A Sustainable Pregnancy: From Start To Finish
After three miscarriages, terrible doctors, being told I couldn’t get pregnant without a surgery, having the “surgery”, finding out it was pointless, and the span of 6 years, I truly didn’t know if I would be able to get pregnant.
However, The Lord had different plans, and I’m so glad He did.
On May 11th, 2023, the word “pregnant” showed up on the test 4 days after I had missed my cycle.
We were completely shocked, baffled, nervous, yet so so happy.
So here I am, SO excited to be on this journey, and excited to take you along with me as I do my imperfectly best to bring another baby into this world as sustainably as I can :)
So what does that even mean? Sustainable pregnancy?
Here’s 7 ways that I will be doing the best I can to incorporate sustainability into mine!
Eco-Friendly Maternity Clothing: When it comes to maternity clothing, I already have brands in mind for ethical fashion choices. Look for brands that use organic, natural, or recycled fabrics. Consider buying second-hand maternity wear or borrowing from friends or family members who have previously been pregnant. This reduces waste and promotes a circular economy!
Healthy and Sustainable Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is crucial, but it's also an opportunity to make sustainable food choices. Choose organic produce whenever possible, support local farmers, and reduce your consumption of processed and packaged foods. If you live in a place where it’s hard to shop locally(meats, raw milk, fresh produce), incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet is always a great substitute. Just make sure you’re getting all of your necessary vitamins and find yourself a great prenatal!
Mindful Consumption: As you prepare for your baby's arrival, it's easy to for you(and the grandparents) to get carried away with excessive shopping. For some wild reason, I decided to save almost all of the baby necessities that I used for my daughter, so my list of needs is very small. Focus on purchasing essential baby items made from natural and sustainable materials. Don’t worry! You KNOW I’ll be sharing all of my favorite sustainable baby finds soon :)
Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Products: When selecting personal care products such as skincare, body wash, and cleaning agents, opt for non-toxic, chemical-free, and environmentally friendly options. I share a bunch on my instagram as well as my LTK!
Create a Sustainable Nursery: Designing a sustainable nursery is an exciting opportunity to create a healthy and eco-friendly environment for your baby. My go-to is Facebook Marketplace for secondhand, and I love me a good hand-me-down too! If you’d rather buy new, choose furniture made from sustainable materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood. Decorate with non-toxic paints and use organic bedding and textiles. Consider incorporating plants to improve air quality and create a soothing atmosphere!
Eco-Conscious Baby Shower: If you're planning a baby shower, consider hosting a more eco-conscious event. We plan on having a co-ed potluck-type shower, and will have a registry with all of our sustainable baby-needs on it! Use reusable plates, cups, and cutlery instead of disposable ones, or find biodegradeable ones! Decorate with natural materials such as flowers or potted plants, and consider donating any excess items to a local charity.
Nurture Yourself: In the midst of preparing for your baby's arrival, it's important to prioritize self-care and well-being! Visit your favorite non-toxic nail salon, find a masseuse that specializes in prenatal, get yourself outside and in nature, or squeeze in a nap if you can, WHEN you can! People are not joking when they say to nap when you can, because there will be a time where sleep is few and far between. :)
A sustainable pregnancy is an opportunity to make environmentally conscious choices that benefit both you and your baby. By embracing sustainable practices throughout your journey, you can minimize your ecological footprint and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. Remember, every small step you take towards sustainability makes a significant difference!