Triple Punch🤛
37 weeks pregnant. I experienced a major earthquake at a time when the baby could be born at any moment.
Moreover, I was back at my parents' home for the birth.
What if I go into labor right now?
What if I have to evacuate?
How should I move while taking care of my 4-year-old daughter?
My mind was filled with anxiety.
The moment the earthquake hit
The sudden shaking made my stomach tighten up.
Is the baby okay? Is my stomach okay?...
Combined with the tension, I became more concerned about the tightness in my stomach than usual.
The comfort and challenges of being back at my parents' home
Being at my parents' house gave me peace of mind knowing someone could look after my daughter.
On the other hand, there was a lot of luggage to carry when evacuating, and I couldn't move as I wanted in my pregnant state.
I was constantly anxious, wondering what I would do if labor started right then.
Physical changes I felt after the earthquake
・My stomach started tightening more easily
・I was worried about fetal movement and checked it many times
・I couldn't sleep and felt exhausted
・Even a little tightness made me anxious, wondering if it was labor
I felt that not just the earthquake itself, but the mental tension was also affecting my body.
Things I was glad I prepared
・Keeping my Maternal and Child Health Handbook in a place where I could take it out immediately
・Preparing my hospital bag early
・Discussing evacuation plans with my family
・Confirming the criteria for contacting the hospital
Even if you think it's too early, you never know what will happen in the final month of pregnancy.
To pregnant women in the same situation
After an earthquake, it is very unsettling when your stomach tightens.
I also wondered many times, "Is this labor?"
However, I felt it is important not to carry the burden alone and to consult an obstetrician when necessary.
You cannot choose the timing for disasters or childbirth.
That is precisely why I realize that being prepared, even a little, leads to peace of mind.
I would be happy if this experience could bring some comfort to other pregnant women who are feeling the same anxiety.