vegetarian but would do with some fish or chicken occasionally. However, since expectancy, I don’t want to see anything of that nature in my meal.

The changes

I find myself with young women friends now more than before. Their pregnancy and delivery accounts are still fresh and vivid in their heads, which makes us go on and on about the lovely and scary episodes.

My gynaecologist told me humorously to begin taking photos every month, as I was soon to become a little elephant.

This has happened.  Every month comes with a bigger shape, but I am glad my husband likes it. He has even told me he will miss my new size after delivery.

Emotionally, there is this undying desire to be with my husband, just to see him around, having him touch my belly and listening to his stories. People say the baby wants to be with daddy, hut I think it has more to do with my emotions. Whenever the baby moves, I get myself smiling. She makes me think of her dad.

Professionally, I am working harder than ever. I Imagine any form of laziness may be transmitted to my baby—just a thought.

The challenges

The sudden change of diet has spilled over to my husband. He does not get to eat my best food because of my nausea and dizzy bouts, which do not allow me to stay in the kitchen long enough for culinary excellence.

My desire for intercourse has also waned. Thankfully, my husband understands. In fact, he encouraged me to accept it. We manage to work around it though.

Lessons

At the forefront is psychological preparedness. I believe now that after marriage, couples should take at least one year or so to acquaint themselves with each other and learn together what it takes to begin parenting. Secondly, pregnancy comes with its own unique challenges that parents-to-be must prepare to embrace. These include moods, changing priorities, appetite, your body size—to name a few. However, because the situation is temporary, it is best to accept it as so.

I just began buying a baby layette recently and lo! It is money, money and more money. I didn’t know baby-wear would be that expensive. The same applies to motherhood wardrobe. Financial preparedness is key.

Finally, men need to fully understand and support their wives at this time, because it is quite difficult. Love, care and understanding will go a long way in enhancing your lady’s feelings and The baby’s too.

I long for…

Other than my former favourite fish, kuku and popcorns, I long for satisfying make-outs—complete with their menus. Presently it is a one-man show and its terrible for both of us. I cannot wait for the day all this will be over and we can go it carefree again.

Best moments

The pregnancy test kit’s positive result. It was such a turning point for both of us. Daddy gave me one of the most expensive treats in a prestigious city hotel, as a ’thank-you-for carrying-my-baby!’

Another moment was when the scan revealed it was a baby girl. Though we were prepared for whatever gender, both of us wanted a baby girl for a firstborn; followed by a baby boy.

Worst moments

When the vaginal infections translated into blisters, walking became a problem, sitting was impossible. Thankfully, it was addressed promptly and effectively by the doctor.

Then, one morning in my second trimester, I was in the wash room when I saw some spotting, and my heart sank. I woke up my hubby and within no time, we were at the gynae’s. Luckily, a scan revealed no anomaly. I was put on some medication and things normalized.

Plans in place

We want to give our girl the best possible. Therefore, saving for quality education and the like is underway. We also want to nourish her spiritually right from her tender age so that she crows up to be God fearing.

Baby name

Our daughter has one confirmed name so far—Katy. The search for the second name is on.

END:PG30/20-21