If we believed what Hollywood depicts in its movies, then all babies would be born quickly, dramatically and with a whole lot of screaming. How many storylines have shown us a woman's water breaking, and only moments later, that same woman pushing in a hospital bed? These lightening quick deliveries, while possible, are hardly the norm - especially for first time moms. In real … [Read more...] about Planning ahead: Survive early labor with these 3 tips
How to spot, treat and beat pregnancy anemia
So you're feeling unusually weak, tired and lightheaded these days? You may want to have your doctor or midwife check you for pregnancy anemia. Particularly prevalent during pregnancy, anemia results in fewer healthy red blood cells, which may mean less oxygen for your growing baby. If left untreated, anemia can cause some pretty serious consequences, such as preterm delivery, … [Read more...] about How to spot, treat and beat pregnancy anemia
Breastfeed your way to a calmer baby
File this one under: One more reason breastfeeding is the best thing ever. Mom's breast milk may influence baby's demeanor. A new report out of Harvard University and published in the journal Evolution, Medicine and Public Health, suggests that a mother's milk may impact her little one's mood and behavior for the better - meaning every time you nurse, you help nudge your baby … [Read more...] about Breastfeed your way to a calmer baby
C-sections: A crash course
No matter how much you prepare for labor and delivery, there's always a chance things won't go exactly as planned. While you may have your sights set on a vaginal delivery, there are countless reasons why your health care provider may call for a cesarean - or as it's more commonly called, a C-section. Maybe labor has stalled and your contractions have petered out, or perhaps … [Read more...] about C-sections: A crash course
The crucial pregnancy check-up you could be skipping
It can be easy to brush off your routine check-up at the dentist when you're busy monitoring your growing belly during pregnancy. After all, how much could the state of your pearly whites have to do with your pregnant body? It turns out, plenty. With pregnancy hormones estrogen and progesterone in flux, moms-to-be are more at risk for gingivitis, gum disease and even pregnancy … [Read more...] about The crucial pregnancy check-up you could be skipping