Category: Preparing for birth
-
Half of My Maternity Leave Was Spent in the NICU
Read more When I first learned I was pregnant, it was during a casual outing with my husband, enjoying a game at a local bar. A sudden aversion to the smell of beer prompted a stop at the pharmacy where a pregnancy test confirmed what I suspected. As my pregnancy progressed, we diligently prepared for…
-
Host a ‘Wild One’ Birthday That’s a Roaring Good Time
Read more Planning your baby’s first birthday can be a thrilling adventure, especially with a “Wild One” theme that captures the essence of this exciting milestone. According to event planner Mia Johnson, “Reaching the first birthday is a remarkable achievement, not just for the little one but for the parents too.” This past year has…
-
After My Family’s Childbirth Crisis, I’m Dedicated to Training Black Dads as Doulas
Read more The journey to parenthood can be filled with immense joy, but it can also lead to heart-wrenching challenges. Two days before Christmas in 2017, my partner and I were overjoyed, anticipating the arrival of our twin boys. However, that excitement quickly turned into unimaginable sorrow when we faced the stillbirth of our first…
-
The Final Stage of Labor
Read more The final stage of labor occurs after your baby is born, as your uterus continues to contract to expel the placenta, also known as the afterbirth. Typically, the placenta is delivered between 5 to 15 minutes following the birth of your child. Once your little one has made their entrance, your healthcare professional…
-
Understanding the Division of Responsibility in Feeding Your Toddler
Read more As a parent, you may often find yourself in a battle of wills over mealtime with your little one. If your toddler could survive solely on crackers or believes ice cream is a breakfast food, it’s time to rethink your approach. Introducing more control over their food choices could actually lead to a…
-
Essential Labor and Birth Terminology
Read more As you embark on your pregnancy journey, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with important labor and birth terminology. Here’s a breakdown of key terms you should know: Abruptio Placenta (Placental Abruption): This occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, posing risks to both mother and baby. Amniotic Fluid: This…
-
25 Essential Items for Your Hospital Bag
Read more Preparing for your hospital stay can be an overwhelming task, especially with so much to consider. To help make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable, here are 25 must-have items that new moms often wish they had packed. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. The Owala FreeSip Water Bottle will keep your drinks…
-
We Should Appreciate Our Firstborns More
Parenting Get Pregnant Fast When I found out I was expecting my second child, I felt a rush of happiness, but it didn’t quite compare to the overwhelming joy I experienced during my first pregnancy. I couldn’t help but cry (more than once) as I considered how this would affect my eldest child. I felt…
-
The Paradox of Possessions: How Excess Can Stifle Creativity
Get Pregnant Fast The beach has always been a playground for my children, but I’ve discovered that their best experiences come with just a bucket and a shovel—nothing more. No oversized shovels, no elaborate sea creature molds, and certainly no baskets filled with geometric shape cutters. We leave behind the Frisbees, kites, and all those…