The second trimester is a promised land where nausea and fatigue no longer rule your life. If you're like most women, it will be the most enjoyable—and comfortable—stage of pregnancy. Here's how to make the most of this precious phase: Connect with your mate Make an effort to bond with your partner before the realities of new parenthood set in. “Do fun things together that … [Read more...] about 4 genius ways to make the most of your second trimester
Real birth story: A painful and perfect home birth
When I was pregnant for the first time I did a ton of research. I really wanted a home birth, but I couldn’t convince my husband of its safety. So, I settled on a hospital instead. When my water broke and labor didn’t start, I was induced with Pitocin and labored only an hour or so before asking for an epidural. Pitocin-induced contractions were excruciating. So, when I found … [Read more...] about Real birth story: A painful and perfect home birth
Bottle-feeding: Everything you need to know now
Moms know that breast is best for babies. But for a number of reasons, some new moms don’t breastfeed, or stop breastfeeding within six months after giving birth. That’s where formula comes in as a bridge between breast milk and cow’s milk. Whether you bottle-feed from day one or months later, follow this advice from moms and experts and feel good about formula. Bond with the … [Read more...] about Bottle-feeding: Everything you need to know now
If ‘breast is best’, why do moms quit nursing so soon?
The surprising reasons why many moms stop nursing too soon—plus real-life solutions When my second child Nicolas was born several years ago, I already knew the drill. Among other things, I planned to give him only breast milk for the first half-year. At four months, I would return to work with my rented super-duper double breast pump in tow and keep the breast milk flowing. … [Read more...] about If ‘breast is best’, why do moms quit nursing so soon?
3 reasons not to stress about a C-section
I had a planned C-section for medical reasons, but there was nothing “planned” about it. I really sweated the spinal, thought I was having a heart attack during the birth, and packed all wrong. Allow me to share some important facts... I wish someone had shared them with me! Don’t stress about the spinal In the operating room, the anesthesiologist will place a sterile … [Read more...] about 3 reasons not to stress about a C-section