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Myths and Realities of Pregnancy: A close friend confides in you that she is afraid of pregnancy. She heard that pregnant women experience unpleasant physical (e.g., aches and pains, fatigue, and illness) and psychological (e.g., crying spells and depression) symptoms. She is especially concerned that pregnancy might have a bad effect on her relationship with her partner. What information would you give her about these fears?

I would validate her by telling her that while her fears are very legitimate, because pregnant women do at times experience some unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms that pregnancy can also be the most amazing experience a woman will ever have the blessing to have. The upsides to pregnancy typically far outweigh the downsides to it. When all is said and done, unless complications arise, she will have given birth to who will become the most precious person in her life. When it comes to having a bad effect on her relationship with her partner, I would remind her that if the relationship is good now, that a child could possibly bond them further. Yes, a child can and will interrupt intimate moments and for a short time that area in their life may wane, however, a strong relationship will overcome that period of time.