Literary Heroines to Inspire You During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a time of profound change, both physically and emotionally. For many expectant parents, the experience can feel overwhelming at times. During these moments, it’s helpful to look to literary heroines who have faced similar challenges—whether it’s the emotional weight of pregnancy, the complexities of relationships during this time, or the transformation of self that comes with becoming a mother. These characters can provide insight, comfort, and inspiration as you navigate your own journey.

Let’s explore literary heroines who are dealing with pregnancy or motherhood and see how their stories can support and empower you during your own antenatal journey.

1. Rachel from The Pregnant Widow by Martin Amis

In The Pregnant Widow, Rachel is a character who finds herself on the verge of motherhood while dealing with an array of personal struggles and societal pressures. The novel is an exploration of the ways in which pregnancy impacts a woman’s body, her identity, and her relationships.

Rachel’s story is one of emotional complexity, showing how pregnancy doesn’t simply mark the end of one phase of life, but also the beginning of a new, often challenging chapter. Much like pregnancy itself, Rachel’s journey is filled with emotional highs and lows. The novel sheds light on how society and loved ones can sometimes add unnecessary pressure to a woman’s experience, something that many pregnant women resonate with during their antenatal care journey. It’s important to embrace your changing body and remember that seeking antenatal support—whether through antenatal classes or engaging in discussions with healthcare professionals—can help you stay grounded.

Key Takeaway: Pregnancy isn’t just a physical experience but an emotional one as well. Don’t hesitate to seek the support you need, whether it’s from antenatal yoga or an understanding partner.

2. Anna from The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

In The Red Tent, Anna is part of a strong sisterhood of women who come together to support each other through pregnancy, childbirth, and the complexities of life as mothers. The novel reimagines the biblical story of Dinah and gives voice to the women’s experiences, including those of pregnancy and childbirth. Anna’s journey through pregnancy in this ancient setting is filled with both physical struggles and the support of a tight-knit community of women.

What makes Anna’s experience stand out is the emphasis on the importance of women supporting one another during pregnancy. The antenatal care that Anna receives is grounded in the wisdom and practices passed down through generations of women. This strong network of female support offers a sense of empowerment to those navigating the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy.

In today’s world, finding a community of women who understand the complexities of pregnancy—whether through antenatal education, prenatal support groups, or antenatal classes—can offer much-needed reassurance and solidarity.

Key Takeaway: Pregnancy is a shared experience, and having a support network—whether through family, friends, or a professional team—can make the journey less daunting. Antenatal support is invaluable.

3. Hester Prynne from The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

While The Scarlet Letter is often remembered for its exploration of sin, shame, and societal judgment, Hester Prynne is also a pregnant woman who faces enormous pressure and stigma. Although her pregnancy is born out of an illicit affair, Hester’s strength and resilience through the shame she endures as a single mother speak to the emotional endurance that many women must call upon during pregnancy.

Though Hester’s situation is extreme, her story reflects a universal truth: society often places high expectations and judgments on women, especially mothers. Pregnancy care and antenatal appointments provide an opportunity for women to take control of their health, ensuring that they receive both physical and emotional support throughout their pregnancy. While Hester may have faced public scorn, today, pregnant women have access to professional guidance, which can help reduce some of the anxieties and pressures that come with the experience.

Key Takeaway: Ignore societal pressures and focus on your own journey. Seek antenatal care and emotional support to help you feel confident and empowered during pregnancy.

4. Sophie from The Beach by Alex Garland

Though Sophie in The Beach by Alex Garland is not traditionally thought of as a maternal figure, her character goes through profound transformations throughout the novel, with some reflecting on pregnancy, parenthood, and responsibility. As she navigates her changing relationship dynamics, Sophie’s experiences echo the internal changes that many women face during pregnancy, when they are forced to reconsider their priorities and the direction their life is headed.

For expectant mothers, this feeling of transformation is central to pregnancy. As your body changes, your priorities may shift. The emotional impact of pregnancy requires you to reframe how you view the future, your relationship with your partner, and your sense of self. During these moments, antenatal care can offer the guidance and tools to help you adjust to these changes. It can also provide important reminders about the importance of self-care and making time to nurture both your emotional and physical well-being.

Key Takeaway: Pregnancy is a journey of transformation. As you prepare for motherhood, take the time to focus on self-care and embrace the changes happening within you.

5. Mary from Mary Reilly by Valerie Martin

In Mary Reilly, Mary is a strong and determined woman who works in the household of Dr. Jekyll and finds herself confronting difficult situations, including the complexities of love, work, and personal growth. While the novel doesn’t focus specifically on pregnancy, Mary’s story of strength in the face of societal and personal challenges resonates deeply with expectant mothers.

Mary’s ability to assert her voice in a world that often marginalises her reflects the importance of speaking up for your needs during pregnancy. Antenatal checkups and support from pregnancy clinics can ensure that you have the resources to advocate for yourself and your health throughout your pregnancy.

Key Takeaway: Stay strong and assertive during your pregnancy. Take charge of your health by attending antenatal appointments and seeking out the resources you need to feel supported.

Finding Strength and Support During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can bring a whirlwind of emotions, physical changes, and moments of uncertainty. However, these literary heroines remind us that, through adversity, women often find strength, resilience, and a sense of empowerment. Their stories can provide valuable insights into how to manage antenatal stress and prioritise your well-being during this transformative time.

Whether you find comfort in antenatal yoga, seek support from your healthcare team, or find wisdom in the stories of women like Anna or Hester, remember that your pregnancy journey is uniquely yours. Embrace the support available through antenatal care and take time to care for both your physical and emotional health.

By looking to these inspiring characters and incorporating the right tools, such as prenatal care, antenatal education, and relaxation techniques like prenatal massage, you can navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy with strength and confidence.