Melissa Gordon, a 27-year-old marketing executive, always thought she had her life under control. She had a successful career, a loving partner, and a close-knit group of friends. But when she found out she was pregnant, everything changed. Suddenly, Melissa was faced with a new set of challenges that tested her physical and emotional well-being.

One of the biggest challenges Melissa faced during her pregnancy was a condition known as tabanca. Tabanca is a term used in Trinidad and Tobago to describe a feeling of loneliness or heartbreak, often caused by a separation from a loved one. For Melissa, this feeling of isolation came from the changes in her body and the fear of the unknown.

“At first, I didn’t even know what was happening to me,” Melissa recalls. “I felt anxious and overwhelmed all the time. I was worried about the baby, about my relationship, and about how I was going to manage everything.”

Melissa’s partner, Anthony, tried his best to support her, but he didn’t fully understand what she was going through. It wasn’t until Melissa opened up to her midwife that she realized she was experiencing tabanca.

“My midwife explained that it was a common feeling during pregnancy, and that it was okay to feel overwhelmed,” Melissa says. “She encouraged me to talk about my feelings and to take care of myself.”

With the help of her midwife and a support group for pregnant women, Melissa was able to overcome her tabanca and find balance in her life. She started practicing yoga and meditation, which helped her to relax and connect with her body and her baby. She also made time for herself, going for walks in nature and indulging in her favorite hobbies.

“Taking care of myself was the best thing I could do for my baby,” Melissa says. “When I was feeling balanced and happy, I was able to be a better mother and partner.”

Melissa gave birth to a healthy baby boy, and she and Anthony are now adjusting to their new life as parents. Melissa says that the lessons she learned during her pregnancy will stay with her forever.

“I realized that it’s okay to ask for help, and that taking care of myself is not selfish,” Melissa says. “I learned that balance is key, and that it’s important to prioritize my well-being in order to be the best version of myself.”

Melissa’s journey through pregnancy and overcoming tabanca serves as an inspiration to other women who may be struggling with similar challenges. It’s a reminder that with the right support and a commitment to self-care, it’s possible to find balance and happiness during even the most challenging times.