4 Self-Care Tips for Birth Mothers in Oklahoma Adoption Process

By Carl Roth

Taking care of yourself gains a whole new meaning when pregnant and considering adoption. To overcome the physical stress of carrying your child, controlling pressure associated with adoption decisions requires new strategies. Managing the toll on your body and mind will be monumental for your and your baby’s successful outcome. Adoption Choices of Oklahoma can help ensure that every birth mother’s medical and counseling needs are properly met. Your concerns and desires dictate the shape that your adoption journey will take.

Nonetheless, self-care always plays a significant role in successful pregnancies. Every breath you take is an act of care for your child, so it doesn’t simply end when leaving the adoption center. There are many ways to improve the quality of your pregnancy, and diving into them is greatly beneficial. The stress of carrying and placing your baby for adoption can be effectively managed with effort and open-mindedness. 

#1 Keep your body active and healthy during your adoption journey

Many involved in your adoption process will repeat this tip throughout your pregnancy and postpartum stages. Exercise can become more challenging due to your body’s changing conditions. Getting your blood pumping in a safe way for you and your child is extremely important for both of your health. You may be surprised at the number of conditioning options available to pregnant women. Walking, swimming, stationary biking, lifting, and yoga are just some beneficial physical activities birth mothers can utilize. These types of exercises not only benefit both of your bodies but also serve to manage stress. Regular physical exertion releases valuable endorphins, triggering your brain’s “feel good” receptors. Speak to your care provider about safe activities and which ones would be better to avoid. On a related note, paying attention to your diet will also be vital to your pregnancy care. Take the opportunity to explore different recipes that will be beneficial to your body and the baby’s by extension. Nourishing your body in a new responsible way can be a fulfilling act of self-love and care for your unborn child. 

#2 Practicing hobbies (old and new)

Pregnancy is a marathon. Therefore, regular distractions are a welcome addition to your schedule. While you have many more important obligations in your life, keeping some time to enjoy activities is strongly recommended. Find time each week to engage in some of your most treasured hobbies and forget about your pregnancy for a while. It can seem difficult to have “me time” when your baby is growing inside you. However, your mental health is tied to your healthy growth. Give yourself permission to put everybody and everything else on hold while you do something that makes you content. You can also benefit from starting new hobbies during your pregnancy. Some people find greater interest in picking up new activities, especially during new circumstances. Whether it’s sewing, photography, gardening, or drawing, there’s always something new to explore. Let your creativity and passion run free; your baby will still be there when you’re done. 

#3 Start an adoption diary/journal to track your thoughts and feelings

Some pregnancy self-care tips pertain more to expectant birth mothers than others. Chronicling your inner progress through your adoption plan can prove hugely valuable for communicating your needs to your care providers. If you have chosen to receive counseling, putting your emotions into writing can help you better articulate what you’re feeling during sessions. Seeing the ups and downs of your mental state can give you a bird’s eye view of your progress. Don’t share your diary with anyone if you aren’t comfortable, but it’s important to always be honest with yourself while writing entries. Keeping track of your emotion’s effects can be cathartic and therapeutic. Those who engage and record their inner turmoil often find more clarity in their search for solutions. It costs nothing, so try journaling and see how it can improve mental health throughout your unplanned pregnancy. 

#4 Surround yourself with positive energy

Good vibes are an integral part of a good pregnancy and adoption experience. This tip for birth mothers can be relatively ambiguous, but everybody knows what it feels like. You’re facing a challenging time in your life with enough tough decisions to think about as it is. Having to deal with perpetual negativity and toxicity daily makes pushing forward much harder. The people, places, and activities that leave you feeling fulfilled and content are more important than ever. People are most significant, so do whatever you can to stay close to those who exude positivity to you. However, people aren’t the only providers of positive/negative energy. The entertainment you consume can have a surprising impact on your mood. Make a conscious effort to seek out programming that leaves you feeling bubbly and satisfied. Feel good movies and TV also improve your attitude in other aspects. The prospect of putting your child up for adoption is heavy, so having a smile on your face can go a long way to lighten the load. 

Choose an Oklahoma Adoption that Works for You

Between care options from adoption agencies near you and your self-care practices, nothing can stop you from a successful adoption experience. Trying new things while harkening back to healthy old habits will go a long way in alleviating pregnancy stress. This is an important time in your life, and positivity can be found in the process. If you’re still evaluating adoption agencies in Oklahoma, look no further than the one with birth mothers’ best interests in mind. At Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, you and your child’s safe and ethical care is the centerpiece of the adoption process. We want you to be confident that putting your child up for adoption is right for you. Many loving families are waiting for the opportunity to commit their lives to your baby’s care. Adopting in Oklahoma is a journey open to you wherever you come from and whatever you’ve been through. 

Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a private adoption agency licensed by the state of Oklahoma and a leader in the adoption community. We have been assisting birth parents, children, and adoptive families in Oklahoma for over 19 years. Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized adoption experience to all involved in the adoption process. If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.

Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-201-6643 | Email