Stressing About Your Body Image During Pregnancy?

June 17, 2022

You may be just a few weeks or months along, and your body feels like it has been invaded. Your boobs might hurt, you may feel sick to your stomach, or you may seem like you’re peeing every hour of the day. You may not see any significant changes yet, but you know the day is coming when you’re going to look puffy and might not be able to see your feet anymore. 


Your body is going through a journey of changes, and it’s normal to be scared or concerned about how this pregnancy might make you look and feel. Choosing not to stress about your body image during this time can be freeing.


What are some good body image practices to have during your pregnancy?

Prepare Your Mind for the Physical Changes

Your body starts to change from the very beginning of pregnancy. A lot is going on in there with that developing baby of yours. The sooner you understand what’s physically happening, the faster you can prepare yourself emotionally for those changes.


There seems to be an overwhelming amount to learn about your changing body and what it needs to support your baby. Medical blogs can be an excellent resource for learning more about your developing body. Collage also has some great materials in our offices that are available to pick up when you come in for your appointment. Although it may seem daunting, the more you know, the less scary these changes will be when your body starts preparing for birth.


Maintain a Healthy Weight

Pregnancy is NOT the time to go on a diet or overeat. “I don’t want to get fat!” is a commonly voiced concern. Pregnancy isn’t like getting that freshman 15; your weight gain has a purpose. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pregnancy weight gain. Your pre-pregnancy weight, body mass index (BMI), and overall health play a role in what weight gain is right for you.1



Eating healthy promotes good weight gain and provides the nutrition both your body and baby need to grow. Our blog post, Three Types of Food to Avoid While Pregnant, has some great information about eating healthy during pregnancy.


Eating unhealthy or having an eating disorder can cause multiple complications during pregnancy; some of these can include:

  •   Premature labor
  •   Low birth weight
  •   Stillbirth or fetal death
  •   Increased risk of cesarean birth
  •   Delayed fetal growth
  •   Respiratory problems
  •   Gestational diabetes
  •   Complications during labor
  •   Depression
  •   Miscarriage
  •   Preeclampsia


Approximately seven million women in the US struggle with an eating disorder. If this is you, we highly encourage you to share this information with your doctor. The more your health care professional understands you and your nutritional and emotional needs, the more they can provide the care you deserve. These facts can seem scary and overwhelming. Be reassured that women who battle eating disorders can have healthy babies if they maintain normal weight gain throughout pregnancy. 2


Get Support and Stay Positive

Staying positive about your body during this time can be difficult. Avoid comparing yourself to others, especially while you’re pregnant. Your body is going through an amazing journey of development; learn to see the beauty in that. Even if that beauty sometimes comes in a round belly, swollen ankles, and puffy face.


What you’re doing is challenging and brave. We know that during this time, it’s tough to see that you’re developing a strength that will make you more beautiful than you already are! Sometimes, it can be hard to find support, but we’re here to answer the hard questions, believe in you, and be your encourager.

Remember, your body is beautiful before, during, and after pregnancy.

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

July 2, 2025
If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including:  Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.

My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.
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