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We have put together a list of the best tips to beat pregnancy fatigue. Pregnancy fatigue is one of the many things women have to deal with while pregnant. In order to combat this, sleep, food, and water are the main things you need to balance. Reasons for Pregnancy Fatigue There are many reasons you may experience fatigue during your pregnancy. Growing a baby is a lot of work, and your body is experiencing a lot of changes. This is the main reason you feel fatigued during your pregnancy. In each trimester of your pregnancy fatigue can be brought on for a variety of reasons. First-trimester pregnancy fatigue Fatigue is one of the large symptoms that you are pregnant. During the first trimester of pregnancy, the body produces a bunch of different hormones in order to grow a baby. This increase in hormones can cause an increase in fatigue and leave you feeling tired. In addition, women often experience rapid changes in blood sugar/blood pressure due to their pregnancy which can also lead to fatigue. Besides these things, first-trimester nausea can increase fatigue as well. Your body is essentially pummeled with a bunch of changes at one time and is expected to deal with it. Second-trimester pregnancy fatigue During the second trimester of pregnancy, much of the pregnancy fatigue subsides and many women experience a sudden surge of energy. The hormones have balanced themselves out a little bit, your body has adjusted to the new requirements, and you have found a good routine to stay healthy. Third-trimester pregnancy fatigue Throughout the third trimester, fatigue begins to set back in. This time it is due to the rapidly growing baby inside of you. As your stomach swells to accommodate the new baby, you will likely experience discomfort and pain. This discomfort can disturb your sleeping schedule. In addition, your growing baby can add weight that makes it difficult to perform daily tasks. Not only that, but many women have an iron deficiency in their third-trimester which can lead to fatigue. Tips to beat pregnancy fatigue There are a few main ways to beat pregnancy fatigue. They include: getting as much sleep as possible, creating an exercise schedule, taking vitamins, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet. Sleep The best tip to beat pregnancy fatigue is to get as much sleep as possible. Yes, it seems obvious and it is much easier said than done, but there is science behind it as well. A typical adult need between 7-9 hours of sleep a day. A pregnant woman needs about 1-2 additional hours of sleep. This means that your normal amount of sleep is not going to be enough. Try to go to bed a little earlier, or get up a little later - you will thank yourself for it later. As your pregnancy progresses you will find it difficult to get into a comfortable sleeping position. Try investing in a body pillow or shifting your sleeping position. Finally, try to nap as much as possible. Even short little 15-20 minute naps can be beneficial to fighting your pregnancy fatigue. Exercise While setting aside time to exercise may not be a top priority, it is one of the best ways to beat pregnancy fatigue. Exercise tires your body so that you get a better night’s sleep, and it releases endorphins which help you feel better and increases your energy. It doesn’t have to be a super rigorous exercise, but something as simple as walking or swimming can be beneficial. Take vitamins One reason your body may be fatigued is because of a nutrient deficiency. As you grow a baby your body needs more vitamins and nutrients to stay healthy. Taking a prenatal vitamin ensures that you get all of the necessary nutrients that your body needs on a daily basis. This can fight fatigue caused by nutrient deficiency. Stay hydrated Hydration is key to beating pregnancy fatigue. Your body needs more water to function while you are pregnant. If you become dehydrated your blood volume decreases meaning your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. This can cause fatigue. Staying hydrated allows your body to function properly and ensures that you don’t become tired due to hydration. Try tracking your water or eating water-dense foods in order to increase your water intake. Eat a balanced diet Your body needs a certain amount of nutrients in order to function. Prenatal vitamins can help you reach those nutrients, but you need to maintain a healthy and balanced diet in order for you to feel the benefits. Many doctors recommend eating six small meals a day in order to maintain your blood sugar levels. Try to eat fruits, veggies, healthy fats, and protein and avoid processed foods as much as possible. Many processed foods can spike your blood sugar leading to a rapid fall in blood sugar later during the day. This can cause you to feel fatigued and lethargic. When to see a doctor Pregnancy fatigue is par for the course, but there are some situations where fatigue can be cause for concern. Severe pregnancy fatigue can be signs that you are experiencing other syndromes during your pregnancy such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or anemia. Watch for symptoms such as Restless legs (urge to move legs while resting) Insomnia Sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep) Dizziness Less frequent urination Severe headaches Shortness of breath Heart palpitations Swelling in ankles, hands, or feet If you experience any of these symptoms talk to your doctor. Key tips to beat pregnancy fatigue Pregnancy fatigue is common and not really something you should be too worried about. Your body needs extra sleep, food, and water to create the new life growing inside of you. But just because fatigue is normal doesn’t mean you have to deal with it. Getting extra sleep, exercising, taking prenatal vitamins, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can all help you beat pregnancy fatigue. After your pregnancy, you are still going to feel a little fatigued. Your body will be recovering from labor and you will be taking care of your new baby. Don’t push yourself and make sure that you recover faster by investing in a postpartum girdle. Bellefit’s postpartum girdles are designed to prevent you from over-extending yourself. This allows you to heal faster and get back to being your amazing self. Try one out today!

Knowing miscarriage symptoms can help you get the necessary mental/physical treatment to recover faster. A miscarriage can be a traumatic event in the life of a mother. All of the time, energy, and hope and suddenly losing the baby with no discernable reason can be frustrating and depressing. In this article we are going to walk you through some miscarriage symptoms so that you can better prepare in the unfortunate event that a miscarriage occurs. What is a Miscarriage? A miscarriage, also known as a spontaneous abortion by medical professionals, is when the pregnancy ends on its own and the fetus does not survive. A miscarriage occurs before 20 weeks of pregnancy, and approximately 85% of miscarriages occur before the 12 week mark. Miscarriages are more common than many people may think and studies have shown that as many as 1 in 4 recognized pregnancies end in a miscarriage. The number is most likely even higher than these statistics because some miscarriages before the mother knows she is pregnant. Many women tend to think that something is wrong with their bodies when a miscarriage occurs, but that is rarely the case. Most miscarriages occur because the fetus was not developing properly. Miscarriage Symptoms The main symptoms of a miscarriage are vaginal spotting/bleeding. In addition, you may experience: Severe Cramps Stomach Pain Back Pain Discharge of white/pink mucus, or tissue that looks like blood clots Weakness Fever If you experience any of these symptoms contact your doctor. They will help you determine the correct course of action. You may experience some of these symptoms without having a miscarriage, but your doctor will want to evaluate you. Types of Miscarriages After you have gone to your doctor, and they have determined you have had a miscarriage, they will diagnose you with a specific type of miscarriage. There are six main types of miscarriages. A complete miscarriage: Your body has expelled all fetal tissue from your body. An incomplete miscarriage: Your body has expelled some, but not all fetal tissue, from your uterus. A threatened miscarriage: Your may be bleeding and having cramps but your cervix has not dilated. This points to the possibility that you will experience a miscarriage, but you also may continue your pregnancy. An inevitable miscarriage: You are bleeding and cramping and your cervix has dilated meaning a miscarriage is going to occur. A missed miscarriage: The fetus dies, or was never formed, but the tissue remains in the uterus with no bleeding or cramping. A recurrent miscarriage (RM): When the woman experiences three or more miscarriages in a row within the first trimester. Reasons for Miscarriage There are some activities or things that increase the risk of having a miscarriage, in most cases a miscarriage could not have been prevented. Your fetus grows from your body’s supply of hormones and nutrients, in many cases the fetus does not develop naturally and therefore the pregnancy is lost. One of the main reasons a miscarriage occurs is due to chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus that do not allow the baby to develop. About 50% of miscarriages occur because the fetus does not receive enough or receives too many chromosomes. These problems occur when the embryo splits and develops, not from any problems with the parents’ DNA. There are four main types of chromosomal abnormalities that can occur and result in a miscarriage. Blighted Ovum - No embryo forms Intrauterine Fetal Demise - Embryo forms, but stops developing and dies. Molar Pregnancy - Both sets of chromosomes come from the father, and not one from the mother and one from the father. Partial Molar Pregnancy - The embryo gets one set of chromosomes from the mother, but two sets of chromosomes from the father. Risks of Miscarriage While most miscarriages are not preventable, there are some things that can increase the risk of a miscarriage. This includes: Drug abuse Alcohol abuse Bodily trauma Smoking Exposure to harmful chemicals Caffeine consumption Chronic conditions such as diabetes or Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS) Being Overweight or Underweight Problems with the uterus or cervix Infections Hormonal problems Thyroid Conditions STDs A woman may also be more likely to experience a miscarriage if she is over the age of 35, or has already had two or more previous miscarriages. Symptoms after a Miscarriage Experiencing a miscarriage can be both mentally and physically draining. Many women experience intense feelings of guilt, sadness, grief, and anxiety surrounding future pregnancies. This is on top of recovering from the physical stress of recovering from a miscarriage such as, bleeding a discomfort. Seek out help and support from loved ones and medical professionals. Talk about your emotions and experience, it will help you to overcome them. There are even pregnancy loss support groups online and in your communities. You are not alone and you have endless resources at your disposal. Prevention There is no way to prevent a miscarriage. Just try your best to avoid the risks that may increase your likelihood of a miscarriage. Stop drinking alcohol and smoking, stop using drugs, limit your caffeine intake, and try to get any underlying health conditions under control. Try your best to stay healthy and make sure you get all the necessary nutrients, by taking a prenatal vitamin. Bellefit is here to help you through the good times and the bad times. Check out our website for some great articles on staying healthy during your pregnancy, and try out our comfortable panties and leggings. We want you to be comfortable and happy.

Practicing self-care after pregnancy can seem like an afterthought when you have just given birth. That is because women are biologically wired to care for their newborns even after they have exhausted themselves. Between your new baby, housework, and caring for your other relationships - the relationship you have with yourself is the bottom of the to-do list. In actuality, self-care needs to be at the top of your to-do list. In this article, we discuss the different forms of self-care, some self-care ideas, and why self-care is so important in your postpartum journey. Why Self-care after pregnancy is important A big problem that many women face after giving birth is postpartum depression (PPD). According to one study, about 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, and about 70% of women experience the “baby blues.” Both of these conditions can cause you to become sad, and because it is so prevalent it is important that you do everything you can to try to prevent it. For some people, who are prone to depression, it is likely that they will experience some form of postpartum depression after giving birth. These self-care after pregnancy tips can help lessen the effects of these conditions - but you should always seek help from your primary care physician. What is the “baby blues?” The “baby blues” is a mild form of postpartum depression. Almost all women experience it in the first month or so after giving birth. The labor and delivery process is physically and emotionally taxing, and it wreaks havoc on your body and your mental health. Many women are surprised by the sudden feelings of sadness and moodiness that come after having a baby. They can’t understand why they are so sad, when they just brought a new life into the world. They are so happy, but so moody, tired, and sad at the same time. These emotions are completely normal and natural - not only are your hormones adjusting to no longer being pregnant your whole life has changed. You are probably not getting enough sleep, your whole routine has changed, and you have a new life to care for. Just one of these can throw your mental health out of whack. That is why your self-care after pregnancy is so important. What is postpartum depression? Postpartum depression is a form of depression that comes after giving birth and can range in severity. Postpartum depression symptoms include: Feeling sad/hopeless/overwhelmed Fatigue Insomnia Lack of appetite Feelings of guilt and worthlessness Withdrawing from others Lack of interest in things you used to enjoy No interest in your baby Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms it is important that you seek help. Physical Self-Care after Pregnancy Physical self-care after labor and delivery is incredibly important. Therefore, you need to take care of yourself so that you are healthy for your baby and for yourself. If you don’t feel physically good, it can influence your emotions as well. Physical self-care includes: Going to your doctor’s appointments: By attending your scheduled doctor’s appointments you are more likely to catch any sort of depression that comes up and treat it as quickly as possible. Taking care down there: After giving birth your vagina is going to hurt - even if you had a C-section. You are going to want to take care of yourself and try to stay comfortable. Nothing will make you more irritable than being uncomfortable, tired, and overwhelmed. Eating healthy: A well-balanced and healthy diet is essential to your physical self-care after pregnancy. Some studies have shown a link between a lack of Omega-3s in the diet and an increase of postpartum depression. Make sure you are getting enough of this nutrient. You can even do this by continuing to take your prenatal vitamins for the first month after giving birth. Getting some exercise: You probably won’t feel ready to run a marathon any time soon, but getting outside and walking is a great way to get some exercise. Investing in a postpartum girdle can help you stabilize your core while you walk and ensure that your muscles heal faster and easier. Sleeping as much as possible: It can feel like you are never getting enough sleep and honestly, you probably aren’t. Your body needs sleep to recover from the emotional and physical stress of pregnancy/labor. Try to sleep when the baby is sleeping, or if that isn’t possible, ask someone to watch the baby while you sleep. Stay hydrated: Hydration is essential in order for your body to function properly. Emotional Self-Care after Pregnancy Perhaps just as important as physical self-care after pregnancy is emotional self-care after pregnancy. Physical self-care ensures that your body is functioning and healing properly. Emotional self-care ensures that you adjust well to your new life and don’t have too much stress. Emotional self-care includes: Reach out for help: It takes a village to raise a child, so don’t expect it to be something you can handle all by yourself. If you are feeling overwhelmed, or in over your head reach out for help. Maybe a friend can come to do the dishes for you, or your partner can do a load of laundry, or a family member can watch the baby while you sleep. Don’t put too much weight on your own shoulders. Not expecting anything in particular: Many people are surprised by how much is involved with raising a baby, and they expect their maternity leave to go a certain way. Don’t hold any expectations of what will happen after your birth, just go with it and live in the moment. Doing things you enjoy/take time for yourself: You are going to become inundated with diapers, baby toys, games, and kids shows - make sure you have time for yourself to do the things you love. If that is simply taking a nice relaxing bath then do it. If that is reading a book, go outside and read. Set a little bit of time aside every day to do something you enjoy. Join a mommy support group: Joining a mommy support group gives you a place to connect with others who are going through the same thing as you. It helps you to know you are not alone and get more tips on how to deal with situations. Use a mantra: Some women find choosing a mantra to be helpful when they are going through a hard time. Something like “this will pass,” “one day at a time,” “I can do it,” or even “I am a wonder woman mama who is doing her best,” can make a situation feel much less intimidating. Socialize with friends: After you give birth suddenly every waking hour is consumed with baby stuff. It can be frustrating and annoying to only talk or think about your newborn. Make sure you have time to talk to friends or other adults about things besides your baby. It will help make you feel like an individual again. Main Takeaways Feeling moody or sad after giving birth is not as uncommon as many people think, and you are most likely going to experience it to some degree. Taking care of your mental and physical health can help to lessen the symptoms and stay encouraged in what can be a frightening time period. Eating well, exercising, staying hydrated, chatting with friends, and taking time for yourself will help you feel better about yourself and your new role as a mom. At Bellefit, we know how important feeling your best is for your mental health. That is why we have created the best postpartum garments available. Our objective is to make sure you stay healthy, happy, and comfortable. We know how painful and long postpartum recovery is, so we want to do everything in our power to help. Check out our garments today!

Along with all of the other amazing symptoms of pregnancy, you may be more susceptible to motion sickness during pregnancy. If you are experiencing motion sickness while pregnant, then you are not alone. But how do you distinguish between motion sickness and morning sickness? In this article we will discuss treatments and preventions of motion sickness during pregnancy. What is Motion Sickness? Motion sickness is an unfortunate condition characterized by nausea, dizziness, or vomiting. While pregnancy can make the probability of experiencing motion sickness higher, it is not the only factor. For some people motion sickness is a common occurrence when traveling long distances. Many people, myself included, experience motion sickness when travelling on cars, trains, busses, and boats. For this reason motion sickness has many names including - car sickness, sea sickness, and travel sickness. Causes of Motion Sickness During Pregnancy While you do not need to be pregnant to experience motion sickness, you may be more prone to motion sickness if you are pregnant. There are a combination of factors that can influence your susceptibility to motion sickness. You already experience motion sickness. If you have experienced motion sickness prior to being pregnant, then you are more likely to experience motion sickness while pregnant. You have eaten a large meal before traveling. If you have eaten a lot of food before traveling, or you have eaten some heavy foods, you may be more prone to motion sickness. The movement of the vehicle can cause the food to move around in your stomach which can disrupt digestion and make you feel nauseous. The vehicle is stuffy or the air is not clean. If the air in the vehicle is too hot or is filled with smoke it can become difficult to breathe. This can make you feel light-headed and dizzy. Try to cool yourself down and ensure that you have plenty of fresh air. Your body’s sense of balance is being thrown off. The body’s sense of balance is created through a complex system of nerves and brain signals. This balance-sensing system is made up of the inner ear, eyes, muscles, and joints. When your brain receives conflicting signals from two parts of these systems it can cause you to have the symptoms of motion sickness. For example: if your ear senses movement, but your eyes do not see movement (such as sitting on an airplane), you can experience motion sickness. Symptoms of Motion Sickness During Pregnancy The symptoms of motion sickness during pregnancy are essentially the same as motion sickness for someone who is not pregnant. The symptoms include: Nausea Vomiting Light-headedness Dizziness Sweating Dehydration (due to excessive vomiting) Anxiousness Rapid breathing Hot Flashes Mild Headache Motion Sickness Pregnancy VS. Morning Sickness During Pregnancy Because the symptoms of motion sickness and morning sickness are so similar, some women often may confuse the two. There is one main difference between the two - are you in a moving vehicle? The causes of motion sickness are largely the relationship with your body to the vehicle bouncing, moving, turning, and tilting. In contrast, morning sickness is in response to an increase in hormones in your body. Morning sickness occurs over the course of the day and usually remains consistent. Motion sickness typically lessens or stops after the motion stops. If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting when you have never had a problem before it is most likely morning sickness. Similarly, if you experience nausea throughout the day, but only vomit when traveling, you may have a combination of both. Your morning sickness can be increasing your vulnerability to motion sickness and make you feel even worse. Thankfully, motion sickness can be treated/prevented. Best Treatments for Motion Sickness Pregnancy If you have motion sickness during pregnancy, it can be hard to determine what to do about the symptoms. You want to take medication, but what is safe to have with your pregnancy? Here is a list of possible treatment options for your motion sickness symptoms. B6 supplement. This vitamin can help reduce pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Acupressure bracelet. Some women have found that their nausea is greatly reduced when they use an acupressure bracelet. The bracelet target a specific pressure point in your wrist that is supposed to help reduce nausea. Prescription medication. If you are experiencing motion sickness on a regular basis, talk to your doctor about it. They may be able to recommend a specific medication for you, or prescribe you a behind-the-counter medication to combat your symptoms. Can I Take Dramamine While Pregnant? This is an over-the-counter medication that is designed to help combat motion sickness. Many medical professionals claim it is ok to use during pregnancy and should not harm your baby. As with any medication that you take during your pregnancy, be sure to talk to your doctor before self-medication to ensure that you are being safe. How To Prevent Motion Sickness While Pregnant In order to prevent motion sickness during your pregnancy there are a few things that you can do. Sit with your eyes facing the movement of the vehicle. If your eyes are able to see the movement of the vehicle your brain is less likely to get confused and cause motion sickness. This is because your eyes are able to see the movement and your inner ear is signalling that there is movement. Two of the balance-sensing systems are in unison and this should prevent motion sickness. Eat a light meal. Avoid eating any heavy food or having a large meal before travelling. Small and frequent meals can help combat the nausea. Stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause you to feel light-headed and dizzy. By staying hydrated you will be able to combat those symptoms. Avoid Strong Smells. Try to avoid any strong smells that may worsen your symptoms. Make sure you have fresh air. Try to make sure you have access to fresh air and that it doesn’t get too stuffy. If you are in a car, crack the window a little bit. Takeaways It can be difficult to determine if you are experiencing motion sickness during pregnancy or if you are experiencing morning sickness. Motion sickness can be caused by a plethora of things, but it can be treated/prevented. Make sure you talk to your doctor about your symptoms and stay safe. At Bellefit we believe that your health and comfort are important. Check out our postpartum garments - such as panties, compression leggings, and postpartum girdles. Designed for women like you. We hope this article has been beneficial. Do you have any tips to combat motion sickness during pregnancy? Leave them in the comments below!

Swollen feet during pregnancy is a common occurrence and is completely normal. You may notice your shoes getting tighter, or your ankles getting larger as you get closer to your due date. In this article, we will discuss what causes swollen feet during pregnancy and how to get some relief. What Causes Swollen Feet During Pregnancy Thankfully early in your pregnancy, you are unlikely to notice any sort of swelling in your feet. You may notice a little bit of bloating in your first trimester as your hormone levels increase, but it will more than likely only get a little puffy. Most women do not experience any swollen feet in the first trimester. In the second trimester (particularly starting weeks 22-27), as your pregnancy progresses you will likely begin to notice your shoes fitting tighter and your rings getting stuck on your fingers. This swelling is due to an increase in fluid retention and an increase in blood flow. As your body prepares for labor, it begins to hold onto extra fluid - softening the bodily tissues and preparing your body for birth. The third trimester is when swollen feet are the most common. At this stage, your body really begins to store any extra fluid available and soon your toes and fingers begin to become unrecognizable. In addition, the increased pressure from your growing uterus can slow the blood flow from your legs to your heart. This isn’t dangerous, it is just uncomfortable. Are there Risks with Swollen Feet During Pregnancy? Swollen feet are a very normal part of pregnancy. More often than not, your swollen feet are just a sign that your body is doing its job and preparing for birth. However, there are some cases where swelling is cause for concern. One condition, known as preeclampsia, includes rapidly swelling feet as a symptom. Preeclampsia is a condition that causes severe high blood pressure and it must be treated immediately. However, preeclampsia comes with other symptoms as well. The symptoms for preeclampsia include: Sudden/rapid swelling of feet, hands, eyes, and face Dizziness or blurred vision Severe headache Difficulty breathing In addition, if you notice swelling on only one foot/leg it can be a symptom of deep vein thrombosis. DVT is a blood clot that needs to be treated. If you have any concerns at all about your swelling feet, talk to your doctor. They will be able to determine if there is any cause for concern. How to Prevent/Treat Swollen Feet During Pregnancy While swollen feet may or may not be painful, it can definitely become uncomfortable or bothersome. Thankfully there are a few things that you can do to help reduce your discomfort. Reduce Sodium Intake - Salt increases your body’s water retention. This is on top of your increased fluid retention due to your pregnancy. To reduce your sodium intake you can try to avoid any canned or processed foods, and increase the number of fresh foods you eat. Stay Hydrated - It may sound counter-intuitive but if your body becomes dehydrated it will hold onto any extra water that is available in your body. This can increase swelling. To combat this make sure you are drinking at least 10 cups of water a day. This will ensure you are hydrated and will decrease your swelling. Avoid Standing or Sitting for Long Periods of Time - Make sure you are promoting blood flow by avoiding remaining in one position for too long. If you tend to sit for long periods of time, make sure to get up and walk around a little. If you tend to stand for hours a day, try sitting down and resting every hour or so. Elevate your Feet - elevating your feet at the end of a long day can promote the fluid that has been building up in your feet and ankles to move around. This will decrease your swollen feet during pregnancy. Sleep on your Left Side - When you are going to sleep at night, make sure you are sleeping on your left side. This relieves pressure off of your inferior vena cava which is a major blood vessel that returns blood to your heart. This will allow your blood flow to increase and circulate more effectively throughout your body. Get in Some Exercise - Make sure you are getting in some exercise during the day. This can be things like prenatal yoga or even swimming. Both of these exercises increase your blood flow and reduce swelling around the ankles. Stay Cool - Swelling can increase as the temperature increases. If you are experiencing swollen feet during pregnancy in the hot/warm months, try to stay cool. Use a fan, a cool compress, or even some ice packs to reduce swelling. Invest in Compression Stockings - Support stockings are a great way to increase your blood flow and reduce swelling. In order for them to be effective, you will have to put them on in the morning before your day starts. This reduces the amount of swelling as the day progresses. Takeaway Swollen feet during pregnancy are completely normal and expected. They are caused by your body increasing its fluid retention as it prepares for labor. Thankfully, there are things you can do to get relief and prevent the swelling. In addition, your body will slowly go back to normal after you have given birth. If you are looking to decrease postpartum swelling try out some of Bellefit’s postpartum garments. We have compression leggings, postpartum girdles, and shapewear. Get back to looking and feeling your best after pregnancy. We hope this has been a helpful article and that you found some ways to get relief for your swollen feet during pregnancy.

If you have read up on labor and delivery, you may have come across the term “breech baby”. What is a breech baby? It is when the baby is positioned with its feet down near the cervix instead of the head. This can occur throughout the entire pregnancy, but as you move closer to your delivery date this can pose problems. In this article we want to give you all the information you need to know in order to be prepared. What is a Breech Baby? As your baby grows, they will constantly be moving around in your uterus. And most of the time this isn’t a problem, we all need to adjust ourselves and get comfortable. But as you move closer to your due date, their moving around can cause them to get into some interesting positions. This can be a cause for concern in some cases, particularly when your baby’s head is not near the birthing canal. Between the 32nd and 37th weeks of your pregnancy your baby should be moving into a position to prepare for birth. Their head should move towards the birthing canal, and their feet should be in the opposite direction towards the top of your uterus. If a baby doesn’t properly move into place, they can be born feet-first. And this can cause harm to the baby. Possible Complications with a Breech Baby Due to the nature of labor, the best position for a baby to be in for vaginal birth is with the head towards the cervix. The head is the baby’s largest part of their body, and is the most difficult to get out of the birthing canal. If the feet come out first, it becomes more difficult for the baby’s head to come out, because the birthing canal has not opened up wide enough. Another potential problem occurs when the umbilical cord prolapses. This means that the umbilical cord is being squeezed, cutting off the baby’s oxygen and blood supply. This can cause birth defects. Babies are more likely to be breech if: They are premature There is more than one baby (twins, etc.) There is an abnormal level of amniotic fluid The mother’s uterus is shaped abnormally While these complications are serious, there are many ways you can try to move them into the correct position. Can you change a Breech Baby position? As you attend your check-ups and doctors appointments, your doctor will be checking to make sure your baby isn’t breeched. In the early stages of your pregnancy, a breech baby is not a problem. The closer you come to your due date the more likely your doctor is to suggest measures to change the baby’s position. Non-Medical methods to change position Acupuncture – This form of Chinese medicine involves placing tiny needles at several pressure points on the body. When stimulated this can relax the uterus, causing the baby to shift position. Chiropractic Care – A chiropractor adjusts your posture and alignment to ensure that your hips and pelvis are aligned. This will relieve pressure off of the uterus, which can promote the baby to turn. Child’s Pose – Another technique uses gravity as a way to persuade the baby to turn. One option is to rest in the yoga pose known as child’s pose for 10-15 minutes a day. Pelvic tilt – Another option that uses gravity is known as a pelvic tilt. The mother rests on her back with her knees up and her feet on the ground. Then she lifts her hips up off the ground into a bridge position. The mother is supposed to maintain this pose for 15-20 minutes. Some women find this pose difficult to maintain and use an ironing board and a couch for some extra stability. They lean the ironing board against the couch and lie on it with their feet on the couch. Music – Some babies are very fond of music. If you have noticed your baby move in the past when you play music, this might be a good option for you. Play music in the area when you want their head, and some babies will move their head to hear the music better. Temperature – Similarly, some babies are very sensitive to temperature. By placing a warm cloth at the bottom of your stomach and a cold cloth at the top, your baby may be enticed to move toward the warmth. Medical methods to change position If these non-medical methods are not working for you, your doctor may suggest the use of a procedure known as External Cephalic Version (ECV). An ECV is typically had at around 37 weeks of pregnancy. It is a non-invasive procedure where the physician will apply pressure to your stomach in various areas to push the baby into the proper position. Some doctors choose to use an ultrasound also to make sure they can see the baby move into the correct position, while also monitoring their heart rate. This procedure is non-invasive, but it can be painful. Some doctors choose to administer some medication before the procedure to relax your muscles and reduce discomfort. C-Section for Breech Baby Sometimes, no matter what you or your doctor do, your baby will not move out of the breech position. In these cases most physicians will recommend a c-section delivery. While some breech babies are ok to be delivered through a vaginal birth, a c-section is the safer option. A clinical study conducted and published in Lancet found that a “Planned caesarean section is better than planned vaginal birth for the term fetus in the breech presentation.” C-Section Recovery If this happens to be the case, the baby will be safely delivered, but your recovery time may be much longer. A c-section involves a large incision across your abdomen that takes a while to heal. Movement becomes difficult and the stress of caring for your newborn is only added on top of that. Thankfully, Bellefit has developed a line of postpartum girdles that help you heal faster and help you feel more confident. These postpartum girdles were designed with all women in mind. They come in many different sizes, shades, and types. Buy one online today and find out how so many women have healed faster and with less pain.

Historically, women who become pregnant over the age of 35 were considered to have a “geriatric pregnancy.” This term has become outdated in recent years, due to the increase in education, technology, and pregnancy knowledge. Still, women are often concerned when it comes to pregnancy as you age. In this article, we want to break down some misconceptions and ease your worries a little about “geriatric pregnancies.” What is a Geriatric Pregnancy? According to Healthline, “In the medical world, a geriatric pregnancy is one that occurs anytime a woman is over the age of 35.” This phrase has fallen out of popularity among medical professionals, and a new one has taken its place. Today, the term “geriatric pregnancy” has become “advanced maternal age.” Studies have demonstrated that more women than ever before are having their first child between the ages of 35 and 39. And according to a study by the NCHS, first-time pregnancies in women over 40 have actually doubled in the last 40 years. This shift towards later pregnancies is likely due to the shift in social beliefs within the last 40 years. In recent years it has become more socially acceptable to wait to have children until you feel you are financially stable. In addition, many women choose to focus on their careers and wait to have children. The recent increase in technological abilities and knowledge of baby development has also helped women have safe and healthy pregnancies in their later years. Why is it considered a geriatric pregnancy? Fun fact about fertility, you are born with your entire lifetime supply of eggs. According to the Rogel Cancer Center, “Females are not capable of making new eggs, and in fact, there is a continuous decline in the total number of eggs each month.” It is because of this reason that women over the age of 35 have increased difficulty conceiving. According to a study published in Hum Reprod, women between the ages of 19-26 are at their highest fertility levels. Between the ages of 27 and 34 the likelihood of conceiving drops to 40%. Between the ages of 35-39 it drops to 30%. And by the time you reach 40-45 your fertility decreases by up to 95%. Don’t worry though, many healthcare professionals still believe that a healthy and safe pregnancy is possible. According to an article in Parents, “A woman who maintains a healthy weight, takes a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, manages medical conditions, doesn’t smoke, and keeps vaccinations up to date, has a better chance of conceiving a healthy baby, and having a healthy pregnancy.” Risks with a Geriatric Pregnancy As with any pregnancy, there are risks involved with having a child after age 35. This includes an increased risk of: Pre-eclampsia Gestational diabetes Cesearean Section Labor Complications Loss of Pregnancy Premature birth Low birth weight chromosomal defects in the baby (particularly Down Syndrome) Having multiples (twins) How to Combat the Risks In order to ensure you have a safe and healthy pregnancy it is essential that you speak with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to evaluate your individual condition and help you form a plan for a safe pregnancy. In general there are a few lifestyle changes that can help ensure you have a healthy pregnancy – no matter your age. Preconception/Fertility Appointment: This appointment helps you and your doctor evaluate and understand the risks involved in your pregnancy. In addition, you can formulate a plan to increase your risks of pregnancy, and other options in case those don’t work. Prenatal Care: Be sure to go to any and all doctor’s appointments that are scheduled. These frequent check-ups can help to catch any problems that might occur throughout your pregnancy. In addition, try to regularly take a prenatal vitamin to make sure your baby is getting the proper nutrition it needs. Eat Healthy: A well-rounded diet is essential during pregnancy. This ensures that you and your baby are getting all the necessary nutrients you need. Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps your body stay healthy and improves your overall health. No Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drugs: Avoid all risky substances during your pregnancy. And talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Recovering from an Advanced Maternal Age Pregnancy Postpartum recovery can be a long and hard journey for any woman. Due to many of the increased risk factors associated with a geriatric pregnancy, recovery can be even more difficult. Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth can take months, and this is on top of caring for a newborn. It can be frustrating to feel as though you are not recovering as fast as you want, but give your body a chance to rest. It just spent 40 weeks creating a new life, it will take more than a few days to recover. Even if all you can do is sleep, eat, and take care of your baby that is enough. Later when you begin to feel better it can be tempting to try and workout and shed the baby weight. Be patient. You may feel prepared, but sometimes it is not the best decision to jump right back in. Focus on eating healthy and drinking lots of water. Diet is just as important as exercise, and diet won’t accidentally hurt you in the process. For a faster recovery after a geriatric pregnancy, consider using a postpartum girdle. They are designed to support your abdomen after giving birth so that you can get back to feeling and looking your best. Bellefit postpartum girdles are perfect for any mom who wants to speed up her recovery time. For whatever pregnancy, labor, or postpartum journey you are on, Bellefit’s postpartum girdles are here to support you.

Is it morning sickness or hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)? Almost every woman who has been pregnant can talk to you about morning sickness, but for some women the nausea that comes with pregnancy is not just morning sickness. For some pregnant women, the nausea, heartburn, and vomiting can be an indication of hyperemesis gravidarum. What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum? According to the MayoClinic, hyperemesis gravidarum is “when someone with nausea and vomiting of pregnancy has severe symptoms that may cause severe dehydration or result in the loss of more than 5 percent of pre-pregnancy body weight.” Unlike morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum can become so severe that some women need to be hospitalized to receive intravenous (IV) fluids. Symptoms How can you tell when the problem is HG versus morning sickness? Morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum present themselves as nearly the same thing, but HG is a more severe case of morning sickness. We made a little table to demonstrate the differences. Morning Sickness Hyperemesis Gravidarum Occasional vomitingNausea that lessens after the first trimesterVomiting that does not cause dehydrationAble to keep some food down Severe vomiting that occurs oftenNausea that occurs throughout pregnancyVomiting that causes dehydrationInability to keep food downWeight loss of 5% or more of pre-pregnancy weightInfrequent urinationLoss of skin elasticity (caused by dehydration)HeadachesFaintingFatigueLow Blood PressureRapid Heart Rate The majority of women will experience some form of morning sickness during their pregnancy. And many women only have problems with nausea in the first trimester of pregnancy. Some women do have nausea throughout their pregnancy, but few experience hyperemesis gravidarum. Women who do have HG typically have it the most intense in the 9-13 week time frame. According to American Pregnancy, “Most women receive some relief between weeks 14-20, although up to 20% of women may require care for hyperemesis throughout the rest of their pregnancy.” What Causes Hyperemesis Gravidarum? Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that is created during pregnancy, is widely believed to cause nausea during pregnancy. The rapid increase of this hormone within the body causes nausea. That nausea is associated with morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum. Who is at Risk? There are a few things that may increase your likelihood of hyperemesis gravidarum. Including: A history of hyperemesis gravidarum in the family Pregnant with more than one baby Being a first time mother Being overweight These factors do not ensure that you will get it, and they aren’t the only factors that can increase your likelihood. So be sure to talk to your doctor if you are displaying any symptoms. How are you diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum? In most cases the problem is discovered with a standard physical exam at your doctor’s office. They will look for the symptoms such as a fast heart rate and low blood pressure. They may also look at your family history, and may even conduct an ultrasound to see if you are pregnant with more than one baby. Your doctor may also decide to conduct other tests to rule out gastrointestinal problems as a factor. In some cases, the problem is not found until you are admitted to the hospital. While hyperemesis gravidarum is severe, many women are able to overcome the problem on their own, or with just their physicians help. Make sure you attend your regular appointments with your OB/GYN. This will increase your chances of discovering the problem quickly. What are effective treatments? Many times your doctor will recommend natural treatment options to deal with the nausea and vomiting. Such treatments include, taking a B-6 vitamin and ingesting ginger to decrease nausea. Dehydration and nausea can be severe. So your doctor may advise you to be admitted to a hospital. Your doctor might also prescribe anti-nausea medication if needed. According to Healthline, “Taking medication while pregnant can cause potential health problems for the baby, but in severe cases of HG, maternal dehydration is a more concerning problem.” If you have any of the above symptoms, talk to your doctor, they will be able to assess your situation and form a course of action. Does hyperemesis gravidarum persist after pregnancy? Like morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum typically subsides after the first trimester. In some cases it may persist throughout the pregnancy, but it usually goes away after giving birth. This is due to the fact that your body is no longer producing the hormone that was causing the problem. So even if you do have hyperemesis gravidarum you can rest easy knowing it will go away. While it will go away after pregnancy, some women have a more difficult postpartum recovery process because of it. If you had hyperemesis gravidarum, consider using a postpartum girdle to speed up your recovery. Bellefit has a wide variety of postpartum garments that help make life after pregnancy a little easier. Our girdles are medical-quality products, designed for everyday wear. They help the uterus navigate back to its original place in less time and provide women with comfortable and reliable belly and back support. Don’t suffer through a long and painful postpartum recovery, when you can get support for yourself today. We hope that this has been a helpful guide to hyperemesis gravidarum.

Surprise! You’re not done with nausea yet. Some women talk about how bad the nausea is in the first trimester, and yes it is bad, but you can also get third trimester nausea – and it is somehow worse. In your first trimester, you’re just coming to terms with being pregnant. You see someone or something that reminds you of your condition and feel the familiar queasiness in your stomach. In the beginning you worry about being sick at work or having to run to the bathroom in public, but as time goes on you get used to it. Your morning sickness becomes an occasional thing, though it's always there waiting for you when you least expect it. But in your third trimester, there is a different kind of morning sickness waiting for you each day—the kind that hits when you are driving along on what feels like a normal day. Not only do you have to deal with the other aches and pains that come with the third trimester, but nausea too? Yeah, we know, it sucks! Don’t get too stressed out though, we found and tested the best ways to deal with nausea in the third trimester and came up with a list of the best techniques to try. What Causes Third Trimester Nausea? So, what exactly causes third trimester nausea? There is a long list of reasons you could be having nausea in your third trimester including: Acid Reflux Change in Metabolism Increasing Hormone Levels Low Blood Pressure Pre-Eclampsia According to Dr. Laura Riley from Parents magazine, “nausea can result when the uterus compresses the stomach or when the normal contractions of the stomach slow down.” So, should you be worried? According to Dr. Farrell, Medical Director and gynaecologist at Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, about “20% of women can have [nausea] into the second trimester and some can have it throughout.” For some women the problem can be caused by the pressure of the uterus on the stomach combined with food becoming difficult to digest. For other women, the problem can be as serious as pre-eclampsia. You should always talk to your doctor about any problems that are happening during your pregnancy, and third trimester nausea is nothing to sneeze at. Tips to Prevent Nausea in Late Pregnancy There are ways you can deal with your third trimester nausea, but if nothing you do is helping to relieve the nausea, you should speak with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. The best way you can deal with nausea is by preventing it from coming on in the first place. If you begin to realize that you are dealing with third trimester nausea, there are preventative measures you can take to deal with it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Monique | Fertility & IVF Nutritionist (@moniquecormacknutrition) Avoiding Certain Foods Some women have aversions to certain smells during pregnancy, most likely due to the heightened sensitivity of their sense of smell. While an aversion to a smell you normally enjoy might be annoying, it can be more than just an inconvenience—some women have experienced queasiness while walking by the food counter at the supermarket. The smells that are most commonly reported as triggers are those with overly strong odors (such as fish, eggs, and pickles), but some other foods and smells can also cause an adverse reaction in some women. Be aware of what you eat and what you are exposed to during your pregnancy. If a certain smell will make you feel ill, try to refrain from coming in close contact with it as much as possible. The most common culprits behind food aversions are morning sickness and headaches. Morning sickness is caused by hormonal changes which take place when the placenta forms in early pregnancy. Although some women don't experience morning sickness at all, nausea and vomiting can last until the end of the first trimester and sometimes beyond. Rest During pregnancy, the body goes through many changes and the growing fetus puts a lot of stress on it. As a result, it's not uncommon to feel more tired than usual and have trouble sleeping. The exhaustion can be especially draining because the extra weight makes it harder to move around comfortably. One of the best ways to handle this is to get plenty of sleep and rest early in pregnancy. Although there is no medical evidence that rest can stop nausea, some women find that when they are well rested, they feel less nauseous. This is important during pregnancy because it gives your body time to relax and reset so that it can function properly. The more you rest now, the less likely you will be to become ill or fatigued later on in pregnancy. Resting now also helps ensure that your body will be healthy when your baby arrives. A healthy mom means a healthy baby, which is great news for both of you! Eat Small Meals And Often An easy way to overwhelm your digestive system is by eating 3 large meals a day. If you've never experienced nausea or vomiting in your life before becoming pregnant, it might be a surprise when you start to feel queasy. But, it's not just in your head: your body is preparing itself for the changes associated with pregnancy, and your digestive system will work differently than it did before you became pregnant. When you're pregnant, your stomach doesn't empty as quickly as it did before you were expecting. What this means is that if you eat a large meal at dinner time, your body has to work harder to digest it. So, if you're like most people and have three square meals a day, this can make it more difficult for your stomach to digest the food and that can make you nauseous. When we eat too much food at one time or too many heavy foods in one day, our bodies have trouble processing the foods correctly which can lead to indigestion and other uncomfortable symptoms. By eating five or six meals a day, instead of three large ones, you are giving your body the chance to digest food at a more gradual pace, which will help prevent nausea. Eating smaller portions also helps keep you energized throughout the day, so you can get more done without feeling sluggish. Transitioning from three meals and two snacks to five or six meals a day can take some time, though, so don't feel like you have to make the switch overnight. Start out by making a commitment to having two snacks instead of one and work your way up from there—it might take some time for your body to adjust, but before long, you'll be able to keep nausea at bay (and get your energy back) without even thinking about it! Stay Hydrated One of the best ways to stay healthy throughout your pregnancy is by staying hydrated. But getting enough water can be a challenge when you're busy or short on time. Having a water bottle with you helps ensure that you're getting your daily intake of water. Water is necessary for our bodies to function properly and when your body is growing a baby, it needs even more than normal. A key symptom of dehydration is nausea – so make sure you are constantly sipping water throughout the day. How to Deal with Morning Sickness in Third Trimester If you are already experiencing nausea there are a few ways you can help your body deal with it. There are plenty of ways for you to combat the queasiness and get your body back to feeling better. Drink Water Like I said earlier, if you are feeling nauseous, it could possibly be that your body is a little dehydrated. Make sure to take small sips of water over the course of the day. Ginger One of the most common side effects of pregnancy is nausea. The feeling of nausea can decrease after a few months, but you may still experience it, especially in the morning and during stressful situations. Ginger is known for its ability to decrease nausea and vomiting. If you are looking to take a more proactive approach you can drink some ginger tea, ginger ale, or even eat some ginger candies. Ventilate Your Space Heat can be a contributing factor to your pregnancy nausea, so make sure to have a fan or even some ice packs nearby to cool you off. It's important to stay cool during your pregnancy because it can help to decrease nausea and vomiting. If you're feeling hot, try removing layers of clothing, lying down in the coolest place in your house, standing in front of a fan or misting yourself with cool water. These are all great ways to stay cool without having to put on extra clothes that could add to your discomfort. Can I take Medication for Third Trimester Nausea? For some women, nausea is something that they have to deal with throughout their whole pregnancy. If none of the preventative measures, or home remedies are working for you, try talking to your doctor about a prescription medication for nausea. Your doctor will be able to take your personal medical history and pregnancy challenges into consideration and prescribe you a medication that can work. Your doctor will help you decide what’s best for you and your baby. When Should You See a Doctor if You Are Experiencing Nausea During Late Pregnancy While nausea in the third trimester can be nothing to worry about, there are some cases where it can indicate a much bigger problem. If you experience nausea as well as extreme vomiting, a fever, dizziness, weight loss, loss of appetite, or your baby stops moving as often – contact your doctor immediately. These can be indicators that something more is going on. @jasminechiswell I Thought It Was Gone For Good...🥲 ♬ lol im famous - Trixisye Key Takeaways Third trimester nausea is annoying and awful, but it can be prevented or dealt with in some cases. For other women, third trimester nausea is an indication of something bigger that is happening. Talk to your doctor if your condition worsens. After you give birth you may still experience nausea due to your body’s sudden adjustment. If this does happen, you can always continue to try the home remedies listed above. They are great suggestions to treat nausea no matter if you are pregnant or not. You want to get back to feeling better faster and being your best self for your new family addition. Bellefit® Postpartum Girdles & Corsets – Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, doctor-recommended since 2008. We at Bellefit, have created postpartum girdles and corsets to aid your postpartum recovery journey. Our medical-grade, FDA approved binders, are created with mothers like you in mind – who want to regain their pre-baby body, and strengthen their core. You can browse our many sizes, shapes, and colors on our website.

Blow the horn! Roll out the red carpet! A new rising star is about to touch ground for the first time. That is…your newborn baby! If you are on your last week of pregnancy truth is, you and your family may be now just sitting tight waiting for the final call. Or…maybe you are running around taking care of all the final touches before the new inhouse celebrity decides to show up! Table Of Contents Here’s What Happens When You Are 39 Weeks Pregnant Have Your Postpartum Recovery Kit Ready Go Through Your Baby’s Kit Preparing Food On Your Last Week Of Pregnancy Go Through Your Birth Plan Make Sure You Have Chosen A Doctor For Your Baby Should You Take A Childbirth Class During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Benefits Of Napping During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Sex During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Pamper Yourself As Much As You Can How To Know If You Are Going Into Labor Sources: All the prepping for your child’s birth peaks about 1 or 2 weeks before your due date! So, which better way to be ready than having a handy guide to all the things to finish up during the last week of pregnancy? Here’s What Happens When You Are 39 Weeks Pregnant What happens when you are 39 works pregnant? Let’s take a quick look at what’s going on inside your lovely womb during week 39 of your pregnancy. By now, you are already on month 9 and your due date may be just 1 or 2 weeks away. Your bub has now reached its birth weight and length, typically around 20 inches and from 6 to 9 pounds, and will start getting ready to meet you face to face very soon. When it comes to changes in your body, you’ll likely feel like every little thing is about to send you into labor! From cramps and contractions to pelvic pressure and the so-called bloody show -when your mucus plug begins to loosen up causing a vaginal discharge- every hour is seemingly announcing the time has come! Have Your Postpartum Recovery Kit Ready Have you got your postpartum recovery kit? Having your postpartum care package ready to go will give you a great edge on anticipating your needs right after childbirth! Disposable underwear, cold packs, a postpartum girdle, and many other items that will ease you into your postpartum recovery, all included in this guide to the 10 Essentials of your Postpartum Recovery Kit. Make sure you have your kit packed and organized inside your baby bag! Go Through Your Baby’s Kit Get ready with your baby’s kit Now that you know what you need to cater to your new mom’s needs, let’s focus on your baby. Many women, during their last week of pregnancy, go through what’s known as ‘nesting.’ This may feel like an urge to have everything planned to the tee! So to put that to great use here’s a roundup of productive things you can do to satisfy your nesting urges. To take it a step further, we’ve selected the top items that should be included in your ‘Welcome Baby Kit!’ You may have these already -who said baby shower presents?!- but it’s still worth to confirm your bub’s care package is all done and dusted! Diapers – heaps of diapers. Car seat -you need one to take the baby home! Toiletries and hygiene products -baby soap, baby towels, wipes, diaper rash cream, cotton balls Stroller, and/or carrier Baby Car seat Bedding and nursery room furniture Baby bathtub Changing mat and baby wraps Baby’s clothing, plus bibs! Thermometer and any other thing your doctor and midwife would recommend. Preparing Food On Your Last Week Of Pregnancy Food prepping during the last week of pregnancy Once you cross that door with your newborn in your arms, things will start running under a very special schedule. It’s incredible to think how such a tiny cutie can cause such a lovely mess! This is when you’ll thank and appreciate the ‘past you’ who took the time to organize and coordinate meals and healthy snacks. Food prepping during the last week of pregnancy can alleviate the stress and reduce the huge amounts of energy spent trying to figure what to eat next! Try not to go at it alone. Get hold of your partner, family, and friends, and put them to work if you wish. People love to be part of such a special season of life. Go Through Your Birth Plan Map your goals of childbirth experience As this study explains, a birth plan’s main goal is to map out the childbirth experience you wish to have. It’s also a way for you to wrap your head around the stages of childbirth and how you’d like things -who’s gonna be there, how your doctor will deal with pain, etc. It’s essential to have a flexible birth plan as this will give you and your doctor assurance. Going through it during the last week of pregnancy will help you and your ‘childbirth allies’ stay on the same page! Make Sure You Have Chosen A Doctor For Your Baby Choose a paediatrician well in advance. It’s recommended to get into choosing a pediatrician for your baby at least 1 or 2 months before delivery. You can do research, read reviews, ask your friends for references, get an appointment to meet him or her. Get clear on what your priorities are. Is the office conveniently located? Will you find staff on call if your baby gets sick? Is the doctor in line with your values? The idea is that by the last week of your pregnancy you would already have this sorted, so you’d just need to re-confirm! If you haven’t made a decision by the time your baby is born, the hospital will assign you a pediatrician. Better stay on top of things! Should You Take A Childbirth Class During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Childbirth classes are not mandatory, but beneficial if you attend. Nowadays, childbirth classes are not mandatory. But there are many benefits associated with addressing childbirth fears, anxiety, learning pain management techniques, and more! Experts recommend starting the classes at the beginning of your third trimester, but of course, not all women can get into these on time, mostly due to costs, and busy pre-baby schedules. If this is you, then try to coordinate maybe 1 or 2 classes during your last week of pregnancy. Even that little can be of use when the big day comes! Benefits Of Napping During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Napping is good during pregnancy If everything seems like a perfect excuse to just doze for a couple of minutes, know that’s completely normal! In fact, you should try to nap as much as you can. There’s now scientific evidence supporting the correlation of napping with giving birth to a baby with a healthy weight! Napping is beneficial all throughout your pregnancy, but again, many women’s busy schedules prevent them from proper rest. However, if you are due in 1 or 2 weeks, you may already have stopped working, so there you go…nap time! Better late than never! Sex During The Last Week Of Pregnancy Having sex or not during pregnancy should be consulted with doctor In case you were wondering, having sex during pregnancy is safe -and this applies to the last weeks too! It may not be too comfortable, but considering you won’t be able to have sex for a while after childbirth, it may be a great way to stay intimately connected with your partner. Sometimes health professionals may argue against it for reasons specific to your pregnancy, so get clearance from your doctor! Pamper Yourself As Much As You Can Pamper yourself the best you can Get a pedicure, a manicure, finish up your shopping, get your maternity shapewear garment ready, spend some time with adults, journal, practice breathing techniques…just do whatever brings you comfort and makes you happy! How To Know If You Are Going Into Labor Be ready to go into the labor and welcome the new joy In this article, you’ll learn the 5 signs that will tell you are getting into labor! This is when the show is about to start and you’ll appreciate all the big and little things you did over the last weeks of your pregnancy. It’s been a long wait! Now you’ll reap the rewards by welcoming your beautiful, healthy bundle of joy into this world. Showtime is on! Bellefit Postpartum Girdles and Corsets – Medical Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended since 2008, Available in 8 Styles & in Plus Sizes Sources: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/pregnancy-37-to-40-weeks https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/your-pregnancy-to-do-list/ https://www.lamaze.org/Giving-Birth-with-Confidence/GBWC-Post/reframing-your-thoughts-about-the-final-weeks-of-pregnancy-1 https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/sex-and-relationships/sex-at-40-weeks-pregnant/ https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/39/ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/Pages/Preparing-Your-Family-for-a-New-Baby.aspx https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/pregnancy/weeks/39-weeks-pregnant.html https://www.thebump.com/pregnancy-week-by-week/39-weeks-pregnant https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3392605/ https://www.scripps.org/news_items/4943-five-things-to-consider-when-choosing-a-pediatrician https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945718301527

Let’s talk about the most common postpartum body problem no-one openly talks about — diastasis recti. You might recognize it as the stubborn jelly belly after pregnancy.It’s a condition resulting from the abdominal muscles stretching and separating at the midline to accommodate the growth of your baby. If you're reading this article, chances are you or someone else in your life has a diastasis recti. Not to worry–you're not alone! The condition is very common, especially among women who have given birth and/or experienced weight fluctuations. How common is abdominal muscle seperation? The likelihood of developing diastasis recti in the third trimester is as high as 66%.What it looks like is an unwanted belly “pooch” that can last even after you’ve lost the pregnancy weight. And in rare, severe cases, diastasis can evolve into a painful abdominal hernia. This isn't surprising when you consider how much abdominal muscles are taxed during childbearing and childbirth—not only do they have to work hard to support the growing baby, but they also have to stretch to accommodate the ever-expanding uterus. While this condition is commonly referred to as "tummy pooch" or "mummy tummy" by women who've been through pregnancy, abdominal muscle separation can be a serious matter. Muscle weakness can lead to back pain and other musculoskeletal issues—and it can even make it more difficult for you to lose weight after the baby comes. So, what does diastasis recti look like, what is normal, how do you know if you have diastasis recti, and what are effective treatments for postpartum women? We’ll get into all of this and more in this article. Table Of Contents Beneath The Skin: What Exactly Is Diastasis Recti? Narrow-Normal Diastasis Open Diastasis Open Above Navel Diastasis Open Below Navel Diastasis Completely Open Diastasis What Increases The Risk Of Diastasis Recti? Is Diastasis Recti Dangerous? Symptoms Of Rectus Abdominis Diastasis How To Check Yourself For Diastasis Recti How Do You Treat Diastasis Recti Abdominis Without Surgery? Avoid Heavy Lifting Or Straining Exercises Practice Good Posture Strengthen Your Core Muscles Nourish Your Body With Whole Nutritious Foods Bellefit Postpartum Girdles And Corsets For Treating Diastasis Recti And Abdominal Separation To Sum Up: Diastasis Recti Beneath The Skin: What Exactly Is Diastasis Recti? It's helpful to have an understanding of what's happening under the skin to safety treat abdominal muscle seperation. We'll start with a comprehensive and brief anatomy lesson and dive into the different case types of diastasis recti. Diastasis is not exclusive to pregnant women, although highly probable during pregnancy. Your abdominal muscles protect your vital organs, allow trunk movements, and support the spine. In the center of your trunk is the muscle group called the rectus abdominis — a.k.a, your six-pack muscles. It runs from beneath your pectorals to your pelvic region. There's a left and a right side of the rectus abdominis, and holding these two sides together is a white connective tissue called the linea alba (Latin for white line). Its job is to keep the two sides of the six-pack muscles at a certain proximity from each other. Around the third-trimester, this line may appear on the skin as a darker line, sometimes called the linea nigra (black line). The reason it darkens is due to pregnancy hormones that can cause hyperpigmentation. It should fade on its own in a few months after the baby is born. Women's bodies are incredible. Those same hormones also allow muscles (notably, your abdominal wall) connective tissues, and joints extra flexibility to house your growing baby, especially in the third trimester. Diastasis recti happens at the linea alba midline around the belly button, above or below the navel, and in some severe instances, postpartum women may experience completely open diastasis recti. Trauma in abdominal region is an important cause behind Diastasis Recti. The linea alba can stretch about 1 – 2 inches, so you can understand how pregnancy can extend past the limits of the abdominal rectus, causing an opening at the midline. Diastasis is not exclusive to pregnant women. There is a common misconception that diastasis recti, also known as abdominal separation, is only a problem for women. While this condition is most common among women who have had children, men can suffer from it as well. Diastasis recti can be caused by trauma to the abdominal region — such as when a person lifts heavy weights with poor form, yo-yo diets, or suffers an injury. It might sound like a serious issue, but in many cases, diastasis recti can be treated with exercises to strengthen the core muscles and other simple lifestyle changes. Newborn babies can also have diastasis recti, but this is a result of the underdevelopment of abdominal muscles, and it will correct itself on its own. Before they reach full maturity, infants are unable to control their core muscles. Therefore, their growing belly can protrude outward (and cause the appearance of an umbilical hernia), and their belly button can be retracted because it is being pulled inward by the two separated muscle bellies. Once a baby begins to develop control over their deep core muscles (at around 4-6 months), the muscles will slowly come back together and the baby's belly button will start protruding outward again. People with a diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) are often desperate for solutions because the condition can become more severe over time. While abdominal muscle separation in adults won't correct itself, luckily, most cases are reversible without surgery, but it's crucial to get a head-start on your diastasis recti recovery plan. Let's go over the different types of diastasis. Narrow-Normal Diastasis It's no surprise that growing a baby is extremely demanding on the body — your uterus can grow up to 500 times its pre-pregnancy size! normal postpartum separation It's perfectly normal to experience some muscle separation at the midline. Most of the time, these minor gaps (up to 1 inch) are nothing to be concerned about, and it's considered "normal postpartum separation" or "normal diastasis." Open Diastasis In the case of open diastasis, you'll experience a wide (3 finger lengths or more) opening in the abdominal walls around the navel/ belly button. Open Above Navel Diastasis This separation is above the navel/ belly button. You will need to do exercises to target the upper abdominal muscles to help close this gap. Severe case of diastasis recti can result into a hernia. Open Below Navel Diastasis As the name implies, the gap appears below the navel. To close this gap, you'll need to focus on lower abdominal exercises. Completely Open Diastasis Completely open diastasis recti means that your linea alba is compromised throughout the midline of your abdomen, making you more vulnerable to a severe case of diastasis recti that can result in a hernia. What Increases The Risk Of Diastasis Recti? Contrary to what many people once believed, the mother's age or weight doesn't have a significant correlation with increasing the chances of diastasis recti. Carrying large baby, twins/triplets, weak abdominal wall or genetics increases the risk of Diastasis Recti. There are a few factors that can contribute to the severity of diastasis recti, and understanding some of these factors may help you better prepare for your post-pregnancy recovery and what you can expect. Carrying a large baby Carrying multiples (twins or triplets) Having a weak abdominal wall Genetics Is Diastasis Recti Dangerous? Thankfully, most cases of postpartum diastasis recti aren't dangerous. However, because your abdominal muscles play a significant role in trunk control and function, a compromised abdomen can reduce your strength, range of motion, affect breathing, and weaken your pelvic floor. A weak core can also result in lower back and leg pain, as other muscles compensate for the lack of strength in the abdominals. Even if Diastasis Recti isn't dangerous, it is quite uncomfortable. Severe cases of abdominal muscle separation in postpartum women are susceptible to herniation of the abdominal viscera. An abdominal viscera herniation happens when abdominal organs or tissues are displaced from their normal anatomical position and protrude through the weak points or holes in the abdominal wall. Treating severe diastasis recti that result in an abdominal hernia requires laparoscopic surgery. If it gets to this, you can expect a longer postpartum recovery even with the help of physical therapy. Diastasis recti does not pose a serious health threat, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable. Many of us with diastasis recti have learned this the hard way, with stomach pain that leaves us doubled over and gasping for breath. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic website, "Pregnancy-related diastasis recti is more common and more severe among women carrying more than one baby." Here are common symptoms that can result from post-pregnancy diastasis recti. Symptoms Of Rectus Abdominis Diastasis Back pain Poor posture Digestive issues: bloating or constipation Bulging belly Pelvic pain Urine leakage Painful sex Trouble breathing Decreased range of motion How To Check Yourself For Diastasis Recti Checking yourself for Diastasis Recti could be difficult but not complex. It can be difficult to tell if you have abdominal separation immediately after pregnancy because while there is no longer a baby growing in your belly, you still look about eight months pregnant. Most of this weight comes from your enlarged uterus — that will naturally shrink back down to its pre-pregnancy size — excess fluid retention and healthy weight gain from hormones. But after a few months, with regular exercising and a well-balanced, nutritious diet, you still find a jiggly tummy pouch, you may be experiencing diastasis recti. Now that you have a deeper understanding of diastasis recti, and how it can happen as a result of pregnancy, we'll walk you through how you can check to see if you have it. Lie comfortably on your back with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent. Take deep breaths and use your three fingers (index, middle, and ring) to feel the firmness of your linea alba (the center of where your six-pack muscles are). Feel up to just under the rib cage to the pubic bone Feel for any soft/squishy areas and pay attention to how deep your fingers can push into the muscles (but don't force it). Repeat the same examination, but with your chin tucked and your head lifted off the floor to activate the core muscles. Keep your shoulders on the floor, and you can rest your raised head in your hand to avoid straining your neck. Feel for the left and right sides of your abs coming together and make a note of any gaps. If you feel pain or anything out of the ordinary, stop the self-examination and contact your OBGYN. For a more, in-depth explanation for checking to see if you have abdominal separation as a result of pregnancy, we have an article for you. How Do You Treat Diastasis Recti Abdominis Without Surgery? You can easily treat Diastasis Recti Abdominis by following some simple tips. Avoid Heavy Lifting Or Straining Exercises Avoid movements that strain your abdomen, forcing it to protrude. Some exercises like crunches, planks, sit-ups, and lifting heavy objects can worsen the condition, increasing the length of recovery time. Don't stress your stomach with heavy body straining exercises. Practice Good Posture You want to practice good posture, whether sitting or standing. In essence, it's being mindful of your body's positioning and making sure you're carrying your body in the best alignment to reduce the symptoms of diastasis recti like lower back and pelvic pain. Practicing good posture during pregnancy reduces your risk of Diastasis Recti. Practicing good posture certainly isn't always easy. Wearing a corset improves your posture without you having to think about it. It helps to keep muscles, ligaments, and bones aligned, so you can stabilize the core and pelvic muscles in your everyday movements. Strengthen Your Core Muscles One of the most effective treatments for diastasis recti is exercise to rebuild strength and the integrity of your abdominal muscles. A strong core reduces back pain and diminishes the stubborn mummy tummy. When exercising, many women find it helpful to wear a postpartum girdle to feel supported in their foundational movements. Some easy abdominal strengthening exercises can help you reduce the risk of Diastasis Recti. A postpartum girdle can be helpful whether you're planning on getting back into your pre-pregnancy exercise routine right away, or if you're recovering more slowly. It can improve posture, help with returning your body to its proper alignment while you're exercising, and help with building up abdominal muscles again after they've been stretched out by pregnancy. Using one of these garments can also be an important first step when you have absolutely no motivation to work out at all or you're having trouble getting yourself into gear for exercising for some other reason—the physical support it provides can make it easier for you to move around in the way that's necessary for working out without increasing your anxiety about how you look doing it. Traditional ab-strengthening exercises are out of the question when you've got postpartum diastasis recti, but several abdominal strengthening exercises are safe and ideal for treating abdominal separation. We recommend consulting a physiotherapist who specializes in postpartum diastasis recti correction for a customized abdominal strength workout that's safe for your recovery. Nourish Your Body With Whole Nutritious Foods Healthy diet consisting of nutritious food saves you from many health issues during pregnancy. All recovery treatments should include an element of nutrition. Eat plenty of fresh, whole foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and collagen to support skin and muscle elasticity. The linea alba is made from connective tissues, so eating foods rich in vitamin C can also help ramp up the body's production of collagen to build new tissues. Collagen is found in connective tissues throughout the body, but it's most predominant in the skin. Our body produces mainly type I collagen and a little bit of type III, but the primary reason for this imbalance is because of our diet. Type I collagen is made from proline and lysine and can be found in foods like fish, chicken or turkey, spinach or nuts. Type III collagen is made from hydroxyproline and glycine, which are usually found in beef, pork and dairy products. To help keep the body's production of collagen at optimal levels, it's best to make sure your diet consists of adequate amounts of both types of collagen building blocks. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles And Corsets For Treating Diastasis Recti And Abdominal Separation Bellefit postpartum girdles are FDA-approved and doctor recommended. Bellefit's North-star as a company is to provide women with support and comfort post-pregnancy with high-quality postpartum garments. While you have many options on the Internet, we want to point out a few features you should look for when shopping for a postpartum girdle to support your recovery. FDA-Registered Medical-grade compressions Non-irritating, breathable, flexible fabric Adjustable compression Available in a wide range of sizes, as you may need to size down as you continue to lose baby weight The Bellefit postpartum girdles and corsets tick off all the boxes above — best of all, they come in eight styles from sizes XS – 3XL. The full-coverage girdles and corsets are excellent for wearing days after delivery as they offer the most support and can accommodate heavy-flow pads for leaking. The post-baby period is a time of recovery and readjustment, but it's one that can be eased a bit with the right undergarments. Some women will even choose to buy two girdles — one for up to three months following childbirth when swelling is at its peak and another as they size down months later. The best girdle for pregnancy provides support, control and comfort (and has a zipper in the side for easy access!). It also helps to improve posture by providing increased support for the back and bust, which helps you feel more confident during this time. Many moms will choose to buy two girdles — one for up to three months following childbirth when swelling is at its peak and another as they size down months later. Another

When it comes to after-delivery healing, people tend to focus much more on the outward physical aspect of postpartum recovery, like losing pregnancy weight and reducing the appearance of c-section scarring before bringing attention to the mother's mental health. In the United States alone, the reported rate of clinical postpartum depression among women is between 10 –20%. However, it's believed that postpartum depression affects significantly more women, but it often goes unreported, undiagnosed, and untreated. In this article, we'll discuss the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression, cover the common symptoms, and what you can do if you're experiencing this condition. Table Of Contents "> Baby Blues And Postpartum Depression — What's The Difference? Common Postpartum Depression Symptoms Postpartum Psychosis And Symptoms How Can You Tell If You Have Postpartum Depression? What Causes Postpartum Depression? Risk Factors For Postpartum Depression What Can You Do To Treat Postpartum Depression? Professional Counseling Group Therapy/ Support Groups Medication Getting Practical Help With Childcare And Other Demands Of Daily Life Exercise Daily Bellefit Postpartum Girdles And Corsets To Wrap Up: Postpartum Depression Baby Blues And Postpartum Depression — What's The Difference? Baby blues is normal post pregnancy but postpartum depression isn't. Up to 80% of mothers experience negative feelings, mood swings, and anxiety after childbirth. This collection of symptoms is called the "baby blues," and it typically surfaces a few days after your baby is born and can last up to 2 weeks after delivery. While it's certainly not pleasant, the baby blues are a completely normal experience post-pregnancy. For many women, the early days of motherhood is a challenging time. In essence, you're experiencing the aftermath of hormonal pregnancy changes, adjusting to life with a new baby, and recovering from labor. The most crucial distinction between the baby blues and postpartum depression is the intensity and duration ofthese symptoms. The baby blues shouldn't last longer than a few weeks. If your baby blues intensify or don't fade, you may be suffering from postpartum depression, which does require professional attention. Common Postpartum Depression Symptoms Make a note of some common symptoms observed during postpartum depression. It can be challenging to differentiate between the baby blues and postpartum depression because many of the symptoms overlap. Additionally, each woman's case varies drastically, which is why it's such a challenge to pinpoint whether or not a mother is experiencing postpartum depression, a symptom of another illness, or a side-effect from medication. What you can do is make yourself aware of common symptoms of depression, monitor your mental health, and reach out for help when you need it. Here's a list of common postpartum depression symptoms from the National Institute of Mental Health: Difficulty concentrating and impaired decision making Decreased libido Oversleeping or insomnia Frequent and extreme mood swings Irritability Restlessness Feeling overwhelmed and hopeless It can manifest in physical aches such as frequent headaches, digestive issues, and muscle pain Having trouble bonding with the baby Experience social anxiety, which may result in withdrawal from family and friends Change in appetite (overeating or complete loss of appetite) Doubting ability as a mother to care for the baby Thoughts of self-harm or hurting the baby Suicidal thoughts Postpartum Psychosis And Symptoms Watch for some of the most common postpartum psychosis symptoms. Postpartum psychosis is rare, but it is a serious condition as the woman is experiencing a separation from reality. The onset occurs in the first two weeks after childbirth and includes the following symptoms: Delusions and hallucinations Paranoia Hyperactivity Insomnia Drastic mood swings Difficulty communicating The good news is that postpartum psychosis is temporary and treatable — but it requires immediate professional help. If you know someone or believe you're experiencing postpartum psychosis, contact your doctor or an emergency line if anyone is in immediate danger. How Can You Tell If You Have Postpartum Depression? Take a simple questionnaire to diagnose the presence of postpartum depression. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a questionnaire designed to screen postpartum depression. If it gives you peace of mind, we recommend taking the screening for yourself, but you should still bring your concerns regarding your post-pregnancy mental health to your doctor. Only a professional health care provider can diagnose you for postpartum depression. Still, it's good to make yourself aware of the symptoms and reach out to a health professional right away. What Causes Postpartum Depression? Extreme physical and emotional demands of pregnancy causes postpartum depression. There isn't a single cause for postpartum depression, which is another reason why it's difficult to recognize. Postpartum depression is likely a result of a combination of the extreme physical and emotional demands of pregnancy. Immediately after childbirth, progesterone and estrogen levels drop to their lowest points. Low levels of progesterone and estrogen can lead to mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, and other symptoms of depression. Your progesterone and estrogen levels will balance out on their own, but it can take up to six weeks to feel like yourself again. Hormone imbalances, adjusting to motherhood, sleep deprivation, and physical discomfort can all contribute to the symptoms of depression. Baby blues is quite common in ladies post pregnancy. As you can see, the baby blues and postpartum depression don't discriminate. But certain factors can put you more at risk of experiencing postpartum depression. Risk Factors For Postpartum Depression History of depression Genetic predisposition First-time motherhood Life stress: financial worries, relationship problems, work stress, death of a loved one Not prepared to care for this baby Medical complications during childbirth Substance abuse problems What Can You Do To Treat Postpartum Depression? Postpartum depression usually requires professional treatment because it's a serious condition that can impede a woman's ability to care for herself and her family. If you are experiencing postpartum depression, you're not alone, and there is a world of support ready to help you. Professional Counseling Counselling with mental health professionals can help you deal with postpartum depression. There is no shame in reaching out for the help that you need. If you're diagnosed with postpartum depression, your doctor may offer recommendations for a mental health professional who specializes in postpartum depression. Alternatively, the Postpartum Stress Center can connect you with specialists for treating postpartum mood and anxiety disorders in your area. Group Therapy/ Support Groups Group Therapy or Support Groups are quite effective. Many women find support groups extremely helpful for their postpartum depression recovery. It's healing to take off the "perfect mother" mask society expects of you, share your experiences, and support other women who understand what you're going through. Medication A mix of therapy and medication could be quite helpful for you. It's not uncommon for women suffering from postpartum depression to go on a treatment that includes therapy and medication. You'll need to talk to your doctor about this treatment option, but the most common prescriptions for postpartum depression address sleep and appetite changes, like antidepressants. Getting Practical Help With Childcare And Other Demands Of Daily Life Friends and family could be of great help to deal with baby blues or postpartum depression. You don't have to go through this alone, but sometimes new mothers don't know where to go for help. Tell your partner, parents, family members, or close friends that you're experiencing postpartum depression, and accept the help they offer (babysitting, preparing meals, laundry, and house chores). The lending hands will allow you to take time to catch up on the rest, go to your support groups, and exercise to prioritize your health. Exercise Daily Physical exercises are known for releasing many feel-good hormones. Some studies show that physical exercise during pregnancy and the postpartum period is a safe and effective strategy for reducing anxiety and depression. Exercising releases feel-good hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins that combat anxiety and can change the perception of pain. Bellefit postpartum girdles and corsets can help you get to exercising sooner and help decrease your post-pregnancy recovery period. Medical grade compression garments like the ones we offer at Bellefit helps to protect the lower back and abdominal muscles for improved posture increased range of motion, and feel supported in your exercises. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles And Corsets Bellefit Girdles And Corsets Are FDA-Approved and Doctor Recommended At Bellefit, our number one priority is helping women feel supported and confident after pregnancy with a range of high-quality post-pregnancy recovery garments like girdles, corsets, and waist trainers. We have a fantastic community of Bellefit moms who share their postpartum recovery journeys, using our girdles to help them get back to their pre-pregnancy bodies sooner. Our post-pregnancy girdles and corsets come in eight styles from sizes XS –3XL. Each garment is made from breathable, flexible, hypoallergenic fabrics and uses medical-grade compression to reduce pain, swelling, and increase your trunk range of motion to speed your recovery time. If you're looking for the perfect accessory for getting you back into the gym to fight off symptoms of postpartum depression, our girdles and waist trainers are excellent investments in your health. To Wrap Up: Postpartum Depression Don't neglect the needs of postpartum recovery. Stepping into the chapter of parenthood is a significant transition in one's life, and the physical and emotional demands are arduous — but it does get easier. It's essential to understand what your body is going through post-pregnancy to grasp what you'll need for your postpartum recovery. There is often so much emphasis on the pregnancy that post-pregnancy mental health is often overlooked. Only a doctor will be able to diagnose you with postpartum depression. Still, it's a good idea to look out for the signs of postpartum depression so that you can seek the support you need to overcome it and get back to feeling like your usual self. When it comes to caring for your body post-pregnancy, we've got you covered with our medical-grade, doctor recommended girdles and corsets. One of the best ways to look after your mental health is to make sure you get regular exercise, and our compression garments can help support you through your movements by keeping pain at bay and increasing mobility. You don't have to go through postpartum depression alone, and there are many helpful resources and support networks we recommend you join. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kaCdrvNGZw