No more need for speed

If someone had asked me what the biggest surprise that would come from pregnancy I would have never guessed.

For me, it’s been that I no longer speed when driving.

For those that know me or have ridden with me, you know this is a shocking development. I always had taken the speed limit as more of a guide, plus 5 or 7 if I’m being honest. I like to drive and I like to drive fast. I didn’t drive recklessly around others, but when the big highways of Texas are wide open I liked going fast.

But basically the minute we got the positive pregnancy test and certainly once I saw our baby’s heartbeat at 5 weeks and 4 days along, I slowed down. I now go the speed limit. I use cruise control so as not to slip back into my speed demon ways.

Luckily it turns out I’m not alone.

I asked Dr. Kristen Vallery, an OB/GYN on the medical staff at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford, if this is common. Absolutely, she said.

“I remember my first pregnancy,” said Vallery, the mother of two. “I stopped drinking caffeine, worked out every day on the elliptical machine and ate healthier. I think there is a new heightened sense of responsibility because you baby’s life will always be more important than your own.”

Some caution and a healthier approach to life can be good, but if it becomes overwhelming it’s a good idea to mention it to your doctor and discuss your concerns, Vallery said.

What surprises did you find when you got pregnant?

Jennifer Erickson is a Sr. Public Relations Specialist for Texas Health Resources who is 15 weeks pregnant and a bit more cautious these days.