The Weight of Words
We understand the weight words can have on your fertility journey, pregnancy as well as postpartum. When Ronit was pregnant with Emma she was told she had AMA, Advanced Maternal Age. But she chose to focus on the fact that she tested her biological age by measuring her telomeres and even though she was chronologically 41, biologically she was 32.
Our doctors are well intended but with the limited time they have with their patients, they have to cut to the chase and often use words that can be hurtful or scar us. Words are so incredibly powerful and the purpose of today’s blog post is to give you some tools to navigate the type of words that you could encounter throughout your journey.
Take, for instance, the term “natural birth.” While it’s often used to describe vaginal deliveries, this label unintentionally implies that any other form of childbirth is “unnatural.” This linguistic choice can leave women who opt for or medically require C-sections feeling as though they’ve somehow fallen short of a so-called natural birth.
Reframing The Language We Use Around Pregnancy & Childbirth
The first step is acknowledging that every journey is unique and valid. It’s a journey that should be celebrated and respected, regardless of the method chosen or required to get there. We should adopt more inclusive, respectful language that reflects the diversity of women’s experiences. Here are some of our suggestions:
“Natural Birth”
Instead, Try Saying: Vaginal Birth, Cesarean Birth, Personalized Birth or Unmedicated Birth
“Geriatric Pregnancy or AMA”
Instead, Try Saying: I am strong and did all the right things to prepare for this pregnancies
“Breast or Bottle Fed”
Instead, Try Saying: Fed is best. My baby is growing and healthy and that’s what matters the most.
“Unexplained Infertility”
Instead, Try Saying: Fertility challenges. I will have my baby some day.
“She can’t get Pregnant”
Instead, Try Saying: They are having challenges conceiving. It’s not the end of their story.
Power of Self-talk and Manifestation:
The connection between mindset, manifestation, and fertility health emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive and hopeful internal dialogue. By incorporating positive affirmations, visualization techniques, and a mindset of resilience, individuals can create a fertile ground not just within their bodies but also within their minds and hearts. The journey to parenthood is a holistic experience, and the power of manifestation and positive self-talk can be a guiding light, supporting fertility health and nurturing the path to a joyous and fulfilling family life.
In manifesting, words matter a lot! And so does what you actually believe. The universe is very simple. It takes your thoughts and words and delivers on them. So if, for example, you consistently say and believe, “The universe is abundant, money comes to me easily,” then the universe will deliver. If you are constantly repeating to yourself, “I can’t afford that” or “We have so much debt,” the universe will deliver on that too.
Introducing positive affirmations into your daily self-talk routine can be a transformative practice for individuals or couples navigating fertility challenges. Affirmations focused on fertility health can help shift the mindset from one of doubt or anxiety to confidence and hope.
Here is an example: “My body is strong, healthy, and capable of creating and sustaining life.”
More Tips for Manifesting The Life You Deserve:
“I am” are the two most powerful words in the universe. Use them wisely. Every “I’m not” is also powerful. So if you find yourself saying things like: “I am tired.” “I am sick,” or “I’m not feeling well.” Replace them immediately with, “I am healthy. I am strong. I am a mother.”
Note: If you find yourself reading through these affirmations and feeling resistance (you want to believe it, but your heart keeps saying “no, it’s not true”) then you absolutely need to couple these with the gratitude portion of the daily journal.
The language we use in discussing fertility, childbirth and postpartum has a profound impact on our emotional well-being. By reevaluating terms and embracing more inclusive language, we can help shed the unnecessary burdens of guilt and shame. It’s crucial that we support and empower women and men in their choices, recognizing that every birth is a beautiful, unique experience. As we change our words, we change the narrative, and in doing so, we pave the way for a more empathetic and supportive society for all on their fertility journey.
