Heidrè Malgas is a proud mother to Oakleigh Minnie, her smart and feisty two-year-old daughter. Her journey into motherhood was filled with joy, unexpected challenges, and important lessons about mental health during pregnancy. She shares more about how she has overcome the tough moments – and why every step makes motherhood worthwhile.
Heidrè and her fiancé, Razheed, had always wanted a baby. Though they didn’t know much about parenthood, the couple decided to embrace the journey wholeheartedly. “We blindly went for it – and here we are,” she says with a laugh.
Oakleigh is the first grandchild in the family, and her arrival brought immense joy. From her grandfather, who was set on naming her Simon before even knowing the gender, to the endless love and excitement from family and friends, the anticipation was unforgettable.
“My pregnancy journey was nothing short of amazing – the support from my loved ones made it all worthwhile. Their excitement and love were definitely some of my favourite moments,” she reflects.
However, as joyful as the experience was, it also came with waves of anxiety. Heidrè says this began when her pregnancy started showing. She recalls facing judgmental stares in public and feeling like people were questioning her age. As a petite woman, these quiet criticisms slowly chipped away at her confidence.
The stress and anxiety she felt during gynaecologist visits were indescribable. “The questions racing through your head – ‘Is the baby okay?’ ‘Is she growing well?’ ‘Please, let there be no complications.’ But nothing compares to that relief when you walk out with good news,” she shares.
Social media didn’t make things any easier for her. The moment she fell pregnant, her algorithm flooded with pregnancy content – equal parts inspiring and terrifying. Birth complications, horror stories, and emotional videos left her lying awake at night.
“My mom, fiancé, and loved ones kept me sane. Their constant reassurance – ‘The baby is fine, you’re going to be okay’ – got me through. It kept me going, made me excited for birth, and for the adventure of raising a child,” she says.
Still, the emotional toll of pregnancy was undeniable. Mood swings became a constant companion, and Heidrè admits she sometimes felt guilty for being short-tempered with those closest to her. It took time to accept this as part of the journey – and to let herself receive the love and care she deserved.
“Pregnancy brings excitement, but also anxiety and emotional challenges. Beyond the cute outfits and joyful moments, the worries about your health and your baby’s wellbeing are very real – and can feel overwhelming. It affects your mental health, so it’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings without feeling pressured to meet others’ expectations,” she advises.
In the early stages of pregnancy, Heidrè stresses the importance of setting clear boundaries and filtering out unsolicited advice or outdated superstitions. She believes this proactive approach is crucial for managing anxiety and safeguarding mental wellbeing.
“Having a circle of trusted loved ones from the start makes all the difference, ” she adds. “Their support can completely transform your pregnancy journey for the better.
“It’s okay to feel every emotion, good or bad. It must be felt and normalised. No one will know how to help if you put up a façade that you are okay, because you do not want to show your emotions. Support is better when those around you know your true feelings,” she concludes.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
