Jealousy is a negative emotion that can cause behavior that you never realized you were capable of exhibiting. Although that initial spike of jealousy is hard to prevent, you can get your emotional state under control by addressing your situation and focusing on the positive:
Basics of Jealousy
Before you can control your emotional response to a pregnant friend or acquaintance, recognize the myriad of emotions that are behind the word. According to Dr. Robert L. Leahy on PsychologyToday.com, jealousy is actually a combination of worry, anxiety and anger. You become agitated with the emotions and it’s easy to start asking questions that drain your hopes.
Recognize all of these emotions. Acknowledge that you’re upset, agitated and worried. After you accept your feelings, you’re then able to address the problems. Hope will develop after you’re honest with yourself and accept that you have facets to your emotions that are sometimes surprising.
Don’t Let Your Cycles Control You
Menstrual cycles are a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean your hormones have to dictate your behavior. Identify the impact your menstrual cycle has on your behavior, and, if needed, change it.
According to WomensHealth.gov, chemical changes in your body and your hormones contribute to the emotional changes and physical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, which is also known as PMS. These symptoms usually occur one to two weeks before your period. An ovulation calculator charts your fertility and can prepare you to tame your emotions that manifests during PMS. Understanding your cycle not only improves your chances for getting pregnant, but it can help you prepare for the sometimes emotionally tough days that come before and after your period.
Take Care of Your Body
Keep your body in the best possible health. Eat a nutritious diet that includes needed vitamins and minerals. If you can’t eat enough to get the nutrients you need, consider taking a multivitamin supplement to fill the gaps.
Drink plenty of water. According to WomensHealth.gov, eating salty foods during the time before your period can cause you to retain water. By drinking more water, you will reduce the fluid retention and keep your body hydrated.
Exercise on a daily basis. A healthy body requires a combination of exercise and diet. To fulfill your dreams of having a baby, your body must have the nutrients and physical ability to sustain a fragile life. Focus on your physical and mental well-being so that you are prepared for a baby.
Stay Active
After calculating your ovulation cycle and trying to get pregnant, the period that compounds your worries is the two-week wait until your next period is expected to begin. Stay active and engaged in hobbies, work and special activities, such as a girls’ night out with friends or a special date with your partner. Focusing on the happy and successful parts of your life can help ease any pangs of jealousy or impatience you feel when you encounter someone who is already pregnant. Then you can wish her well and hope someday someone does the same to you.