In early January I found out I was pregnant. My husband and I were thrilled and excited about the pregnancy. However, after my first visit to the doctor I soon realized I was using the skills I acquired through media education more than ever!

The online world is a plethora of information about every pregnancy symptom from morning sickness to crazy cravings. Moreover, at the bookstore you will see topics on everything from loving your pregnancy body to more general topics like what to expect each month. The multiple pregnancy magazines have subjects like 15 fresh and “perfect” nursery ideas or planning for your baby moon. What’s a baby moon? Let’s not forget about the push present (which by the way is not your baby). In case you were wondering it’s a gift your partner buys you for pushing out your baby, usually jewelry. Really? Scanning these topics can make a new mom feel overwhelmed, but my media literacy immediately reminds me that all media messages are socially constructed. What is the purpose behind these constructed ideas? Is a “push present” necessary? How does this gift position a woman in the natural process of childbirth? How is the word “perfect” defined? These questions may lead to some thoughtful outcomes.

With all these ideas floating around, I am reminded that media messages have special interests. What is most apparent to me is the commercial interest. If you’re expecting a baby you’re probably spending some money, and there is no shortage of places to spend your money. Yet it’s important to go into this world not with your wallet wide open, but your mind. Ask questions like; whose interests are being represented? Who do these interests benefit? Who does it disadvantage? It’s also worthwhile to note that perusing online or print material carries overt and implied value messages. Most of the women represented are white, middle class and heterosexual. What does this mean for those not represented? Who defines what motherhood should look like? How might race, sexual orientation and class position your perspective? What are we missing by not hearing multiple voices and experiences?

For me, pregnancy has meant adjusting to all kinds of changes and learning more about myself, and my family. It has been an exciting adventure and I’m sure will continue to be. Not to mention it’s only the beginning. However using my media literacy has proved to be a good step in the right direction and it is my hope that I will show my child how important media education is and the many different ways it can help you through everyday life.