Pregnant abroad

 "The real feeling that you're actually carrying a life inside you is priceless."

My first clue that something was different came when I felt uneasy and paranoid that maybe I am pregnant. After 2 weeks, I told my husband to buy a pregnancy test to really find out the real score. Excited and nervous to be pregnant in a foreign country, I wondered what a mountain of responsibility I'd have to provide in 9 months, what the medical system in Norway would be like, and if I can keep my work on my present job since I just started working as 100% in a new company. Being pregnant in a foreign country is the ultimate way of "going native," the most "authentic" experience you can have. It's also challenging, sometimes scary, and limits what you can do, but this new experience is a great way for me to discover new culture, their hospitality, and traditions. Once I confirmed that I was in fact pregnant, I noticed how child-friendly Norway is, though not without challenges for the expecting expat. On my first visit on my jordmor (midwife), I listened to my baby's heartbeat for the first time. It brought tears to my eyes knowing that my baby is alive and thriving at 17 weeks! It was the most amazing feeling because the real feeling that you're actually carrying a life inside you is priceless. Plus she gave me lots of pregnancy book written in Norwegian language. Buying maternity clothes are limited. Monthly blood test and visit to the doctor is totally free of charge. Norwegians treat pregnant women with the utmost respect and care.

I found out my baby's sex at 18.5 weeks via ultra sound. I think every woman hopes for a little girl, I was no exception. I really wanted a girl since I already have an adorable boy. After the tech checked everything else (arms, legs, head size, tummy, etc..) FINALLY when she showed us on the monitor the gender and confirmed that "IT'S A BABY GIRL!", I literally screamed "Thank you Lord". This is what my husband and I both wanted, and we couldn't be more thrilled and emotional. We can't wait to see our little princess joins us.

Having a baby, especially a first, in a foreign country isn't for everyone. My family and support system is far away and I don't know where to go for things I can find easily in my hometown. My doctor speaks excellent English but some of the nurses and hospital staff do not, and my Norwegian is hardly fluent enough to cover every situation. Though the cost of domestic help is low, I'm not sure I want a lady with whom I can't fully communicate telling me how to raise a baby. I'm just lucky that my mother-in-law is always there to support me. My plan is to invite my parents to visit us on 1st week of April, before my due date.

On my second baby, I wasn't fortunate not to have morning sickness. My first trimester was a hell for me. I'm very sensitive on the smell of garlic, perfume, even taste of food. Growing a baby is tiring work, and it's hard to reconcile my usual work self (lots of walking, few breaks) with my pregnant self (tired and hungry almost all the time). The best part about pregnancy in another country is learning how each culture values pregnant women and mothers, hearing childbirth experiences from locals and foreigners, and seeing how kind strangers really can be. And all the food cravings help you discover the local cuisine, too.

Even though I found out that I was 3 weeks pregnant suffering from morning sickness, I continue to work as normal as I can because I don't want to lose my job. On my 10th week, I have to tell my boss because I need to stay home for few days because of my sensitive pregnancy according to my doctor's advice. In the beginning, I thought I will lose my job, that's why I'm very hesitant to open up, but after talking to her and really telling the truth about my pregnancy, I was very surprised on her reaction. She was very happy, hug me and told me not to worry on anything else. She even assured me that after 1 year of my maternity leave, my work is still there waiting for me. 

Now, I'm already on my 31st week of pregnancy.  just can't wait to give birth, kiss and hold my princess for the first time.