Having a baby in the middle of a pandemic was a rollercoaster ride, physically and emotionally. From feeling paranoid about my baby’s well-being due to the COVID-19 pandemic during my pregnancy, to having two of my family members infected with the virus, the situation was terrifying. Fortunately, my pregnancy went well overall.
During the initial weeks after delivery, I was at my mom’s house, which made it easy in terms of the baby’s care and emotional support. Later, I returned to my husband’s home, but my mom could not be with me due to the government imposed lockdown. My immediate relatives also were unable to visit or assist me with the baby. They were all as paranoid as me about catching the virus and, worst of all, risking my infant’s health.
All we could do was talk on video calls. But there were some good things that I was grateful for.
I have always been a go-getter. I like being busy. If it weren’t for the virus, I would still be stressed about my work, going out to buy things for my baby, and hosting family gatherings. The COVID-19 situation slowed everything down. I took things slow and began appreciating the little things, like just spending the afternoon taking a nap with my infant or rejoicing in a warm shower. It felt as if there was more time for my own life with my baby boy, with everything happening around the world.
When it came to my family and friends, it was only natural for them to want to see the newborn child. I was thrilled to have my friends and family meet my baby boy, but we had to make do with FaceTime and messenger calls to do that. Thank god everyone understood my need to avoid meeting in person.
To prioritize my baby’s safety, I avoided taking him out of the house, and I maintained good hygiene at all times. When my husband and brother-in-law caught the virus, all my in-laws and I made sure they stayed isolated. Our helper helped us with groceries and shopping for baby items, so I did not have to go outside. We made sure we disinfected all the things that came from outside. And my family members wore a mask around my baby and me.
During that difficult time, I made sure I was eating well. I kept myself hydrated and slept well to take better care of myself. My mother-in-law helped me a lot. She planned meals for me, helped with taking care of the baby, and gave me advice whenever I was concerned about the baby’s health. It helped me keep a high morale when I talked to my friends and mom.
When it came to guidance on baby and self-care, I received many suggestions from my grandma, mom, and mother-in-law. I researched and read a lot, and the information on the internet was of great help too.
If I had to say one thing to a pregnant woman or a new mom, it is this – please listen to your body, because you know yourself and your body the best. Be kind to yourself, and know that it is okay to feel lonely and ask for help and guidance. It’s not about flaunting perfect motherhood. It is okay to feel nervous. Do not put unrealistic expectations on yourself. Remember, you are only human.
