What I Wish I Knew Before Pregnancy: Wisdom from Mum’s in Peterborough & Wisbech Who’ve Been There

Pregnancy is a journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of surprises. No matter how many books you read or how much advice you receive, some things can only be fully understood once you experience them firsthand. I asked real mums what they wished they had known before pregnancy, and their answers were full of wisdom, humour, and heart.

1. The Exhaustion Is Next-Level

“I thought I knew what tired felt like—until pregnancy. The first trimester hit me like a truck, and the third trimester wasn’t much better. No one told me I’d feel like I ran a marathon just walking up the stairs!”

Pregnancy fatigue isn’t just feeling a little sleepy—it’s bone-deep exhaustion. And while rest is important, give yourself grace on the days when even the smallest tasks feel overwhelming.

2. Morning Sickness Isn’t Just in the Morning

“I thought I’d wake up, throw up, and go about my day. Nope. It was all-day nausea, and for weeks on end.”

Morning sickness varies from person to person, and for some, it’s not just confined to mornings. Small, frequent meals, staying hydrated, and keeping crackers by your bedside might help—but if it gets severe, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.

3. The Emotional Rollercoaster Is Real

“I cried over a missing sock. And a TV commercial. And because my husband finished the last piece of cake.”

Pregnancy hormones can turn even the most rational person into a whirlwind of emotions. One moment, you’re laughing; the next, you’re in tears over something small. It’s completely normal—just warn your loved ones in advance!

4. The Body Changes You Don’t Expect

“I expected the belly. I did not expect the swollen feet, the leg cramps, or the random skin changes.”

Pregnancy affects your whole body in ways you might not anticipate. Swelling, stretch marks, weird cravings, and even unexpected hair growth (or loss) can happen. Every pregnancy is different, but one thing is for sure—your body is doing something incredible.

5. Birth Plans Don’t Always Go as Planned

“I had a perfect birth plan written out. My baby had other ideas.”

It’s great to have a birth plan, but flexibility is key. Labour and delivery can be unpredictable, and the most important thing is the safe arrival of your baby. Trust your medical team, and know that no matter how your birth unfolds, you are strong and capable.

6. The Love Is Overwhelming

“I knew I’d love my baby, but I didn’t realize just how deeply until I held them in my arms.”

Despite the exhaustion, the discomfort, and the unexpected surprises, every mum agreed on one thing—nothing prepares you for the love you feel when you finally meet your baby. It makes every hard moment worth it.

If you’re pregnant and feeling unsure, know this: you are not alone. Every mother before you has navigated this journey, and you are stronger than you think. Take it one day at a time, trust your instincts, and savour the moments—because this season, as wild as it can be, is a beautiful one.

Meg x