As newlyweds in 2017, my husband and I were excited to expand our family. But I didn’t expect what was coming – a challenging pregnancy.

In my first pregnancy, I started experiencing morning sickness and initially brushed it off as normal pregnancy nausea. However, by the 8th week of pregnancy, I was vomiting continuously. That was when I first got hospitalised to be placed on IV fluids. I was diagnosed with Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a rare form of severe pregnancy “morning sickness” that only occurs in about 3% of pregnancies. Even as a healthcare professional myself, this was the first time I’ve ever heard of HG.

Just when I thought that was the end of my pregnancy woes, I developed a Staph infection which spread to my lower limb muscles and hip joint.

When I conceived again, I went through the same difficulties as my first. But I’m thankful that my 2nd pregnancy did not have post-delivery complications and am grateful for my 2 lovely sons and beautiful family!

Above and beyond external coping mechanisms, we women are innately very resilient when we transform into mothers. We are selfless when providing for our children as they become our driving forces to prevail any of life’s obstacle that comes our way.

Through my story, I hope to inspire mums to be. Everyone’s pregnancy journey will be different. There will be ups and downs. But, there is no challenge or difficulty that can get the better of us if we always remain positive and not doubt ourselves in any regard. Seeking help and assistance does not render us weak or incompetent. Always remind ourselves to care for our own well-being and health as our children will only thrive if we function optimally. Ultimately, motherhood is a fulfilling and enthralling journey unlike anything else. We have it in our own hands to mould our happy stories.