Whether you’re planning a natural childbirth or opting for an epidural, it’s so important to know your labor pain relief options before you head to the maternity ward. Pain is, unfortunately, an unavoidable part of giving birth, but there are ways to decrease the intensity.There’s a reason many nurses refer to pain and “the 5th vital sign.” It can wreak havoc on your … [Read more...]
Giving Birth
You've been pregnant for what feels like forever and the time has finally come to welcome your new bundle of joy into the world. Make sure you're ready for everything from your trip to the hospital to those first few weeks of adjusting to your new life by checking out our tips, checklists, and information for brand new moms and seasoned veterans alike!
7 Questions to Ask During a Hospital Maternity Tour
Taking a maternity hospital tour? Find out which questions you should be asking now for the best birthing experience later! You’ve been pregnant for what seems like forever, but now you’re in week 30, and the preparations are getting real. The baby shower invites have gone out, you've finally settled on a theme for the nursery, and you've narrowed down your … [Read more...]
What You Need to Know about Having a Natural Birth After a C-Section
Can you have a natural birth after a c-section? Short answer, most likely, but it depends on a few important factors. By the way, this type of birth is called a VBAC, and here’s everything you need to know about it! Putting aside the fact that the term "VBAC" sounds more like something you'd call an HVAC guy for than a term for vaginal birth after a c-section, … [Read more...]
9 PostPartum Essentials That Every Momma Needs to Have
Planning your baby registry? Make sure you add these postpartum essentials to your list! Whether you’re a first-time mom or a fourth-time mom, you’re guilty of the same thing: forgetting that you have essential items that you’ll need during the postpartum phase. Most moms will put their needs on the back burner because of the concern they have in making sure that their new baby … [Read more...]
7 of the Funniest Things Said During Labor
Labor has got to be one of those times in a woman's life that is full of every emotion imaginable. From happiness to immense pain to anxiety, labor brings out the best, worst and sometimes the funniest in us. If you've ever been in labor, you probably remember saying and doing some things you normally wouldn't. For some women, childbirth temporarily turned them into comics. … [Read more...]
6 Easy Steps for Embracing your Post-Baby Body
Embracing your post-baby body can be a challenge. When you look in the mirror after having a baby, things look inevitably different. Don’t forget, you literally grew a baby inside you for nine (long) months! Trust me when I say, that almost all of us have struggled with loving our new bodies at one time or another. Here are some great tips and ways of thinking that have … [Read more...]
5 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Body for Childbirth
Congratulations on your pregnancy! For most woman, from the moment they see the plus sign on the pregnancy test, they are thinking about two things: the health of their baby and their childbirth plan. Their own health often takes second fiddle (which continues once the baby has come out, in many cases). It’s important to remember that the mother’s and baby’s health are … [Read more...]
4 Crazy Stigmas Attached to a C-Section Birth
I’ll be honest, as a late-20-something woman, pregnant for the first time, I had certain opinions of C-sections. I had plenty of friends who had delivered their babies by C-section, and while my brain knew that there are very legitimate reasons for a C-section, my heart focused on a medicine-free vaginal delivery.My OB-GYN and I had many conversations about my birth plan, … [Read more...]
The Truth about Walking When in Labor
I recently came across a question in a pregnancy forum about how much walking is safe when you’re in labor. This dad-to-be was trying to determine if he and his wife could hoof it to the nearby hospital (about a third of a mile, or 500 meters away) once she was in labor. He went on to say he could push her in a wheelchair but had heard she could only lie flat once her water … [Read more...]
Where to Sell Your Used Maternity Clothes for Extra Cash
Wondering where to sell maternity clothes? After the birth of your baby, you won’t need them anymore (unless you're planning on having more kids, of course), but what do you do with them? Why not sell them and make some extra cash? After all, you're going to need all the extra funds you can get for all that baby gear that you didn't get at your shower! Here are … [Read more...]
5 Best Post-Pregnancy Workout Books to Whip You Back into Shape
Post pregnancy workout books are a great tool for helping you get back into shape after delivery. It can be incredibly difficult for many new moms to get back into an exercise routine after having had a baby. We are exhausted; our bodies hurt; the baby won’t stop crying, and for some of us the idea of getting back to our routine is frightening (well, at least it was for … [Read more...]
Baby Born in Amniotic Sac is Simply Breathtaking!
OMG! This has got to be the most beautiful thing in this world. I will admit, at first I was hesitant to watch the video because I get grossed out pretty easily. The baby was born on Saturday, August 6, 2016 in Barretos, Brazil. The baby was born in the amniotic sac and is actually a twin, with the twin being born just moments before naturally. Neither sex of the twins has been … [Read more...]
5 Birthing Aids You Absolutely Want With You During Delivery
Whether you're having a home birth or delivering in the hospital, these five birthing aids will definitely make your delivery much easier to bear. Now, I'll be totally honest with you; I didn't get to have a natural delivery. I was still trying to decide which type of delivery to go with (totally natural versus epidural versus some sort of hybrid versus standing on my head … [Read more...]
Can I Choose to Have a C-Section?
Can I choose to have a c-section? You are nearing the end of your pregnancy and getting antsy. The nesting phase has come and gone, the nursery and everything in your house is prepared and cleaner than ever before and you are just ready to have your baby. But you still have to wait. This might be the first lesson in parenthood before we even become parents, learning to be … [Read more...]
Are There Benefits to Having a Doula?
Are there benefits to having a doula? What is a doula? Doula actually means woman’s servantin Greek (she is also called a labor support companion). Keep that in mind as you read this article, because when it comes down to it, that is all she is, there for you Check out the benefits to having a doula to help you decide if one is right for you! Related: Natural Birth: … [Read more...]
Are There Any Good Alternatives to an Epidural During Labor?
Are there alternatives to an epidural during labor? The good news is yes there are! Whether you're planning on going the natural childbirth route or you just don't like the idea of a giant needle going into your back, there are many reasons you might be considering alternatives to an epidural. Something to remember when you get an epidural, she brings a friend, the … [Read more...]
Should You Considering Using a Midwife During Your Pregnancy & Delivery?
What are the benefits to having a midwife? It really is a personal choice when it comes to who is going to monitor your care while pregnant. We all know (or maybe we don’t) how doctors can be. They typically are rushed and crunched for time when it comes to meeting with patients. A midwife has a softer and gentler bedside manner. She will get to know you in a way maybe a … [Read more...]
Pros & Cons of Lamaze: Will it Really Help You with Labor Pain?
Breathing during labor is important (well, it’s important in life in general) but what are the pros and cons of Lamaze? Labor is painful, there is no way around it, even Lamaze won’t take the pain away, but there are pros to using the Lamaze method of breathing while laboring, here are some of them. ►► Expecting? SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER, HERE & Download 100 … [Read more...]
5 Awesome Tips for A Natural Delivery You Should Know
I have closed up the baby shop, but I wish someone had given me tips for a natural delivery when I was pregnant with my first, who I wanted to birth naturally. It is possible! If you are thinking of delivering naturally there are some things you should know, that I wish I had known (like how much water can be helpful!) Here are a few tips for a natural … [Read more...]
What are the Benefits of a Home Birth?
What are the benefits of a home birth? This is a question that you may be considering as you start to weight your delivery options. The idea of having your baby in the comfort of your own home is definitely appealing! Back in the day (I mean way back), home births were the only option. Then of course, advances in medicine moved giving birth from your home to your local … [Read more...]
Did You Know About These Benefits of Water Birth?
What are the benefits to a water birth? It might sound a little scary at first, a small human being born into a pool of water, but think about the atmosphere your baby has been living in while inside you? It's full of fluid! In reality, it is the more natural way to be born when you think about it. But does have a water birth have other advantages as well? It … [Read more...]
5 Things You Need To Pack In Your Hospital Bag (beyond basics)
You are at the end of your pregnancy and so excited and nervous and probably packing your hospital bag. It is the unofficial start to the end of your pregnancy, the act of packing that sacred bag. Other than the no-brainers of baby’s going home outfit, diapers (of which the hospital provides by the way) and an outfit for you to go home in, what do you pack in your hospital … [Read more...]
Tough Choices: Should Doctors Provide Care For Preemies Born At 22 Weeks?
A recent article from the National Post is making waves. Check out the article: Canadian pediatricians recommend letting 22-week-old preemies die. Should doctors try to save the tiny newborns? This article is heavy, but an important issue that is affecting the care options for parents of preemies born at 22 and 23 weeks.The article begins with a story about a baby whose … [Read more...]
Where To Find Swimsuits For New Moms
How To Pick A Baby Name And Avoid Disagreements
Wondering how to pick a baby name without causing an argument between you and your partner? You're not alone! So many choices. So many combinations. Picking a name for your baby can be a very stressful thing to do! After all, you are giving your child something he or she will have for the rest of his or her life (let that sink in). Strong or cute? Popular or uncommon? Old … [Read more...]
Giving Birth While Sick: How to Cope?
Going into labor is an exciting day, but giving birth while sick can put a damper on the excitement! Today we're sharing a few ways to cope if this happens to you! After all, you're already survived so much during your pregnancy! From morning sickness to swollen ankles, your body has been put through the wringer. It hardly seems fair to come down with a cold on the … [Read more...]
Mother To Mother: Tips for Preparing For Natural Childbirth
First of all, congratulations are in order! Preparing for natural childbirth is an exciting time! Whether you are the one pregnant, thinking of getting pregnant, or know someone who is, it is a happy time! You have some choices when it comes to labor and delivery. Natural childbirth is a beautiful thing and it can be done! The woman’s body was made to birth children. Below … [Read more...]
Natural Childbirth Methods: There’s More than One Way to Have a Baby!
Think there’s only one way to have a baby when it comes to natural childbirth methods? Think again! While many natural childbirth methods have common aspects, each method offers a little something different. If you’re planning to go the natural route, knowing which method is right for you can mean the difference between success and screaming for an epidural at the last … [Read more...]
Great Childbirth Education Classes Online
For some expectant mothers, these Great Childbirth Education Classes Online are the only viable option for them. Whether they are on bed rest, limited by the area they live in, or just struggle with being around people these are some great choices for learning about the childbirth process that will help them. Learning how to breath, what massage helps and what to expect will … [Read more...]
Natural Childbirth Statistics You Need to Know
For expectant mothers making choices about childbirth, these Natural Childbirth Statistics may come in handy. While it is ideal to have a truly natural childbirth experience, we often find it doesn't work out the way we had planned. These statistics are here to help you feel better about your decision, but also remind you that sometimes things do change as labor progresses … [Read more...]
Childbirth Education Classes: Choosing What Is Right For You
Whether you are having your first, second or fifth child, Childbirth Education Classes are a great thing to consider as you approach the upcoming birth process. Not only do these classes offer you education, they can give you great tips and tools for making the labor and delivery experience easier physically and mentally for both you and your spouse. We have a few great tips … [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Photo Deemed Offensive, Takes Down Mom’s Instagram Account
A Toronto mom lost her Instagram account after she shared a breastfeeding photo with her and her daughter. CTV News shared the story of Heather Bays, a professional photographer who is completely heartbroken after losing her account. Bays not only used Instagram to document her own journey as a mom, but also to showcase her professional work. Now, she's lost her entire account … [Read more...]
Would You Want to Stay on Life Support to Save Your Unborn Baby?
Every now and then I come across a news story so powerful that it leaves me mulling it over for days. Right now, a Canadian woman is in a coma and on life support. She’s brain dead, which means she’s pretty much gone. Machines are keeping her heart beating and her blood pumping, but she's just not there anymore. Typically I'd say if I was in that state, I’d hope that someone … [Read more...]
Raising Awareness about Premature Babies: Stories from the NICU
November is prematurity awareness month; a special month set aside to inform others about the issues that surround and follow premature babies. For those of us who went through giving birth to preemies, though, the month means something entirely different.See, we already know what happens when your baby is born weeks (or months!) away from his due date. We know what it’s … [Read more...]
Breastfeeding in Public: Is it Indecent or Natural?
Breastfeeding in public is a hot topic that seems to push buttons on both sides of the debate. Some would say it's even hotter than the breastfeeding versus formula-feeding war! Apparently in Greece, it’s such a hot topic that they have an entire day dedicated to breastfeeding in public!The big question is, which side of the debate is right? Is it just a natural act of … [Read more...]
Giving Birth When Your Child is Heading Back to School
Giving birth is a busy time. Going back to school is also insanely busy. Giving birth when your older child is going back to school is a double crazy time! Between getting everything ready for your new arrival and making sure your previous arrival has all the right tools for a successful school year, it’s easy to find yourself completely overwhelmed and frazzled! We have a few … [Read more...]
Labor Pain Relief: Understanding Your Options
When it comes to labor pain relief you may have more options than you think. Many people believe that they only have two choices: take the epidural or deal with the pain. There are actually quite a few different ways to relieve labor pain. Some involve medications. Others use natural methods of reducing pain. Understanding your options before you go into labor can help you … [Read more...]
How to Overcome Common Breastfeeding Challenges
Breastfeeding is the best way to ensure your newborn gets all the right nutrients and beneficial antibodies. For many women, however, it doesn’t come without challenges. Sore nipples, infections, baby feeding strikes and milk supply issues are among the most common breastfeeding challenges. Fortunately, there are usually ways to deal with each challenge so you can get back … [Read more...]
Guest Post: The Best of The Breast: Why Every Mother Should Own a Breast Pump
Guest post by: Tanya Allsop at BreastPumpReviewSite.com Many of us who have babies are familiar with some recent formula recalls. It has made a lot of mothers second guess ever giving formula to our babies, and instead opting to exclusively breastfeed our babies. Not only breast milk and breastfeeding is beneficial for baby and mom , it is absolutely free. For the first year … [Read more...]
Breastfeeding versus Formula Feeding: The Pros and Cons of Each
In the breastfeeding versus formula feeding debate, both sides present valid arguments for the pros, and both sides have their downfalls. The debate between breastfeeding versus formula feeding has long been a raging one on parenting forums, in mommy playgroups and anywhere else that moms or soon-to-be moms gather. It can get really heated and nasty at times, with one side … [Read more...]
How to cope with a premature baby
Despite all the advanced in medical care over the last several decades, the number of babies born prematurely continues to rise. According to the March of Dimes, the numbers are up 36 percent over the last 25 years, and one out of every eight babies will be born too early. Thankfully, although medical advances don’t seem to be able to prevent the problem, they’ve greatly … [Read more...]
How to Recover from a C-Section
As a nurse, I see many patients that have given birth via C-section. What most people have a difficult time with is the recovery process. You have a new baby that you need to take care of but you also have to take care of yourself. The time it takes to recover from a c-section varies from patient to patient but following a few simple steps once you leave the … [Read more...]
Early Signs of Labor in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Do you know the early signs of labor in the third trimester of pregnancy?If not, now’s a good time to find out!These are things you want to know before you reach your final weeks, so you’re not taken by surprise!When you’re getting to the end of your pregnancy, you’ll find yourself wondering if every twinge and emotion is a sign that your baby is coming any … [Read more...]
Decorating a Baby’s Nursery
When you receive news of an impending arrival, one of the first things you do is to clear out the spare room full of junk and set about turning it into the kind of baby nursery you see in glossy magazines and on the TV. But before you stock up on paint and nursery furniture there are a few points that you should consider:Preparation It’s all too easy to get carried away … [Read more...]
Exercise Program for After Birth
New moms might think that trying to exercise after giving birth is too strenuous but in reality, it is very helpful to start some sort of gentle exercise program immediately after you have given birth. When you first get home with your new baby, you are excited, tired, happy, sad, and all mixed up in emotions that is to be expected. The ability to get back into shape both … [Read more...]
Natural Birth: Advantages and Disadvantages
The benefits and cons of going natural in birth are still contested by health professionals and experts. It is up to the mother to decide what is best for baby and herself. Make an informed decision based upon the facts. A natural birth does not suit everybody, so be prepared to take a decision either way. So does having a natural birth benefit you and the … [Read more...]
My Journey Through Post-Partum Depression: The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow
I have to admit to eating my share of humble pie in the last two years. In regards to my knowledge of child development and confidence in parenting skills, I didn’t think I was arrogant or proud, merely experienced. When post-partum depression literally knocked me off my feet in the first few days of motherhood, humble pie became a daily meal for me. I waited ten years to … [Read more...]
Losing weight after giving birth
Losing weight after giving birth is definitely a challenge! As soon as you come back from the hospital with your little angel, you want to get rid of those pregnancy clothes and start putting your pre pregnancy ones. But, you still have a belly and some people think that you are still pregnant. It is quite frustrating but don’t worry, this is absolutely normal. Your body … [Read more...]
Preparing for birth: Hospital bag Checklist
When you're close to your due date, something you don't want to leave for the last minute is packing your hospital bag. Making a hospital bag checklist will help ensure that you don't forget anything! Contractions and labor can start without warning making you forget the most obvious items. It is recommended that you have your bag ready at least six weeks before your due date. … [Read more...]
Signs of labor: How do you know that baby is coming
You prepared the baby’s room, your hospital bag checklist. You probably started your maternity leave and you are waiting impatiently for your baby. But how can you tell that you are in active labor? What are the signs of labor?Every woman’s labor is unique. Understanding the typical signs of labor can help you know what to expect as your due date approaches. They can also … [Read more...]