Debunking Plus Size Pregnancy Myths
My name is Jesika and I felt like I should share my story of debunking plus size pregnancy myths.
I am 26 years old, 5โ9โณ and weighed 305 lbs when I found out I was pregnant.
My husband and I had our 1st miscarriage in February of 2013 at 8 weeks. In July/August that same year, I found out I was pregnant again.
Right off the bat, I knew I was going to have a horrible pregnancy just because of my size and not to mention I am bi-polar.
I just knew I wouldnโt be able to work long (Iโm a pre-K teacher). I thought I would gain a massive amount of weight and I just knew I was going to have complications.
Related: Brookeโs Strength: A Plus Size HELLP Syndrome Story
Also, I automatically assumed I would be diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
The first trimester was far from enjoyable because of the fear of losing this one too.
Months came and went with no issues whatsoever, including mental issues or gestational diabetes. I was in better mental shape than ever being pregnant.
I went all the way to 41 weeks, and I worked all the way up to week 39. My entire pregnancy I only gained 15 lbs!
Excuse the nasty hand towel in my pregnancy photo, my husband is a mechanic, lol.
When I was scheduled to be induced I knew there was no way I would have this baby naturally because of my size and prepared myself to have a c-section, my husband was even convinced.
Related: 7 Things To Pack In Your Hospital Bag When Youโre Plus Size
After being induced at 5:00 am on April 12th, I had my 8.8lb, 22in daughter at 8:48 pm that night, vaginally!
Iโm sharing my story to try to help debunk some of these plus size pregnancy myths.
I realize other women are not as lucky as I was to have a normal pregnancy and many do have rough pregnancies.
I want plus size women to realize that your size doesnโt predetermine how your pregnancy will go.
So stay positive and keep your head up!
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Thank you for sharing your story. I am 20 weeks along with my first and I am terrified before each appointment thinking I’m going to hear something about blood pressure or diabetes complications due to my weight. After reading this I felt much better.
Thanks for sharing that Maryrose, I’m sure it will make Jesika happy to hear. Wishing you a beautiful pregnancy and birth.
I am so glad this helped. I was the same way. At each visit I knew they were going to tell me I had high BP and had gained too much weight, but that day never came. Although being pregnant is amazing, it is also super scary, especially when there are so many preconceived complications. Good luck Maryrose and stay positive! You got this
Im so glad I found this site. I am a plus size mom and a bit nervous due to all the negative info regarding plus size pregnancies. its great to know that you can have a healthy and successful pregnancy and delivery at plus size!
thanks for your story.
I’m so glad you’ve found our positive and empowering website.
Thank you for sharing this. I’m 25 weeks pregnant with my first child and I weigh somewhere around 235 pounds. I have a history of depression which has been under control for years. I have been very anxious about the potential for high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and postpartum depression, despite all my appointments thus far being completely normal. This made me feel a little better. I’m glad to have found this site!
Congrats on your pregnancy Michelle!!!! Please listen when I tell you that your body is amazing! Keep eating healthy, remain physically active, and work with a size friendly care provider. Best wishes!!!