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]]>Birth Control After Baby:
Birth Control After Baby: Popular Methods And Options By Dr. Christine Sterling M. D.
Birth Control After Baby: After having a baby, it is best to wait at least 6 weeks before resuming intercourse. Once you become sexually active again, pregnancy becomes possible. To minimize pregnancy risks, the World Health Organization recommends delaying pregnancy for at least 18 months after giving birth.
Lactation
Many women believe that breastfeeding prevents pregnancy, and it does sometimes. However, relying on lactation to prevent pregnancy is tricky. To be an effective form of contraception, all of the following conditions must be met:
- Less than 6 months postpartum
-
Breastfeeding exclusively with no more than 4 hours in between feedings (no supplementation of any kind, including food)
-
Not having a period. It is important to note that you can ovulate and get pregnant before your first period after birth.
BREASTFEEDING YOUR NEWBORN: WHAT TO EXPECT
Combined-hormonal contraception- the pill, ring, and patch
These forms of contraception contain both estrogen and progesterone. They are not generally recommended for women who are breastfeeding as the estrogen can decrease milk supply. For those who are not breastfeeding, these forms of contraception can be initiated after 6 weeks.
Estrogen-containing birth control increases the risk of blood clots. Women who are less than 6 weeks postpartum should not use this form of birth control. These forms of contraception are about 91% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Copper intrauterine device
This highly effective form of contraception has no hormones and is placed inside your uterus by your doctor. The chance of getting pregnant while using the copper IUD, known as ParaGuard in the US, is less than 1%. Your doctor can insert it in the office and it is effective immediately.
The Paraguard IUD is best for women with light to moderate periods. As it can increase the amount of bleeding during your time of menstruation. Some women also report increased cramping with their periods, though this typically gets better within 6 months of placement. The copper IUD is FDA approved for 10 years of contraception, but research supports effectiveness for up to 12 years.
Progesterone-containing intrauterine device
There are 4 different progesterone containing IUDs on the market in the US. They are all small T-shaped devices that are placed in your uterus by a doctor in a simple office procedure. Placement typically takes under a minute. The IUDs differ in size and progesterone dose. The Skyla and the Kyleena are the smallest in size.
The Skyla has the lowest dose of progesterone hormone and lasts for only 3 years. Higher doses of progesterone mean the IUD works for longer. Also, better able to decrease the amount of menstrual bleeding. The Kyleena is small, like the Skyla, but has a higher dose of progesterone. That is why it works for 5 years and is more likely to decrease or stop your periods.
The Mirena and the Liletta have the highest dose of progesterone. The Mirena lasts for 6 years. Furthermore, 1 in 5 Mirena users no longer have a period after 1 year of use. The progesterone IUDs are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Also, can be used to treat heavy periods and pelvic pain. They are effective within one week of placement. Also, can be removed before their expiration date should you decide to pursue pregnancy or change your mind. Removal is usually a quick and painless process.
HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR PELVIC FLOOR AFTER BIRTH
Birth control implant
In the US, Nexplanon is the only available birth control implant. Nexplanon contains progesterone hormone and is the most effective form of contraception available. It is even more effective than getting your tubes tied, though it is not permanent.
The Nexplanon is a small device about the size of a matchstick. That is inserted in the upper arm by a doctor under local anesthesia. Insertion takes only a few minutes, and it prevents pregnancy for 4 years. Most women experience a decrease in their monthly menstrual flow. However, some women have irregular bleeding for the first 6 months or so.
Nexplanon can be removed at any time. Removal, like placement, is typically a simple procedure done in the office with minimal downtime.
Progesterone-only pill
This oral contraceptive, called the “mini-pill” by some. This is a pill that must be taken at the same time every day in order to be effective. Ovulation and pregnancy can occur if you miss a dose by more than 3 hours. For many remembering to take a pill every day at the exact same time is challenging.
This may help explain why it is only 91% effective at preventing pregnancy. On the upside, it does not require a separate office visit for insertion. Like the long-acting reversible contraceptive devices (IUDs and Nexplanon).
Progesterone injection
In the US, Depo-Provera is available as an injection you get every 3 months. This injection of progesterone is 94% effective at preventing pregnancy. It can cause weight gain and cannot be removed once the injection is given.
About the Author:
Join us over at the PB Moms Exclusive Circle. Where we invite healthcare experts to prepare us for life after childbirth and motherhood. Go to: pregnancybeyond.com/exclusive-circle.
Follow PregnancyBeyond on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
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]]>Best Labor And Birthing Positions:
Best Labor And Birthing Positions By Miri Sais (Traditional Birth Attendant ).
Generally, there are many ways to give birth. From squatting to standing, since the beginning of time women have been giving birth in almost any position you can imagine. However, this isn’t an exemplar in the delivery room.
For instance, according to the Third National U.S. Survey of Women’s Childbearing Experiences, 90% of American women who give birth, do so, either laying down or in some state of refinement, often with their legs propped up. In Australia only 78% of women give birth laying down, a 12% difference, even still that’s far too much.
Particularly, multiple studies have proven birthing laying down leads to an increase in pain, longer labor, and tearing. Also, it is the most likely of all positions to lead to the use of forceps/vacuum and epitomizes. Moreover, the same is true for the supine (lying face upward), or reclining positions.
Birth Vlog: “SHE MADE ME REALIZE HOW MUCH OF A STRONG WOMAN I AM”
Still, the numbers are slow to improve. The reason being, many women don’t know of any other birthing positions. Further, it is the primary position we see in regards to birth. Be it TV or literature of the women who do know of other birthing positions, a majority view them as risky “alternatives” and aren’t willing to attempt for fear of harming themselves and their baby, this is not true.
Every birthing position has it’s pros and cons, but each and every one has its needed purposes. And it is vital for mothers to know of them, so when the great laboring day comes she is well aware of all her options.
Birthing Position:
Squatting
In general, this position is done with some form of back support, to keep the mother steady and give her a place to shift weight to. Many choose the aid of another person, or two. You can also use a birthing bar.
Pros
• Good advantage of gravity encouraging faster descent
• Opens pelvis giving baby room to maneuver
• Also allows mobility and betters freedom to shift weight and comfort
Cons
• Can be tiring
• Requires some form of support.
Standing
For support in this position, many use a birthing bar to hold on to, or another person to lean against.
Pros
• Strong advantage of gravity, pushing the baby down
• Reduces backache
• Baby is well aligned in the pelvis
• Helps create a pushing urge
Cons
• Harder for birth attendants to monitor baby.
• May require some form of support.
Hand and Knees
Generally, outside of laying down and reclined, the hands and knees position is the next frequently used.
In this position, the mother’s arms are propped up to reduce tiredness.
Pros
• Can help shift or rotate baby if needed
• Baby is well aligned in the pelvis
• Takes pressure off spine thus relieving back pain
• Can help boost baby’s oxygen level
Cons
• Harder for Mother to view what’s happening
• Arms may get tired
Laying Down Or Reclined
There are two variations of laying down, during labor and delivery, you can lay flat down on your back with or without a stirrup. As well as you can recline with legs down, or with stirrups. While these can be the most complicated of the birthing and laboring positions, there are times when these positions are needed.
Pros
• Comfortable for the laboring mother
• Great resting position
• Easier for the birth team to monitor baby
Cons
• Tearing
• Works against gravity
• Very restricted of Mother’s movements
• Compresses all major vessels which reduce blood flow to the baby
• Can lead to more painful and less effective contractions
Birth Position And Laboring Tools:
These are some tools made to help you in laboring and delivery.
Birth Stool And Chair
Supports birthing positions: sitting, squatting
It may not look like much, but this tool does the most. It’s best to support is in the sitting position, but it’s also helpful to hold on to when squatting, especially if it has handled.
Birthing Bar
Supports birthing positions: squatting, standing
Also called the squat bar, this tool is most commonly used for mothers to hold while squatting or standing.
Birthing Ball
Supports laboring positions: squatting, sitting
There’s nothing particularly fancy about the birthing ball, in fact, many people just use an exercise ball. If you chose to use an exercise ball it’s vital to assure that it’s the right size. Unlike the previous two tools, it’s not a good idea to birth while using the birthing ball, but it is good for laboring.
Preparation
Now that you know a little bit about the different birth and laboring positions and the tools that support them, there’s still some preparation work to be done.
As for the acquiring of birth and laboring tools, many should be available at most hospitals. Make sure in your birth plan you check your hospital for the tools you desire.
As for the positions themselves, for the past two centuries laying down has been the position for birthing. It’s the primary position most doctors know and trust. And for fear of complications, doctors may advise against uncommon birth positions. As I said earlier, there are pros and cons to every position. Each opens up the pelvis a different way and has a different relation to the pull of gravity. No position is the absolute best. There’s no position that you should solely rely on, be it hands and knees, squatting, or laying down. Always keep in mind when choosing your delivery position, the positioning of the baby.
Along with knowing positions and the tools available, always stand firm, and trust your instincts. The best position is choosing your birth team wisely, and your greatest tool.
BREASTFEEDING MOM WHO LOST HER SON TO BREASTFEEDING ADVOCATES BOTTLE FEEDING
About the Author: Best Labor And Birthing Positions
Miri Sais is a Traditional Birth Attendant, Prodigy Entrepreneur, and a Certified Market Garden Trainer. She is 2nd generation home birthing babies.
Miri has helped hundreds of families in her 20+ years as a birth attendant and doula and has personally ushered the births of hundreds of healthy babies into the world. She has also guided countless human beings to heal from emotional pain, grief, miscarriage, inner stress, and trauma, tap into their strength and power, live fully and live vibrantly, and reclaim their radiance, joyfulness, calm and overall sense of well-being. She teaches empowered birth which has the ability to heal the soul and awaken the most enlightened version of ourselves. Find more of her on www.Mirisais.com, on her Facebook page, and on her Instagram page.
Join us at the PB Moms Exclusive Circle, where we healthcare experts prepare you for life after childbirth and motherhood. Go to: pregnancybeyond.com/exclusive-circle.
Follow PregnancyBeyond on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
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]]>The post Jazmine’s “Princess Zion” Baby Shower appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>Jazmine’s “Princess Zion” Baby Shower:
It’s no question that it’s a little princess on the way! And, to royally welcome her, glowing mother-to-be Jazmine, created a magical Princess Zion themed baby shower.
With accents in pink, gold, and nude, and a dash of sophistication. You would love everything about this baby shower befitting for a regal little princess.
Take a look!
Decor
Baby Shower Games
Games entertained guests. They played The Pacifier Toss and The Tissue Belly. Further, the mom enjoyed playing the pacifier toss. Guests had to stand in a circle and take turns tossing the pacifier to each other. The person who catches it has 10 seconds to name a baby item. Without repeating one that’s already been said. The last person standing wins a door prize.
Favors & Treats
Flaunting her baby bump with utmost grace, the elegant mom-to-be had this to say “I’m so happy to have such great friends in life that are true and real and honest friends. I enjoyed opening gifts from all my friends, and this was the highlight of my day”. “Being a first-time mom, I’m just ready to see my little princess’ face and kiss her” she added.
Congratulations Jazmine, sending best wishes your way.
DON’T MISS: HOW I BALANCE MOMMY DUTIES WITH 3 KIDS, 8 MONTHS APART
Join us over at the PB Moms Exclusive Circle. Where we invite healthcare experts to prepare us for life after childbirth and motherhood. Go to: pregnancybeyond.com/exclusive-circle.
Follow PregnancyBeyond on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
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]]>The post Breastfeeding Your Newborn: What To Expect appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>Breastfeeding Your Newborn:
Breastfeeding Your Newborn: What To Expect, By Miri Sais.
As a birth attendant, I’ve spent over 20 years helping women learn about breastfeeding. The truth of breastfeeding is vast. It’s impossible to brief in one, or even two, articles. It does not simply latch on, latch off. It is a science and an art. One that requires true dedication and patience. That said, never is it something you should fear. There is nothing of breastfeeding that lacks explanation, and once you have the fundamentals you’re already on the right path.
The base fundamentals of breastfeeding are universal, it is important to remember that every mother and child situation is different.
The Three Stages of Breast Milk
To understand breastfeeding you must first understand breastmilk; which “comes in” three stages. Which are colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk.
Colostrum:
This thick yellow (sometimes clear) substance comes in first. Commonly, the production of colostrum starts half or third into pregnancy. Like most good things colostrum comes in a small dosage. At most, babies only get 1-2 tablespoons of colostrum per feeding. Still, even a few drops of this miracle liquid is more than enough. This mighty mountain does everything, from supplying immune-building antibodies, to help a baby adjust to life outside of the womb by regulating bodily fluids.
Transitional milk:
Days after giving birth your milk will turn white. Easily explained, transitional milk is the combination, and this transition, of colostrum to mature milk. Its main purpose is gradually preparing your baby for mature milk.
Mature milk:
After several weeks you will arrive at your final stage. Mature milk is explained in two parts: foremilk and hindmilk. Over the course of every breastfeeding session, mature milk will change from thin and watery, foremilk, to thick and creamy, hindmilk. Foremilk comes first, low in fat but high in volume and nutrition. However, the more your baby eats the volume lessens, and fat gains, this change is called “hindmilk”.
It is important to note, foremilk and hindmilk are NOT two different types of breastmilk. Rather they are two combining qualities. Neither being more important than the other. Both are key to happy healthy babies. So please do not be confused by hindmilk being fattier. Foremilk is just as vital as it is packed with brain-building nutrients.
Now that you have an idea of how breastmilk works, it’s important to know what steps to take.
Engorgement & Breast Fullness
During the transitional stage you will notice your breast starting to enlarge, likely they will feel a bit tender, and perhaps a bit swollen. This is perfectly normal. Your body is filling your breast with milk.
Not to be confused with engorgement, which is what happens when your body produces too much milk. Instead of tender, when engorged your breast becomes painfully hard. Long term engorgement can lead to severe problems, you can even catch fevers and infection. Engorgement can lead to Mastitis. Please take preventative measures to avoid this.
Gratefully, there are ways to both prevent and treat engorgement:
To Prevent
Do not delay. Make sure you feed your baby when he/she is hungry. Or else your milk supply will just continue to grow.
No rushing. When feeding makes sure your baby has reached his/her fullness before unlatching.
Wear a bra. This is 100% vital, you must wear a supportive bra.
Make sure to rotate each session (keep in mind the hindmilk can be lost in too much rotation. this is where the art of breastfeeding comes in)
To Treat
Massage your breast: a gentle massage before and during breastfeeding will help decrease pain and better your milk flow.
Apply heat: A warm shower or applying a warm rag to your breast before feeding should better your milk flow.
Cold cabbage: To decrease pain and internal swelling, wrap your breast in cold cabbage leaves.
HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES AFTER PREGNANCY
Latching
A proper latch encompasses the entire nipple and some of the areola (the darker area of your breast around your nipple). The exact amount of your areola that the baby should have a latch on, differs for different size breasts and areola. One inch or more of your areola should be in your baby’s mouth to make a good latch.
Here are some ways to identify poor vs proper latch:
Poor Latch
The mouth is barely open
Tongue behind lower gums
Lips are curled in
Chin barely brushes breast
Proper latch
Chin touches breast
The tongue is over the lower gums
Lips are curled out, slightly like a fish
The mouth is opened wide like a yawn
Nutrition
The beauty of breastmilk is it takes all the nutrition from the mother’s food and delivers it to the baby. However, eating food lacking nutrition means breastmilk is lacking viable substance. When nutrition is lacking often babies won’t even want to breastfeed. Which can lead to the baby staying up at night. Breastfeeding is an investment of dedication and nutritional education. I assure you it is worth it and the effects are generational longevity.
You are building strong bones (which don’t stop growing until the age of 21) along with an intelligent brain. Not only for your child but for your grandchildren and their grandchildren. By breastfeeding your child you literally blaze a trail for strong generations to come.
There’s no cheat sheet or shortcut to breastfeeding. It is the first food and one of the first forms of love you’ll share with your child. So cherish each moment and know your bond is stronger with each session.
FEVER AFTER BREASTFEEDING, TREATMENT, AND PREVENTION
About the Author :
Miri Sais is a Traditional Birth Attendant, Prodigy Entrepreneur, and a Certified Market Garden Trainer. She is 2nd generation home birthing babies.
Miri has helped hundreds of families in her 20+ years as a birth attendant and doula and has personally ushered the births of hundreds of healthy babies into the world. She has also guided countless human beings to heal from emotional pain, grief, miscarriage, inner stress, and trauma, tap into their strength and power, live fully and live vibrantly, and reclaim their radiance, joyfulness, calm and overall sense of well-being. She teaches empowered birth which has the ability to heal the soul and awaken the most enlightened version of ourselves. Find more of her on www.Mirisais.com, on her Facebook page, and on her Instagram page.
Join us over at the PB Moms Exclusive Circle, where we invite healthcare experts to prepare us for life after childbirth and motherhood. Go to: pregnancybeyond.com/exclusive-circle.
Follow PregnancyBeyond on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
The post Breastfeeding Your Newborn: What To Expect appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>The post High Heart Rate Pregnancy – Know The Risks appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>High Heart Rate Pregnancy:
The High Heart Rate Pregnancy – Know The Risks, By Sandy Charles, MD.
High Heart Rate Pregnancy – Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman’s life. There are many changes involving the heart and the circulatory system. That may occur to allow for the development of a healthy baby.
Early in the first trimester, a woman’s body does three important things in order to create an adequate blood supply for the baby:
1) There is an increase in the total amount of blood within the body.
2) blood pressure decreases to help the heart pump more effectively.
3) The heart starts beating faster.
If you have ever had any issues with your heart prior to pregnancy, like abnormal heart valves. These three changes early in pregnancy can sometimes cause major problems later in pregnancy.
If you experience difficulty breathing or significant leg swelling, it is important that you see your doctor immediately. It is also essential that pregnant women get enough rest. Also, avoid intense physical activity since the heart is already working overtime to keep up with your growing baby!
SIGNS OF LABOR TO WATCH OUT FOR
Because of how blood circulates in our body, the way you sleep can affect how much blood your baby receives during pregnancy.
The best position to ensure that your baby gets the most blood flow as your uterus grows is lying on your left side. On the other hand, lying on your back can significantly decrease the amount of blood flow your baby gets. Because as the uterus grows it can compress on critical vessels in your body.
The fact that blood pressure decreases during pregnancy may cause some pregnant women to feel lightheaded or may even cause some women to faint. In order to avoid this, it is important that you drink plenty of water, avoid long periods of time without eating, and avoid prolonged standing. Always be sure to sit or lie down if you are feeling lightheaded to help prevent you from fainting. Compression socks, which are special socks that help maintain good blood circulation, may also prevent lightheadedness and fainting during pregnancy.
Instead of having a drop in blood pressure during pregnancy, some women develop an abnormally elevated blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Elevated blood pressures later in pregnancy along with signs of organ injury may be caused by preeclampsia, which can place both you and your baby at significant risk and can sometimes be fatal. Preeclampsia sometimes develops without any symptoms, so it is important that you have your blood pressure routinely checked during pregnancy to help avoid any complications.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PREECLAMPSIA
Arrhythmias, which are abnormal heartbeats, are the most common heart abnormality affecting pregnant women. Arrhythmias can cause many women to feel like their heart is racing and they can also cause some pregnant women to feel lightheaded or faint. Always go to your doctor for an evaluation if you feel like you may have an arrhythmia. Your doctor will likely ask you to wear a heart monitor for a day or two in order to assess your heartbeats.
It is also important to limit caffeine intake since increased caffeine intake may sometimes trigger arrhythmias.
Sometimes pregnancy can cause the heart muscle to weaken and the heart’s pumping ability to malfunction, a condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy. Common symptoms of this heart condition include significant difficulty breathing, leg swelling, persistent cough and severe fatigue. The symptoms usually arise toward the end of pregnancy and can sometimes occur up to 5 months after delivery. Thankfully, with the right treatment and medications, a large percentage of women with peripartum cardiomyopathy get better and fully recover.
Tell your provider immediately if you experience these symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or include chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.
Author:
Dr. Sandy Charles is a cardiologist who specializes in women’s heart health. She attended college at Princeton University. She completed medical school and training in Internal Medicine at Columbia University. Also, she completed a fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease at New York University. She works at Novant Health Heart and Vascular Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina. You can follow her on Instagram @drsandycharles
Join us over at the PB Moms Exclusive Circle, where we invite healthcare experts to prepare us for life after childbirth and motherhood. Go to: pregnancybeyond.com/exclusive-circle.
Follow PregnancyBeyond on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
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]]>The post Solly Baby Wraps – Product Spotlight appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>Solly Baby Wraps:
Solly Baby wraps were founded in 2011 by Elle Rowley, an entrepreneur extraordinaire and a mom of four. The wraps are designed for the baby’s first year of life, and or up to 25 pounds. Made in the USA and made of 100% Lenzing Modal Botanic Fibers, the Solly Baby wrap is light and airy to keep the baby at a cool temperature, which is beneficial all year long.
Solly Baby wraps are so incredibly soft against mom’s and baby’s skin — And when you are ready to wash, just throw it in the washing machine with your other baby laundry. Each Solly Baby is one size fits all and you can even get FREE SHIPPING in the USA and a $10 flat fee for International Shipping. Plus, $1 of EVERY wrap purchased helps make a safe birth for a mother around the world in association with their Every Mother Counts campaign. To learn more about this nonprofit organization, click here http://sollybaby.com/every-mother-counts/
Each Solly Baby wrap comes with step by step booklet with instructions on how to properly tie and wrap your baby. If you need more help, watch this informative video by TV Star and mom blogger – Natalie Nunn
https://instagram.com/p/BlBaXD9hzAM/
You can also check out a tutorial on how to breastfeed your baby while he or she is in the wrap, here http://sollybaby.com/information/#tutorials
Here are some tips for safe babywearing:
- Use the T.I.C.K.S. Rule – T: Tight, I: In View at All Times, C: Close Enough to Kiss, K: Keep Chin off the Chest, and S: Supported Back. Babies, especially newborns, have a real threat of suffocation. So always keep these tips in mind for the safety of your child. Follow all of the directions for the correct way to wrap your baby and how your baby should be facing.
- Do not drive with your baby wrapped
- Do not cook with your baby wrapped
- Also, do not drink hot liquids (coffee, tea, soup) when you are wearing your baby
- If you need to pick something up, bend at the knee and do not bend over forward. I also suggest holding your baby’s head for extra security whenever you are not sitting or standing straight.
To follow Solly Baby on Instagram click here https://www.instagram.com/sollybabywrap/And on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sollybaby/
Shop the wrap here
And do not forget to take a picture of your baby in your Solly Baby and tag #sollybaby!
.
Sponsored Post
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]]>The post Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist – For You And Baby appeared first on PregnancyBeyond.
]]>Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist:
Congratulations! As you anticipate the arrival of your new baby, it is essential not to forget one of the most important third-trimester to-dos: selecting what to pack in your hospital bag—for you, your baby, and your birth partner. Read here about Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist.
Most women will go into labor between 38 and 42 weeks of pregnancy, so it is advisable to pack well ahead of your due date. If you are expecting twins or multiples, it is recommended that you pack well ahead of the 35-week mark.
Use this essential checklist to help you pack all you need for your maternity hospital bag. (If you’re planning on home birth, it’s still good to have all your gear ready and available somewhere)
Our editors review and recommend products to help you buy the stuff you need. If you make a purchase by clicking one of our links, we may earn a small share of the revenue that support our work, at no additional costs to you. (Learn more)
FOR MOM
- Birth plan
It reflects your wishes and preferences on the type of labor and birth you would like to have. You will need to be flexible about some things and be mentally prepared for changes that may come up during labor.
- Bathrobe
This will be useful if you end up pacing the cold hospital corridors during labor. Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
- Nightgowns
You may wish not to wear the hospital maternity gown, but make sure to get a front-opening nightgown if you plan to breastfeed. Buy from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
You might want to take a look at these matching mother and baby maternity robes
- Nursing Bras
Buy from Asos (CHECK PRICE)
- Nursing Pads
Buy from Target (CHECK PRICE)
- Nipple cream
Buy from Target (CHECK PRICE)
- Socks to keep your feet warm and cozy
You will love these really cute maternity socks from Etsy (CHECK PRICE)
- Slippers
Labor often includes a lot of walking around so make sure to include comfortable footwear. If you would like to treat yourself to a new pair of slippers, Macy’s got some absolutely lovely ones. (CHECK PRICE)
- A change of clothes for visitors and for going home.
Psst! You will still look about 6 months pregnant when you leave the hospital. One thing’s for sure, you will look good in one of these dresses from Macy’s(CHECK PRICE)
- Toiletries including towels
Buy this travel pack size from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
- Tens Machine
A drug-free kind of pain relief used in early labor. Make sure to practice how to put it on.
Buy from Amazon ( CHECK PRICE)
- Your phone and charger
- Camera
FOR BABY
- Blanket
A blanket to keep your baby warm on the way home. It’s nice for a baby if it’s something you’ve snuggled with so that it smells of you. Buy from Carters (CHECK PRICE)
- Scratch mittens, hats, and socks
Buy from Carters (CHECK PRICE)
- Bodysuit
Buy from Carters (CHECK PRICE)
- Muslin squares
Drape these over your shoulder when winding your baby, particularly if they are inclined to bring back up some feed. Buy from Target (CHECK PRICE)
- Sensitive wipes
Newborns shouldn’t have anything but water on their delicate skin for the first few weeks and sensitive wipes are designed to be gentle on babies’ sensitive skin. Buy from Target (CHECK PRICE)
- Baby bottles
It will be a good idea for dad to bottle feed baby with expressed milk so mom catches some needed rest. An anti-colic bottle has a mechanism for reducing the amount of air the baby takes in during feeding. Buy from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
- Going-home outfit
Choose something really special from Dillards (CHECK PRICE) or Amazon (CHECK PRICE ). Do remember to include a jacket or snowsuit in the winter months.
- Car seat
You need one to get the baby home! Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
YOUR BIRTH PARTNER
- Birthing playlist
This can help mom ease anxiety and help her relax
- Snacks and drink
Have a stash of nibbles to keep you occupied, fed, and comfortable
- Toiletries
Make sure you remember to pack a toothbrush and some toothpaste so you can both freshen up.
- A change of clothes
- Phone and charger
- Camera – to record your baby’s precious first moments.
ALSO READ:- KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME TO HEAD TO THE HOSPITAL: SIGNS OF LABOR
OPTIONAL
- Accessories for your first photos with your newborn.
Check out this: really lovely hair accessories for your baby girl and this cute newborn bow tie for your boy.
- Pacifier
We know not everyone is on the pacifier train, but if you are, be sure to throw one in your hospital bag. Buy from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
- Sweet Almond Oil
Put some almond oil on the baby’s bum after each diaper change and the poo (meconium) comes right off next time you wipe them. Buy from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
- Baby milestone cards for those precious first photos
Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
FOR HOME
Typically, your hospital should provide these items during your stay ( do check with them). Whatever the case may be, these items will be needed for when you get home.
- Sanitary/ Maternity Pad
You may need to change your pad every hour or two hours after giving birth and will definitely run out of the stash from the hospital. Buy from Walmart (CHECK PRICE)
- Cloth Nappies or Diapers
Your newborn might get through 10-12 diapers each day, so start stocking up now and buy in bulk too, its works out cheaper. Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
- Breastfeeding Pillow
Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
- Parenting & Baby Book
Buy from Amazon (CHECK PRICE)
Congratulations mama! Your hospital bag is now packed. Keep it handy, either in the car or in your hallway, so you’ll be ready to go at a moment’s notice. And of course, we look forward to featuring your newborn over on our Instagram page!
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Mom Issues Bottle Lid Warning After Baby “Became Completely Unresponsive”
Chassidy Martin, from Mississippi, has sent out a warning to other parents about the danger of leaving bottle lids. Within close proximity of any baby after her baby boy became completely unresponsive. ‘It formed a perfect suction around his nose and mouth and it muffled any distress noises’.
The mom took to her Instagram page to share her scary experience. After a baby feeding bottle lid left her five-month-old son completely unresponsive.
In her post she said:
‘Mommas, please be super careful when using wide nipple area bottles that require large lids [baby feeding bottles that have large lids]. While I was getting Xaiden ready for school this morning and left the baby asleep. He got a hold of this wide area. No ventilation, bottle lid (that was unintentionally left in close proximity of him by his six-year-old brother). It formed a perfect suction around his nose and mouth. It muffled any distress noises. When I went to get him up is when I realized he was already awake and barely there. After I removed the top [baby bottle lid], he was blue. His nose was bleeding, and his respirations were almost non-existent. Then he became completely unresponsive.’
RELATED: TEXAS PARENTS WARN OTHER OF THE DANGERS OF DRY DROWNING
Chassidy then shared a photo of the bottle lid
Fortunately, Chassidy’s mom was able to perform CPR until an ambulance arrived.
‘I panicked, but by the grace of God, I was able to pass my mom on the way to the hospital. She started CPR until the ambulance arrived with oxygen. I’m SOOO grateful for God’s perfect timing and placement because there are SO many what-ifs. You think of large items like pillows or blankets and you think of small items that are choking hazards. But you don’t normally think of something like this. Hopefully, this will help prevent other moms from the same mistake and save someone else’s baby as well
.’
Terrified over what happened to her son, Chassidy wants to warn other parents about the issue.
‘Hopefully, this can help some other mom that uses these bottles. Have never thought of the possibility of this happening with non ventilated bottle tops, as I hadn’t.‘ she told pregnancybeyond.com
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5 Safe Pregnancy Exercises And Its Amazing Benefits, By Andrea Short.
Staying active and fit during pregnancy is important. In this Article, Andrea Short, a Maternity Nutrition and Wellness Specialist provides tips on some great and safe pregnancy workouts and it’s tremendous benefits for you and your developing baby.
It was once believed that exercise during pregnancy caused the incidence of infertility, ectopic pregnancy, congenital abnormalities, spontaneous abortion, premature birth, reduced intrauterine growth, or late placenta complications. Recent studies have shown this to be untrue. In fact, pregnancy outcomes are more favorable in women who exercise. You and your baby experience an array of benefits from physical activity.
The following are just a few of the benefits of exercising while pregnant:
- Maintenance of muscles and bones. This will make it easier to carry the additional weight.
- Improved Circulation. This is important because your blood volume increases by 50-60% during pregnancy, and your heart has to work extra hard to pump all that blood.
- Assists in maintaining a healthy pregnancy weight gain and fat deposition.
- More energy. This is important because pregnancy is exhausting. It may seem counterintuitive to exercise if you’re tired, but you will find your energy level actually increases.
- Decreased symptoms such as back pain, swelling, constipation, insomnia, nausea, and varicose veins.
- Reduced risk of pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension.
- Increases likelihood of a quicker postpartum recovery, and shorter, less complicated labor.
- It’s easier to resume your pre-pregnancy fitness levels.
- Lower incidence of postpartum depression.
- Stimulates healthy placenta growth.
- Prepares your body for the exertion of giving birth.
While it’s always best to consult your doctor or midwife before you continue or start an exercise program, most women (without pregnancy complications) can continue their workout routine. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise on most days of the week as long as you are feeling good and your pregnancy is progressing normally.
5 Safe Pregnancy Exercises
Walking
Walking and brisk walking are great exercises during any stage of pregnancy. It’s easier on the joints as it’s low impact. This is ideal for a lot of women because it does not require any special equipment except comfortable shoes, and it can be done indoors on a treadmill, or outdoors on a track or around your neighborhood. If you want to increase your intensity, simply walk at a faster pace, or find some hills to add an extra obstacle.
Swimming
Swimming is great throughout all stages of pregnancy, but a lot of women find it comforting especially during the third trimester. Because of water’s buoyancy, there is little to no stress on your joints, so it provides an adequate workout without adding too much extra stress on your body. Studies have found that water gymnastics significantly reduces the intensity of back/low back pain, most notably in the second half of the pregnancy.
Stationary Cycling
Stationary cycling provides a good cardio workout without the danger of falling off of a bicycle since pregnancy can cause your balance to be off because of changes in your center of gravity. Exercising on a stationary bicycle is a safer option while still working your heart and muscles.
Yoga
Yoga is an excellent way to keep your body in balance, work on stretching and flexibility, and focus on your breathing. This is a multifaceted approach that can help maintain better posture during pregnancy, as your body is making adjustments and compensating for the added weight. Working on breathing techniques will help work through the shortness of breath and contractions during labor. There are certain poses you want to avoid such as laying on your belly or back after the first trimester and poses that require you to be inverted. Twisting too much can put pressure on your abdomen. Also, avoid hot yoga as that can cause your body temperature to increase too much which can be dangerous for you and your baby.
Lifting
Weight lifting is a great way to maintain strength during pregnancy, but the workout should focus on maintaining fitness, not striving for big gains or increasing the amount of weight you lift. It’s best to increase repetitions and decrease weight as the workouts get harder or you feel more uncomfortable.
In conclusion, maternal fitness throughout pregnancy, with the proper guidelines, is essential to health. Also for the wellness of both the mother and baby. It provides an array of benefits that can decrease uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms. Make pregnancy a better experience, and provides positive outcomes for you and your baby.
ALSO SEE: BENEFITS OF DELAYED BLOOD CLAMPING
About the Author:
Andrea Short is a Maternity Nutrition & Wellness Specialist and Pre & Postnatal Fitness Specialist. She works with women during all stages of pregnancy and beyond to help them have a healthy pregnancy and baby. Working with postpartum women to strengthen, heal, and build confidence is a huge component of her work. She focuses not only on nutrition and fitness but the overall health and wellbeing of each individual. She is the go-to support system for moms like you. For nutrition, fitness, and feeling your best so you can be the best mom for your little ones! Join her private Facebook group here; Like her Facebook page here; Follow her on Instagram here; Contact her here: www.andreashortwellness.com
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]]>Dear Daughter:
Dear Daughter – Heart Touching Poem:
Dear Daughter,
With each passing month, the love grows stronger.
And so does the bump and the aches too.
But I never felt a comforting discomfort before you.
I am comforted by your dependency on me.
For trusting me
For choosing me
They say that words are the depository of wisdom and so this is an early gift
From me to you
Let them resonate with you always…
People will cloud your vision with discouragement
But plow through their lies.
Often, people plant seeds of doubt in one’s mind to stem the growth of greatness.
With every kick, I know you’re going to be strong.
Challenge your anxious thoughts when they creep in.
More than your mother, I am your soul mate.
A shoulder to lean on
A listening ear always
A million ‘thank-yous’ aren’t enough to show my gratitude for you being my seed.
I may not supply all your wants, but I will definitely meet your needs.
The disproportionate expectations of women may leave you confused.
But be submissive only to your hearts desires
And question everything
It will be a lie to tell you that all will be smooth-sailing.
But every ship will eventually sail.
I see your eyes dancing with all the love that’s coming your way.
Can’t wait to see you…
I hear your heartbeat, I feel you close.
Just a wonderful poem. Thank you for sharing. Poet: Christiana Ikwueto
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