#Health Tips for Pregnant Women

[shreeisspecial]

Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of good health for everyone, but women have unique nutritional needs that change throughout their lives. From adolescence to post-menopause, a woman's body undergoes various physiological changes that require specific dietary considerations. This blog will explore essential nutrition tips for women at different life stages, helping you make informed choices about your diet to support optimal health and well-being.

[tarzantips]

Navigating Pregnancy Fears: Expert Tips for a Confident Mom-to-Be

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also bring a whirlwind of emotions, including fear and anxiety. From concerns about your health and the baby's development to fears about labor and delivery, it's normal to feel overwhelmed.

Here are some expert tips to help you navigate these fears and embrace your journey with confidence,

1. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power. Understanding what to expect at each stage of pregnancy can alleviate many fears. Attend prenatal classes, read reputable books, and consult with your healthcare provider to gain a clear understanding of what’s normal and what’s not.

2. Communicate Openly

Don’t hesitate to share your concerns with your partner, friends, or family. Open communication can provide emotional support and practical advice. Joining a pregnancy support group can also connect you with other expectant mothers who may share similar fears.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Stress and anxiety can be managed through mindfulness and relaxation practices. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and prenatal yoga can help calm your mind and body, reducing overall stress levels.

4. Stay Active and Healthy

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial during pregnancy. Physical activity can improve your mood, boost energy levels, and promote better sleep. Consult your doctor to determine safe exercises and nutritional guidelines for your pregnancy.

5. Plan Ahead

Prepare for the unknown by creating a birth plan and discussing it with your healthcare provider. Knowing your options for labor and delivery can make the experience less intimidating. Additionally, organizing your home and baby’s nursery in advance can provide a sense of control.

6. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If your fears become overwhelming or lead to severe anxiety, consider speaking with a mental health professional who specializes in perinatal care. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable tools to manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

7. Focus on the Present

Instead of worrying about future scenarios, concentrate on enjoying the present moment. Celebrate each milestone and savor the positive aspects of pregnancy. This shift in focus can help reduce anxiety and enhance your overall experience.

8. Create a Supportive Network

Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and healthcare providers. Their encouragement and understanding can make a significant difference in managing fears and building confidence.

9. Embrace Self-Care

Taking time for yourself is essential. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading, taking a bath, or enjoying a hobby, self-care can recharge your emotional and mental well-being.

10. Trust Your Body

Your body is designed to handle pregnancy and childbirth. Trust in its strength and resilience. Rely on the expertise of your healthcare provider and remember that many women have successfully navigated similar fears.

Pregnancy is a unique and transformative experience. By addressing your fears proactively and embracing these expert tips, you can approach motherhood with greater confidence and joy. Remember, every pregnancy journey is different, so find what works best for you and your baby.

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[online-platform24]

5 Best health tips for the pregnant women

Take Prenatal Vitamins: Prenatal vitamins are crucial as they contain essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which support the baby’s development and help prevent birth defects1.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, excessive caffeine, and raw or undercooked seafood12.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important to support increased blood volume and amniotic fluid levels. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day1.

Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and boost mood. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine13.

Get Plenty of Rest: Adequate sleep is essential for both physical and emotional well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and take naps if needed1.

Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is vital for both you and your baby. Do you have any specific concerns or questions about pregnancy health?

[themomjoy]

Nourishing Your Body After Baby: 20 Postpartum Superfoods

Congratulations on your bundle of joy! As a new mom, taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your newborn. Your body has been through an incredible journey, and proper nourishment is key to replenishing your energy levels, aiding recovery, and supporting milk production if you're breastfeeding. Here are 20 powerhouse foods that should be on your postpartum menu:

1. Oatmeal

This humble grain is a postpartum all-star. Oatmeal provides gentle carbs to replenish your glycogen stores and is packed with fiber to keep your digestive system running smoothly.

2. Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of protein, which can help soothe those sore muscles from labor. Look for omega-3 fortified eggs for an extra nutritional boost.

3. Apples

Crisp and refreshing, apples can help clean your palate and provide much-needed fiber and hydration.

4. Chicken Soup

There's a reason chicken soup is a classic remedy – the broth is hydrating and replenishes electrolytes lost during labor.

5. Nuts and Nut Butters

Nuts and nut butters are a convenient source of healthy fats and protein, providing sustained energy for those sleepless nights.

6. Fatty Fish

Salmon, tuna, and other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for your baby's brain development if you're breastfeeding.

7. Avocados

Avocados are another excellent source of healthy fats, which are essential for your recovery and overall well-being.

8. Lean Meats

Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and lean beef provide protein, iron, and zinc to prevent anemia from blood loss during childbirth.

9. Leafy Greens

Load up on nutrient-dense leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. They're packed with folate, iron, and fiber to support your postpartum needs.

10. Yogurt

Yogurt is a versatile postpartum food that provides probiotics to aid digestion and protein for recovery.

11. Beans and Lentils

These plant-based powerhouses are excellent sources of protein, fiber, iron, and zinc – all essential nutrients for postpartum recovery.

12. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in postpartum tissue healing.

13. Berries

Antioxidant-rich berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries provide vitamin C for wound healing and overall immune support.

14. Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread offer energizing complex carbs and fiber to keep you feeling satisfied.

15. Bone Broth

Sipping on bone broth is a comforting way to support tissue repair, as it contains collagen, a key component of connective tissue.

16. Seeds

Nutrient-dense seeds like chia and flaxseeds provide fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for postpartum recovery.

17. Bananas

Bananas are a great source of potassium, which can help restore electrolyte levels after childbirth.

18. Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, which aids in recovery and immune function.

19. Milk

If you're breastfeeding, milk is a must-have for hydration, protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

20. Water

Last but not least, water is crucial for milk production and overall recovery. Aim for at least 96 ounces (or about 3 liters) of water daily. Remember, the key to postpartum nourishment is focusing on nutrient-dense foods rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. These foods will aid in healing, boost energy levels, and support milk production if you're breastfeeding. Nourish your body, and it will nourish your baby. Enjoy this special time with your little one, and don't forget to take care of yourself, too!

[digiahmer]

Top 10 Tips for Practicing Yoga While Pregnant

If you’re expecting a baby, you may be wondering how to incorporate yoga into your pregnancy. Practicing yoga during pregnancy has many benefits - it can help to reduce stress and boost energy levels, as well as improve strength and flexibility. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top 10 tips for practicing yoga while pregnant, so you can make the most of your prenatal yoga practice.

1) Get the all-clear from your GP before you start

It's important to check with your GP or midwife before beginning any exercise routine while pregnant, especially when it comes to yoga. This is because the postures and breathing exercises that makeup yoga can have different effects depending on the individual. Having a medical professional's opinion will ensure you're engaging in safe, beneficial practices. Speak to your healthcare provider about any potential risks so you can make an informed decision about practicing yoga during pregnancy.

2) Join a class led by a qualified teacher

Attending a yoga class led by a qualified instructor is one of the best ways to practice yoga safely during pregnancy. A good instructor can show you how to modify poses and make sure that your practice is tailored to the changes happening in your body. An experienced yoga instructor will know what is safe and beneficial for pregnant women and can make adjustments to the class accordingly. Practicing with an experienced instructor will also help to keep you motivated, encouraged and supported throughout your pregnancy.

3) Listen to your body

Prenatal yoga classes are a great way to learn which poses are safe during pregnancy. While practicing yoga, be sure to pay attention to your body's cues. If a pose is causing discomfort or pain, stop immediately and adjust your position or switch to a different pose. When listening to your body, it's best to opt for gentler movements and take regular breaks. Avoid holding poses for too long, as this can increase your risk of injury. Finally, ensure that you get the all-clear from your doctor before starting any prenatal yoga classes.

4) Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is especially important when practicing yoga during pregnancy. Make sure to drink water before, during and after your practice to keep yourself hydrated. Avoid caffeinated drinks and sugary juices as they can contribute to dehydration. Keeping a bottle of water on hand and sipping throughout your practice can help ensure that you stay hydrated throughout your session.

5) Avoid hot yoga

When practicing yoga during pregnancy, it's important to avoid hot yoga or any class with high temperatures. Pregnant women are more sensitive to heat and can overheat quickly, which can cause problems for the baby. Instead, opt for classes in a well-ventilated space with a comfortable temperature that won't cause you to sweat too much. This will help keep you and your baby safe and comfortable while you practice.

6) Don't push yourself

If you're new to yoga, or pregnant, it's important to take things slowly and not push yourself too hard. Modify poses as necessary, and listen to your body

7) Modify poses as necessary

If a pose doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to modify it. Listen to your body and make whatever adjustments you need to in order to feel comfortable.

8) Use props

Props can be very helpful when practicing yoga during pregnancy. For example, using a yoga block can help you maintain proper alignment in certain poses.

9) Focus on your breath

Breathing is an important part of yoga, and it can be especially helpful during pregnancy. Taking deep, cleansing breaths can help you relax and focus.

10) Relax and enjoy!

Pregnancy is a time to relax and enjoy your body. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to do Advanced poses or to be perfect. Just focus on enjoying the experience and connecting with your baby.

[todayworldnews2k21]

How Air Pollution Affects Pregnant Women And Unborn Babies: Check Expert Tips To Stay Safe

Air pollution poses a significant health risk for everyone, but its effects are especially harmful to pregnant women and their developing babies. Understanding these risks empowers us to take measures to mitigate its impact during pregnancy.  What is Air Pollution?  Air pollution occurs when harmful substances, such as particulate matter and gases, are released into the atmosphere. Common sources…

[capturelifedental]

10 Essential Orthodontic Tips Every Pregnant Woman Should Know

At Capture Life Dental Care, we understand the importance of maintaining good oral health during pregnancy. As a leading dental care provider, we offer a range of orthodontic services designed to help expectant mothers achieve a healthy and beautiful smile for themselves and their baby. 

In this blog post, we'll share tips from our experienced orthodontist that every pregnant lady should know to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile throughout their pregnancy.

Why is Orthodontic Care Important During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect the teeth and gums, leading to a range of oral health issues. Orthodontic care can help prevent these problems and ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout your pregnancy.

Tip #1: Schedule a Pre-Pregnancy Orthodontic Checkup

If you're planning to get pregnant, schedule an orthodontic checkup before conception. This will allow your orthodontist to assess your oral health and identify any potential issues that may arise during pregnancy.

Tip #2: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential during pregnancy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth once a day with floss or an interdental cleaner.

Tip #3: Avoid Sugary Snacks

Sugary snacks can increase your risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues. Opt for healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead.

Tip #4: Consider a Fluoride Mouthwash

Fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. However, always consult with your orthodontist before using any new oral care products during pregnancy.

Tip #5: Don't Ignore Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is common during pregnancy, but it can also be a sign of an underlying oral health issue. If you experience tooth sensitivity, consult with your orthodontist to rule out any potential problems.

Tip #6: Wear Your Retainer (If Applicable)

If you've had orthodontic treatment in the past, it's essential to wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist. This will help maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevent any potential issues during pregnancy.

Tip #7: Consider a Prenatal Orthodontic Checkup

Schedule a prenatal orthodontic checkup during your second or third trimester. This will allow your orthodontist to assess your oral health and identify any potential issues that may arise during pregnancy.

Tip #8: Don't Delay Orthodontic Treatment

If you need orthodontic treatment, don't delay it until after pregnancy. In some cases, orthodontic treatment can be done safely during pregnancy. Consult with your orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

Tip #9: Keep Your Orthodontist Informed

Keep your orthodontist informed about your pregnancy and any changes in your oral health. This will enable them to provide you with personalized care and advice throughout your pregnancy.

Tip #10: Prioritize Your Oral Health

Prioritize your oral health during pregnancy by maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding sugary snacks, and scheduling regular orthodontic checkups. This will help ensure a healthy and beautiful smile for yourself and your baby.

Conclusion

Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is crucial for both you and your baby. By following these tips from our experienced orthodontist, you can ensure a healthy and beautiful smile throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

At Capture Life Dental Care, we're dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care to expectant mothers and their families. Our experienced orthodontist and friendly staff are committed to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.

[shaynly-babieblue]

Managing Stress During Pregnancy: 5 Essential Tips for New Moms

Managing Stress During PregnancyWhy Managing Stress During Pregnancy is Important1. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation2. Engage in Prenatal Yoga3. Prioritize Sleep and Rest4. Maintain a Balanced Diet5. Stay Active with Gentle ExerciseSelf-Care Tips for Expectant MothersWhen to Seek Professional HelpQ: Is it normal to feel stressed during pregnancy?Q: Can stress harm my baby?Q: What are some…

[kids-worldfun]

Family Health Guide: Special Protection for Pregnant Women and Children’s Drinking Water Safety

It is well known that pregnant women need adequate hydration during pregnancy to support fetal development, and children, being in a rapid growth phase, require safe drinking water for their health. To address this issue of water safety, many families opt for water filters with Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. This article explores the role of RO systems in protecting the drinking water health of…

[pregnancycounselors]

Learn about women and heart health including symptoms & prevention strategies. Explore how to maintain a healthy heart through proactive healthcare measures.

[tarzantips]

Pregnancy and Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Well-Being

Since being pregnant is an amazing experience that is full of joy and excitement, there are changes and challenges along the way. Expectant mothers need to put their health first by practicing self-care during this exciting time.

Let's cover and discuss easy yet powerful strategies to guarantee a happy and healthy pregnancy.

Pregnancy and Self-Care during Pregnancy

1. Nutrition (Fueling Your Body and Baby)

Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy. Make sure your diet is well-balanced and full of important nutrients, such as protein, calcium, iron, and folic acid.

Within your meals, include a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, as well as lean proteins. Regular small meals can help stabilize your energy levels and help you manage your nausea.

2. Hydration (Water for Two)

It is critical to stay hydrated when pregnant. Water supports the increased blood volume, helps digestion, and maintains amniotic fluid levels stable.

Try to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, and carry a reusable bottle as a reminder to stay hydrated. This is importance of self-care during pregnancy.

3. Regular Exercise (Nurturing Your Body)

Pregnancy and self-care exercise can reduce discomfort, elevate mood, and enhance general well-being. Take part in low-impact exercises like yoga for pregnant women, swimming, or walking.

Before beginning any new fitness routine, speak with your doctor. Pay attention to your body and change the level of difficulty as necessary.

4. Adequate Rest (The Power of Sleep)

It is hard work growing a tiny human, so getting enough sleep is essential. Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night.

Create a relaxing sleep environment, stick to a nightly schedule, pregnancy self-care products and think about using pillows to support your evolving body. Good sleep is important for both mental and physical health.

Read: Prenatal Yoga - Benefits for Mom and Baby

5. Stress Management (Finding Calm Amidst Chaos)

Stress is a normal part of pregnancy, and it can cause a wide range of emotions. On the other hand, ongoing anxiety can be harmful to both you and your child.

Use stress-reduction strategies like meditation, deep breathing, or mild exercise. Be in the company of a network of friends and family who are there to support you during pregnancy and self-care at home.

6. Regular Prenatal Check-ups (Partnering with Doctor)

Regular prenatal visits are essential for keeping an eye on the mother's and the unborn child's health. Please keep your appointments, talk to the doctor about any worries, and do as they advise.

Frequent tests help in the early detection and treatment of possible problems.

7. Educate Yourself (Empowerment through Knowledge)

Since knowledge is power, being aware of the changes your body is going through can help you feel less anxious.

Read trustworthy pregnancy books, take prenatal classes, and keep up with birthing procedures. Being informed allows you to make decisions that are best for both your health and your child's health.

How does a man feels when his wife is pregnant?

A man frequently experiences a range of emotions when his wife becomes pregnant. Becoming a parent and looking forward to meeting the baby is exciting. Also, some men may experience a little stress or worry, particularly if it is their first child.

They might want to know how being a father will affect them and how their lives will change in general. A man could also feel required to provide for and take care of his pregnant spouse.

All in all, as the couple starts this new and exciting chapter in their lives together, the emotions can vary from excitement and eagerness to a hint of fear.

Do husbands love their pregnant wives?

Yes, most husbands have a strong love for their pregnant wives. Pregnancy can deepen a couple's emotional connection as they travel through this journey together.

 A feeling of love and connection can be developed by the excitement of bringing a new member of the family into the home and the excitement of becoming parents.

In besides attending prenatal visits and actively helping with the baby's arrival preparations, husbands can show their love for their wives through providing support during pregnancy.

While every person and relationship is different, many husbands discover during pregnancy that they have greater respect for their wives because they understand the courage and stamina needed to carry and raise a child.

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[health-and-fitness-care]

Healthy Heart Solution Kit | Health Tips

Healthy Heart Solution Kit | Health Tips Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can dramatically lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which is why maintaining a healthy heart is essential for general wellbeing. This is a thorough explanation explaining the main components of a Healthy Heart Solution. Healthy Heart Solution Kit | Health Tips BuY Now Balanced Diet Lean proteins, whole…

[garbhsanskar]

9 Stages Of Pregnancy, Month By Month: Your Definitive Guide To Pregnancy

[fandom-puff]

Congrats on the 10k!! Can i get a Baby Blurb: Tywin x reader. Where reader is nervous to tell Tywin that she's pregnant. Tywin of course its in heaven with the news

Thank you so much and Omg yes yes yes I got a bit carried away w this one lmao

Warnings: arranged/political marriage, pregnancy, canon-typical ideas surrounding women/a woman’s place/duty of childbirth. Westeros is a patriarchal society basically. Significant age gap (reader is early 20s, Tywin is in his 50s)

Wringing your hands nervously, you straightened the (already straight) cutlery for the fourth time. To say you were nervous was an understatement. Tywin Lannister was not a man to be summoned.

And yet you had done so. His wife, a woman thirty years his junior, had sent Tywin Lannister’s own guard to request his presence in your chambers.

“Lord Tywin Lannister, Hand of the King,” the guard announced as he opened the door, and you stood up straighter, smoothing out the front of your gown.

“My lady,” Tywin said, his brow arched and a bemused smirk on his lips. “This is a surprise,”

You ducked your head under his domineering gaze, and gestured for him to sit, pouring his wine as he sat as though you were a common wench.

“I…” you trailed off, too nervous to quip at your relatively new husband. “I thought it would be nice… I’m sure the Hand’s chambers can get… lonely?”

Tywin let out a short laugh. “Sit, wife. You are not a serving wench,” he said, nodding to your seat (though the idea of you being in his service made his blood run a little warmer). Obediently, you sat down across from him, staring at your own empty goblet, unable to look into his sharp green eyes for more than a millisecond.

“Out with it,” he commanded, though his voice was not cruel. “You clearly wish to tell me something. So do it,”

You stuttered slightly, fiddling with the ruby that hung around your neck. “I… my lord,” you began, before taking a deep calming breath. “I… I have reason to believe that… that I may be with child,”

You bowed your head, unable to look at his face. His chair scraped as he stood, but the slam of the door never came. Heavy footsteps echoed through the room, and he came to your side, tipping your chin up to look at him. “Truly? When did you last bleed?” As your face heated, he shook his head. “I am a grown man, wife, I know the workings of women. When did you last bleed?”

“Before our wedding, My Lord,” you whispered. “I thought the first time I missed my moonblood was… was the change of moving to the capital… but then it did not come again… and I have not bled this moon either,”

Tywin Lannister knelt before you, so you were forced to look down at the Great Lion.

“Then we must get you to the maester immediately,” he insisted. “And to the tailor, I will not have my wife walking around in ill-fitting gowns. And I shall have your chambers moved closer to mine,” You smiled weakly. “Do you feel ill? In pain? You must tell the maester of any hurt, no matter how small. You are carrying my son, now YN, your health and his is paramount,”

You glowed under his gaze and affection, but a worried thought crossed your mind and you bit your lip. “But what if… what if it is a girl?" you whispered, and you expected him to glower at the thought.

"if the baby is indeed a girl, my lady," he began, bringing your knuckles to his lips in a rare display of affection. "then we must simply try again. I will have a son off you, no matter how many sisters he must have first,"

[angel-of-the-moons]

Pavitr x reader where his wife or gf does end up pregnant? Idk maybe one where they find out they are and how they'd react to it, or one where reader has been pregnant a while and they do some...activities.

Canon Events

Pavitr x Wife!Reader

TW/CW: Anxiety, Miguel's Canon Event™ PTSD, Pregnancy, Pregnancy anxiety, baby talk!

Pavitr is obviously aged up in this fic

A/N: I'm going to work through my asks a bit to help take my mind off the grief and stress, so I simply had to make this fluffy. I might make a second part to it where it gets spicy, once I feel better.

🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷

"Wuh-oh." Lyla said, swiping through the pop-up monitors surrounding her tiny yellow frame.

"What is it, Lyla?" Miguel asked, sipping his coffee. His deep chocolate eyes focused on the AI's persona as she squinted at the data.

"New canon event detected, Migs." She said, typing faster than any human could ever fathom.

"Where." He said, immediately setting his coffee down to furrow his brows at her.

Already he could feel his body tense at the news, after what happened with Miles and his canon event, not to mention Miguel's own...

He couldn't handle another mutiny, not when everything had finally been settled back into place, the web repaired and strengthened.

"Whose universe is it? Which one?"

"It's... Pavitr's." Lyla said, her eyebrows rising considerably behind her heart-shaped glasses.

He sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose. Great. What horrible situation did fate have in plan for that particular Spider-Man, now? His Aunty Maya dying? One of his friends? You?

He knew Pavitr understood the importance of canon events, but...

"How bad?"

"Actually it's..." Lyla let out a startled chuckle, tipping her head to grin at Miguel with her crooked teeth. "It's... well, okay, depending on your point of view it could be good or bad, but I think Pavitr might consider this a good one--"

"Lyla..." He sighed, tapping his foot.

"Alright, alright big guy, don't get your panties in a twist." She snorted, "Pulling it up now."

Miguel turned his thick frame to peer at the hologram as an image of you materialized behind him.

It looked like you were in some kind of doctor's office. Judging by the pictures on the wall, some sort of women's health center.

He squinted at the posters, every inch of the room, until his eyes finally focused on you, holding papers in your hand, shaking, the gold band on your ring finger catching the lights above and glinting a little too brightly for his eyes.

Miguel slowly began to circle your image as you read the papers. Your face looked cold and clammy, a bead of sweat trickled down your brow.

Cancer? No, no, Lyla said this was good news, for once.

So, what...

His brows shot up, the creases in his tanned skin deepening as he leaned in to peer over your shoulder at the paperwork.

He rapidly scanned each word. Your flu tests came back negative, no allergens to report, no life-threatening diseases...

But the blood results are what intrigued him.

Estrogen levels were elevated...

As were prolactin and progesterone levels.

Miguel had to step back and let his jaw go slack as he looked at you, holding the papers that, printed at the bottom...

Reported a strong, tiny little heartbeat.

You were pregnant. And judging by the levels of hormones in your system, you were halfway through your first trimester.

He watched as your eyes welled up, fat tears burning hot as they broke over the dam of your lashes, dripping down your cheeks. Your doctor handed you some tissues and rubbed your back, smiling sweetly as she calmed you down.

"I know, I know, honey. It's overwhelming... Just breathe." She coos.

You wipe at your eyes and take a few shaky breaths. "I just... I'm sorry, it's hard to control it all. Ugh, I've been wondering why I've been so moody lately, but my period was late!"

"Mhmm... hormones will do that to a mama." She says patiently. "What will you tell your husband?"

"I think--"

Miguel raised his hand to Lyla to stop the hologram. This was something deeply personal, and it didn't sit right in his gut about this, that he found out before Pavitr...

He pulled up his gizmo and pulled up Pavitr's frequency, his fingers moving a little too fast so he had to backtrack a couple of times.

Finally, the voice to the chipper, younger hero came through.

"Hi, boss! Uh... What's up?" He said awkwardly.

"Go home, Pavitr, I'm assigning someone else to your workload." He said, his tone a bit softer than usual.

"I--whuh--huh?" He could hear the bewilderment in the man's voice as he stammered for a reply.

"Just go home, Pavitr. That's an order."

"I... Eh. Uh. O-okay?"

Miguel sighed as he terminated the connection.

He hoped Pavitr was ready for this.

🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷

"Heee-llo my beautiful wife!" Pavitr called out, dropping his duffel by the door, a bit of a pep in his step as he walked through your apartment to look for you.

Pavitr called your name once or twice, and his brows creased with worry when you didn't respond. Were you out? No... No. Your shoes were by the front door.

He spotted you, sitting at the island in your kitchen, a cup of hot chai in your delicate hands.

You giggled softly as he kissed your shoulder and cheek on excessive pecks and loud "mwah's" before dropping his chin onto your shoulder.

He looked at your social media feed (actually it was some kind of forum that you quickly closed) and chirped, "Whatcha looking at?"

"Oh, just... stuff." You say evasively, squirming in your seat.

"Oh? What kinda stuff?"

"Oh, I..." You say, splaying your hands over an envelope. The logo on the sticker was from your usual doctor's office, and his brows pinched in concern.

"Sweetheart, what's up? You said you had a doctor's appointment today. Is everything okay?"

"W-Well, I... I mean..." You swallow thickly. "It's... I-I mean..."

"Are you okay???" He spun your stool around to hold your shoulders, his big dark eyes wide with concern for you as he scanned your face for any signs of... anything.

"I..." You cast a glance back at the envelope. The words felt like cotton in a dry mouth, choking and unable to utter.

Why were you so nervous about this? You talked about this together, brainstormed the "what-ifs" a million times during late nights, limbs tangled as sweat cooled on your bodies beneath the sheets.

You knew Pavitr would never be... angry about this. With you.

So why was there a nasty pit in the deepest part of your stomach right now?

Pavitr looked at the envelope, and slowly reached out for it, waiting for you to tell him to stop or if you were uncomfortable.

You wrung your fingers together and chewed the inside of your cheek anxiously as you watched him read your papers, mumbling about how everything looked okay.

But...

Then his eyes got to the last page. Your pregnancy test results.

He lifted the paper--almost comically--close to his face.

For agonizing milliseconds that felt like ages, the papers hid his face from view. All you could see was how he trembled, his fists clenching around the paper.

Finally, he lowered them, and those big, beautiful, dark eyes were glistening with tears and his lip was wobbling.

"I'm l--I'm--I'm gonna be a dad?" He blubbered near-incoherently.

"Y.... yes." You peep.

The papers were immediately forgotten as he buried his face into your chest and full-on started to ugly cry, babbling about how much he loved you and how happy he was.

Why on Earth were you ever afraid of how he'd react to the news?

You sniffled and hiccuped, his high emotional rollercoaster hitting you, too.

Immediately, he lifted his snot-covered, tear-stained face to look up at you, and his hands went to your cheeks, wiping your tears away.

"Hey, hey, hey! I love you! I love you so so so so so so so--"

"Pav..." You sniffed.

"Right, right." He muttered lifting his head to look down the hall. The room you two had turned into a room for your sewing projects was across the hall from your room. A little small, compared to yours, but...

"So if we can move stuff around, your machine can come out here, then we can put the crib in there..."

You blink dumbly at him.

"W... wait so you... You're serious? About.... about this?"

Pavitr turns to you with a grin, grabbing a paper napkin from the counter and completely cleaning his face, taking a fresh one and dabbing your tears away.

He kissed the tip of your nose, then your forehead, your cheeks, and finally, your lips.

Pavitr's hands moved low, pressing over your belly ever so gently. His eyes flicked up to yours once again.

"You and this... our little baby, are the most important things in my life." He swears. "I'm never going to back out on either of you."

He kisses you on the lips one more time, pulling away enough to touch your cheek, a grin on his charming, handsome face.

"So! Wanna look at baby stuff online? We can order takeout and chill!"

You didn't know why you were ever worried in the first place.