The expansion of social media channels is one of the largest changes that marked the 21st century, allowing people to conveniently connect with others. Our lives are now neatly documented for everyone to see, and it is even common for couples to share information about intimate events like pregnancy and childbirth. As an expecting woman, you might be questioning the fine line between private and public, and the best way you can navigate your pregnancy in the era of oversharing.
The Effect of Social Media
Being pregnant in the era of social media means that you constantly balance between sharing important milestones and maintaining your personal boundaries. On one hand, platforms like Facebook and Instagram act like global villages where you can get tons of support from those who are part of your social media circle. On the other hand, social media tends to set unrealistic expectations that can have a negative effect on the mental health of pregnant women. Being exposed to an endless source of idealized pregnancy images makes expecting mothers question their own behaviour and choices during such a sensitive time. As a result, women experience additional stress and anxiety.
Managing the Information Overload
Choosing what to share is one thing, but facing the abundance of online advice that keeps emerging on social media is a whole other challenge. In order to protect your sanity and peace of mind, you need to be able to filter out unnecessary opinions and find quality pieces of information that can actually help you. First, focus on verified sources where data comes from knowledgeable healthcare professionals. Once you get your facts straight and you have a decent base of credible accounts where you can always find accurate information, you can start connecting with others who share your beliefs and values. That way, your time on social media will be filled with support instead of stress.
Take Control of Your Public Persona
In the digital era, each post is a choice you made on your own, and during pregnancy, it is particularly important to shape your online presence in a way that will protect your privacy and emotional well-being. Start by setting your own digital boundaries and be selective when it comes to sharing. Not every detail needs to be posted on social media, so only publish those you’re comfortable sharing. And if you feel the need to step back from social media and take a break, by all means, do so. As for big announcements, stay in control of the timing. Never post the big news before you’re ready to deal with both the praises and the curiosity that follows.
Avoid Comparison
Comparing your pregnancy with the experiences of others is something that can really take a toll on your mental health. Before you start analyzing your own journey to motherhood and finding faults in it, remember that social media presents the peak moments of people’s lives. You are only presented with the filtered snapshots that others are happy to show. No one shares struggles, concerns, and the common pitfalls that everyone encounters. The full spectrum of the experience is much broader, and instead of comparing yourself with the seeming perfection on social media, learn to embrace your own path with all of its ups and downs.
Take a Mindful Approach
Creating a healthy online presence and being mindful of your habits on social media is the approach that will eliminate all the negative effects of the web during pregnancy. First and foremost, choose your interactions wisely. The only content you should be exposed to is the one that either inspires or educates. Stay away from anything that causes worry or self-doubt. But even when you discover uplifting accounts and individuals, try to limit your screen time. When it comes to sharing, only document with purpose, as your posts will be a kind of testament to the journey you’re going through.
Being present on social media is pretty challenging for expecting mothers, and every woman should approach it in a way that will safeguard her emotional well-being. Instead of comparing yourself to the beautified reality of others, take a realistic approach and create a unique digital experience that will honour the unique experience of your pregnancy.
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