Choosing the best prenatal vitamin for pregnancy and beyond

Which vitamin does my doctor recommend? The common prenatal visit

I remember that highly-anticipated first prenatal visit with my OB/GYN at about 6-8 weeks. As a newly expecting mom, I was a little nervous but excited about the prospect of new motherhood: growing a baby and doing all I needed to prepare my body to provide for him.

But I left feeling a bit underwhelmed by how brief the visit was and how little my doctor at a top-rated hospital had to add. She chatted for a few minutes about upcoming tests and expectations, told me to start a prenatal, and then handed me a thin folder with some basic pregnancy paperwork. When I inquired further about specific prenatal brands she nonchalantly told me to pick up whatever prenatal vitamins I wished at the store. I was stunned and left to research on my own…because in my gut I knew that not all vitamins were equal. I simply wanted to find the best one to help support my baby’s development.

And this is unfortunately the experience of many other women…left to pick up whatever prenatal or multivitamin that looks good or that they happen to find at the pharmacy.

Why your prenatal vitamin matters

Did you know that your nutritional needs and needs of baby will change from trimester to trimester? YES, it’s true!

As you move from that first trimester and beyond you’ll experience different pregnancy symptoms (or postpartum effects) that coincide with the very real adjustments taking place within to grow a new baby!

What your body needs to sustain growth and remain healthy will vary at EVERY stage. This process even matters from preconception to conception. 

And most women don’t get the required nutrients from their diet alone…making your prenatal vitamin more important than ever. 

But the majority of women take just ONE prenatal vitamin throughout their entire pregnancy. And then after birth, many women stop taking multivitamins altogether.

Introducing Perelel: A multivitamin made to support each stage of motherhood 

Perelel, the first and only OB/GYN-founded women’s vitamin takes the guesswork out of choosing the best prenatal vitamin. No need to search up and down the aisle, hoping one will meet all your specific needs. Perelel bundles together all of the daily vitamins a woman needs into one packet based on where she is in her motherhood journey.

And they don’t cut corners by going cheap or using fewer ingredients either. While you might prefer to just take one vitamin each day, Perelel offers the cleanest formulation on the market and high-quality ingredients in the most bioavailable formats to ensure optimal absorption. Plus, their formulation and dosing are meticulously informed by the latest research — meaning it is evidence-based and updated to meet a mother’s health needs.

And beyond that, Perelel is currently the only brand that offers targeted prenatals for each individual trimester to better support those changing nutritional needs of mom and baby — this is a major benefit for mothers and a step up from other vitamins on the market.

The vitamins are conveniently packaged by trimester with a 30-day supply shipped and available via subscription — so you don’t miss a dose.

Best Vitamins for the First Trimester

The first trimester is a very critical period in development as baby grows from zygote and embryo to fetus. During those early weeks, many organs and systems are beginning to take form — there’s baby’s neural development and blood cell formation to the very early stages of reproductive organs and facial features developing.

And of course, mom’s body is changing to accommodate all these developments and needs of baby. The pregnant body produces more blood volume to provide extra blood flow to the uterus and other organs.

With all these internal changes, it’s no wonder many women experience morning sickness during the first trimester.

Perelel’s 1st trimester pack is specifically formulated by top obstetricians and maternal-fetal medicine doctors to support these crucial early development needs from weeks 0-13.

The 1st trimester daily pack bundles several vitamins to make it easy for mom to take care of both herself and baby, and includes:

■ 2 full-spectrum multivitamins — core vitamins with activated folate, significant choline for fetal neurodevelopment and DHA metabolism, vitamin D for normal immune function

■ 1 omega with both DHA and EPA capsule to support brain development and mood — NOTE: DHA + EPA is vital because the EPA allows the DHA to cross the placenta and reach baby

■ 1 additional folate capsule to support early-stage pregnancy needs

■ 1 B6 + ginger capsule as an anti-nausea support

All are essential early pregnancy nutrients to support new life, especially as miscarriages are most likely to occur in the first trimester.

Learn more about how the Perelel 1st Trimester Vitamin can help you.

Best Vitamins for the Second Trimester

While many pregnant women view the second trimester as a bit of a reprieve from fatigue and nausea of the first trimester, it is still a time of continued fetal development that can lead to more physical discomforts for mom-to-be.

During the second trimester, more detailed growth and organ formation continue so it is important to sustain a mother’s body with appropriate nutrients.

Many women don’t realize that growing a baby can deplete the nutritional resources within, making her prone to health issues down the line. It is important to continue getting essential supplements during this time.

Perelel’s 2nd trimester vitamin pack helps support your baby’s continued growth with additional calcium, magnesium, and added omegas from weeks 14-27. The daily pack includes:

■ 2 core prenatal vitamins

■ 1 omega with both DHA and EPA

■ 2 additional calcium magnesium blend

Read more about the Perelel 2nd Trimester Prenatal Vitamin

Best Vitamins for the Third Trimester

With that final stretch and third trimester of pregnancy, many women experience more aches and pains from a growing belly and loosening joints preparing for birth. There is also increased circulation and frequent pressure on the bladder that adds to the discomfort.

During this time, organs and internal systems mature, as baby continues the growth process.

The Perelel 3rd-trimester vitamin pack is again optimized to support the nutritional needs of baby and mom from weeks 28-40+. Because women don’t often meet those needs in their diet. The daily pack includes:

■ 2 core prenatal vitamins

■ 1 omega with both DHA and EPA to support those critical systems like heart, brain and central nervous system1 additional calcium magnesium blend capsule to help build strong teeth and bones in baby and to aid in mom’s muscle cramps and relaxation

■ 1 probiotic capsule to support gut health

Read more about Perelel’s 3rd Trimester Vitamin here.

Women’s Multi-Vitamins for Postpartum & Beyond

Should you take a prenatal vitamin after birth?

This is one area that tends to confuse women. For approximately 9 months, we take a prenatal vitamin to help support the needs of a growing baby, but after birth we often stop or continue with the same one.

The problem?

Our nutritional needs evolve even more throughout the postpartum period.

After pregnancy and birth, there is blood loss, hormonal changes, and increased stress levels that can leave a mother depleted and susceptible to things like anemia, postpartum hair loss, bone mass loss. In addition, mood and anxiety disorders like postpartum depression are very common. In order to aid the physical and mental healing postpartum, women must restore iron, calcium, collagen, and vitamin d levels among other nutrients, with a postnatal specific vitamin. And if a mother is breastfeeding, her nutritional needs will be even more to support her infant growth.

This is where Perelel vitamins make the transition easier. There’s no need to go at it alone trying to mix and match iron or other supplements with a multivitamin (which isn’t recommended unless advised by your provider anyhow).

Perelel’s mom multi-support pack bundles up the nutrients women need during this critical recovery period (and beyond) with:

• 2 full-spectrum multivitamins
• 1 omega with both DHA and EPA which can help ward off postpartum depression
• 1 collagen + biotin beauty blend for skin/hair/nail health
• 1 stress-support blend with Ashwagandha + L-Theanine to help reduce stress and anxiety

Read about Perelel’s Mom Multivitamins here.

Instead of buying everything separately at over $80-$100, you can subscribe for $48/month for a 30-day supply to save big time!

Perelel vitamins are formulated without dairy, gluten, nuts, soy or sugar and are breastfeeding-safe to meet you exactly where you are on your motherhood journey. They include high-quality ingredients in their most absorbable, bioavailable formats, free from synthetic colorants or additives.

With Perelel you can find the best vitamin for every stage of motherhood from conception, each pregnancy trimester, and beyond.

Looking to upgrade your prenatal or postpartum care with the right vitamins? Learn how to get started with Perelel MultiVitamins right here and use code ANA20 to save 20%

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

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The post The Best Prenatal and Postpartum MultiVitamin for Each Stage in Motherhood appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Newly pregnant? Congrats! This is an exciting time in your motherhood journey!

Now, what’s next?

Once you find out you’re pregnant and growing another human inside, the excitement and joy can quickly be followed by anxiety and uncertainty.

Because as an expecting mama, so many worries naturally follow:

How should I prepare for labor? What should I be doing or not be doing during pregnancy? What do I REALLY need to survive pregnancy and the postpartum time period?

These days, we are bombarded with information and choices. The amount of choices may actually add to the overwhelm. Options are good, but too many of them often leads to indecision and uncertainty. Because how do we make the best choices from the hundreds of options?

This is where pregnancy subscription boxes come in to play — helping to reduce the confusion and anxiety new and expecting moms face early on.

Wumblekin is one solution that stands out from the rest. The pregnancy and postpartum box brand, provides essentials to empower moms with confidence and evidence-based care. Taking them from panicked to prepared through pregnancy and the postpartum recovery period.

Below are three of the top reasons Wumblekin Pregnancy & Postpartum Boxes are a great gift option to reduce pregnancy anxieties for the new and expecting mom.

Evidence-Based Pregnancy Boxes Curated by Experts

Wumblekin pregnancy and postpartum boxes aren’t just randomly thrown together. Each item is carefully selected by a team of mom maternity experts to help you make informed decisions for yourself and baby. Because choosing products based on facts and not just opinions is essential.

The team who chooses the must-have new mom products is a panel of experts: OB/GYN, midwife, nurse, pediatrician, mental health therapist and more!

Whether it’s a pregnancy box, birth box or postpartum box, each product included is there to meet the stage of your changing body and emotional needs.

Plus, with each pregnancy and postpartum box, comes an educational booklet — helping you know what to expect and focus on to better manage each stage. Tons of helpful science-based recommendations in bite-size pieces to reduce the overwhelm!

Subscription Boxes Prepare Moms at an Affordable Rate

Another top reason Wumblekin makes a great gift idea for the pregnant mama? The bundle of items helps prepare her for all those pain points along her pregnancy and motherhood journey, without having to break the bank. Because we all know baby gear and mama essentials can add up.

Whether you sign up for a bundle of boxes the moment you get that positive pregnancy test, or just invest in one —  $49.99 pregnancy box, you’re saving between 34% and 60% across the board. 

Plus, you can get an additional 15% off using the code BUNDLE15 at checkout HERE.

Pregnancy & Postpartum Essentials for Each Trimester

As we move along in our pregnancy, it’s clear we require different needs to support our bodies and growing babies wherever we are in the journey.

Pregnancy Box for 1st Trimester

During the first trimester the majority of expecting moms experience morning sickness and nausea, their waistline starts to expand and hydration becomes essential.

So Wumblekin’s 1st trimester pregnancy box takes all these needs into consideration.

The first trimester pregnancy box includes:

• Organic Sweet BlackBerry Ginger Tummy Drops
• Expecting You Keepsake Pregnancy Journal
• Bellaband Maternity Band
• All-Natural Belly Butter
• Eco-friendly Water Bottle

These pregnancy essentials help mom-to-be alleviate morning sickness and stay hydrated every day, maximize comfort and easily adapt her current wardrobe to maternity-friendly clothes.

The essentials also encourages moms to keep track of this transformative experience documenting their pregnancy journey.

See the 1st Trimester Pregnancy Box and use code BUNDLE15 to save MORE!

All are items carefully curated by a team of mom experts who understand the struggles each trimester brings.

Pregnancy Box for 2nd Trimester

The second trimester, also known as the honeymoon phase, is a time most moms start to experience the pregnancy glow, with reduced nausea and more energy. This is typically the most enjoyable time for moms-to-be — and a time she deserves to be pampered as her belly continues to grow.

Wumblekin’s 2nd-trimester pregnancy box includes items mom can use to take good care of herself:

• Mother Loving Potions Charcoal Facial Soap
• ThermaCare Back Pain Therapy HeatWraps
• Crane Personal Travel Humidifier
• Skinergy Low Compression Socks
• The Snuggle is Real Newborn Size Onesie
• Usborne Books Baby’s Very First Little Library

I had a chance to take a close look at the goodies in the second trimester box, and as a mom of three, I can attest to the necessity of each!

As an expecting mom, I remember all too well the effects of dry air on my skin — bloody noses, dry, itchy skin and winter colds were the norm. Having a little humidifier to take on the go is really a must throughout your pregnancy (plus you’ll need one for when baby arrives too!).

I also really appreciate the back pain heat wrap, as a chronic back-pain sufferer and mama who knows the reality of body aches and pain the further along you are in your pregnancy journey. The compression socks are another comfort measure to help alleviate many of the swelling, joint pain and other physical discomforts pregnancy brings.

The newborn onesie and baby books are adorable extras to help you cherish those early days with baby — for snuggles, first photos and connecting to baby through reading!

All of these items purchased separately amount to over $85 — but purchasing through Wumblekin helps moms save big time! 

See the 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Box

Pregnancy Box for 3rd Trimester

As we waddle through the last few months of pregnancy with physical discomforts more apparent, the focus moves on nesting or preparing for the arrival of our bundle of joy.

Wumblekin’s 3rd-trimester pregnancy box features items to help us get comfortable and feel ready to soothe a newborn baby:

• Halo 100% Cotton SleepSack Swaddle
• Earth Mama Third Trimester Tea
• Custom Wumblekin Mug
• Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow, Anti-Colic 5 oz. Bottle
• Roll Model Massage Therapy Balls
• Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci Silicone Pacifier

Again, the pregnancy box suites the needs of the mom where she’s at and at whopping savings when purchased as a box rather than separately.

But beyond pregnancy, Wumblekin also understands that preparing for motherhood doesn’t end there. Birth and life after birth are equally important — and a time that moms’ may need the most support. That’s why they also created a Postpartum Gift Box and Labor and Delivery Box.

You can see the postpartum box in action on my Instagram page where I”ll be taking a closer look!

Don’t forget to use code BUNDLE15 to save even more on Wumblekin’s Pregnancy Boxes + Postpartum Boxes

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Pregnancy & Postpartum Gift Boxes: 3 Ways to Alleviate Anxiety as a New Mom appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

It seems like once the third trimester hits, and especially as your due date gets closer, many pregnant mamas start to wonder what they can do to help prepare their body and mind for birth. As a labor and delivery nurse and the face behind Mommy Labor Nurse, SO many mamas reach out wondering exactly what they can do to prepare for birth.

If you know me, then you know I’m all about childbirth education as the number one way to have a better birth, no matter what kind of birth you’re interested in! But beyond learning as much as you can about birth, there are quite a few daily habits and routines you can put in place to start preparing.

Today I’m so excited to share my top five daily habits to help you prepare for birth. They’re just the kind of action items many mamas are looking to incorporate in their daily routine to intentionally prepare for the big day!

Daily Habits to Prepare Pregnant Women for Childbirth

1. Drink lots of water

It’s SUPER important to stay hydrated during pregnancy, no matter how close or far away birth is. Water is responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to our cells, tissues, and organs. Staying hydrated ensures that essential nutrients are being transported to meet the developmental needs of baby as he/she grows!

Drinking water also helps preserve an adequate level of amniotic fluid, and even aids fetal kidney function by facilitating the amount of waste baby’s kidneys filter. And, if water retention has caused you to look more swollen than normal lately, drinking water can help prevent the amount of water you retain throughout the course of your pregnancy.

What’s more, dehydration can cause cramping and is a huge trigger for those pesky Braxton hicks contractions you may be feeling as your pregnancy progresses. The general recommendation is ten 8oz glasses of water per day, but if it’s especially hot, you exercise regularly, or you still feel thirsty, aim higher!

Lastly, water intake and proper hydration becomes especially important at the very end of pregnancy. You want to be properly hydrated at all times so you are ready for labor and delivery. Being well-hydrated will give you more energy and you may even experience a shorter labor! (source)

2. Daily stretching for optimal fetal positioning

Encouraging your baby into the optimal fetal position is an excellent way you can prepare for birth every day.

Ideally, we want our babies to be head down, chin tucked, and most specifically: with their back and bum to mama’s left and feet to the right.

A simple stretching routine that takes between 10-15 minutes is all you need to help get your baby positioned right for birth. During this pregnancy, I have really focused on my daily stretching specific to fetal positioning (in addition to prenatal fitness). I love using the techniques from Spinning Babies! Some of the daily stretches recommended are:

• Sitting with your knees lower than your hips (like on a yoga ball, a stack of pillows, or yoga block)
• Forward-leaning inversions
• Pelvic Tilts (cat/cow stretches)
• Leaning over a yoga ball or chair
• Butterfly stretches

3. Meditation

One thing that I think isn’t talked about enough is what a huge MENTAL game birth is. This is especially true for mamas hoping to have a natural birth. Preparing yourself mentally with daily meditation is a powerful daily habit to ready yourself for birth.

Meditating in the evenings to wind down, or early in the morning as a way to center yourself and strengthen your mental focus is a great way to incorporate this into your routine. Meditation becomes a time when your thoughts are intentional with the little baby you’ve been growing and nourishing in your body.

During labor, when the pain becomes intense, you’ll need mental focus and willpower to ride the waves of each contraction and stay strong as your labor progresses.

If you’re not sure where to start, try looking up some guided birth meditations, birth breathing exercise videos, or meditation apps. During this pregnancy, I’ve been using an app called Insight Timer. I’m able to listen to guided meditations before bed that just helps my mental state SO much.

In addition to preparing you mentally for birth, meditation is a great tool for mamas that suffer from pregnancy insomnia!

4. Exercise

I know that I talked above about the importance of daily stretching for fetal positioning, but I wanted to include prenatal exercise in general, too. Keeping your body moving is one of the very best things you can do every day for an easier labor and delivery.

Regular exercise during pregnancy is associated with a shorter labor and delivery, fewer instances of epidural use, a decreased risk for prenatal and postpartum depression, and may even lower your risk of some pregnancy complications and birth interventions. In other words, it does ALL GOOD THINGS!

Even if you haven’t been utilizing a prenatal fitness program so far, it’s not too late to incorporate daily movement into your routine. A brisk walk every day is a great place to start. Swimming, gentle prenatal yoga, and light hiking are all activities you can start doing right away.

If you ARE looking for a prenatal fitness program, there are so many great, online options available, even for mamas just starting out.

5. Eat dates and drink red raspberry leaf tea

Yes! These are two additions to your daily diet that can really help you prepare for labor.

This study found that women who ate 6 dates per day for the last month of their pregnancies were more likely to go into labor spontaneously, avoid Pitocin, and have a shorter early labor! To help with your daily date intake, try making date energy balls or adding them to a smoothie.

Red raspberry leaf tea is said to help tone your uterus and make your contractions more effective when you do go into labor. What’s more, by drinking a few cups of red raspberry leaf tea for the last two months of your pregnancy you may be much more likely to go into labor spontaneously and avoid medical induction.

So what are you waiting for? Put red raspberry leaf tea and dates on your shopping list and get snacking

With the daily habits discussed in this article and the right childbirth education I KNOW you are going to be better prepared to rock your birth!

***

Liesel Teen is a labor and delivery nurse (L&D RN), mama, the face behind the popular pregnancy Instagram page @mommy.labornurse and creator of the online childbirth class, Birth It Up. Birth is something she’s been passionate about for as long as she can remember, and she loves sharing her nursing knowledge to help mamas-to-be learn more about pregnancy and birth. She lives in North Carolina and is expecting her second baby in August 2020.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post 5 Daily Habits to Help You Prepare for Birth appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Most expecting moms prepare as much as they can for bringing a baby into this world. They take labor and delivery classes, they set up a baby registry to stock up on essential newborn must-haves and they research all about things to expect while expecting.

But rarely do they prepare for the aftermath as a new mom recovering at home with a newborn baby — especially how to take care of themselves — postpartum body and mind included.

This was exactly my story when I brought home my first baby after a four-day c-section recovery in the hospital.

But I was lucky to have my mom around to help for the first couple weeks that followed. She was much-needed support for cooking, cleaning, and looking after me. Every time I finished feeding baby, she insisted I take some time to shower, nap, or eat. Even when I thought I could do it myself, she would reach for my arms to help me stand without straining, adjust the pillows around me and remind me to take it easy.

In short, she was my personal doula…and what I needed most during those early days home as a first-time mom. Because when it was time for her to go I realized just how lost I would have been without her help….

Why You Need to Have a Postpartum Plan Ready

Today more than ever, moms are understanding why preparing in advance for life after baby is critical to their family’s overall well-being. The first few weeks home with a newborn are eye-opening.

With a postpartum plan, you can better manage stress and anxiety that might follow, especially when you’re no longer in the care of nurses and doctors at the hospital. Because we all know without a caregiver at our side, things aren’t so easy. 

A little planning will help you feel confident about recovery next steps once you are home with a newborn baby.

And then an extended plan sets you up for long-term success the following months when your back-up or full-time help at home is gone (think: your spouse going back to work or your mom/doula away).

This extended postpartum time is just as critical to prepare for, as it is a time you will be alone, and thus most vulnerable to things like postpartum anxiety or depression.

Grab the FREE Postpartum Starter Plan to help you during this fragile recovery time.

Tips to Prepare for Postpartum Recovery

So while baby’s due date is approaching, make sure you address all of the major areas within your postpartum plan. Below are a few ideas to get you started!

Find a support network

The most important part of setting up a plan for postpartum recovery is finding support.

Will your partner be around to care for you? Do you have family coming to help? Or will you have to hire outside support?

Figuring out who will be there to take care of you, is the first step.

Because as baby’s main caregiver — feeding, changing and rocking through the exhaustion — you cannot neglect your own self-care plan. Your new role will include daily care of your postpartum body, taking it easy, washing and nourishing yourself to ensure you are strong enough for your new motherly role.

If you do one thing, remember to make arrangements for the first few weeks back home for a smooth transition.

Prepare meals in advance

I felt very lucky to have my mom with me for a couple of weeks postpartum — along with support, it meant I didn’t have to stress much about meal prep or cooking. One less thing I had to worry about!

But when it was time for her to head home, reality struck: I was still in this exhausted new mom / postpartum period left to figure things out alone.

So most of the time, when I was hungry, I just grabbed whatever packaged snacks were in the pantry or whatever was quickest to make so I could get back to baby. And as a breastfeeding mama, with a ravenous new appetite, those pb&j sandwiches just weren’t cutting it.

That’s why I strongly recommended new moms prepare meals in advance.

Because your help won’t be there forever. And when you’re still recovering, going on little to no sleep, and hungry, it’s critical to have healthy food options ready to go.

I will admit, I struggled with finding healthy options initially in my postpartum season — often having to eat the processed prepacked muffin, granola bars, cracker, snacks in the pantry.

Here are a few great options for making healthy food choices postpartum:

• Grocery delivery
  • You won’t be able to drive for some time, as you recover from birth anyway, but the last thing you’ll want do is go grocery shopping. Get groceries delivered with a service like InstaCart or Peapod.

• Freezer Meals
  • Prep meals in advance and freeze them. This usually works best for dinner meals, but you can also do this for pasta, casseroles to make for lunch.
• Healthy, prepped snacks
  • Have a readily available stash of fruits and veggies. Bananas and oranges are great no-prep options loaded with potassium and Vit C to fuel up. For the fruits that need to be prepped (strawberries, melons, peppers), cut them up to munch on or add to smoothies!
  • Also, think about small portions you can throw into a salad for extra protein — cheese, eggs etc.
  • Stock up on healthy granola bars — not the overly processed types because the extra sugar that will keep you up when it’s time to rest.
• Meal Train
  • I wish I knew about meal trains during my pregnancies — it was only recently that I discovered this as a real system families use. The basic idea is that friends and family, sign up to cook and deliver a meal of your choice to help you ease into your new mom role — such a kind gesture!

Have a plan for the division of labor

Surely you won’t be expected to do much after actually going through labor, right?!

That’s what we all deserve. But the truth is unless you have extended help at home, you’re eventually going to have to deal with household duties…ahem, laundry. Because newborn babies go through clothes, bibs, and blankets so fast!

You can use this simple postpartum template to start planning ahead and have an action plan for managing household duties — whether you decide to hire help or split household duties with your partner, make sure you talk about it beforehand so you aren’t worrying about the little things when the baby arrives.

I will say, that if anyone is asking what you’ll need most (in your baby registry) request Visa/Amex gift cards you can use towards a cleaning service. My mother-in-law paid for a cleaning lady when we had our first baby and it was a huge help!

Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health

One of the often-overlooked areas of postpartum recovery is mom’s mental health. It’s an area that doesn’t get much attention unless there is a clear history of issues.

But as a new mom, it’s natural to experience a range of emotions — you just brought a new creature into the world which is sure to leave you hormonal. While you experience profound joy with your new baby, it’s natural to also feel a bit of overwhelm, anxiety, and even sadness from time-to-time.

It’s when these feelings persist for weeks on end or even months and bring you to a negative place that you have to take seek further help. Those are red flags to look out for.

So it’s important to have healthy mental breaks to turn to for when you need to recharge. Things that can provide you a sense of normalcy and reassurance like:

• Fresh air
• Walks around the neighborhood
• Journaling
• Music
• Friends or family to talk to

Think about how you can take care of your mental health when filling out your postpartum plan.

Other things to consider

One last thing to consider as you prepare for postpartum is child care.

This is a must if you have more than one child — make arrangements for help those first couple of months.

Will you have a mother’s helper or sitter? Will your older child be going to nursery school? 

Line up help for when you need to get out of the house, have a date night, or just catch up on sleep.

Keep all this in mind as you build your postpartum plan.

So as you prepare for the arrival of your bundle of joy, remember to also take the time to plan out exactly how you will care for yourself with a new baby at home. When you do this, you’ll find this new chapter in your life to be a more manageable positive experience.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE postpartum plan — to help make your time home with baby easier than ever!

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post How to Prepare for Postpartum During Your Pregnancy appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Baby showers have always been a beautiful celebration of a new chapter in life for the expecting mom and baby. It’s a tradition that goes beyond just showering mom with baby gifts, but also one of sending well-wishes, making memories and simply enjoying time with friends and family before life gets a little busier.

Why You Should Consider a Virtual Baby Shower

But we all know in today’s social distancing climate, that is just not an option for the majority of pregnant women…who are quarantined in their homes.

That’s why considering a virtual baby shower is a MUST…especially if this is mom’s FIRST baby.

While quarantine might be the biggest reason for mom-to-be to go with a virtual or contactless shower, that isn’t the ONLY reason.

She may also be on full bed rest and unable to handle a large gathering. Or she may have friends and family out of state or just too far to travel.

So having an alternative for a traditional baby shower is never a bad idea!

But how exactly do you throw a baby shower virtually, to make it actually feel like you are together celebrating? 

Well here’s how a little creativity goes a long way.

How to Host a Virtual Baby Shower Party

Choose your digital platform

Like any online party, the first step is to choose where you want to host it. For a gathering of more than 8-10 people, you are most likely looking at something like Zoom or Google Hangouts. That’s because these platforms are more robust and can accommodate larger groups. 

Of course with any venue, there may be some costs involved. For example, Zoom is a popular choice for many online events, but the free account only goes to 40 minutes. On the other hand, Google Hangouts can go much longer and is free.

For a virtual baby shower, I’d estimate between 45 minutes to an hour to give you plenty of wiggle room, especially if people run into issues or join later. And while it’s tempting to invite tons of people, the best virtual parties are intimate — try to keep the guest list to under 15.

Once you find the best platform that works for the party size, make sure to send all the details to friends and families in a formal evite for your virtual party! Just be super clear on exactly what they need to do to join and enjoy the party (link to click, password to use, what to bring, what to expect and where mom is registered).

Ask Guests to Send Shower Wishes

One way to make your virtual shower special is to have guests send shower wishes to the mom-to-be. They can do this one of two ways.

First, you may have them sign a virtual message board before the party in their RSVP. This is usually the easiest method and you can seamlessly incorporate the message into your virtual message board via the evite

Another idea for your virtual baby shower is during the party, have guests write a few well wishes or words of encouragement on a paper and then you can take turns having them share it on screen. Guests can also opt to just verbally share.

Designate an Emcee

One really important, yet often overlooked tip to make your online shower successful is to designate a host or emcee for the party. 

This will help ensure everything runs smoothly and without major issues.

I can’t tell you the number of virtual calls or events I’ve joined where sound and playback were a HUGE issue. With someone taking charge from the start and emceeing, you can make things a bit more manageable and decide when to mute or call out names to interact.

A good idea would be to start the party with a few hellos and basic guidelines so everyone knows what exactly to expect. And when making an announcement or moving on to the next part of the shower, I’d highly suggest muting attendees.

Keep Guests Comfortable

To keep any virtual party feeling like an in-person party, you will need to get a little creative. But it’s not too hard.

Just include a few special touches and elements to make it happen.

• Tell guests to prepare a snack or dessert and drink to toast.
• Remind them they will be on camera, so they can prepare in advance and dress the part if they want to.
• Engage them, by asking everyone a question or giving them some camera time — it doesn’t have to be much, but this will at least help them feel like they are participating and not just watching others interact.
• For an extra special touch, include a short 3-5 minute video (I’ll emphasize short here because not everyone can stare at a screen for hours). It could be a highlight reel with pictures of the mom-to-be preparing for baby.

Include Virtual Baby Shower Games

And what fun would a baby shower be without some actual baby shower games, albeit virtually?!

Think this isn’t possible? Think again! In this day and age, anything is possible.

• Play the Price is Right – Hold up various baby items and have guests guess the price on a paper. Go around and see who comes closest to the actual price.
• Play Which Baby is She – Hold up baby pictures and have guests guess which baby the mom-to-be was. 
• True or False – Have mom-to-be read a series of baby-related questions and guests must keep track of their answers. At the end, mom reveals answers and guest with the highest score wins!

If needed, you can include a direct link to the game so guests can print out at home in time!

Once the games are finished, don’t forget to break out the baby shower cake and let mom make some wishes. (This would be the time for guests to enjoy their own homemade desserts and congratulate mom-to-be!)

All these things may seem to be very minuscule but still an important sentimental note for the mom who feels she was grieving a chance to celebrate this very special occasion in life.

What about baby shower gifts?

Oh we could never forget about baby shower gifts, in baby shower party??

Even if it’s a virtual shower, gifts for that new baby are one of the main reasons for even having a baby shower. So how do you go about getting gifts if you won’t actually see your guests?

Two words: baby registry! 

Just as an in-person shower, you need to have the expectant mom set up her wish list in an online baby registry. When the list is ready, send it to your guests via the baby shower invite / evite. Most guests will be more than happy to shower mom-to-be with special and much-needed gifts.

NOTE: Because Amazon and many other stores are prioritizing essential products over other items, you may have to choose gifts carefully. Of course, you can choose whatever mom and baby want, but be sure to focus on the absolute essential items. Things like carseat, stroller, diapers, bottles, bibs, grooming, safety, and bassinet should top the list. If you want to leave off the non-essential just skip the toys and extra gear baby won’t need for the next few months.

Along with physical gifts, mom-to-be might strongly consider registering for online courses or products that she can easily access at any time. This can include breastfeeding baby care and postpartum recovery courses.

Remember to keep this list of virtual baby shower ideas handy, especially this year as it will be much-needed saving grace for the pregnant mom.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Virtual Baby Shower: How to Throw an Epic Party from Afar appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Pregnant in the Time of Coronavirus

When I found out I was pregnant in November of 2019, I had images of myself 8 months later in a moo-moo, waddling down 169th street in New York City’s blistering summer heat, my thighs chafing, just to get a cold sip of an overpriced strawberry-banana smoothie.

I imagined myself walking up the three flights of stairs back to our tiny apartment, just barely cooled by a seven-year-old AC unit on its last legs; my swollen feet propped up on the coffee table and reruns of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills distracting me from my sciatica pain.

I imagined myself sweaty, but happy; eagerly anticipating the week in August where my large family would descend on the Jersey Shore with thousands of other families. I’d be there with my new baby, my step-daughter, my husband and with the people I love most in the world right there beside me to help; to offer unsolicited advice, laughter, and delicious feasts that I would neither have to prepare nor clean up.

Then, March of 2020 came around and COVID-19, and all the dreamy possibilities of what pregnancy would be like suddenly washed away.

I had been following the news and the story of the virus since January.

Being pregnant, I had some sixth sense that the city was becoming an increasingly unsafe place to live. I even ordered some cloth masks and extra hand sanitizer for our family, intuiting that this might get very bad, very quickly. I wore plastic gloves on the subway and when the mask arrived, I proudly donned it. There weren’t many of us with masks then, so a lot of tough New Yorkers gave me eye-rolls. I even canceled a doctor’s appointment I felt could wait; one with a nutritionist—yeah, I know, eat the rainbow. At this point, I was lucky if I could stomach some French fries, let alone a crudité platter due to my relentless morning sickness.

I was still being asked to show up for work (as we all were) at this time.

My husband and I are both professors at The Actors Studio Drama School. Whenever a student coughed, I became increasingly paranoid and I insisted, with support of the school, that no one show up for class if they felt even remotely feverish. I went as far as to set up small black prop-boxes around me to create a kind of protective shield. I’m an artist, not a scientist, and this somehow made sense to me. My students ran with it and no one questioned why.

When the first week of March came around and the hysteria of COVID-19 became real in New York, I remember fighting with my husband as he told me that I should not go into school the next day because of the virus.

I was insisting that I do go in because it was the day that my students’ final scenes for their spring festival would be chosen and this was a ritualistic day of sorts; a kind of graduation to the next level of their work from solo to ensemble.

I was adamant, hormonal, and in denial that this one class (let alone later, the entire semester) be taken away from them because of a virus. An hour later, we got an email saying that no one would be coming into work because school would be on leave for the following two weeks, that classes would be held online, and that we were to learn how to essentially form an entirely new lesson plan for potential further shutdowns.

Then, my mother called.

“Katie, I really think you need to come out here”. My parents live in Connecticut. They moved in January to a wooded, garden-like oasis on three acres of land that had a kind of bewitched energy to it. For instance, there is a black bra tied to one of the trees that looks like it’s been there for thirty years and a pitchfork inside a large barren oak stump. My mother didn’t like the thought of her pregnant daughter staying in New York for “God knows how long” and she insisted that I stay with them for a few weeks, “just until the worst of it passes”.

I debated going out there at first.

The main reason being, did I have the virus? Was I asymptomatic? Would I give it to my elderly (being in their early-seventies they hate that word) parents? When would my husband be able to join us? And what about my step-daughter who also lives in New York? When would I see her again? What about her mother? If my husband joins me, she is left in New York with childcare all by herself for “God knows how long”. Is this really the smartest and safest thing to do for our family? Am I being utterly selfish..?

I took a few nights to sleep on it. I had to trust the deepest part of myself: my unfailing intuition; made even stronger through the growing life inside of me. My gut would guide me towards what I needed to do.

My motherly instincts kicked into high gear; what I needed to do was migrate towards safety and fast.

The next morning, I packed a bag filled with high-waisted underwear, stretch pants, antacids, belly butter, my computer and some books on childbirth I had been putting off reading. I looked around our funky little apartment with some kind of odd feeling of loss, then I kissed my husband and step-daughter goodbye. If I had known that was the last time I would hug and kiss my step-daughter in three months and counting, I would have squeezed her a little tighter and packed my bag a little earlier, so that I could have spent more quality time with her before heading out the door. I regret this. I miss her so much right now I cry just thinking about her.

My eldest sister picked me up and drove me the ninety minutes north. On the drive, we exchanged fears and expectations. She was in her first week on a new job, running a nursing home in the Hudson Valley region no less. She hypothesized on all the worst and best-case scenarios that would start to flood her facility. I complained about having to change my doctor and find a new hospital. “What the hell will my birth plan even look like now?” I bemoaned. And to be honest, it’s not like I had a solid birth plan in the first place. Here’s what I knew: I wanted to give birth naturally and in a birthing hospital. Oh, and I had a sick playlist already up to hour five of labor. Only problem was, my bottom of the barrel health insurance didn’t offer midwifery and there were no birth centers left in Manhattan. If I wanted one, I’d have to haul my pregnant butt over to Brooklyn. Still, I considered it.

Nearly all the women in my family laughed at me for wanting a natural birth.

“Believe me, you’ll want the epidural,” they would say, with a certain look of both wisdom and disdain towards my foolish notion of going drug-free. To be fair, my pro-natural birth mother friends had an equally condescending attitude towards epidurals, “They’ll do anything in a hospital to drug you or cut you open to make money. Go home: get a tarp, get a doula”. And as much as I loved the idea of a doula, there was no way I could afford one, let alone the tarp. My husband would be my doula. The tarp would have to wait. As much as I wanted to be that heroic, I was always too scared to birth at home.

When I arrived at my parents’ new home, I was greeted, as usual, with unconditional love; I am blessed to have a family that I not only love, but I actually like and get along with. I know…it annoys most people who follow me on Instagram, but it’s the truth. There was not much hugging, we would stay our distance for a while, but both my mother and father seemed relieved to have been able to offer me this temporary peace of mind. They had a room ready for me, fresh towels, and even an extra bed for my dog, Batsy. My mother placed the porcelain Peter Rabbit figurines of my childhood on the dresser in a loving attempt to make me feel at home in her new house. I was comforted and told, “stay as long as you need”.

And this is right about here where I need to stop, take a deep breath and acknowledge my privilege before going any further. I am privileged to be in this place, with these people, to have a job that inspires me and with which I can work remotely, during a time that is like hell on earth for millions. My parents have a wildflower prairie as a lawn. I recognize the privilege of my circumstances and I regularly oscillate between gratitude and guilt.

It was clear from watching the 24-hour news cycle that coronavirus wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

It was here to stay and so I thought, I guess I am here to stay, too. Once I realized that I would be in Connecticut for the summer, I began the rigmarole of changing doctors. The closest New York town that took my New York State health insurance was an hour away. The hospital in the town was beautiful and newly renovated, and it happened to be where my best friend gave birth (naturally) only three years earlier.

I booked an appointment right away for my 20-week anatomy scan.

When I called they said I couldn’t have anyone with me. My heart sank, but then I remembered I wouldn’t be entirely alone, my baby boy would be right there with me.

For two weeks, my husband quarantined himself in New York after having worked his second job waiting tables at John’s Pizzeria the weekend after I left. It was the last weekend of so-called normalcy before Cuomo shut the city down.

Those two weeks away from him were long and lonely.

I wrote a lot of poetry. It’s what seemed to come out of me at the time. I figured I would write something for the baby to have one day in the future when he was grown. I spent those two weeks doing my best to calm the anxiety that coursed through my veins by practicing daily breathwork and relaxation, both exercises I happen to teach my acting students.

One morning, a few days before my husband came out to join me, I woke up from a bad dream and couldn’t fall back to sleep. The bed felt so empty, the mattress springy, and my dog, who usually sleeps at my feet, had found that her new dog bed was actually quite comfortable. I thought you were a therapy dog, I groaned on my way to use the toilet. Perhaps it was the big move my husband would heroically have to make on his own; packing up our home of six years into boxes and the closure that would be taken away from me in saying goodbye to the place we began our lives together. Or maybe it was my new diagnosis of placenta previa at my 20-week anatomy scan. Or maybe it was the virus looming over everything like a shroud of death…

Either way, being wide awake, I made myself a coffee, poured myself some Special K (a strange craving), and made my way to the TV in my parents’ living room. I flipped on CNN. An hour later, my mother came downstairs in her robe and we watched the news together for another hour. I poured another bowl of cereal. Then, my father came down. Another hour passed. The news began to pour out that partners and any other kinds of visitors would not be permitted in the delivery rooms or hospitals in New York State. I started to panic.

My breath spasmed. I sat there listening, aggressively trying not to cry, so as not to worry my parents. I swallowed my tears. I swallowed my breath. Beads of sweat began to pearl on my unwaxed lip.

My heart and mind raced as one jockey and horse with thoughts like…

Would I be alone and practicing Lamaze through a face mask? Who would be my advocate if they wanted to cut me open? Who would know my safety word if I actually did want the epidural? Who would rub my sore back? Who would I yell at? Whose arms would I cry into? Who would I share in the greatest moment of my life with? Would I get coronavirus just by being in the hospital? Would I miss the skin to skin contact I so badly desired? Would they separate me from my baby? Would I have to wait two weeks to see my baby? Would that affect the baby when he becomes an adult? Was I already a terrible mother? Is there anyone who can tell me what to do?

I looked over at my mother. There was an equal panic in her eyes, but her breath was slow and deep.

It was in that moment that I realized the importance of parenting oneself and the great responsibility I had in being a parent.

It struck me like water to the face. My mother was staying strong for me and I had to stay strong for my own baby. In a time where I could have easily dipped back into old selfish patterns of behavior that included catastrophizing with a side of crippling anxiety, I understood very clearly the impact that would have on the growing life inside of me and that I owed it to my child to give him what I so desperately needed myself; comfort, love, compassion, kindness. I forced myself to take a resounding breath, to relax the shoulders that had crept up towards my ears, to loosen my jaw, to allow myself to experience grief by releasing it instead of holding onto it like an old photo. A few minutes later, I was calm and motherhood felt like a warm lullaby.

A few years ago, I read an article about babies born in New York around the time of 9/11. They tracked these children throughout their lives and the study found anxiety to be much greater in these individuals, especially if the mother herself had anxiety. The article stuck with me for a reason. The greatest lesson I have learned from being pregnant during this time is the responsibility I have in parenting and taking care of myself because this child is a part of myself. I have had to start the journey of relinquishing selfishness, of routinely practicing self-care, of loving my body, of accepting enormous responsibility; my life is no longer just about what I want, but about what my child needs.

I keep asking when it will become real.

My mother says when the baby is wet and warm against my skin for the first time; the eye contact, the cracking scream of new life that fills the space, the unbreakable soul bond between mother and child through the senses, through the ether, through eternity. I believe her.

There is something so profound about the fact that I have this extra time with my parents while I am becoming a new mother. These past few months, when my father asks if I’d like to go on a bird walk, I try to always say yes. Last summer, and summers before then, I found various reasons to pass on the walks. Now, I crave the ebb and flow of our nature walks and realize how precious the time we have together is. There is some greater reason for this bonus time with them that I don’t fully understand now.

The rules in New York have since changed.

My husband can be in the room with us, thank God. But, in August, we don’t know what the statistics will be. We don’t know if my placenta previa will have fixed itself. We don’t know if anyone we love will have fallen ill from COVID-19 or if one of us will catch it. We don’t know when friends and loved ones will be able to meet our son in person. We don’t know if our school will hold classes in the fall or if our jobs are secured. We don’t even know where we will be living. We don’t know the future at all, not like we ever really did, but at least in the past, there were mirages of security. The truth is, all of this lack of control, a year ago, would have shaken me to my core. It is easy to understand how and why so many people feel paralyzed and alone right now, clinging to their screens for some semblance of what to expect; especially during a time when we have the largest unemployment numbers since the Great Depression.

I don’t know the answers.

I only have one piece of advice to anyone, whether you are pregnant or not: parent your inner child; give them the kind of love and attention they need and deserve. We all were children once and that child-self never went away, it just hides most of the time from all the adulting we are forced to do. But, the child comes out to play when we are most happy and blissful and fulfilled.

This is the time we must listen intently and with compassion to the quiet whisper of truth within us. We will come through this. The tunnel may be long, but there is a pin’s head of light I can see that gives me hope. I can’t help but draw the metaphor of the baby’s descent through their own tunnel and the light that awaits them at the end, which is also the beginning.

***

Kate is an actor, playwright and professor at The Actors Studio Drama School. She is expecting the arrival of her first baby in August 2020. You can connect with Kate on Instagram.

Read the full collection of stories on mothering in the time of the coronavirus pandemic in the Birth & Babies Anthology HERE.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Pregnant in the Time of Coronavirus appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

I remember hearing stories of summer pregnancies…how unbearably hot and uncomfortable it was for many expecting moms. I couldn’t fathom dealing with the summer heat with a growing belly and hormone fluctuations! How lucky I felt to not have to experience that.

But little did I know, I would be dealing with my own set of challenges as a first-time mom pregnant in the winter.

The Biggest Challenge of a Winter Pregnancy

My boys were all spring newborns, so I experienced three winter pregnancies around my second and third trimesters. And unlike what I thought, the worst part of winter wasn’t just trudging a big belly through the freezing cold snow.

It was much more about trying to avoid the germs and viruses that you come into contact with while stuck indoors or around crowded spaces. These can compromise your health big time during pregnancy.

Because when you have precious cargo on board the goal is simply to stay healthy and deliver a healthy child.

And then, what are you to do if you catch the flu or a bug during pregnancy??

I wish I didn’t have any experience in this area…but I definitely got hit hard one year, despite my best efforts to avoid it. I wish I had prepared a little better.

Below I’ll share some of the best winter pregnancy tips to help you survive the season. From staying healthy and preventing sicknesses…to staying warm and finding comfort with a growing belly.

Winter Pregnancy Tips

Wash Hands

As a pregnant woman, preventing sicknesses will be a priority during peak flu/cold season to keep both yourself and growing baby well. The best thing you can do besides avoiding sick people is simple: wash hands frequently, especially before mealtimes or touching your face.

Opt for a natural handwash free of perfumes or toxic chemicals like this Meyer’s brand or one that comes infused with nourishing ingredients and is also pregnancy-friendly!

Get a flu shot

Children, the elderly and pregnant women are one of the more susceptible groups that need to be extra cautious to avoid illnesses. Get your flu shot early — usually in your second trimester when you are feeling best to prevent contracting as many strains of the flu as possible.

If you do catch something, be sure to call your doctor ASAP to know what medications are safe during pregnancy. You don’t want to risk a little cold turning into something much bigger.

I got the flu with my second baby, while I was visiting family. But instead of making my way to the ER like my doctor recommended I decided to rest in bed because trying to figure out locations/doctors while away from home was a bit overwhelming.

That was NOT my smartest move…as the recovery process took a while and things could have gotten dangerous. Remember to prioritize your pregnancy self-care by always having your vitals checked as dehydration while sick is a big risk.

Eat well

Staying healthy during your winter pregnancy doesn’t have to be super hard. As long as you’re taking care of those basic self-care areas you’re already ahead of the game.

Start with eating a balanced diet — fruits, vegetables, and proteins really are that important this time of year. You want to ensure you have plenty of antioxidants and Vitamin C to be at your very best to fight off infections.

If you are still battling morning sickness, it may be more of a challenge but try to add 1 or 2 nutritious elements to each meal to keep yourself on the right track.

Hydrate

Hydration is key throughout your ENTIRE pregnancy. That’s just the truth. With a winter pregnancy, that still remains the same…especially because the dry air indoors will contribute to dry skin, bloody noses and dehydration.

If you forget to drink, grab one of these perfect pregnancy bottles you can carry with you everywhere you go and refill as needed. Plus, it helps you keep track of how much more you need to drink.

And again, if morning sickness is still an issue, grab a water bottle that you can infuse with your favorite fruit flavor (lemon was my go-to nausea relief!)

Note: While in the shower, choose an organic pregnancy-safe body wash that will keep your skin hydrated.

Moisturize

Also remember to moisturize throughout the day — after showering and washing hands especially to prevent dry, cracking skin. Don’t forget your lips too — I remember dealing with cracked, bleeding lips throughout my winter pregnancies and it was NOT comfortable at all. Aquaphor was definitely my go-to, but I’d recommend using it as a preventative first, as to avoid more issues.

Find Winter Maternity Clothes

I wrote a post a few years ago talking about the one maternity piece I needed more than anything…and I still feel the same to this day. But there are a few more maternity clothes that a mom-to-be really should have handy (whether borrowed or brand new) to feel comfortable in winter.

• Sweaters
• Cardigans or Ponchos
• Layered Tops – Because you retain heat during pregnancy, adding layers lets you have a little breathing room, to adjust as needed.
• Maternity Coat – You can buy extra-large to save (like I did with my first) but know it comes with a few cons.
  • You’ll have A LOT of air coming in from the bottom
  • It’ll make you look bigger than you actually are (if you are concerned about that)

More Winter Pregnancy Safety Tips

I wanted to throw out a few more winter pregnancy tips to keep mom-to-be prepared to deal with all that comes with the colder weather.

Winter Maternity Shoes

It’s no doubt many people can take a fall with the slippery conditions out there. So when you’re pregnant in winter, investing in some safe footwear is something you definitely need to think about. These winter boots are a great affordable option for expecting moms — comfortable for anyone dealing with swollen feet but also made of durable rubber soles to prevent slips.

For indoor shoes, try the Sketchers brand (I don’t care what anyone says about how they look, I lived in mine for most of my pregnancy). So comfy!!

And for a more relaxed look, please stock up on non-slip socks — any brand really, but I loved how warm these non-slip socks were — yes, they are a MUST!!! I say this as a mom who slipped down a whole flight of stairs during my third pregnancy wearing my everyday socks. Not a risk you want to take!

Winter Activities to Avoid During Pregnancy

Skiing

Even if you were an avid sports fan before, winter is not the best time to try going all in — skiing, skating, sledding are all winter activities that you may want to steer clear of. Again, it’s just another major risk, best to avoid for this season in life.

Shoveling Snow

Please, please also avoid lifting and taking part in any strenuous work during pregnancy (besides labor of course!). Shoveling snow, moving furniture or rolling down heavy trash cans should not be done by mom-to-be!

Hot Tubs

Finally, avoid hot tubs/saunas — these are things that come up for many women, as snowy weather sometimes means traveling to ski resorts or staying warm in the cold. But it’s another major risk because of the high internal temperature changes it causes your pregnancy body to experience — not recommended by doctors.

READ: Pregnancy Safety: The Things You Really Need to Avoid When Expecting

Avoid the Winter Blues

I wanted to end this post, by touching on the seasonal depression that is common for many people in the winter months. With what feels like shorter days and longer nights, with less sun exposure, it’s natural to feel sad.

Because of raging hormones, pregnant women can be even more vulnerable. Keep this in mind if you have a winter pregnancy, by taking steps to avoid it.

• Get outdoors — even for a quick walk. The fresh air can do wonders.
• Change of scenery. Being stuck indoors because of bad weather is no fun. When possible, change things up a bit by visiting a neighbor, local shop or
• Listen to upbeat music that has very therapeutic powers.
• Reach out to a friend. Make plans to get together — you’ll have something on the calendar to look forward to. You can even just go the old-fashion way with a good old phone call which can do wonders for your spirit.

You may also like…

What Every Mom Should Know About Surviving Baby’s First Winter

Pregnancy Must-Haves to Survive Trimester One, Two & Three

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post How to Survive a Winter Pregnancy appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

I remember that very first time I left the doctor’s office following my prenatal visit. Excited about the newness of pregnancy and a growing baby inside me, but unsure about how prepared I actually was.

My OB/GYN handed me a small pregnancy packet with basic health info, prenatal vitamins and upcoming lab tests after the appointment…but I felt a bit worried about everything I really needed to do moving forward.

READ: What to do the Moment You Find Out You’re Expecting

I loved the practice and the top-rated doctors, but I just didn’t think a 30-minute appointment would cut it for the next 4 weeks until the following prenatal visit.

What was I supposed to do in the day to day with this precious cargo on board??

That’s when I REALLY started to take an intense interest in pregnancy self-care.

Because I saw how much information was lacking in those early weeks and months. And I knew self-care during pregnancy was key for staying healthy — for both your growing baby and your own physical and mental well-being.

The physical and hormonal changes, the stress of what you should or shouldn’t do. All of this plays a toll on your mind and body.

It’s completely natural to have worries and hormone fluctuations as you begin your pregnancy journey.

How do I take care of myself during pregnancy?

Like most of us, your day-to-day routine might include a number of appointments, errands or things you need to get done…but it’s extremely important that you prioritize your health and safety while pregnant. Because taking care of yourself at home, when you leave that doctor’s office, will ultimately contribute to a successful and happy pregnancy.

If you’re wondering how to keep yourself balanced, rested and feeling good, below are some pregnancy self-care tips that will help you find that balance during one of the most exhausting times of your life.

Pregnancy Self-Care Ideas for Mom and Baby

Rest Frequently

As your body grows a baby and experiences hormonal changes, increased drowsiness is normal. Resting during those early weeks will be a much-needed part of your pregnancy self-care routine. Because at some point in the first trimester, it is inevitable — typically around weeks 10-13, the exhaustion peaks.

Getting adequate sleep at night and breaks during the day will help provide the energy and stamina to help you cope better.

Hydrate

Hydration during pregnancy cannot be overstated. It’s essential to drink plenty of fluids, as pregnant women are more prone to dehydration.

Your growing baby and the physical changes taking place require more water intake for a number of processes. Water is used to form amniotic fluid, produce extra blood volume, build new tissue, carry nutrients, help in digestion and flush out your wastes and toxins.

Staying hydrated will ensure baby’s water needs are met while helping you avoid issues like pregnancy fatigue or overheating.

Movement or Gentle Exercises

Think you need to be sedated and refrain from exercising altogether during pregnancy? Oh no!

Staying mobile during this time will benefit you in many ways, from your ability to better cope with the added weight imbalance and discomforts, and will also help your body prepare for labor and delivery.

Just try gentle exercises, stretches or prenatal yoga which can help you become more centered and breathe properly for deep relaxation. Check locally for in-person classes, or even prenatal yoga online as an easy pregnancy self-care routine.

Be sure to keep it simple and not over-exert yourself as pregnancy exercises need to be done cautiously to avoid injury.

Positive Affirmations

Throughout your pregnancy, you need to have the right mindset to prepare for all the ups and downs and changes taking place as you await your baby’s big arrival. Pick a phrase to motivate you to overcome your challenges. It can be anything simple, that is encouraging to remind you of the amazing thing your body is capable of doing, especially as you approach your due date.

If you need some inspiration, just do a quick search online and print them out. You can place these affirmations all around your home to help you stay positive and healthy daily!

Download the FREE Self-Care Starter Kit

Nutrition

Eating well throughout pregnancy is another major component of a healthy pregnancy. But don’t stress too much about this. As long as you are choosing natural food sources, balancing out cravings with healthy options and avoiding the big no-nos, you will be okay.

READ: Easy Ways to Pack Pregnancy Power Foods Into Your Meals

And when it comes to snacking, just be sure to choose foods that will contribute to a positive mood and give you energy boosts. Fresh fruits and veggies, and high-protein snacks can boost your spirits and energy levels.

I remember over-stressing about this early in my pregnancies because the morning sickness and food aversions were preventing me from tolerating many vegetables and meats. Over time, I learned that baby pulls all the essential nutrients he needs from the reserves already available in your body anyhow…this is good for baby, but not so much for you! Make sure you are meeting any health deficiencies through a good prenatal vitamin!!

You obviously want to choose nutritious foods and avoid the over-processed stuff whenever possible, as this will keep you healthier and able to handle the physical changes that could affect birth.

Meditate

Meditation is a way to relax, find your balance and recoup after a long day. Many pregnant women have found relief by meditating at the beginning and end of the day to focus on the things that really matter.

This is a simple, yet powerful pregnancy self-care tip to alleviate stress and help you manage emotions during those heavy hormone fluctuation moments.



Keep a Journal

I wanted to leave you with one final pregnancy self-care tip that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine: keeping a pregnancy journal.

Whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, just write down your thoughts in a journal. The mere act of writing down your thoughts and worries takes them out of your head and onto something you can clearly see to better address. So write down the things that upset you, made you happy…as well as the things you are excited and grateful for.

You might think, that this isn’t necessary, but it’s the little things that can make a big impact and help you stay focused and mentally well during your pregnancy.

Click below to download our FREE Pregnancy Self-Care Kit to get you started!

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Pregnancy Self-Care Tips: What You Need to Include In Your Daily Routine appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

As I prepared for baby’s arrival, during the third trimester of my very first pregnancy, I couldn’t stop thinking about what labor and birth would actually feel like. The birthing process has been described in so many different ways…from pushing something the size of a watermelon out of something the size of a lemon, to stomach cramps and even a “ring of fire” type pain.

I couldn’t help but grow more and more anxious as my due date approached…wondering what the first experience would truly be like!

Of course, I knew that each and every pregnancy and experience is quite unique, and I didn’t doubt this was true since a number of factors play a key role, including things like:

• how far along you are
• baby’s size
• whether or not you opt for an epidural

But I still thought that being aware of some of the signature pains and symptoms would somehow prepare me for what was to come…if only mentally. I was also a worrier by nature, so I knew that now would be a good time to practice some sort of labor relaxation techniques.

What does labor feel like?

To better prepare myself, I just had to do research to find some of the general similarities women may experience during labor.

Labor Contractions

I think for any pregnant woman looking to understand what a contraction feels like, it’s important to actually understand what a contraction even is. Because there are various types including:

Braxton Hicks

Although they may feel like the real thing, practice contractions or Braxton Hicks, prepare your body for delivery — but they don’t actually cause cervical dilation or effacement. These types of contractions also subside as you move positions.

False Contractions

Then there are false contractions or irregular contractions that don’t increase in severity or frequency. Similar to practice contractions, these subside with different positions.

True Labor Contractions

These are the real contractions that occur in the weeks before birth that tend to be much more intense and more frequent. They can last about 30-70 seconds and intensify as active labor approaches and do not ease up as you change positions.

Labor contractions may be accompanied by an upset stomach, diarrhea or cramps and can include a bloody show.

What a contraction feels like

From contraction pains to the pains experienced during active labor, below are the top ways labor and birth pains have been described by real moms:

• Very bad menstrual cramps
• Tightening muscles and severe stomach pains
• Stabbing sensations
• Really bad gas pains
• Extreme lower back and lower abdominal pains
• Tightening across your belly
• The feeling of your stomach stretching in all directions

My contractions felt like intense tugging on the stomach — including the tightening muscles and gas…but also the urge to poop! I wasn’t sure if I actually had to go or if it was labor. But turns out it definitely was labor, with “back labor” and lower back pain taking over.

Crowning

Crowning during birth occurs when the baby’s head begins to pass through the vaginal opening, during the pushing phase. It has been described by moms as:

• Intense burning sensation or “ring of fire”
• Really intense bowel movements
• Possible tearing or ripping sensations

I never experienced crowning myself, as my 12 hours of labor ended with an emergency c-section due to baby’s breech position, so I can’t speak to this too much. What I can say, is that many mom friends have described it as painful but much shorter than the hours of labor contractions.

Tips for Managing Labor and Delivery Pains

Now if you’re looking to manage pain during labor — there are two main areas that are involved: the obvious physical pains that accompany labor and also the mental struggles that keep us from staying calm and managing our fears. Our minds and thoughts can have a major effect on our overall ability to cope with or better manage pain.

“What if the labor pain is more than I can handle?” or “What if I experience vaginal tearing?”

These are just some of the major thoughts that fill our minds as the big day approaches. Of course, it’s natural to worry about all the scary labor things you hear…but rest assured there are indeed effective ways to handle the pain.

Women have been giving birth for centuries. Someone put things in great perspective for me when they shared a piece of wisdom.

“If labor and delivery were so terribly unbearable, we would NOT continue to do it year after year.”

It is truly a great question to ponder on. Because while there is sure to be some pain, the end results…a baby…makes it all worthwhile.

How to reduce labor pains during pregnancy

Below are some effective ways you can learn to stay calm and overcome your biggest labor and delivery pains:

Talk to your doctor

Whether you are going the traditional route with a doctor in the hospital or planning for a home birth or doula, bring all your concerns to your birth team. Make sure you are on the same page and feel supported. It is incredibly important to feel good about the team that will be helping to deliver your baby to allay your fears.

With a plan of action, you’ll feel more confident as the day draws nearer. However, it’s important to have a back-up plan in mind in case your birth plan doesn’t pan out because, in reality, the best preparation for labor is to have the tools in mind to prepare for the unexpected.

Know your options

Another big piece of pain management is knowing your options. Talk to your doctor about how you can make labor less painful. Epidurals are a popular solution most pregnant women turn to. Ask all the questions pertinent to the subject including how effective it is, is it possible to receive in all cases and any other medical concerns you have. Include an epidural use in your birth plan to get you mentally prepared for labor.

Practice relaxation techniques

The best way to handle fear, in general, is to learn to relax and stay calm in the face of fear. Try to think of things that have helped you relax in general. For fear in pregnancy, hypnosis or visualization can work wonders in helping you engage your sense and decrease your awareness of pain.

For physical pain, have your partner or nurse massage your back, shoulders or arms to send a calming sensation throughout your body. You can also play soothing music, take a warm shower or keep moving to find a more comfortable laboring position. It may take a bit of trial and error to find what works best for your body.

Learn breathing techniques

Whether you opt for a Lamaze class through your hospital, an online birthing class or simply practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques at home, breathing can do wonders for helping you relax and stay calm before and during labor.

Birth It Up  is a wonderful online birth preparation class for moms looking to go the natural route. It was created by a labor and delivery nurse as an affordable option for moms-to-be.

The class includes tips for remaining calm during labor and educating yourself on what to expect to make the process much more tolerable. If your birth plan includes going natural or avoiding a c-section, this class is the way to go!

Birth It Up 2.0

Is another option for those who want to have an epidural during labor.

In the video course, the instructor educates you about the birth process and what to expect during labor. She’ll also dig deep into how to get through early labor, exactly what an epidural entails, what your partner needs to know and what to do if you go too fast during labor!

Focus on the positive

Last but not least, is a technique I used during my labor process. Even though I ended up with a c-section I wasn’t expected, practicing deep breathing and focusing on nothing else but the beautiful end result of my laboring (a new baby!) I was able to relax my body and handle all the contraction pains. I’d recommend you find something to focus on to help you get in a positive breathing routine and know that the pain is only temporary.

You can download and print these FREE Birthing Affirmation Cards to help you stay calm and overcome all of the labor & delivery fears that creep into your mind.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post How to Overcome Fear of Labor & Delivery Pain appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

I remember feeling so lost the first few months of pregnancy with my first child. Confusion over what things were safe vs what things were not, filled my mind constantly. This uncertainty muddled my days…whether it was while grabbing a bite to eat with friends, applying make-up or shopping for household products.

The list of things to avoid while pregnant kept growing and growing the more I researched and took note of.

I often asked myself questions like:

What foods are bad for pregnant women?

What things are unsafe now that I am pregnant?

How can I avoid miscarriage or developmental issues?

Okay, I was a bit of a worrier to begin with, but being pregnant took it to a whole new level. I was growing a new life inside and whatever I did to care (or not care) for myself would also affect the baby.

Safety Tips & Things You Can’t Risk Doing While Pregnant

First-Trimester Safety

Trust me you do NOT have to worry about everything under the sun…it’s just that being a little cautious during pregnancy is super important. This couldn’t be truer than during the first trimester — the most critical period of pregnancy in terms of development. So many major things (like organ formation and growth) are happening inside your womb during this time. It’s essential you take care of your overall health and nutrition to ensure your baby gets everything he or she needs for proper development.

Statistics indicate that most miscarriages occur within the first trimester (before week 13)! And according to Americanpregnancy.org miscarriage has a variety of causes including hormonal problems, maternal age, improper implantation of the egg and even unhealthy lifestyle choices.

That’s why making changes to your everyday lifestyle from nutrition, exercise and the activities you partake in, especially during the first trimester, can make a big difference!

So what kinds of things should you simply NOT risk during the next 9 months?

Check out the top suggestions below — keeping in mind that each and every pregnancy is different and that this is what the industry recommends.

Foods to Avoid While Pregnant

One of the biggest questions that everyone has when it comes to eating right during pregnancy, is what foods should you absolutely avoid? Because yes, there are some foods that have significant evidence-based research around them to indicate they are just not safe for baby with the potential to cause birth defects, development issues or miscarriage.

According to research, the top foods that you need to steer clear of throughout all three trimesters of pregnancy are:

• Alcohol
• Raw Meats (beef, poultry, pork etc.)
• Undercooked or processed meats (deli meats, hot dogs)
• Unpasteurized milk and juices
• Soft cheeses (brie, feta, queso blanco)
• High-mercury fish (shark, big eye tuna); Raw Fish

Of this list, the obvious one that should be avoided at all costs, is alcohol which can lead to severe birth complications and issues including fetal alcohol syndrome.

It irks me a bit when people say things like “an occasional glass of wine here and there is harmless…right?” Um, no. The vast majority of research and experts advise that NO amount of alcohol is deemed safe during pregnancy — because there is always a risk involved during development…and you never know what can go wrong in each pregnancy. Avoid it!

Read: 25 Non-Medicated Ways to Treat Morning Sickness

The other food recommendations listed, have been linked to illnesses that can detrimentally affect a fetus in a variety of ways. For example, raw and undercooked meats can cause salmonella or E.coli poisoning which is not only terrible for a mom-to-be to fight, but also hazardous to an unborn child going through critical developmental milestones.

Don’t risk it if you are unsure…just remember to limit these foods as much as possible.

Chemicals & Products That Can Be Dangerous for Mom-to-be

It seems there’s a lack of info out there when it comes to pregnancy and toxic chemicals in household products. While you might initially think: Duh! Stay away from anything toxic! It’s not always clear which chemicals found in daily household products are actually hazardous. That’s why it’s important to keep an open mind to stay informed.

This is especially true when cleaning the house, decorating, painting and simply using everyday products.

Cleaning while pregnant

Most cleaning products contain ingredients like alcohol, ammonia, parabens, formaldehyde, chlorine, and glycol — chemicals that may be harmful to a developing baby at high levels. Sometimes you can get around these by using all-natural cleaners, but not everyone has the time or the skill for the DIY route. Even the green brands can come at a (hefty) price.

If you can do this, great; Also consider your workspace and ensure you are in a room with plenty of fresh air and ventilation so the toxic or powerful smells don’t overwhelm you. You can get some additional tips for cleaning without the toxins here.

Note: If you have a cat, avoid the kitty litter! This too is off-limits for moms-to-be due to toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can be transmitted through cat poop. Eww! Have someone else handle the dirty work for the next few months, mama!

Paints and pregnancy

Similarly, when painting and decorating the baby’s nursery, make sure you aren’t stripping old paint or sanding — because solvent-based paints and old paintwork may contain lead, a very toxic chemical for pregnant women.

Re-painting, shouldn’t be as much of an issue since nowadays paints are safer — look for a brand like this when painting the nursery. And don’t even think about lifting heavy furniture — definitely enlist help so you don’t risk injury!

Pregnancy beauty: What about skin, hair and nail products safe for pregnancy?

Yes! This is another big topic — one that I passionately addressed in this pregnancy-safe beauty post as I learned real-time about which products I needed to avoid. Prior to being pregnant, I went through daily exposure to a variety of not-so pregnancy-friendly chemicals: regular acne-treatments, deodorants, teeth whitening and hair treatments, to name a few. I didn’t really think it was something I had to worry about…since my OB/GYN never mentioned it during my prenatal appointments. (That was the beginning of my ongoing pregnancy-research days!)

Try to limit the following skincare chemicals as much as possible to reduce birth complications:

• Retinoids
• Tetracycline
• Formaldehyde
• Toluene
• Phthalates
• Salicylic acid
• Parabens
• Aluminum Zirconium

Note: Please talk to your specific doctor about additional chemicals to avoid, especially if you are currently taking medications.

Activities You Shouldn’t Risk Doing While Pregnant

Ever get that feeling that you need to limit activities a bit while pregnant? That maternal intuition has a way of keeping baby safe. Because even though you don’t need to make dramatic changes to your everyday lifestyle while pregnant, you do need to take extra precautions and make a few adjustments. Remember just because you did something prior to getting pregnant, doesn’t mean it’s something that you can safely do now.

Why do you have to limit some activities during pregnancy?

The best answer is that anything that can cause injury or harm to you can directly impact the outcome of your pregnancy and lead to miscarriage early on. That’s not a fear card, it’s just the truth.

Avoid activities that are high-intensity, involve heavy lifting or can cause you to slip and injury yourself. Things like:

• Hot yoga
• Saunas/Hot tubs
• Roller Coasters
• Ice Skating/Skiing
• Bumper cars
• Bowling
• Wearing stilettos/high heels
• Lifting/moving furniture

Think about it. A blow to the stomach area, a hard slip or fall, and an overheating body can cause trauma — big problems when you are growing a new life inside you.

On the other hand, staying active during pregnancy is a good thing — doctor-approved prenatal yoga, walking, swimming, gentle stretches are all great ways to stay healthy and feel good during pregnancy. You just really find the balance of what feels right.

Remember to use your best judgment and always trust your gut when making decisions during pregnancy…it has a way of guiding you to keep your unborn baby safe. And when you still feel confused about what you shouldn’t eat or what you shouldn’t do, be sure to stay informed by checking in with your health practitioner and resources like ours, so that constant worries don’t cloud your journey. You’ll be able to more fully thrive and enjoy each trimester of your beautiful pregnancy.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and any other safety concerns you have about pregnancy! Leave a comment below.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Pregnancy Safety: The Things You Really Need to Avoid When You’re Expecting appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.