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Self-care is the ultimate act of self-love. When you take time out of your busy schedule to take good care of yourself, you’re sending a message to your brain and to the people around you that you matter. This is an especially important habit to get into as you’re pregnant because you’ll soon have a little one to care for. Finding a spare moment for yourself to breathe and engage in pleasurable activities becomes even more crucial for physical and mental health. Here are 8 ways to pamper yourself when you’re pregnant: Make sure to rest as much as your body needs to. The more rested you are, the more you can do. Rest when you feel tired. Sleep is restorative. It’s a necessary part of healing. You’re going to experience many interruptions throughout the night once your infant is born. That’s why it’s so important to take naps whenever you can get them. The world won’t think less of you for taking time out for some necessary self-care. When you feel well-rested, you’re capable of doing so much more! Enjoy some along time with a nice cup of tea . Do things that bring you immense joy. Taking time out of your busy schedule to do the things that make you happy is a great habit to get into. It’s something that you’ll do regularly with your child once he or she is old enough to do things outside the home. Go for a walk, enjoy your favorite pregnancy-safe herbal tea, visit a used bookstore or go shopping for antiques. Whatever it is that brings you joy, make sure to do it and do it often. Prenatal massages has a lot of benefits for you as you go along in your pregnancy. Get a massage. A professional that specializes in pregnancy massages is ideal as you don’t want the masseuse to hurt you or your baby. Prenatal massage has its benefits. It is known to reduce headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, backaches, swelling, and edema. If you need an excuse to relax, you’ll find it on the massage table. Disconnect from technology and spend time in nature. Go on a media blackout. Turn off your phone. Step away from your computer. Spend some one-on-one time with nature. Take your shoes off if you can and feel the grass beneath your feet. Known as “grounding,” it has a positive effect on your body and mind. Give your feet an all-star treatment. Soak your tired feet. Get a pedicure by someone who can reach your toes! You’ll feel like a million bucks after giving your feet some TLC. Wear comfortable clothes during your pregnancy as your belly grows. Wear clothing that makes you feel beautiful. Express yourself through color, pattern, and texture. Choose pregnancy clothing that shows off your bump and makes you feel good about yourself. Accessorize like a professional. Just like your wardrobe, your accessories say a lot about you. Have fun matching jewelry, scarves, hats, shoes, and purses with your clothing. You’ll make a bold statement whenever you step out the door and into the public. Journal your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with your pregnancy. You’ll be left with a valuable keepsake that you can one day share with your child if you choose to do so. Include photos, artwork, poems, articles, and your own thoughts on being pregnant. There are many ways to pamper yourself when you’re pregnant. It’s important to come up with a self-care routine that you can manage even after you’ve had your baby. By making yourself a priority, you’re better equipped to help others, including your infant, because you’ll be at the height of good health and happiness.

Many pregnant women have issues sleeping. They can’t get comfortable, their mind wanders or their bodies hurt. If you’re experiencing sleeping problems during pregnancy, there are some things you can do to promote better sleeping habits. You’ll want to get as much quality rest as you can because having a newborn interferes further with your sleep schedule. The Need for Rest is Even More Important During Pregnancy Rest is restorative. It’s a necessary part of healing. You’ll want to make sure that you’re able to get as much sleep as possible while you’re pregnant so that you don’t become ill. Your Guide to Overcoming Sleep Problems Consider this your guide to sleep problems during pregnancy. Being able to identify the source of interruption helps you come up with the best solution to meet your needs. The following issues are ones that commonly occur when you’re carrying a child. You’ll want to make sure that you’re able to get as much sleep as possible while you’re pregnant so that you don’t become ill. Discomfort As your stomach grows and your feet swell, it can be very difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. If you’re used to sleeping on your stomach, it’s no longer an option. You may need to invest in a pregnancy pillow so that you’re able to sleep on your left side while propping up your knees with part of the u-shaped body pillow. To combat the urge to pee all night long, cut back how much you drink before bedtime. Frequent Urination Your baby may be constantly pushing on your bladder. To combat the urge to pee all night long, cut back how much you drink before bedtime. Doing so helps you eliminate the up down routine you have all night with a full bladder. Take time to wind down before bed. Insomnia Take time to wind down before bed. Soak in a warm bath, put some scented lotion on, turn down the blinds, and listen to soft music. Before you know it, you’ll be falling to sleep with ease. Avoid eating anything for at least two hours before bedtime. Heartburn Avoid eating anything for at least two hours before bedtime. Keep your meals somewhat bland. Don’t eat anything too spicy or acidic as it can cause stomach upset and heartburn once you’ve laid down. One solution to leg cramps is to up your intake of calcium and magnesium. Leg Cramps This issue usually occurs during the second half of your pregnancy as weight gain compresses blood vessels. One solution is to up your intake of calcium and magnesium. You’ll find plenty of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals that won’t upset your stomach and help ease the pain in your legs. When to Seek the Help of a Medical Professional Now that you know how to deal with sleep problems during pregnancy, you’ll have an easier time falling and staying asleep. You’ll have fewer instances of insomnia because you’ll have solutions that work effectively for you. If sleep deprivation occurs for long periods of time, it could significantly affect your pregnancy in a negative way. Let your doctor know of any changes in your sleep pattern. That’s why it’s important to let your doctor know of any changes in your sleep pattern and also what you’re doing to help yourself reach a place of restful slumber. They’ll put the information in your chart and use it to diagnose additional problems with sleep that you might have in the future. Bellefit Products

There are many things women who are pregnant need to be wary of. The Zika Virus, caused by a mosquito bite and spread to fetuses, is one very important infection to acknowledge and avoid. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are factors that increase your chances of being infected by the virus including your geographic location, the places you’ve traveled to, and the travel history of your sex partner. Ask your doctor how to prevent getting the Zika Virus while pregnant. You May Not Show a Single Symptom of Zika Virus Symptoms may or may not be present in an infected person. The likelihood of passing it to your child while pregnant, however, is great. Serious birth defects can occur while the fetus is developing which significantly changes both you and your baby’s life dramatically. Zika Virus is spread by mosquitos bites. What to Expect from the Highly Contagious Infection Here are some of the things you should know about the Zika Virus and pregnancy: The infection causes microcephaly and other brain defects in fetuses. It is most often spread by mosquitoes. It can be passed from partner to partner if they choose to have sex without a condom and a person is infected. There is no way to get rid of the virus or treat it. The more you know about the virus, the better prepared you are to avoid getting it. There are some tips that the CDC offers pregnant women and women who are trying to get pregnant when it comes to the infection. The next section addresses these things. Avoid traveling to certain areas of the globe with high risk of Zika Virus. Protecting Yourself from the Zika Virus There are many ways to protect yourself from the Zika Virus. The CDC offers the following recommendations: Refrain from traveling to areas of the globe with high risk for the Zika Virus.Refer to the CDC’s website for more information about countries with high-threat for the infection. Practice safe sex with condoms. Birth control alone will not help prevent the virus. Condoms are not 100% effective in preventing pregnancy, either, so keep that in mind. Prevent mosquito bites. Take the steps necessary to address mosquito populations inside and outside the home. Inform your doctor about your travel plans. See how he or she feels about you traveling while pregnant. Taking preventive measures to avoid getting the Zika Virus is recommended especially while pregnant. These precautionary measures can help you avoid getting the Zika Virus or passing it onto someone else. If you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant soon, you won’t be putting your unborn child at risk. The more you know, the better prepared you are to avoid the Zika virus. Safeguarding Your Pregnancy There are many things that threaten the health and well-being of your unborn child. The Zika Virus doesn’t have to be one of them. Doing your part to avoid getting the infection is the key to preventing brain defects in your baby. Avoiding places where there is a high risk of the virus is highly recommended. Going the extra mile to avoid mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, using pregnancy-friendly insect repellants, and getting rid of mosquito populations outdoors by removing sources of water and keeping screened-in windows and doors in good condition helps tremendously.

Being anxious often comes with being pregnant. After all, you want to deliver a healthy baby despite environmental concerns. Knowing the difference between normal pregnancy fears and abnormal pregnancy fears helps you determine when to seek professional help. Being a Model of Perfect Health Being healthy doesn’t just refer to your physical state. It also refers to your mental health and emotional well-being. When you feel your best and have positive ways to deal with anxiety, you’re able to put your mind and body at ease which benefits both you and your unborn child. You may feel anxious, but you know exactly what you need to do to calm yourself down and manage your stress. Normal Pregnancy Fears The average person has anxieties. As a parent, you may be worried about how well you’ll handle your role or if you’ll get back into shape after giving birth. You may have financial fears that manifest with the approaching birth of your child or concerns that your other child won’t be accepting of his new brother or sister. It’s very common to think about these things because you’re facing a significant life change. Not knowing the details of any new scenario can be daunting. You want to do this parenting thing right and that’s something you should be concerned with because of how it affects your present and future. Stress Management Techniques to Use Throughout Your Pregnancy If your fears are unsettling you, it’s time to employ some stress management techniques to settle your nerves. Joining a support group online allows you to share your anxieties with other parents going through similar issues. You’re able to discuss the things that are on your mind without fear of judgment which often helps you gain perspective. Other things that can help you ease your pregnancy fears are reading everything you can on the subject of parenting and taking notes of what concerns you most, asking your physician for suggested exercises you can do while pregnant because physical activity produces endorphins which are the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals, and deep breathing. Learning to recognize physical and emotional triggers gives you time to calm down using the mindfulness techniques you just learned. Abnormal Pregnancy Fears If fear has you paralyzed, you’ll want to seek the counsel of a mental health professional. They’re trained to deal with far more than a mild case of anxiety. If left untreated, it can seriously impede on your daily routine and cause you and your child issues. Women at greatest risk for abnormal pregnancy fears are ones that have suffered from anxiety problems in the past, who had worries during their previous pregnancies, had a miscarriage or took a long time to get pregnant, and who are in stressful home or work environments. Long-term stress takes its toll on your body and can seriously affect the health of your unborn child. Babies whose mothers were extra anxious during pregnancy often weigh less at the time of their birth and have emotional issues as they grow and develop.

Your very first prenatal visit can be a whirlwind experience. But, if you know what questions to ask first, it’ll be a lot easier. These five question suggestions can help guide you to a successful and well-informed relationship with your OBGYN. 1. Can I continue taking my current medications? If not, what alternatives are available? In most cases, you’ll likely be able to continue taking your current medications. However, there are some medications that can harm the fetus in utero. Be up front about everything you’re taking. This includes over the counter meds or supplements. Ask whether you can continue your current treatment regimen and find out what alternatives are available. If you are on medication for depression or anxiety, you’ll want to pay attention to the way the doctor responds to this question. Doctors who aren’t sympathetic to these valid mental health issues at the prenatal stage might not be proactive about postpartum depression either. If you already know you’re prone to this issue, that should be a red flag. Expectant mothers who need to stop taking medication for depression or anxiety should be referred to a therapist rather than simply left without any care at all during pregnancy. 2. Can you recommend any local prenatal classes? Find out from an expert rather than just going to Google. You can follow up on your doctor’s suggestions independently to see which one works best for you. 3. What emergency symptoms should I be aware of and when should I call you or seek emergency care? Your body is going to change a lot over the next several months. You’ll feel physical sensations you’ve probably never experience before. This can even be true if this isn’t your first pregnancy! That’s why it’s so important to know what’s a sign of something serious and what’s merely uncomfortable or weird. Fever, spotting and severe cramps can be warning signs. But don’t just ask about specific symptoms—let your doctor run down a list of what you need to be aware of. Follow that up by making sure you know exactly when the sensations you’re feeling are emergency level and when they’re not so serious that you can’t wait a few hours for an appointment. 4. How often do you recommend a Cesarean? Episiotomy? Labor induction? Find out where your OBGYN stands on issues such as episiotomy and other topics to get a sense for whether you’ll work well together. This question isn’t limited to the topics listed above. If there are any issues that are really important to you in childbirth, whether it’s going the natural route (or not), avoiding the use of forceps, using pain medication after delivery or delivering at home, you should ask about it and see whether the response you get is in line with your priorities. Remember, this is as much an interview as it is a doctor’s appointment. 5. Should I change my daily routine? Ask about specific cosmetic habits like painting your nails or getting spray tans. Include health-related routines like exercise and sex, diet, sleep and anything else that may need to change now that you’ve got a bun in the oven. If you do physical labor at work or anything else that might impact how your pregnancy progresses, be sure to ask about it.

Table Of Contents Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy (Lumbar Pain) Sacral Back Pain During Pregnancy Diagnosis of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy Treatment of Lumbar Pain and Sacral During Pregnancy Lower Back Pain Relief After Pregnancy Back pain, especially in the lumbar or sacral regions, is a common condition experienced during pregnancy. In fact, nearly 1 out of every 2 pregnant women can expect to experience acute or chronic pain the in lumbar or sacral regions of the spine. The pain in these areas is typically temporary and a direct result of pregnancy-induced weight gain and hormonal changes, and often contributes to pain, sleep-disturbances, and other discomforts experienced during the course of the pregnancy. Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy (Lumbar Pain) Lumbar pain during pregnancy is generally located at and above the waist in the center of the back. For all intensive purposes, low back pain experienced during pregnancy is very similar to lumbar pain experienced by women who are not expecting, and includes: Increased pain accompanying prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing; Aching and stiffness resulting from sleeping on stomach and/or back Discomfort and pain associated with movements, including walking, twisting, bending and lifting. It is important to note that the lumbar pain defined above is not sciatica, another condition that can occur during pregnancy. While the two conditions can occur concurrently, symptoms of sciatica also include low back pain and pain that radiates into the buttocks, legs, and feet. Sacral Back Pain During Pregnancy Sacral back pain occurring during pregnancy is known as pregnancy pelvic pain, or PPP. PPP is the result of pain or discomfort occurring near the sacroiliac (SI) joints of the pelvis (the joints located at the 2 “dimples” of the lower back), and as a result of SI joint dysfunction. Women are four times more likely to experience posterior pelvic pain than lumbar pain during their pregnancy. PPP typically begins in the 18th week of pregnancy, becomes progressively more intense as the pregnancy progresses, and goes away 10 to 12 weeks after delivery. In rare cases, PPP can be chronic and cause debilitating pain. Diagnosis of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain Most cases of lumbar back pain and pregnancy pelvic pain will be diagnosed by your doctor after conducting a complete physical exam and health history. During this assessment, your doctor will look for a complete and detailed description of symptoms causing pain and discomfort. Your doctor may also elect to conduct a series of physical tests designed to recreate and pinpoint the exact cause and location of the back pain. While assessing for PPP, doctors will often inject a numbing agent into the SI joint to further identify the exact source of pain. To further assist with diagnosing the condition, your doctor might also order a series of imaging test, such a CT scan, MRI, or X-ray to further assist with identification of a cause (It is important to note that any imaging exam or medical procedure using radiation is generally avoided during pregnancy, unless its use is absolutely necessary and unavoidable). Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy Back pain experienced during pregnancy can be caused by several different conditions and factors that are associated with natural changes that occur during pregnancy, including: Weight gain and a changing center of gravity. Women can gain as much as 25% of their body weight during pregnancy, this increased weight adds tremendous stress to the lower back and other weight bearing joints. In addition, and since weight is typically added in the front, women tend to compensate for this shifting center of gravity by leaning backwards, which increases the stress placed on the lower back. Muscle fatigue. As a result of the added weight, shifting center of gravity, and increased stress on the structures of the back and other weight-bearing joints, the muscles in and around the associated areas tend to become weak and less flexible - increasing the likelihood of experiencing low back pain. In addition, and as a result of the growing uterus, the muscles in and around the pelvis also become stretched and weak. Increased production of the hormones estrogen and relaxin. The increased production and release of estrogen and relaxin occurs in preparation for birth. However, the increased production of these hormones can also contribute to back pain by contributing to laxity of the joints in the pelvis and surrounding areas. Treatment of Lumbar Pain and Sacral During Pregnancy Recommended treatment of lumbar back pain and PPP during pregnancy typically involves conservative (non-surgical) treatments, including exercises and stretching designed to improve posture and increase strength and flexibility of the supporting muscles and joints in and around the lower back and pelvis. Your doctor will often recommend a few visits to a physical therapist who specializes in treatment of pre and postpartum lower back pain for further recommendations for a non-invasive treatment program designed to treat or prevent lower back pain during pregnancy. This program is designed to maintain optimal function during pregnancy and will often include treatment instructions and exercises for improved posture while sleeping, walking, and conducting regular movements during each stage of your pregnancy. Lower Back Pain Relief After Pregnancy Back pain in the lumbar region and pregnancy pelvic pain typically subside right after your baby is born. Roughly six weeks to eight weeks after deliver, the ligaments of the pelvic return to a normal state of rigidity and are able to resume the role of supporting normal motion and daily weight bearing activities. Pain or discomfort in the lumbar or sacral regions lasting longer than this should be evaluated by your physician. This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best postpartum girdles Founded in 2008 Bellefit® is the most mom-trusted and awarded brand of postpartum girdles corsets for recovery after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit® girdles come in five designs made using proprietary compression fabrics. Their unique design features triple-layered reinforced front and back support panels. As a woman-owned company, Bellefit® is no stranger to the challenges new moms face during and after pregnancy. The company helps women feel supported and confident in their changing bodies. Bellefit Girdles

Managing pregnancy and work is easier than it used to be https://youtu.be/yM4O1oMZU1A Thank goodness! We’re not still stuck in the day when a woman was dispatched to her home or bed at the first sign of being “in a family way.” Pregnant coworkers are no longer an oddity, nor should they be — barring dangerous or highly physical working conditions. Today, most working moms-to-be plan to stay on the job as long as possible, even throughout the third trimester. Here are a few tips for working while pregnant. Embrace a Functional Wardrobe Looking professional while pregnant can be a challenge after the first few months. Just remember you’re not going to be this shape forever. Invest in only a few basic maternity dresses, or tops and pants. Choose pieces that fit your company dress code and culture — to get you through the last months. Dress outfits up or down with jackets or accessories from your regular working wardrobe, but stick with comfort above all else. If it binds, constricts or pinches, leave it. That extends to footwear, too. Telling Who, and When You may wish to hold off telling your coworkers at first, just as you hold off telling your family until you are certain of your situation and a healthy pregnancy. There is nothing wrong with that. However, the first person you should tell is your supervisor, or business partner. Let them know as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. They can help you with any questions you have about maternity leave or company policies. This includes reasonable accommodations for your condition if your job entails physical requirements you might not be able to meet in later months. Most importantly, you’ll want to discuss not only your maternity leave, but your plans to return. Being up front with your boss, and your co-workers, about your intentions will lower everybody’s anxiety level. And, they can be a positive part of your support system. Go Ergonomic Sitting or standing in the wrong position for an extended period is hard on anybody. It’s even worse if you’re pregnant. If you must be seated in front of a computer for most of your day, be sure that your chair, desk and keyboard setup is ergonomically correct to reduce back, neck, arm and eye strain. Take frequent breaks to stand, stretch and walk to help with ankle swelling. An adjustable sit-or-stand workstation may be the solution. Regardless, take measures to reduce pressure on your lower back. As your pregnancy progresses, there are natural changes in your balance, agility and coordination. Make accommodations as needed If You Have Morning Sickness The good news is that it passes after the first trimester for most women. However, it isn’t always in the morning only and, for some, it can show up randomly — usually at the worst possible time. If you’re going through it, here are some tips: Avoid eating large amounts. Instead, snack all day to keep your blood sugar levels even and avoid queasiness. Keep small packages of crackers, granola bars and hard candy on hand at all times, as well as small bottles of ginger ale. Sit near the door at meetings, just in case. If you need to excuse yourself, a quick and quiet exit and return is the way to go. Approach Everything With A Positive Spin Pregnancy doesn’t have to sabotage your usual high level of performance. If you’re going through periods of fatigue, discomfort or the hormonal crazies, acknowledge it and move on with a smile. Working full time while pregnant requires stepping up both your time- and self-management skills. Talk to your supervisor about flexible hours to ensure you can get your work done. Make every effort to schedule doctor appointments for lunch hours , or first thing in the morning if a workday appointment is unavoidable. Be sure to get plenty of sleep. Tap your support system at home, and don’t be shy about asking friends and family to step up if you need extra help to make it to the finish line. Finally, never forget that your first concerns should always be the health and safety of your baby and yourself. Discuss all aspects of your work with your doctor early on. Understand exactly what is OK and what to avoid during your pregnancy. Address risk factors immediately, and when in doubt, sit it out. Your well-managed career will be there when you get back. Bellefit Featured Products

For many women, excelling in the professional realm means gracefully balancing motherhood with proper planning at work. Get started with your plans as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed. This will help you set the stage for a smooth future through each stage of the experience. Read more to learn some helpful tips on how to manage a full-time job during pregnancy. Breaking The News Even if you’ve already decided to tell your friends and family, it’s often best to wait until your second trimester to announce the news at work. Gather as much information as you can from your doctor about when you might need to start maternity leave. If you’ve been pregnant before and were put on bed rest or otherwise had to start your leave earlier than expected, be prepared to discuss this with management. Start by telling your direct supervisor and management in a closed-door meeting. If you’d like, you can ask them to keep the news confidential. Otherwise, give them permission to share with the whole team. Confirm details of the company’s maternity leave policy ASAP. Ideally you should do this before the meeting. Share your expected timeline and, if your employer isn’t being flexible or is showing signs of frustration with the news, make it clear that you know your rights as a working mother in your state. In most states, this does not include mandated paid time off. But it does often mean that you can’t be fired. Know that some employers are quite selfish with this kind of news and will even try to break the law. That does not mean you’re wrong. They are. Update your employers or managers every month or so with how your pregnancy is progressing . This includes if your expected due date changes or it’s seeming likely that you’ll be on bed rest, when you may need to take time off. Taking Care of Yourself and Your Little One Stay connected to your body and be mindful of what your hormones are up to. If you’re experiencing nausea at a certain time of day, bring ginger ale or anti-nausea medication to work. This way, you can fight those yucky feelings. Wear comfortable shoes and ask your employer to temporarily relax the dress code if your comfy shoes don’t match. Schedule appointments around your work schedule as much as possible. This is even if everyone at work is being super supportive. If your direct management isn’t being understanding of your completely reasonable need to take time off for doctor’s check-ups, consider talking with their higher-ups. After you welcome your new baby to the world, be prepared to wear compression garments and ask for permission to extend your maternity leave if you won’t be able to perform your regular job duties due to doctor’s orders. If you’ve already planned and prepped your work crew before your left for leave, a few extra days off shouldn’t be a big deal.

Gestating a fetus is no small feat. From the physical changes and hormonal swings, , to the sense of excitement and even anxiety you may feel during pregnancy. Your entire body is really going through it while you’re waiting for your little one to arrive. However, is your brain really functioning at a lower capacity? Let’s explore the legend of pregnancy brain. Momnesia: Real or Fake? The foggy head some mothers feel during pregnancy was once attributed to an overall decrease in brain function. A 2002 study that seemed to prove the existence of “pregnancy brain” as a reduction in overall functionality has been refuted by subsequent studies, including a 2009 study performed by a female researcher in Australia. This researcher, Helen Christensen, was the director of Australian National University’s Centre for Mental Health Research at the time of the study. She concluded in 2009 that women’s brains actually tend to increase in capability during pregnancy. As with all scientific research, there’s a bit of nuance, and the way the study itself is conducted can affect the outcome. However, given how much mothers are able to accomplish during their pregnancies, it stands to reason that our brains are kicked into overdrive during this time. What’s Really Going On? While brain function may be higher during pregnancy, that doesn’t necessarily translate into a feeling of being alert and energetic. This is normal. During the first trimester, hormonal changes are often to blame for a feeling of fogginess, forgetfulness and fatigue. Anxiety may also play a role in this feeling for some women. The second trimester is often associated with a return of energy. However, not all women experience this. Women who’ve maintained a fairly consistent body weight for most of their adult lives could be feeling the strain of suddenly carrying around some extra weight. Even a few pounds can make a difference when it’s with you all day. In the third trimester, fatigue is often associated with difficulty sleeping and, again, increased weight requiring more physical effort throughout the day. This can be especially tough during hot weather. Throughout the entire pregnancy, many women are trying to maintain their normal lives. This is in addition to taking on massive additional tasks of caring for themselves and preparing their homes and lives for a baby. It doesn’t take a team of researchers to determine that anyone experiencing this kind of extra workload might not be as sharp and on top of things as they ordinarily are. What You Can Do Be compassionate with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with other moms. Every pregnancy is unique, and whether or not yours is “perfect” and “blissful” is mostly a matter of uncontrollable factors. This includes genetics, not a moral or intellectual triumph. Don’t put unfair pressure on yourself, this can make it harder to deal with your feelings. Make written lists to help combat forgetfulness. If you’re feeling tired, give yourself permission to relax. Ask your partner, friends and family members for help picking up the slack. Don’t set unrealistic expectations for yourself. You might not be able to do exactly what you used to do before you got pregnant, and that’s OK. Do you have experience with forgetfulness and fatigue associated with “pregnancy brain?” Tell us about it and how you coped with it.

You have had a confirmed positive pregnancy test from your doctor and it’s time for your first sonogram. You were lucky enough to conceive without fertility treatment, and you’re excited to meet your first child through imaging. It’s obvious this pregnancy is progressing very quickly, but with no basis of comparison, you tell yourself everyone’s body is different. But this — this was something you never expected. There on the screen, you meet not one, not two, but THREE of the tiny beings growing rapidly in your belly. Kimberly Pregnant with Triplets You go through the emotions in a matter of seconds – shock, happiness, excitement and apprehension, all rolled into one half-hour visit with your obstetrician. Three babies!? Will you have the room, the money, the sanity to handle three infants? All crying, feeding, sleeping – NEEDING — at the same time? How will this change your delivery plan? How will this change your body!?? Extremely rare, only a handful of the 4 million babies born in the United States each year are Spontaneous Triplets, or triplets conceived without the use of fertility drugs. When Kimberly K. learned she was pregnant with Spontaneous Triplets in December 2015, she thought her body would be ruined. Weakening & Separation of the Abdominal Muscles? Diastasis Recti after childbirth Kimberly was skeptical of spending money on an abdominal binder for after pregnancy without knowing for certain that the benefits would be worth the cost. It must be false advertising, she thought.Diastasis recti is common not only after a solo pregnancy, but with three scrambling for room, the condition is significantly more difficult to manage after delivery. The separation of the abdominal muscle, which can be identified while pregnant or after birth, causes back pain and a weak abdominal wall. “But, honestly, I’m so glad I invested in this girdle,” Kimberly said. “I wear it every day, all day, from the time I wake up until nighttime. I know you can sleep in it, but it’s easier for me to wear it 12 hours a day.” Better Healing with an Abdominal Binder After Pregnancy Kimberly began wearing her abdominal binder after pregnancy as soon as she delivered and has been wearing it ever since.“Wearing it all day will increase the benefits and help heal better, as there is compression on the stomach all day, allowing everything to get back into place,” Kimberly said. Walking is the only exercise she has done and the photos of her progress speak for themselves. Closing the Diastasis Gap During 2nd Pregnancy “I was looking for a product that would help close the gap,” Faith said. “I came across Bellefit! I read the reviews, I loved it, I ordered it and it came right away.” https://youtu.be/9h8HWc2ILiY Faith found out she was pregnant with her second child 22 months after she delivered her first. She tried abdominal exercises for breathing and head tilts, but nothing seemed to close the gap caused by diastasis recti. She was worried her condition would only get worse. Faith began wearing her abdominal binder right out of the hospital and discovered its amazing benefits immediately. In fact, she was back in her pre-pregnancy clothes just two weeks after delivering her son. “It is the most comfortable garment that I’ve worn,” she said. “I can wear it all the time – I do – I wear it 24 hours a day, unless I’m washing it. It is a product that I firmly believe in. My family and friends can’t get over how amazing my stomach is, considering how bad it was after my first pregnancy.” Kimberly and Faith both quickly discovered the benefits of using an abdominal binder after pregnancy. The compression from the girdle tightened their cores, helping everything get back into place. Each also experienced tremendous back support, which helped with comfortably getting out of bed, holding their babies and even breastfeeding. Bellefit Abdominal Binders

The birth of your baby is a moment that you anticipate for nine long months. Consider creating a birth plan as a guideline of what your wishes are for the big day. And try to keep in mind that birth plans are there to be an outline of what you are striving for, so make it flexible to ensure that you will have a beautiful and memorable experience. https://youtu.be/Zj1KDFmRmDw Here are important things to consider when making a flexible birth plan. What Happens During Labor? Vaginal Birth When you arrive at the hospital, a doctor or nurse will check you to see how far your labor has progressed. Once you are admitted, you will be taken to the room where you will likely remain for the rest of your hospital stay. This is where you will be able to unpack, get comfortable, dim the lights, play music and get comfortable. Depending on the progress of your labor and risk factor, the hospital may or may not administer an IV. If you have a low risk labor, then you will most likely be encouraged to move around to help your labor move along. Most hospitals will hook you up to fetal monitoring upon arrival, if your baby’s heart rate is normal and labor is progressing with ease, you can ask to have the fetal monitoring be administered intermittently. Pain management will come into play as labor intensifies. Be sure to learn about your options ahead of time. If you are planning for a unmedicated birth, have your props and support team ready to go as you will likely need to move around and find comfortable positions to manage the pain on your own. If you prefer to have an epidural, get the necessary education to know when to ask for it and how to handle labor while medicated Sometimes, labor has been known to stop progressing. Be ready to know what you would like to do in case it happens to you. Some of the options include, breaking the amniotic sac, administering labor inducing medications and even the simple option of walking around. When the time for pushing arrives, the medical team will advise you on when to bear down and push, however, many women prefer to follow their body’s natural flow and push when it feels right. Most hospitals are quick to administer episiotomies when the perineum begins to tear. Learn about this natural effect of birth and decide whether you want to have an episiotomy or allow your body to tear naturally and heal without stitching. During some births, Doctors opt to assist in the delivery with the use of forceps or a vacuum device. Learn about these options ahead of time to know if these are methods that you agree with for your own delivery. C-Section For a number of reasons including high-risk pregnancies and repeat c-sections, some women and their doctors opt to do planned c-sections. Also, in some cases when a natural labor is not progressing after a significant amount of time or if the fetus is at risk, an emergency c-section will be necessary. Once the decision has been made to proceed with a c-section you will be placed on a fetal monitor, an IV will be inserted to your arm and you will be prompted to sign some documents. Following the first steps, you will be transported to the operating room where your birth partner will have to wait outside while you are prepped for surgery. During prep, you will be sat down leaning forward and an anesthesiologist will administer a spinal block or epidural. Both types of anesthesia allow you to remain awake during the c-section so you can experience your baby’s birth. Learn about these options so you can ask for the one you agree with most. You will then be laid down on the operating table, your arms will be strapped down for safety reasons and a curtain will be placed in front of you to block your view from the operation. At this point your birth partner will be allowed to join you in the O.R. Once the c-section is underway, your heart rate will be monitored and medications will be administered if necessary. Learn about these options ahead of time. Once the doctor is ready to bring the baby out of your uterus, your birth partner will be given permission to take photos/video and the curtain will be pulled down slightly to show you your baby. At this point your baby will be set aside to be cleaned up and wrapped up. Once the baby is wrapped and warm, she will be placed on your chest so you can meet for the first time and take a photo. Once you’ve met your baby, you will be separated while your incision gets stitched up and you are taken to the recovery room. Be sure to plan with your birthing partner so that they may go with your baby to the nursery. You can opt to have another birth partner stay by your side during the end of the surgery. Once you are transported to the recovery room, you will be asked to tell the nurse when you begin regaining feeling in your lower body. When this happens, pain medication will begin to be given to you. When your condition is stable, you are ready to see your baby again. Once your baby is out of your womb, let your doctor know if your partner wants to cut the cord and if you will be banking your baby’s cord blood. Upon birth, you can ask for all the necessary testing and measuring of the baby to be done in the same room so that you are not separated from your baby. Bathing and measuring can be done at a later tie so that you may have time to bond with your little one. At this point, most hospitals administer recommended vaccinations to the baby, if this is not something you want, you will want to include this in the birthing plan and will likely be asked to sign a waiver. Some hospitals take the initiative to feed formula to newborn babies, you are not required to do so and should make it known to them if this is not something you want. Lactation consultants are available to help you get started on breastfeeding if you wish to get some help. Recovery Abdominal Binders come in All Shapes and Sizes - Bellefit has 4 Styles designed for specific body types, vaginal deliveries and c-sections. When the birthing process is complete, you will begin your postpartum recovery. It is imperative to know how you will handle your recovery and which tools you will use to reduce pain and increase comfort. postpartum recovery garments such as Compression Girdles are excellent tools that aid in a speedy recovery while allowing mom to move about, hold her baby and still breastfeed comfortably, all without experiencing pain. Be sure to make plenty of copies of your birth plan and give them to your doctor, nurse, birth partner and even post one on the door of your room. Be flexible in knowing that plans change according to a variety of situations that arise for women during labor and delivery. Bellefit Girdles

Traveling while pregnant doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you want to fly, drive or anything in between, getting there and back can be a pleasant experience when you follow these simple tips. Following These Tips for Traveling While Pregnant You are Sure to Enjoy Your Trip! Talk to Your Doctor Before you travel make an appointment with your Doctor and let them know you are planning to travel. Your Doctor knows your medical history well and will be able to recommend whether traveling is a good idea at the current stage of your pregnancy. He will also be able to provide you with any vital information or medical records you may need for travel. Before traveling make sure your insurance policy is in place and covers any incidents while traveling. Prior to embarking on your trip check your medical insurance policy to understand what type of coverage you have while traveling. This will give you peace of mind since knowing that you are covered no matter where you go. Traveling by Air Most airlines allow pregnant woman to travel up to the 8th month of pregnancy. Make sure to check before you book anything. Air travel can be daunting if you feel unprepared. Be sure to check your airline’s policy for traveling while pregnant. Airlines generally allow traveling while pregnant up to the 8th month of pregnancy. To ensure a smooth experience through airport security, be sure to wear comfortable clothes, wear socks in case you have to take off your shoes, avoid wearing a belt and wear minimum jewelry. Here is a list of essentials you may want to consider carrying with you: Comfortable clothes and shoes Travel pillow Snacks A drink (purchase this once you are in the terminal) Load your phone or tablet with games and/or a movie Traveling by Car Traveling by car while pregnant allows you to be more in control , allowing you to stop when you are feeling tired. The convenience of traveling by car is big. As long as you are wearing comfortable clothes, have a travel pillow and stock up on snacks and drinks, you will pretty much be in charge of your time. Consider making stops to stretch, take little walks and use the restroom. With these few necessities at hand, you will be ready to take on any traffic jam that comes your way in comfort. Traveling by Sea If traveling by sea make sure that there are medical personal onboard to assist you in case of an emergency. Sea travel is not the most common choice for pregnant women, but in the case that you do choose to go on a cruise, here are some important things to consider: Ask if there is an on-board healthcare provider. Check port of calls for access to medical facilities. Pack your vitamins and sickness medicines (approved by your Doctor) Have an exit plan in place. In case you wind up disliking your sea trip, plan a trip to go back home via air travel from any port in your cruise route. Other Things to Consider Plan your trip for a time when morning sickness will be gone. Drink plenty of purified water. Don’t drink unpasteurized drinks. Wash all fruits and veggies; don’t eat raw fish or meat. Pack everything you need that you know will keep you comfortable. Pack the right clothes for the season. Take comfortable shoes. Don’t be discouraged to say you want to go back home if you don’t feel good.