LIfe’s everyday challenges don’t take a break during pregnancy. Physical and emotional stress can increase, and you shouldn’t be too demanding on yourself. Try accepting your temporary limitations and find ways to bypass them safely.
Make a list of things you can no longer do around the house
Include everything that causes you discomfort. For example, many pregnant women find it difficult to vacuum and mop the floor due to lower back pain [1].
If you have a cat, don’t forget to add cleaning their litter box to the list [2]. Pregnant women run the risk of developing toxoplasmosis if they handle a cat’s litter box. You should also avoid lifting heavy objects because it is considered risky during pregnancy [3].
With your partner, make a list of the things each of you do now. Then, redistribute the chores to ensure you can avoid those that pose a risk to you while still working as a team.
You should also agree to be flexible in time you may find even light duties challenging because of fatigue, dizziness, or cramps. Let your partner take over for you and get back to doing your part when you feel up to it.
Make a schedule to organize your workload
You can start by taking on the things you enjoy and checking if your partner can do those you don’t like. If you are not much of a morning person ask your partner to handle breakfast. Would you like to have a day off? Then schedule chores and responsibilities by day of the week. Do you hate ironing? Ask your partner to take that on while you do the laundry and folding. If there are things that both of you would like to avoid, try to find someone to help with that.
Hire a housekeeper
If it’s within your means, hire someone to clean your house once a week, twice a month, or whatever you can afford. It will free up some time and give you a chance to unburden yourself both physically and emotionally.
Lower your expectations
One of the best things you can do is to adjust your standards when it comes to cleanliness, order, and organization. The idea is not to let the house become a mess but to let go of overly strict ideals that can stress you out. Set minimum requirements for living conditions with your partner and maintain them to the best of your ability. Take care of yourself and avoid unnecessary burdens.
