Journaling in Pregnancy- why and how?

Journaling in pregnancy can help you to “go within”, gather your thoughts and document your journey.

Pregnancy is a very special time…

in many ways. It comes with all sorts of emotions, joys and fears. Your body changes as you grow your baby and you might experience things that you have never experienced before.

Pregnancy is a time of preparation…

Preparation for birth and being a mum. This also comes with different emotions. It might bring up memories or past traumas. Thinking about birth can be exciting but it can also bring forth fear, worry and doubt. A big part of birth preparation is to prepare your mind, to face your fears and get in touch with your instincts.

Pregnancy is an opportunity to “go within”…

Birth is instinctive and pregnancy offers an opportunity to go deeper into your mind and body. As Dr. Sarah Buckley says:

“Taking time for our internal work during pregnancy is important, as it will leave us much clearer for labor and birth.” (1)

Journaling and taking the time to reflect on your emotional state is a great way to do this internal work.

How to journal in pregnancy?

There are two main approaches when it comes to journaling:

• write free form, whatever comes into your mind or

• start with a journaling prompt.

Pregnancy journal prompts:

• Pregnancy milestones and firsts, like the first time you felt your baby move.

• Gratitude list. Write down 5 things that you are grateful for.

• A stressful or traumatic event. Write about an emotional event or memory when it comes up and let journaling help you process it.

• Reflect on your pregnancy:

  • How did you feel when you found out that you were pregnant?

  • What was your happiest pregnancy memory so far and why?

  • Since you are pregnant, what have you learned about yourself?

  • How does “being pregnant” feel like?

  • What do you enjoy most about being pregnant?

  • What are your current thoughts on your pregnancy?

  • What pregnancy symptoms are you experiencing today?

  • What do you wish for your unborn child?

  • What are you most proud of yourself for?

  • What has your partner been most helpful with?

  • What is your favorite part to be alone with your child and thoughts?

  • What helps you relax and calm down?

• Think about birth:

  • What do you know about your own birth?

  • How do feel when you think about birth?

  • What are you most excited about?

  • What are you most worried about?

  • How would your dream birth look like?

  • What are your strengths and how can you use them for birth?

• Think about being a mum:

  • What excited you most about becoming a mum?

  • What frightens you the most about becoming a mum?

  • How is your relationship with your mum?

  • How do you think having this baby will change your daily routine?

(1) Dr. Sarah Buckley, “Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering” p16.