The Most Wonderful Wait

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences in the life of a woman. Having played with dolls for quite a good part of my childhood, I had always pictured myself as a mother, idealising my own mother all the while. So, the day I came to know about my pregnancy will always remain etched in my memory. The day was the beginning of a journey towards meeting a very special person in my life – my new human. 

I shared the wonderful news with my husband who was elated. We decided to get an appointment with the gynaecologist the same day. The gynaecologist confirmed the pregnancy and prescribed the multivitamins. Soon after, I informed my mother and my mother-in-law who were both very happy. 

The first trimester was a bit difficult for me. I experienced nausea and vomiting, and had heartburns towards the evenings. I quit my job because my job location was far from my home, and my doctors advised against the daily commute. However, I continued working from home, and remained active throughout my pregnancy. I exercised just as recommended by the doctors, and also went for walks everyday. 

The second trimester was the best part of my pregnancy. It was an incredible joy to feel the first kicks of the baby. Around this time my parents visited us. My mother pampered me with all my favourite food. One of the best aspects of pregnancy is seeing the baby during ultrasound scans and I always looked forward to seeing the little one. 

With the beginning of the eighth month, things became a bit difficult for me. I could no longer tie my shoelaces, and picking anything that would fall down was just out of question. My in-laws came a month prior to my due date. My mother-in-law organised a traditional baby shower for me. I enjoyed the feast and the ceremony. My baby bump had become huge. At the next appointment with the gynaecologist, I was suggested to get admitted. Since the baby had not yet settled in a proper position despite the weight, I was advised to have a caesarean section. I was nervous and scared and called up my mother. Her words just gave me all the cheering that I needed, “You are strong. You will be strong for the one that you have been waiting for so long". 

I delivered my daughter on the morning of 17th October, 2019. When I saw her for the first time, I had tears of joy in my eyes. It was just as if one of my tiny dolls from childhood had just come to life. It remains the most beautiful and the most magical moment of my life. I realised the beauty of life, the strength of a mother and the joy of bringing a tiny human into the world! 

Anindita Ganguly has a doctorate in English Literature. Her research area is Women's theatre. She has worked as a writer and editor in several publishing houses over the last decade. A voracious reader who loves doodling and is passionate about music, gardening and movies.