“We’ve got orders!” is the common thread around social media this time of year. What happens when I’m PCSing while pregnant and moving overseas? Is it a game changer? How far along can I be before I can move? What if I am high risk? Can I move ahead of my spouse?
There are so many questions to be answered in such a small window of time before packing up and heading to the next duty station.
I wished I could give all of you new moms-to-be a big hug and tell you everything will fall into place. I’ve met many families transitioning from one duty station to another and I understand what you’re going through amidst all the other stressors of moving.
So today I want to be that voice of encouragement.
I know sometimes we feel like our head is spinning and alone in next season of life. The reality of it is, there are some who are alone. They may be very new to the military life or moving overseas with no family to help. Our feet land in unfamiliar territory as we navigate a new area.
We have to find a new provider.
We have to find a home and create our space.
Our feet our swollen and we carry the weight of the world on our shoulders.
What may come easy for a mom who’s not pregnant, is now a little more difficult depending on what stage a mother is at in her pregnancy. I encourage you to take care of yourself during this move:
- Eat well and stay hydrated
- Give yourself permission to relax by taking 30 min at the end of the day to put your feet up and take a warm bath
- Go get a prenatal massage
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Nowadays we are able to connect to people at our next duty station much easier. There are so many people who want to help, especially if you’re pcsing while pregnant.
I encourage you to listen to your body. If you start experiencing contractions, bleeding, severe headaches/swelling, please go see the doctor. If you haven’t been seen by a provider yet, go in to your nearest emergency room. Talk to your doctor or midwife about what to expect and what to look for that is normal vs. abnormal. Try avoiding Dr.Google.
I encourage you to earn to be your own advocate. I’ve met a few moms where all of their prenatal care information is not being passed along. Each location is going to be different. You may find that you have to seen by a civilian provider or your options for care may be very limited.
I cannot stress enough to make sure your paperwork is in order. Having all of your testing, vaccinations, ultrasounds, etc., in place. You’d be surprised what can get lost. It’s ok to ask questions.
I encourage you to take things as they come with grace and balance. I’ve learned through my years as a military spouse and mother some things are beyond our control. Years later we look back and wonder how we ever survived those seasons of our lives. This time in your life will be gone before you know it.
Take a deep breath, sit down, and remind yourself that you’re amazing and strong.
About to hit the road? Check out 10 Sanity Tips for PCS’ing while Pregnant
