Christmas can be a busy affair with plans to visit friends and family, attend parties and events and shop until you drop! However, now is not the time to feel like you have to do everything. Try to plan as much as possible and lower your expectations. It doesn’t matter if you don’t buy the perfect gifts this year. Don’t put yourself under pressure at work or at home. If you don’t want to attend something, see someone or be somewhere, just say no. Only choose the occasions you really want to attend and, if necessary, don’t feel bad about cancelling, even at the last minute. We’ve put together some helpful tips to help you make the most of the festive season while you’re pregnant.

Adjust your expectations

Be honest with yourself about what you can comfortably do this Christmas. Maybe last year you hosted Christmas dinner, had the perfect gift for everyone, your house was beautifully decorated, and you took care of the entire festive menu. Don’t feel pressured by your previous self to organize everything this year. Your family and friends will likely be happy to hear that you won’t be exhausting yourself trying to take care of them on Christmas Day. Let someone else take on the Christmas dinner duties, buy only necessary gifts, and choose ready-made treats this year!

Online shopping

Now more than ever, we have the option to avoid the shopping frenzy, especially during the holiday season, so why not take full advantage of it? Arrange all your gifts from the comfort of your couch. Don’t be overwhelmed by the stress of parking, carrying packages, and maneuvering around crowded stores. The same goes for grocery shopping, use a delivery service to do your Christmas grocery shopping this year to avoid the hassle. If you want to take a stroll to the shops to get into the holiday spirit, make sure you don’t overdo it. Keep the walk short and take regular breaks to rest and recharge.

Reduce gifts

No matter how you look at it, you have a big financial change coming your way. Don’t feel bad about cutting back on gift shopping. Give small gifts this holiday season and only include people you want on your list. If you have a large family, try suggesting Secret Santa so everyone gets a gift. You never know who else in the family might be worried about Christmas costs this year, given the current situation. It can be a financial burden lifted off more than one pair of shoulders!

Take care of yourself.

Taking some time for yourself can really help your mood during the holiday season. Make a trip to the salon to get your nails, eyebrows or hair done to give yourself a boost. Or buy a new maternity outfit with Christmas glam vibes. Opt for a relaxing pregnancy massage or do a self-care activity that you enjoy. Whatever you do, it will make you feel a little more in tune with the glow of your pregnancy and the holiday season!

Don't neglect sleep.

Many women feel tired during pregnancy and need more sleep to rest. Don't feel bad if you want to leave a meeting, a table, or if you feel the need to take a break and lie down. Give yourself the opportunity to rest as much as you need and you will be able to enjoy the rest of the day better. After all, when your baby comes, it won't be so easy!

Eat little and often

Give your body a chance to digest smaller meals. This way you will be able to enjoy the festive food without suffering from indigestion or heartburn later. You should also be careful about what you choose to eat. Follow your gynecologist’s nutritional guidelines on what to avoid during the holidays! Not being able to consume alcohol can make the festive season a little more difficult, but you can try a mocktail or a non-alcoholic sparkling drink in a tall glass. This will help you maintain the festive spirit without feeling deprived. 

Stay hydrated.

It's easy to forget to keep your hydration levels up when you're running around in a hurry or out of your usual routine. Make sure you always have water with you, and if you find yourself constantly forgetting, set a reminder on your phone so you're covered.

Listen to your body

Pushing yourself too far during the holidays is definitely a bad idea. Don't be embarrassed if you have to leave a party early, cancel plans, or stray from certain traditions. Remember, you know your body and your baby better than anyone else. If you can't handle a particular holiday plan, just be honest and maybe alternative arrangements can be made. Don't let the pressures of the season make you feel exhausted. 

Travel

Many of us travel long distances at Christmas to see our loved ones. If you’re taking a road trip this year, plan ahead. Plan plenty of stops along the way and never sit in the car for more than 90 minutes at a time. Plan stops to stretch your legs, get food and water, and use the restroom. If you’re planning to travel internationally, consult your gynecologist before booking flights.

A plan for all eventualities

Regardless of your Christmas plans, be prepared for anything that may arise. If you are traveling, consider the nearest hospital, just in case. If you are in your third trimester this is especially important. With all the Christmas preparations, you may have completely forgotten about your hospital bag! Try not to travel far from your maternity hospital and keep your hospital bag in the car, just in case! Remember, baby can come at any time! Make sure you know who to call if you are worried about anything during the holidays. If you haven’t already, add the numbers of your midwife and gynecologist to your phone’s contact list. Make sure your partner or someone close to you has done the same.

No matter what you do this year, Christmas is a time to spend with family. It's a time for relaxation, carefree fun and fun. Don't let the pressures of the season overwhelm you. Allow everyone to take care of you, get you what you need and share in your excitement. Think about how special next Christmas will be when you celebrate your baby's first Christmas!