Everyone Has an Opinion About Your Pregnancy
- Tracy Awere
- Nov 2
- 2 min read
The moment you tell people you’re pregnant, it’s as if the floodgates open- suddenly everyone has a story, a warning, or advice they’re certain you need to hear.
Your mum has thoughts on what you should eat. Your friend wants to tell
you about her induction. A colleague swears by a certain hospital. Before you know it, all those voices start blending together and you’re left wondering if you’re getting it ‘right’.
But here’s something for you to remember: you are the expert on your own pregnancy.
When people share their experiences, it’s usually because they care. They want
to help you avoid what they went through or repeat what worked for them. But
their experiences are shaped by their own circumstances, beliefs, and birth
environments, and those might be completely different from yours.
Just because someone else had a difficult birth or loved a particular intervention doesn’t mean that’s what will happen for you. Their story belongs to them. Yours is still being written.
You don’t need to shut people out as some advice may be genuinely helpful.
The key is learning to listen without losing yourself in the process.
When someone offers an opinion, pause and check in with yourself. Does this feel right for me and my baby? Does it leave me feeling calm or anxious? Am I agreeing because it truly fits, or because I don’t want to seem rude?
You’ll often find that your body gives you the answer before your mind does. That quiet knowing is your intuition, and it deserves to be heard.
And here’s the thing: you don’t owe anyone an explanation for the choices you
make. You can say something simple like, “That’s an interesting perspective, but
I’m feeling confident in my plan, ” or “Thanks for sharing. I’ll think about that.”
Sometimes you can just smile and change the subject. Boundaries don’t have to
be harsh. They’re simply a way of protecting your peace so you can stay connected to what matters most: your wellbeing, your baby, and your experience.
Your pregnancy and birth belong to you.
Not your mother-in-law, not your best friend, not social media. You’re the one growing this baby, feeling every kick, and preparing for birth in the way that feels right for you. When you trust yourself, even when it goes against what others think, you’re already stepping into motherhood with strength and clarity.
So take what feels good, release what doesn’t, and keep coming back to your own centre. Because at the end of the day, the only opinion that truly matters is yours.
At The Sankofa Birth Experience, we believe every woman holds the wisdom and
strength to birth in her own way: calmly, confidently, and without apology.
In our classes and workshops, you’re supported in your plans for the birth that feels right for you. You’re never pushed in a particular direction or told what you
‘should’ do. Instead, you’re encouraged to explore your options, trust your
instincts, and make informed choices that align with your values.
Because every birth is unique, and you deserve to feel empowered, respected, and deeply supported in yours.
