Moving when you're expecting. Separately these two are wonderful experiences. However, combining those two experiences may cause feelings of stress. You need to take care of yourself on top of the moving process, but you do not want to do too much at one time. Use the following tips to make the moving process easier on your pregnancy and your sanity.

  • Ask For Help: The moving process is a lot of work for one person, and it will especially be stressful if you try to do it all while expecting. The first thing you should do is start enlisting the help of your family and friends. They will be more than willing to help you get through the move without increasing your stress. If your peers are unavailable to help with the move, consider hiring a reliable moving company to help you pack, transport and even unpack your items.
  • Start Getting Organized: It is important to keep your anxiety as low as possible while pregnant, and this means throwing the term "procrastination" out the window. Start getting organized by coming up with a to-do list and a shopping list. Stick to just one task at a time and set a realistic deadline so you do not put a lot of pressure on yourself.
  • Start Packing Immediately: You should start packing as soon as the move is set in stone. Start by packing up the things you do not need right now, such as seasonal apparel, extra mugs and toiletries you do not plan to open before the move. You can pack up the items you use often when it gets closer to the moving date. Start weeks in advance because you may only find yourself packing a little at a time. Remember to ask for help and do not lift anything heavy. You never know when something may slip your mind, so be sure to label every box so you can track down certain items.
  • Pack A Comfort Bag: It is no secret that you may be attached to certain items while pregnant, such as a specific snack or cozy slippers. You do not want to come across items that make you feel uncomfortable or sick just to find your comfort items. This is why it is important to pack a bag, or bags, of items that keep you comfortable during your pregnancy. If you're moving when you're expecting then you definately want to pack enough essentials for three days.
  • Research Your Area: Regardless of where you are relocating, it is important to do your homework so you can get a feel of your new neighborhood. You want to track down the market, bank, park, restaurants, veterinarian (if you have pets) and of course, the hospital. Moving to a new home is always easier when you can track down the spots that make up your daily routine.
  • Find a Doctor: If you have to change your healthcare provider, ask your doctor or midwife for recommendations in your new neighborhood. Make sure you have copies of your prenatal file and medical records and start contacting your new doctor or midwife before you even move.
  • Take Care of Yourself: The moving process takes a lot of you, and you have to think of yourself and your baby. Put your mental and physical health in the front seat by making sure to take some time for yourself, from taking a daily nap to scheduling a prenatal massage.
Moving to a new home when you are expecting does not have to be an overwhelming experience. You can make the moving when you're expecting run smoothly by planning accordingly, asking for help and giving yourself room to breathe.