After 1 Week

It's only been a little over a week since I started wearing the pregnancy suit, but it feels longer. I've been wearing it everyday in the privacy of my home, hotel room, or at the office among a close-knit group of colleagues. The off and on nature of this experiment is only one of the many ways that this experience does not compare to what an expectant woman feels by having to live through it nonstop without respite. While I get to take breaks during my public outings, I can only imagine what a true pregnant woman must feel — that there is no way out. After just a fraction of that 24/7 experience, I am beginning to tire of this project. However, my commitment to wearing the pregnancy suit through Mother's Day is unshaken.

The 33 pounds of belly have really cut into my ability to sleep. I wake in the morning in a less than chipper mood. I am keenly aware of this and try not to let it affect my interaction with others. But lack of sleep and the weight gain is significant. During day hours, my back feels strong and flexible. But at night, the weight pulling at new angles creates serious stiffness and discomfort.

I have started to add to the experience in a small way by drinking a large glass of water right before I go to sleep each night. The result of this is obvious: I must get up in the middle of the night to visit the bathroom – the bladder pouch makes staying in bed and toughing it out a non-option.

For another man's thoughts, here's an article in BabyTalk magazine about a father's experience wearing a pregnancy suit, also known as the empathy belly.