The side of pregnancy that movies & TV shows don’t show you…

[@Vickie-Bligh]

Well said. What society tends to ignore is that we are all individuals and no two experiences are the same. Every pregnancy is unique, even with the same person. And a glowing, fantasy-filled pregnancy is no guarantee that the next one will be.

[@rudniktheroan]

100%! Someone’s ’not so bad’ experience could be another’s ‘worst experience ever’ - everyone is different and every pregnancy is unique

[@HorseLady1109]

In my opinion, there is no such thing as a “glowing fantastic” pregnancy. It is something that was made up.

[@joy2u748]

HALLELUJAH and AMEN.....you got this !!! Gentle hugs

[@rudniktheroan]

♥️♥️

[@PatriciaCorkell]

I totally agree with you. Bless you for stating what a million women have thought.

[@rudniktheroan]

♥️

[@pc-gt4st]

I’m so proud of you for being honest about what pregnancy truly feels like. I applaud your openness and willingness to share. ❤ You continue to do you, it’s your body’s experience and no two are the same. Sending lots of love and encouragement. ❤❤

[@sfuta2005]

Good for you for standing up for yourself. 100% agree with everything you said. People forget how dangerous and uncertain pregnancy is, even in this day and age. No one has the right to tell you how you should be behaving or feeling. Take care of yourself. Listen to your body. Sending love. 💜

[@rudniktheroan]

It’s terrifying when you still see how many people pass during child birth. And it’s not acknowledged enough. Everyone always assumes ‘that won’t happen to me’ but it could happen to anyone. Your body is going through the most traumatic event it possibly could and so many things could go wrong. The closer it gets the more real those fears become and being told ‘you’ll be fine’ is not a helpful way to ease those worries

[@HorseLady1109]

@@rudniktheroan If you have a brain in your head, of course you’re scared. Fear is healthy; it should not be paralyzing. I wish you a safe delivery and look forward to news of the little one’s arrival. ❤

[@joycegrinstead]

Thanks for sharing your videos. I’ve never been pregnant but I have a rare pain condition in my hands and arms. I’m in pain 24/7 and not many options for treatment. My friends and family know I’m an animal lover. When my body and weather cooperate I go to the zoo, it’s my happy place. Your channel helps me escape for awhile. Your videos are my medicine and I’m sooooooo very grateful. I’m am sending prayers love and hugs. PS Rudnik has his hooves around my ❤️. ❤️🐴

[@rudniktheroan]

Aw I’m so sorry for what you’re going through! Thank you so much for watching though and I’m glad you are enjoying them - sending you our love 💞

[@jillyathon9456]

I am 77. Had a son who is 48. I love him to bits…but…pregnancy is a big job…trying to get through it. Bend over at 9 months and see how far u get…lost cause. I had depression that was misdiagnosed after birth…a nightmare. Pregnant and mowing at lawn 100 yards by so yards ( just 1/4 of lawn), big garden, help hubby on farm, do books, etc. and try to sleep in summer heat. Went to doc at 7 months told him something wrong with baby..had to be very firm to get referral to obgyn…who gave me heck cause I was young, healthy, fit. Baby induced..yuk. Had C-section cause baby had no heartbeat. Had to hold mask over my face as they rushed to save baby. Had cord around his neck. Doc said bluest baby he ever delivered that survived and was not brain damaged…my guardian angel at work there. I should have said “told you so” but too dopey. Having kids is biggest job a woman will ever have but also the most loving, incredible experience. Enjoy your experience..it is a blessing even if tough at times. Oh…had a son, just wait til he is a teen…no sleep then either.

[@brendas5557]

Texas USA 🇺🇸 BLESS you. Your an amazing woman. Your story would make a good mini series. I take my hat off to you. When I start feeling sorry for myself I will think of you & what you have endured. LOVE BLESSINGS PEACE & PRAYERS to you a remarkable woman. 😊❤️🙏✝️ Thank you for sharing your story. ❤️

[@sheilavanduynfote5539]

Oh my word you truly nailed this topic regarding pregnancy!!!!!!!! Hallelujah sweetie❤❤

[@lindamanskey5695]

💥 Oh my dear...where to start. We live in an age where we can post and watch anyone and everyone's daily life and condition. There are MANY out there that lack the maturity and life experience's who are going to offer up countless "opinions", I may even fit that description at times. I know nothing about horses but I'm drawn to your channel because it's really not about horses in my eyes, it's about a journey with a horse and a young couple. So with that being said, if baby is a little heavy, get a support to wear - it helped me. I gained 50 lbs during pregnancy and it took 8 years to lose it, but I was 41. Cut yourself some slack. As long as the doctor is clearing you to ride, ride with safety in mind, but also - sleep when you need a nap, put your feet up when your ankles are swelling. It's not just you now, and it's a huge responsibility that no one else can carry, but learn to let people help. Next month we'll be discussing the fear of delivery. 🙀 Have you started your LaMaze classes yet? This is a special time for you and B - forget everyone else, especially the dirty old men! They're freaks anyway! You do you and just be happy. Holiday time is here - then it's time for baby. You have a lot to do now to worry about what anyone is thinking. Cheers to you both! 💝💥

[@Melmaegwen]

I love your honesty. One of the reasons I don't want to have kids is that I absolute know I would hate to be pregnant. Keep being honest, it's refreshing. Do you, your body, your emotions, your words, your decisions!

[@rudniktheroan]

And I totally understand that! The other side of things is when the world then pressures people who don’t want to have kids - as if your life’s purpose is only that: have kids. Everyone has a right to their own choice and it’s not for everyone!

[@kathleenmcdonald6641]

Awww. The last couple of months can be brutal. Be kind to yourself. It may seem like it will never end, but it does. 🙏you have an easy time. 💖

[@alclubb]

I applaud you for being honest. I suffered severe nausea throughout the entire nine months of both of my pregnancies and lived 6000 miles away from any family so got no help with meals, housework, etc. I guess back then, in the 1960's, before women's lib, I guess we just accepted it all and didn't say much. I am glad you live in a time where you can verbalize everything you are feeling and get support from other women. Good girl!

[@nancykaufman1483]

Well stated! We experience pregnancy in different ways! We need to be kind to ourselves and to others!

[@rudniktheroan]

100%! Everyone handles it differently. Just because it was easy for one doesn’t mean it’s easy for another

[@ckswat77zz51]

Amen!

[@Tiisiphone]

So true! I have 2 children. I wasn' feeling that great during pregnancy: nausea, feeling bloated, back pains, urinary leakage, hemorroids, mood swings and much more. But I wanted children, and would go through pregnancy again if I wanted more. Some women do glow, and others feel unconfortable. There is nothing wrong with it. Kudos for having the courage to tell people it's not a bed of roses.

[@LindaRikkie]

I found it absolutely miserable. You are very brave to talk about it. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@janetmichigander]

I was pregnant twice and they were entirely different pregnancies. You take care and like you said, trust your doctor.

[@norellweiner3341]

Bless you for being so beautiful, brave and honest! The lies we are fed about pregnancy, our monthly cycles and all things being a woman are so incredibly detrimental to our mental and emotional health. They would rather make us feel like freaks and terrible people if we don't feel all rainbows and loving every moment. And like you said we are excited, we are also scared and anxious, nauseous and maybe depressed that day, perhaps struggling with how our bodies and hormones are changing and feeling out of control of our own bodies and the sometimes paralyzing fear of something going horribly wrong. But nonetheless we are anxiously awaiting holding this precious life that we have been cradling and nurturing inside our bodies. The most terrifying and beautiful experience ever.

[@Pielededrac]

I have always admired women going through this adventure of creating life.........Warm hugs to your little family and kisses to Rudnik.........😘😍

[@Sunweaver593]

My first pregnancy was a misery. Second one, a joy. You look wonderful riding. Don’t let others get you down. Baby is probably enjoying the the ride also. You rock!

[@trishgilbert6342]

🤗 Thank you for posting this, and keeping it real.

[@HorseLady1109]

Well said, my dear. I felt all that and more. I hated every second I was pregnant. My babies made it not matter once I had them in my arms. You have told the truth.

[@jillbeck6531]

Well said, your comments brought back lots of memories. Good and bad! You forgot about the people who think it’s fine to rub your belly once you start to show. Why do they think that’s ok??!?!!

[@rudniktheroan]

Oh I cannot stand that! People automatically assume your body is now a free-for-all just because you’re pregnant. I’ve had multiple people TELL me (not even ask but TELL me) ‘post your bump! Show me your bump!’ If you weren’t entitled to see my body before why do you suddenly think you are now??

[@TCFire-i4c]

I am amazed that you can still ride a little! I was not able to at all, even at a walk, it was too painful, and I was only 3 months. This was very hard to accept. Maybe that's why I didn't have more children, but now wish I had 😊 take care, chin up, you will be great parents ❤❤❤ inspite of how everything you said being true!!!!

[@tanou5019]

The fear of losing your child at 12 weeks pregnancy, light bleeding because of emotional stress. I had to face the possibility of being a single mom. When the doctor tells you there’s nothing more to do than to go home, doing self care and wait. And you feel lonely, despite the loving support of your family. And in the loneliness and misery there’s the little spark of a moment you start to connect with the little one and say, we’ll make it through, you and I, regardless of all the rest. Well, today our son is 18, starting his own life, and I’m still with his dad. We both made sacrifices, him moving from another country, so we could be together, and me, staying at home the first year, battling how to be a mom. That’s where you understand the saying “it takes a village to raise a child”.

[@janejdough2230]

HONESTY!

[@N.a.n.c.y-K]

Everyone's pregnancy is different. What helped me toward the end was getting into a pool. The water helped lift the baby and gave my body some relief. Hopefully B is helping you through this. Get your sleep now. You and B will get through all the changes. You've got this, even if some days you think you don't, but that's okay too. Cannot wait to see Rudnik's reaction the to wee one.❤

[@gayle.hampson]

I was one of the fortunates, I had 2, my first was so easy, no sickness or discomfort I gained 12 lbs, but physically lost weight, came out weighing less than going in, 115lbs after. He came 3 weeks early with no issues , my labour and delivery was so fast and easy, no meds and minimal pain, my doc compared me to a cow which made his whole team gasp.. than apologized because he said he meant my hips placement. The second was the total reversal… was induced with meds and hours of labour.. I gained 40lbs and was 125lbs after birth, she was a 5 lb baby.

[@rbrindle1]

I got SO sick of telling my OB that this or that feels bad or sick and him saying, Oh don't worry, that's normal. It's NORMAL to feel this bad? And like you said here, also realizing that you are never going to get your body back, some things change permanently (hemorrhoids, varicose veins, sprung ribs, larger feet, droopy breasts). The one hopeful thing I can tell you about pregnancy is that it actually gets better. Even though your last month you feel like a beached whale, a lot of the painful or sick stuff is over and you start feeling like a really healthy strong beached whale.

[@idellbrown1825]

Tell you what, being pregnant was a nightmare for me. I was so uncomfortable and stressed I thought 9 months was forever!!!! Don't even get me started on the 27 hrs of labor!!!! I wanted someone to kill me, for real. Women who say otherwise are lying through their teeth!!!❤

[@BobDeGuerre]

With my first, aside from the 7m of debilitating nausea, my pelvis separated 2wks before delivery & then healed back crooked, resulting in pelvic floor nerve damage & seven (yes, 7) herniated discs. With my second, I had severe hyperemesis throughout my entire pregnancy, which, when combined with the prior back/pelvic injury made every minute of the almost 36 weeks I was able to carry an absolute hell on earth. My ob broke my water at 36 weeks after I'd lost 5 lbs in 2wks with my second. I came out of the hospital 20hrs later weighing 10lbs less than my before weight, & was so anemic & weak from muscle & bone loss it took me 8wks to recover enough to hang a load of wash on the line. Lucky me- my (now ex) saved up all the laundry for me to do once I "felt better". This was over 30yrs ago & I'm still amazed that I made it through without unaliving anyone. Anyone who insists pregnancy is "always a blessing", or that a "positive mindset" will overcome any "side effects" needs to be wrapped up tightly in a weighted blanket, fed raw chicken, & hooked to a period simulator on 10 for 3 or 4 months...

[@rudniktheroan]

Omg I’m so sorry you had such traumatic experiences! That’s horrible! And not having the support system during such a difficult time makes it so much harder. I’m so sorry that you had to go through all of that 💔

[@lisaellis5213]

Truthful indeed. Three sons here and I hated every pregnancy but loved giving birth and nursing. We are all different and should stop judging each other and just offer support.

[@lisaellis5213]

Ps get a support tube bandage. A great relief.

[@rudniktheroan]

I couldn’t agree more! Reading that you loved giving birth is reassuring though - I’ll admit I’m definitely nervous about that part 🥲

[@sunshinespiritmindfulnessa1355]

I'm so sorry this experience has been this way for you. My daughter-in-law experienced much the same thing. My hormones were something akin to crack cocaine. My body was breaking down in many ways and I started dilating at 5 months, but I was euphoric and feeling no pain. My feelings were not about the pregnancy, but purely about the crazy hormone surge I got. When he was born I was all like, "Please put him back inside me." None of that impacted our relationship, though, and you've got that "I want this baby and I'm going to love this baby with all my great big heart" thing going on. I know it's hard when people say negative things. Just remember that's about THEM, not you.

[@rudniktheroan]

The hormones are INSANE - the random bursts of rage, emotions and tears. And we’re expected to keep it all under control or we look like ‘hormonal b’s’. Pregnancy takes such a toll on your mental health, not just physically and not enough people understand that

[@sunshinespiritmindfulnessa1355]

@@rudniktheroan I absolutely agree. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@brendas5557]

Texas USA 🇺🇸 Your amazing. Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful journey of your life. Your beautiful, intelligent, & your voice is so comforting. I know you & B are going to make wonderful parents. And big brother Rudnik will be great. I’m so sorry people can be donkeys. 🫏 We all have enjoyed your videos. And we all agree your behaving perfectly. Keeping you in my PRAYERS. LOVE & BLESSINGS PEACE & CALM. 😊❤️🙏✝️ 🍁🇨🇦

[@MyzKym]

Thank You for Being Honest and Letting Your Vulnerability be Heard. It is difficult, but i hope you have experienced the joys of it as well. I sincerely hope you are alright and that you are telling B and your Dr all of this too so they can help and support you through the rest of the trimester. Here for you if you need to talk & Praying for You. 🙏

[@sandrafournier8196]

I'm so sorry for your pain, dear heart.

[@a.h.nieuwenhuis1359]

I've never been pregnant, but one of my sisters was. She never mentioned any of that, but it was interesting to read that, and l do believe it. Looking forward to the wee one when he comes.

[@rudniktheroan]

It’s crazy how different pregnancy can be from person to person too. Some will go their whole 9 months and not even know they were pregnant - while others suffer through from day 1 right to delivery.

[@s.k.hofstadter4912]

Portraying pregnancy as if it were nine months of bliss, and ignoring the serious down sides, makes it much easier for male dominated legislatures to dismiss the suffering of women who have been impregnated against their will, and require them to continue to carry the pregnancy against their wishes.

[@rudniktheroan]

Meanwhile 90% of them get a common cold and act like their entire life is ending 💀

[@carriekernel2273]

Honey You hit it on the nail... Now I know I've said be careful riding Rudik. But I truely agree with you. On my 2nd pregnancy I worked 68 hours a week on my feet, 6 days a week. Stick in there my Girlfriend , After he arrives, you will look back and say He was so worth it. ♥♥♥

[@rudniktheroan]

It’s crazy that you could continue working that long! I’ve been off work since 21 weeks (I’m a registered nurses aide) and even working that long at 40 hours a week was just too much physical demand. I definitely have a lot of respect for those who continue working as long as they do ♥️

[@louiseharris7937]

I agree 100%. I felt the same way! If you complain to the doctor they just tell you to drink a gallon of water a day and walk a mile a day. I had 4 children and gained a lot of weight with all of them. My last child weighed 12.5 and it was not a c section. I am only 5 feet tall so I was miserable! I understand and I agree with everything you said. I love them dearly,I just did not like being pregnant. Just think…it is almost over!!! Y😅u😅 will make it and you will be glad you did! ❤❤❤

[@rudniktheroan]

Yesss just over 6 weeks to go! If anything, hating pregnancy just makes me even more excited to hold him once it’s all over 🥲😂

[@margueritepeaden3445]

I was fortunate with my pregnancy that I had no morning sickness and mostly enjoyed it, but not so much the birthing process. Thus one child.😀. But I slept a LOT. Went from using my baby bump as an arm rest to trying to hold it up. My bladder was a trampoline for my son it seemed. Feet, what are those I can’t see them. Mood swings were a given. I was lucky in that I didn’t have too much trouble with people telling me what I shouldn’t be doing. But I’m the type that as long as it wasn’t hurting me or my baby I’d didn’t mind telling people to butt out. It is difficult watching your body change into something you don’t recognize, and the back pain, or leg cramps that come with that changing body. But you are not alone. Sometimes I think people don’t share all the myriad of little things that add up to frustration because they’re afraid no one will want to have a baby if they know it all.😀 Sometimes you just have to remind yourself of the end goal, that prescious little cowboy that’s going to do a whole other number on your heart and your body. No two pregnancies are the same, so don’t let anyone make you feel bad about how you are dealing with yours. It’s like everything else in life, good days and bad days.

[@vlakslee]

Thank you for your honesty. This took great courage.

[@rudniktheroan]

I was really not expecting so many others to feel the same way but I’m so glad I’ve been able to talk to so many amazing woman through this video and see I’m not alone 💞

[@sherrieshatzen3801]

Beautifully spoken.

[@rosevan7845]

Love how watching horse vids about pregnant woman woes makes me vividly remember things I thought I never could. I may have just hit my body has stopped hurting time while my foals, so to speak, are at their prime?

[@TonyGalla-kw4hw]

I loved what you said. It's all true. Women should be able to complain about all the physical changes, discomforts, fears and pain that comes with being pregnant. If women ruled the world, I believe there would be a lot less wars, because just being pregnant for 9 months, then the hours of delivery, then raising children is a huge hapoy stressful time for a new Mom. Women know the value of every life. Good on you for your honesty. I know Rudnik and B understand.

[@rudniktheroan]

Yes! And they should be allowed to do so without shame. Having to hold all that pain and frustration in and not being able to share it with anyone is not healthy and such an isolating feeling. Stop punishing women for being HUMAN - while men act like they’re dying from the common cold and women are expected to smile and keep quiet through 40 weeks of growing a human from our own body

[@Violet316]

When I met my 3rd husband (he had 2 boys., but they were with the mother) right before our wedding he asked his ex if he could have them for a 6-month visit, they were 2 1/2 and the other one was almost 10 months. We went to Texas from Minnesota to pick them up, the conditions they were living in were horrendous. Anyway, we ended up with custody of them, We tried to have a baby, but after 2 years we found out, I couldn't have a baby. So, I always say God gave children but in a different way. We now have custody of our 17 y/o autistic grandson (he is at a 1st grade learning level, and his maturity level is around 8 y/o) his father, our youngest son abandoned him because wife #3 didn't want Matthew. Anyway, stay strong, take care of yourself, and ignore hateful people. I do have 2 pieces of advice, buy a baby mill if you don't want to pay for canned baby food, just remember to not put salt or pepper in it, and the best diaper rash medicine is Boudreaux Butt Paste. Grandmother to 4.

[@npcfigureathletedawnirish691]

I never liked pregnancy but it was absolutely worth it. My three children are the greatest gift I could ever have. No other legacy compares.

[@rudniktheroan]

Even though I haven’t enjoyed the journey I am definitely so excited for the destination ♥️

[@serenityfirefly70]

Well said. I hated being pregnant all 6 times. Its fun when there is a plus sign or 2 lines and when the baby first starts kicking, or the ultrasound. It was NOT a fun experience. BTW you are doing great 💙🩵💙

[@rudniktheroan]

Thank you! I have so much respect for women who can do this multiple times. I’m one of 5 kids myself and I know so many people with 6-10+ kids and I just don’t know how you guys do it so many times. I’d love to have more than one kid but I don’t know how I’d do this again WITH a little one already running around. Mothers truly deserve an award for it 💞

[@julien9335]

Rudnik knows what you are feeling at the moment…he is hugging your soul very gently… he is a true heart horse. Xxx

[@rudniktheroan]

He truly is ♥️

[@Iflie]

My mom puked every day while pregnant with me, I think I got the light nausia trigger from her. It's crazy what your body is doing, the pressure on all your organs and the curve of your spine. I don't think we glamorize it as much here as in the U.S though people care a lot. After the birth you get a home nurse as we know you are in recovery.

[@rudniktheroan]

It’s insane what our bodies go through in these 9-10 months. Definitely not acknowledge enough especially when women are expected to work right through their full pregnancy. I say maternity leave should start THE DAY you find out you’re pregnant

[@Iflie]

@@rudniktheroan Yeah, my mom luckily didn't have to go out to work but while pregnant with me she had a naughty toddler, at least he was quite excited about a sibling. Everyone needs afternoon naps! We had a pregnancy book I liked to read and it also talked about resting a lot and symptoms. The way pregnant women in the U.S work till they are in labour and then get unpaid maternity leave if they are lucky reminds me of those women giving birth in the fields, tying the baby on their back and keeping on farming work. Unrealistic expectations put onto women

[@parkerbrown-nesbit1747]

Virtual hugs. I think it's fantastic that you still can ride so late in your pregnancy!

[@rudniktheroan]

Thank you! Some days I think it’s the only thing holding me together 🥲

[@ingridbond3432]

yes - to all of what you said

[@rudniktheroan]

♥️

[@michellegreen6689]

I really agree with you. Love to you all ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@lorithrower2467]

As stated, every single woman and her pregnancy is different and you seem to be having a difficult time and I'm sorry about that, truIy. I wish you could just disregard the many things that are in your mind, about judgement and looks and all that crap that is dragging you down. Pretend that just over your head is a hand giving the middle finger and only the judgy can see it. 😅 Unfortunately the worst is yet to come and since we aren't sugar coating things, I won't. 😅 Whenever I'm in a bad situation, no matter what, I always think, this too will end. Keep your chin up and all the best, the very best, to you and your husband. ❤❤❤

[@Cora-and-Marley]

WORD !! ❤ This emulates my total experience: Horror Shock Disbelief Crippling nausea Horrible indigestion throughout Insomnia Hip and pelvis pain, Mental health problems of: overwhelm, terror, abandonment, and suicidality. And to all the older people who tried to shame me and invade my personal safe space because you felt so shit about yourself - “FCK U”. please protect Your own safe space With your life ❤

[@rudniktheroan]

💞💞

[@nicolebrunner5956]

Well said💕💕💕

[@jeno264]

😂 exactly. You are exactly where you need to be, go you! 💖

[@JillUdart]

I pray that you have a great pregnancy!! If you live in the US, pregnancy complications have caused several deaths because the doctor WILL NOT TREAT YOU and is afraid to treat your complications to save your baby. I hope you live in Canada.

[@tropicalbluwaters]

I am not discounting what you are saying, but I'm offering you hope. I've known several women who said they absolutely hated being pregnant and then had a second, third, fourth or fifth child. When they actually have their first child, they often decide they want to have more children.

[@randomvielleuse527]

Thank you for this. ❤

[@ckswat77zz51]

I’m so sorry you’re having such a tough pregnancy. I get it. My pregnancies were totally different. Morning sickness with the first, not the next. Brutal heartburn with the second not the first. The criticism of some on how & what you’re doing about weight, food etc. When I was pregnant with my first, my 2 cousins were also pregnant. So of course we talked about everything. Well, I ate salt to taste because my midwife(I had a doc too) told me that the baby was in like a salt brine so it was ok to eat salt to taste. Well my cousins were both told not to touch salt. They both swelled up badly & had preeclampsia. One had to be hospitalized. Everyone was saying you’ll never have a natural birth. Well I did. No drugs at all. Both kids. My hubby definitely got me through my labor. You got this Girl! The joy that overwhelms you when you hold your babe is something I can’t describe. It was amazing. Don’t be so hard on yourself. I can’t wait to meet your beautiful little one. Stay around the people that support you & of course, Rudnik! He’s going to be just as excited as you guys to meet his sibling 🙋🏻‍♀️🐴💕take care. God Bless you & baby

[@ckswat77zz51]

PS. Trust your instincts. If you really feel something is wrong, you don’t leave your doctor until he/she takes you seriously. Some doctors poopoo everything & that makes it worse. Sending positive & loving thoughts your way

[@rudniktheroan]

Thank you for sharing! I’ve never actually heard that about the salt before - I love salt on everything. I’m that crazy person who puts salt on McDonald’s fries 😂 so when my dr told me my sodium was low I was in shock - she actually told me I was totally fine to load my food right up with salt (no complaints here!). One thing I’ve learned is how different all dr’s are when it comes to pregnancy. Some say one thing, others say another and every opinion is so different. Thank you for your supportive words - we only have 6 weeks left to go and I’m hoping to go for a natural birth, no drugs so hearing from someone else who was able to do that is very reassuring 💞

[@ckswat77zz51]

You are so right about the doctors. Not all of course, but the midwives help with what you will feel, how to deal with it, etc. I also found that so many doctors just look at it as one size fits all. My daughter in law(& my son🥰) have 9 beautiful children. Her third pregnancy she had a c section because of problems. Anyway, after that c section they automatically had her set up for a c section with her next pregnancy. Boy did they have a problem with finding a doc that would allow a “normal” birth. But all the rest of the babes were born without c sections. I finally came to the conclusion that so many drs don’t like “natural” because it’s more time & work for them. I’m appalled when my friends kid is having her first & they set up the C-section from the get go. That is crazy. Trust that gut, fight for yourself if needed. I assume you have some type of birthing classes you’re going to. If you’re not getting answers & feeling confidence, try to find midwives that aren’t associated with a hospital. We went to a hubby & wife team that were just awesome in everything you, & your baby will be going through. With my first, it never even dawned on me that my baby will be laboring with me. He’s working just as hard as me. I know being a mom was & is the best, most important job of my life. Even though my kids are married, it still is. Oh, if you are nursing, have a midwife get you ready for that. The reason why I say that is because so many women do have problems with nursing. You can definitely deal with nursing so much better knowing how to prepare ahead. And keep salting to taste😁💕🇺🇸🐴

[@GoblinsMom]

It was no secret I didn’t exactly like being pregnant. For me it was the “perpetual hangover” for the whole 9 months. I was so sick I don’t know how I gained any weight. But I did it 2 more times because it’s the means to the end…

[@rudniktheroan]

‘Perpetual hangover’ actually sounds like the perfect description 🥲

[@yvont3188]

Well said. 💓

[@kalayne6713]

Sending love and hugs. Please, do you and ignore everyone else, especially the romanticised version of pregnancy on social media, like Ballerina Farm and other breeders! Be you and be real, and forget about a birth plan! The baby dictates the birth. Some male experts came up with birth plans, I am sure. If you want to have your baby standing on your head, do so. Pregnancy and delivery are different for every single mother. I was a bloomer during pregnancy, then had three extremely traumatic posterior labours. It is what it is. Nowadays, in some places, there are people to help you debrief about the whole experience. Go gently, dear one. All will be well eventually and take all the time you need, for everything. Blessings from Australia.🩵

[@JoyPeace-ej2uv]

Agreed. I am 68 and being pregnant is uncomfortable.You feel like you are in someone else's body. You do not recognize yourself. Like you are sick. It is no fun and people judging you does not make it any easier. Try doing it while in the military for being judged. You are only allowed to gain X amount of weight while the doctor is telling you what to eat to keep your child healthy. Then you have to lose it after you deliver or face being kicked out of the military. And get back into shape doing push ups sit ups and running a certain distance in the appropriate amount of time while breast feeding (they will tell you they did not authorize you to do that). While in uniform (you must not gain too many sizes or else). Please be kind to yourself. During my first pregnancy we both almost died. For my second child birth we went to a civilian hospital. I alerted the Team of civilian doctors I was very much in favor of a Cesarean if needed. It was not. I now have two lovely grandchildren. You have a lot to look forward to it will be wonderful and worth it in the end. Keep your eyes on the goal and give yourself grace.

[@rudniktheroan]

That is insane! I’m sorry you had that experience, I couldn’t even imagine having all of that pressure on top of being pregnant. I have so much respect for our military’s and I honestly never even thought about being pregnant while IN the military - so much respect to you and thank you for your service ♥️

[@Nancy-mi3xe]

Women friends will often share amongst themselves the miseries of pregnancy. I've heard almos t everything you've said from women I know who had children. Perhaps if men, especially lawmakers, had a clue about this they would show more respect through their lawmaking choices to women and women's healthcare!

[@ckswat77zz51]

I’m so sorry

[@michellen1125]

I agree about pregnancy.....I didnt enjoy the morning sickness!

[@rudniktheroan]

It’s tough! Especially since ‘morning’ sickness can happen at any point in the day! And comes back just as hard - if not worse - in the 3rd trimester 🥲

[@michellen1125]

@ That is so true! The Only thing I enjoyed doing was being with my horse, he made everything seem better. Do you have cravings??? I was so naseous most of the time I could only stand to eat McDonalds cheeseburgers.......anything else made me ill. I have one child as I couldnt imagine going through it all again.....I never had the "pregnancy glow".....if I was glowing it was from the hot flashes I had. But once its over I quickly forgot the 9 mos of misery and it was worth it all.

[@rudniktheroan]

In the first trimester all I could stomach was KD and wal-Mart Raman noodles. Second trimester I didn’t really crave anything specific I just wanted any and all food I saw. Commercials were nightmares because I’d be perfectly fine then see McD and instantly want that. Then I’d see subway and I’d NEED it - followed by DQ or A&W - my stomach was easily influenced. Third trimester isn’t as bad, but I swear I could throw back and nature pack of Oreos or a whole box of Frosted Flakes in a single sitting

[@michellen1125]

@@rudniktheroan The other thing I just thought of was the fact that I never felt well enough to do any house work but had no problem mucking out the horses stall, doing the grooming and feeding. I was too tired to drive to the store but always had enough energy to ride until 2 weeks before delivery. I had to stop because it was too painful to sit in the saddle….felt like I could split in half. My Arab gelding was so gentle and seemed to understand what was going on just like Rudnick gets it.

[@sweetooth65]

TRUTH❤❤

[@Tiewaz]

I had my children in the early 1990's. There were good days and there were bad days. I suppose having gotten a permanent injury while in the Army before then got me used to various levels of miserable that just took different forms while I was pregnant. (Morning sickness is the worst, hands down.) I think anyone who has never been pregnant should keep their opinions to themselves, personally, because it's not their place to gaslight people into believing they are wrong to feel something. You feel what you feel. And I will say, as much as I will agree that pregnancy is a miracle of life and children can be delightful (until the terrible twos and then the tweenage/early teenage years,) I do not find pregnancy attractive. At all. Ever. I felt hideous both times I was pregnant, I just learned to not SAY anything because I always got the "you look beautiful to me," back. Might have been beautiful to others. It was just a necessary phase I had to endure. I don't view pregnant women as unattractive, I just view the pregnancy part as a necessary, temporary phase to bring a life into the world. (However, I have known people who were just not nice or good people. A pregnant state can't fix that.)

[@rudniktheroan]

YES! That is definitely another thing: I’m allowed to feel UGLY! I don’t need you to tell me ‘no you’re not you’re beautiful!’ I just need you to understand how im feeling and allow me to feel that way without making me feel bad for it. Pregnancy may look ‘beautiful’ from the outside but there has been no point in the last 8 months when ive thought ‘wow i look gorgeous!’ because how I feel physically drastically outweighs how I feel I that I LOOK. I’m not attention seeking or asking for compliments. I just want to be heard 😭

[@Tiewaz]

@@rudniktheroan Yeah, I totally understand. It's frustrating when people can't just let us feel what we're feeling. If we could just get it off our chests, how we feel may very well just change on its own. Keeping it bottled up just keeps it around longer, and that's not helpful for anyone. I will warn you the feelings don't go away right away after the little darlings arrive. Because now you have the whole hormone shift kicking in again and you're literally now a deflated balloon and it takes time for the body to reset so you can feel comfortable again. Just remember Rudnik will always think you're beautiful despite being small, only having two legs, no tail, and a squished face (compared to a horse's face, of course.) At least you have a mane.

[@sweetooth65]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@jenniferbrown9077]

I love being a mom. I hated being pregnant. ❤

[@barbarabutterfield2679]

I've never had a baby, but when I was of child bearing age, my twin got pregnant. She was fine but I got the morning sickness🤮

[@rudniktheroan]

Oh that’s wild! I’ve heard of sympathy pains but never sympathy morning sickness - how do I pass this on to my fiancé instead of me? 🥲

[@jackietravis9122]

Dont give those people another thought. Just think of that beautiful baby cowboy.

[@GlmToto]

Well put. I wish for you, the best comfort you can have. Nine months seems like a long time for you right now. It will get better and looking back you will have no regrets. ❤😇🥹

[@rudniktheroan]

The first 7 months went so quickly but since hitting 30 weeks I swear it’s like someone slammed on the breaks 🥲 I’ll be 34 weeks tomorrow and now it feels like we’re in the final crunch and now im starting to get nervous about the next part but I’m so ready to hold baby boy in my arms ♥️

[@gregs-gran2002]

❤❤❤❤

[@sherrithrift6153]

🫂💐😘

[@LawsonLyons-j9b]

If you're a man and you hear this woman talk yes now that she's a woman how beautiful woman and God made it so the only women can have babies and she's just doing her best a man will never know how it feels to be pregnant you may say I know how you feel but he will never know how he feels because he not he cannot have any babies and he will never understand how he feels if you are a man with a family you should be praising these women you're proud of your son because of your wife if not for your wife you would not have any kids so if you have a wife that pregnant make sure that you treat her right

[@monaallen9194]

I wish I could hug you right now.

[@rudniktheroan]

💞

[@SuzanneTheme]

Wait til you get elderly.

[@cathylarkins9949]

Riding a horse while in late stages of pregnancy is a very reckless thing to do

[@rudniktheroan]

You clearly didn’t pay attention here. My Dr is fine with it so take your judgement elsewhere

[@dakdrican]

@cathylarkins9949 i think she knows her body and her horse well and is NOT being reckless at all. Plus she said her doctor said it was fine. You can't compare her to you. Get a life and stop critizing other people's happiness.

[@katastrophicfailure99]

Girl, the only thing you missed was hemorrhoids, and morning sickness that might last the entire 9 months. And this is all before the birth. That's a whole 'nother story. And the all being worth it for the gift you receive is (God forbid) not 100% guaranteed. Love and best to you, it ain't easy, and every pregnancy is different. My morning sickness was especially bad at night, smells made me violently ill or headache-y, I threw up on the street several times in public, I fell asleep anytime I sat down anywhere, but could not sleep at night, I ended up wearing sandals and socks all winter cuz my feet were so swollen, and I was itchy all over from some protein thing I still don't understand, like fire-ant burning itching, not to mention the high blood pressure and micro bladder. 🫂🫂🫂

[@rudniktheroan]

I feel like I missed so many points but yes those are definitely some of the ‘less glamorous’ sides too. The biggest one for me is constantly feeling like I’m struggling to breath. No matter how I sit or lay down, my lungs are always being crushed 😭