Tag: childbirth
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Vaginal Tears During and After Childbirth
Read more Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible experience, but it can come with its challenges. One of those challenges can be vaginal tears. If you happen to experience one, don’t fret—there are ways to manage your recovery and alleviate discomfort. What is a Vaginal Tear? Vaginal tears are lacerations that…
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Labor Contractions: What to Expect When You’re in Labor
Read more When it comes to labor, contractions are a hot topic. You might not have been fully aware of what contractions entail before becoming pregnant, but understanding them is crucial as they are the body’s way of pushing your little one into the world. However, not all contractions indicate that it’s time to meet…
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Birthing Ball Exercises: How to Use a Birthing Ball During Pregnancy and Labor
Read more When preparing for childbirth, many expectant parents find themselves exploring various methods to ease the experience. One popular tool that has gained traction is the birthing ball. This versatile piece of equipment is not just for exercise; it offers significant benefits during pregnancy and labor. What is a Birthing Ball? A birthing ball…
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Understanding the Stages of Labor and Their Duration
Read more Congratulations! After approximately nine months of pregnancy, you’re on the verge of welcoming your little one into the world. While the anticipation can be exhilarating, it’s natural to feel a bit anxious about what lies ahead. Remember, every labor experience is unique, much like the baby you’re about to meet. Unless a cesarean…
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Your Baby’s Due Date is August 22
Read more Your pregnancy timeline is divided into three trimesters: 1st Trimester: November 15 to February 13 2nd Trimester: February 14 to May 22 3rd Trimester: May 23 to August 22 Did you know that only about 1 in 20 babies actually arrive on their due date? Most pregnancies range from 38 to 42 weeks,…
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Preparing for a Cesarean: Tips for a Positive Experience
Read more With cesarean births comprising approximately 29.1% of deliveries, it’s important for expectant mothers to be ready for this possibility, even if it’s not part of their original plan. By preparing in advance, you can help ensure that your cesarean experience is as positive as possible. Tips for a Positive Cesarean Birth Experience Develop…
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What to Expect from Your Vagina After Giving Birth
Read more As you anticipate the arrival of your little one, it’s completely normal to wonder how childbirth will change your body, particularly your vagina. You might be curious about whether it can stretch to accommodate your baby’s head during a vaginal delivery, if you’ll experience tearing in the perineum (the area between the vaginal…
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Understanding Cervical Dilation and Effacement During Labor
Read more As you approach the exciting moment of childbirth, it’s essential to understand what happens to your body, particularly regarding cervical dilation and effacement. Here’s a friendly rundown of what to expect as you near labor. What is Dilation? Dilation refers to the process of your cervix opening up, which is measured in centimeters.…
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Understanding Dilation During Pregnancy
Read more As you approach labor and delivery, the term “dilation” plays a crucial role in indicating how close you are to welcoming your baby. For instance, once you reach 4 centimeters of dilation, you might be offered an epidural, and at 10 centimeters, you’re fully prepared to give birth. What Exactly is Dilation? Dilation…
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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…