Pregnancy is a season of joy, anticipation, and transformation—but it can also bring waves of anxiety. Whether it’s fear of the unknown, physical changes, or concern for your baby, many women experience increased stress. For me, anxiety during my first pregnancy crept in as a vague sense of unease. I couldn’t pinpoint the cause, but the weight of it lingered all day.

Through this experience, I discovered the surprising power of positive affirmations. They became my anchor and a simple yet profound tool for shifting my mindset. My hope is that by sharing my journey, you feel inspired to try this practice for yourself.

What Are Positive Affirmations?

Affirmations are short, powerful statements that reframe negative self-talk into supportive, encouraging thoughts. When repeated regularly, they help train the mind to focus on strength, calm, and resilience—qualities every mother already carries inside.

During pregnancy, affirmations can deepen your bond with your baby, enhance self-trust, and create a sense of inner peace amidst the unknowns.

My Experience: A Turning Point in the Second Trimester

Although my first trimester passed smoothly, the second trimester brought unexpected anxiety. I was in the middle of my breast cancer fellowship while preparing my thesis defense—life was full. A midwife gave me a recording of pregnancy affirmations and suggested I simply play it as I fell asleep. I was skeptical. But I started that night. By the seventh evening, the anxiety was gone. It felt like magic—but it was really the mind at work, gently guided by kindness and repetition.

Do Affirmations Really Work?

Research supports their use: studies have shown that positive affirmations can reduce stress, promote emotional well-being, and even influence health behavior change. But beyond the science, the real magic is how you feel after saying them—grounded, calm, and more connected to your inner self.

Creating Your Own Pregnancy Affirmations

Personalized affirmations are most powerful when they reflect your values, hopes, and fears. Here are a few that meant the most to me:

• I trust my body’s wisdom to nurture and protect my baby.
• I embrace the journey of motherhood with love and confidence.
• My baby is strong and healthy.
• My pregnancy is going well, and I am safe.
• I trust my instincts.
• My baby will move down smoothly and perfectly when it is time.

Ways to Practice Affirmations

Consistency matters more than perfection. Choose a few of these simple strategies and see what feels right for you:

☀️ Morning Ritual

Begin your day with a moment of stillness. Repeat your affirmations aloud, journal them, or simply reflect on them before starting your day.

🛏️ Nighttime Affirmations

Play an audio recording of affirmations as you drift off to sleep. Your subconscious mind will continue absorbing the message even as you rest.

👁️ Mirror Work

Look into your eyes and repeat affirmations with love. This builds self-acceptance and reinforces belief in your strength.

📌 Sticky Notes & Reminders

Post affirmations on mirrors, walls, your car dashboard, or your phone lock screen. Visual reminders can shift your mindset in an instant.

📓 Affirmation Journaling

Spend a few quiet minutes each day writing down affirmations. Reflect on your journey, your fears, and the strength you’ve already shown.

🌿 During Meditation

Combine breathwork and affirmations to deepen your connection to calm. Repeat affirmations silently or aloud during prenatal meditation sessions.

📱 Apps & Recordings

Use apps or recordings to guide your practice. These are especially helpful on days when you’re short on time or energy.

🏡 Community

Join a group of fellow mothers or expectant parents who share affirmations and support each other. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Every pregnancy journey is unique, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Affirmations are a simple, gentle way to reconnect with your inner peace and strength. Be patient with yourself, choose affirmations that feel true, and practice regularly. Over time, you’ll notice not just a shift in anxiety—but in your overall outlook and connection to this sacred time in your life.

As always, partner with your healthcare provider for personalized support. And know this: you are doing beautifully.