Sacrifices of Motherhood
A popular saying goes, “When you’re pregnant, one foot is in the grave and the other is out”—a stark reminder of the risks a mother takes to bring new life into the world. Even with today’s advanced medical technology, complications still happen.
Pregnancy can bring challenges such as nausea, pre-eclampsia (gestational hypertension), and oedema, which causes swelling in the feet and lower limbs. A woman’s body goes through remarkable changes—studies have shown that as the abdomen grows, the spine and pelvis begin to curve inward, affecting posture and walking.
Despite these hardships, the joy and bliss of bringing a child into the world outweigh the risks and pain.
Bond Between a Mother and Her Unborn Child
The mother-child bond begins long before birth. It is called prenatal attachment. The placenta, an organ that develops in the uterus, connects to the baby through the umbilical cord. This cord delivers oxygen and nutrients, supporting the baby’s growth and strength.
After childbirth, hormones such as oxytocin, prolactin, and endorphins are released. These naturally create a strong emotional connection between mother and child.
My Motherhood Experience
At five months pregnant with my second child, I experienced bleeding and painful uterine contractions. I was rushed to the hospital and given medication to prevent a miscarriage. After two days, I was discharged and placed on complete bed rest at home.
For nearly two months, I lay on my back with my legs extended against the wall for hours each day. I couldn’t work or do any household chores. Then came another episode of bleeding and contractions. I was rushed back to the hospital.
The doctor had to use forceps to guide the baby’s head through the birth canal. I gave birth to a baby girl—seven months premature, weighing only one kilogram.
She stayed in an incubator for a month. At home, her crib had to be fitted with an incandescent bulb to keep her warm. I could only give her sponge baths because she was so tiny. But with love and care, she gained weight and grew strong.
Truly, a baby’s life depends so much on her mother.
Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day
There are many thoughtful ways to make your mum feel special. Here are a few ideas:
- Make her a delicious breakfast in bed.
- Spend the day together—visit a museum or go shopping.
- Enjoy a movie night followed by dinner at her favourite restaurant.
- Treat her to a massage or manicure—and cover the cost.
- Surprise her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.
- If she enjoys cooking, take a cooking class together.
- If she loves music, get her tickets to a classical concert.
- Plan a romantic one-night stay for your parents at a nice hotel.
Whatever you give—whether big or small—your mum will appreciate it. Mother’s Day is about expressing love and gratitude for the one who nurtured you.
Let her know she is special—not only on Mother’s Day, but every day. If you’re blessed to still have your mum, treasure her. You only have one mother, and she is irreplaceable.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers in the world!
Excerpt from Lorna Ramirez’s book, “My Passion My Calling”
MOTHERS
It is in the mother’s heart
That children can find
Assurance of being loved
It is in the mother’s arm
That children can find solace and comfort
But
It is in the mother’s hugs and kisses
That the children can find real joy
Of being loved and most of all
Being special and cared for
Visit: www.lornasbook.com