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It’s not a surprise that pregnancy changes your body chemistry. An influx of hormones causes physical and emotional differences to occur. One of the most common symptoms that women experience after being pregnant for some time is a lack of energy. It may feel impossible to get up and get moving each day. For that reason alone, we felt compelled to delve deeper into the subject of lethargy and the things you can do to help keep your energy levels high while carrying a child. Although diet and exercise help, there are other suggestions that can be every bit as helpful to expecting mothers who can’t shake feelings of overwhelming tiredness. This list provides solutions that help you deal with a lack of energy during pregnancy. Make exercise a priority even when you don’t feel like it. Among the easiest ways to deal with lethargy while pregnant is to make good use of the time you spend watching TV. While you’re catching up on the latest episode of Survivor or The Bachelor, you can pedal your way to euphoria. A stationary bicycle helps you release endorphins, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. Pedal long enough and you’ll experience what is known as a “runner’s high” which is when endorphin levels are at their peak because of the intensity of the physical activity you’re engaged in. Drink plenty of water. Most people are chronically dehydrated without knowing it. Feelings of lethargy are among the most prominent symptoms that come with dehydration. Making sure that you sip enough of the clear stuff can help you fight headaches, restlessness, and lack of energy. When your body is hydrated, you feel awake, alert, and ready to take on the day’s tasks with great ease. Up your intake of fruits and vegetables. If you’re not one to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, your body needs the added boost of vitamins and nutrients. It’s important to choose fresh produce and find ways to include it in the meals and snacks that you prepare for yourself to eat. Broccoli is full of beta-carotene and vitamin C. Antioxidant-rich blueberries give your brain a jumpstart which significantly helps you fight the sleepies that you feel throughout the day. Give your mind a break by meditating. In the equivalent of ten minutes a day, you’re able to gain peace of mind with meditation. Make it a point to quiet your racing thoughts which can lead to mental exhaustion and physical fatigue. Focus on your breath. Deep breathing is an energizing practice used worldwide. Take a deep breath in, hold it for a few seconds before releasing it. Notice your tension melting away with each breath you take. Follow the suggestions listed above for ways to deal with low energy. Do what you can to remedy the situation naturally. If you don’t have solutions that work, contact your primary physician for medical advice and additional testing. They may discover that there is an underlying condition causing your experience with low energy during your pregnancy.

Pains and pregnancy often go hand-in-hand. The changes you’re experiencing in your body are unpredictable, and oftentimes, annoying. Rather than get frustrated by how you feel, try to be proactive. Taking charge of your pain is the fastest way of not letting it control you. This guide aims to explain the five most common pregnancy pains you’ll experience as well as provide pain-relieving solutions for you to try to make your symptoms subsist. Pain in the Lower Back Pregnancy can cause frequent distress in the body. Most women feel discomfort in the upper or lower back. You’ll notice that in the last few months of carrying a child, the pain increases. Causes According to Parents magazine, the uterus has the capability of expanding 1,000 times its original size to make way for baby. Add that to the extra weight you’ve packed on and you’ve got a literal pain in the butt. Lower back pain can also be due in part to pregnancy hormones and the way they cause the ligaments in the body to become lax. Ways to Get Relief Heat helps. Soak in the tub or use a heating pad or water bottle in the areas of the back that hurt the most. Heat is a natural muscle relaxer. Swelling Water retention or edema is noticeable in the hands, ankles, and feet of pregnant women. The symptom appears around the third trimester of pregnancy for many moms-to-be. Afternoon and evening tend to be the worst for swelling. Causes Fluid build-up causes edema. Up to 75 percent of women experience some form of swelling while pregnant. If your symptoms worsen, it’s time to contact the doctor for further testing to rule out preeclampsia. Ways to Get Relief You can use compression socks, gloves, and even girdles to help reduce swelling. You’ll also want to be mindful of the amount of time you spend outdoors in the warmest months of the year. Elevate your legs often for instant relief. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Tingling or a burning sensation in your fingers, palm, wrist or arm can be due in part to carpal tunnel. Your hand may feel like it is falling asleep a lot. It’s best to give your hands and arms a break from repetitive motions which cause CTS to worsen. Causes Keep your weight gain minimal to prevent damage to the ligament in your forearm to your hand. Talk to your physician about ways to reduce swelling. A diuretic may be prescribed if the fluid retention you have is severe. Ways to Get Relief Get and wear a wrist brace. Do hand strengthening exercises. Take a break from the computer, tablet or phone regularly. Sciatica A literal pain in your butt that traveled from your lower back to your hips and leg, this condition causes great discomfort and numbness. Many women experience it in the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy. It can affect any of the areas it travels to. Causes Pressure on the sciatic nerve is the factor. You may be sitting and standing differently due to the weight you’ve gained. As your uterus grows, it can cause back, pelvic, hip, and leg pain. Ways to Get Relief Do prenatal yoga. You can also do exercises against a wall for added support. This helps with sciatica. Leg Cramps Muscle contractions typically only last a few minutes when they occur in your legs. They are very painful but can be relieved rather easily. Pregnant women often experience the severity of them at night while they are laying down to sleep. Causes Extra blood and water sit in the veins. The effect hormones have on the vascular system causes this issue. That’s why you’re experiencing cramps. Ways to Get Relief Walking and stretching help tremendously. Like other types of muscle cramping, heat helps, too. Invest in a good heating pad or hot water bottle at the start of your pregnancy to get you through the worst times. Take Action to Relieve Pregnancy Pain Right Away Now that you know which pains are predominantly related to pregnancy, you can do your part to relive them. You’ll feel a lot better because you’ve taken action and decided not to let your pregnancy-related pains get the best of you. Carrying some pain-relieving treatment options with you wherever you go is key as it helps you recover from your symptoms quickly.

Pregnancy insomnia can take its toll on you fast. It’s imperative that you get a good night’s rest as often as possible because sleep deprivation affects your physical and mental health. Now that you know what you can do to avoid pregnancy insomnia, you’ll be more mindful about your actions when it does come time to sleep. If you’ve ever experienced insomnia without being pregnant, you know how disruptive it can be on your life. When you haven’t had enough sleep, you have difficulty concentrating. You’re too tired to think clearly and may do things out of character or even harmful to yourself accidentally. Aches and Pains That Come with a Change in Hormones and Weight Gain Pregnancy insomnia is even worse because you have new aches and pains that you haven’t yet found the perfect treatment for. You not only have yourself to worry about but also your unborn child. Learning how to manage periods of restlessness is essential to your good health and overall well-being. That is why we decided to discuss the subject today so that you’re well aware of what you can do to rest easier at night even when your belly is gigantic and your ankles are swollen. Use this list as inspiration on ways to avoid and overcome pregnancy insomnia. Gain relief and better quality sleep by taking note of the following. You may have no problem falling asleep. Staying asleep once you’ve had your sleep disrupted is another story. If you lay awake at night staring at the ceiling after a short period of rest, you’re likely experiencing insomnia. It can be due in part to the weight you’ve gained and the level of discomfort your body feels. Do what you can to make yourself comfortable. Wear lightweight pajamas that feel soft against your skin. Read something inspirational until you can no longer see clearly. Try counting sheep. Focus on your breathing. Each suggestion helps you fall asleep when you feel like you can’t. A sleep routine is imperative because it connects the body to the mind. When you give your body signals that it is time to wind down, relax, and go to sleep, you’re able to fall asleep quicker. Start an evening routine that emphasizes calm. Meditate right before bedtime to allow your mind and body to achieve blissful slumber. Make sure your bedroom is clean, comfortable, and the right temperature for the season. Darken the space by closing blinds, drawing curtains, and even wearing an eye mask if needed. Put your phone on airplane mode and refrain from checking it throughout the night unless there is an emergency that needs to be dealt with. Give yourself ten minutes to worry and then let it go. If you tend to overthink things, put a time limit on worrying. Give yourself 10 minutes to fret before letting it go. A good night’s sleep is often what is needed to put things into perspective. If you can’t come to terms with moving past it, write a few lines in your journal and promise that it will be the first thing you deal with in the morning. Knowing that you’ll be level-headed and clear-minded with rest makes it so you can relax and get some much-needed sleep before solving your problems. Get a Good Night’s Rest by Putting Pregnancy Insomnia to Bed Pregnancy insomnia can take its toll on you fast. It’s imperative that you get a good night’s rest as often as possible because sleep deprivation affects your physical and mental health. Now that you know what you can do to avoid pregnancy insomnia, you’ll be more mindful about your actions when it does come time to sleep.

Pregnancy and childbirth are miracles a woman’s body can adequately perform. Women have the capability to carry a child in their womb and experience bodily changes that are at times nearly impossible to believe can happen. One such change is subluxation of symphysis in pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium. You may ask what is that? An explanation may be necessary to break down these big words, so you may understand even a small portion of what your body is doing to accommodate the growing child inside you. Definition Subluxation of symphysis is also known as symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). This is a condition that causes excessive movement of the pubic symphysis. The symphysis is a midline, nonsynovial joint that connects the right and left superior pubic ram. Because of the misalignment of the pelvis, pain is associated with this diagnosis. Basically, this joint holds the right and left sides of the pelvic muscles together. When this joint becomes soft, pelvic muscles and bones move more freely. With the weight of a growing baby, this can become a painful condition. Diagnosis The major symptom of subluxation of symphysis is pain in the pelvic region. Some sufferers even notice a clicking or popping sound in the pelvic region when they move. If you are suffering from either symptom, you should contact your doctor. Causes Subluxation of symphysis is primarily caused by pregnancy. The bodily changes, weight, and position of baby all play a part in this diagnosis. The symphysis is a strong joint due to the dense network of ligaments surrounding it. During pregnancy and childbirth, the joint and pelvic muscles expand due to the release of the hormone relaxin. This hormone makes it possible for you to deliver your bundle of joy. If this hormone begins to release too early, your body will begin to react by loosening the ligaments surrounding this joint. Once the ligaments have become loose, the joint can move more freely which can be painful during pregnancy and peurperium. Treatment While this condition can cause pain during and after pregnancy, there are ways to manage the pain and enjoy your pregnancy and those beautiful first moments at home. During pregnancy you may want to see a physiotherapist. They can provide exercises as well as manual therapy techniques to ensure you a strong pelvic floor and muscles surround the joints of the pelvic area. Other treatments can include: Hydrotherapy – performing exercises in water can be beneficial to managing pain and increasing flexibility in the pelvic region. Abdominal support garments – wearing a support garment allows you to support your pelvic region and prevent excessive stretching of ligaments. After childbirth and the puerperium period, continuing to wear abdominal support or compression garments are a fantastic way to help alleviate any pelvic pain and allow your body to heal effectively. Prognosis The good news is that subluxation of symphysis usually subsides once you have given birth and does not affect the baby. While your prognosis is good, understand that your body has undergone great changes and will need time to heal. With exercise and the use of an abdominal support garment, you should not only heal quicker but enjoy motherhood pain free. 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

Spend five minutes online and you’ll likely see at least one maternity photo of a family member, friend or acquaintance. Websites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest are full of maternity photo ideas. If you’re newly pregnant or have just given birth, you’ll want to experience the beauty, creativity, and experience of having pictures of you and your baby together. The following list includes the five maternity photos everyone should take. Hands in a Heart Shape Over the Belly A symbol of love that translates into every language, the heart is perfect for every pregnancy shoot. When placed over a pregnant belly, it demonstrates the tremendous bond between mother and child even before they’re born. Your maternity photo shoot needs to include at least a few shots making a heart symbol with your hands. Big Brother and Big Sister Shots Having the older sibling take part in the photo session is key as they were the first baby you got to love and their expressions will be priceless. Deck them out in Big Brother or Big Sister gear and let the good times roll. Kids are geniuses when it comes to making faces, being tender, and seeing the beauty in the ordinary. That’s what makes them the perfect subject for mommy/baby photo shoots. Beautiful Baby Props Sweet baby shoes, heirloom furniture, and fuzzy baby blankets make excellent props. Use them to tell the story of your pregnancy and your plans for the little one once he or she arrives. There are plenty of ways to do this, so it’s up to you to select a theme. Using a piece of clothing that you wore when you were little and placing it next to a new article of clothing is a sweet reminder of what a big milestone you’ve achieved by becoming a mommy. Count Down to Baby Who can resist a physical countdown to baby? Holding up a sign with the number of days left until you reach your due date is downright adorable. It shows your excitement and just how close you are to giving birth. It’s the perfect reminder of the date of the photo shoot, too. You can add the photo and details about the day in your child’s baby book. Pet Siblings If it’s your first child but you’ve had pets before them, make the animals part of the shoot. Fur siblings are great subjects. They’re loyal friends and beloved family members, too. Your child will grow up having a deep bond with animals because of your upbringing. They’ll love the fact that their beloved pet was part of the photo shoot you took while pregnant. Maternity photos are special. They allow your creative side to shine through. If you want to show your child how much they mean to you once they’re old enough to understand things, schedule a shoot and have the five maternity photos listed above taken by a professional photographer. It’s well worth the expense and provides a permanent keepsake from the time you spent pregnant to giving birth to your baby girl or boy.

You’ve probably come up with a list of things you know you’ll need while pregnant. You may have, however, overlooked many items that bring comfort. With so many preparations to make before having your baby, is it any wonder that you’ve forgotten some of the not-so-obvious essentials? This guide contains eight items that may not have made it onto your to buy or to do list that are essentials for pregnancy. Comfy and stylish pants that fit perfectly. You can be fashionably pregnant. There is no rule stating that maternity clothes need to be frumpy or uncomfortable. In fact, finding a cute pair of pants that match everything you own is ideal because they’ll not only look great but feel great on. Think dark denim or black so that you’re able to get the most bang out of the bucks you spend on them. Foods that satisfy the weird pregnancy cravings you’re having. Keeping your favorite meals and snacks on hand to satisfy your growing hunger for something sweet, salty, and strange is comforting. You may not think it’s necessary until a craving strikes at 2 AM, and you’re forced to hunt for something similar in taste and texture. Stock up on the goodies you love most and rest easy knowing that you probably won’t want these items again after you’ve delivered. An uplifting movie, scent or book. When you need a boost, you can turn to a favorite flick, pregnancy-safe fragrance or inspiring book to keep your spirits up. It’s the small things that deliver the biggest results. That’s why having a few of these items available as go-to resources for comfort is ideal. You’ll be amazed at how effective they are on turning a frown upside down. Undergarments that support your back and growing belly. Bellefit garments are ideal because they provide you with the prenatal support necessary to protect your back. You’ll be amazed at how soft, breathable, and comfortable they are. The extra weight you put on is supported with the garments that stretch as your belly grows. They’re available in different sizes to meet your individual needs. Affirmation cards for mothers. Having an affirmation or mantra to recite is very healing. There are affirmation decks that prepare pregnant women for delivery and motherhood. The images are colorful and light-hearted. Your heart will swell when you recite the words written on the cards out loud because you know your baby hears you. A beautiful journal. Record your thoughts, milestones, and dreams in a gorgeous journal. Don’t forget to include it on your baby registry list. It’s something that you can share with your child as he or she grows up. It serves as a written record of your baby’s life before he or she enters the world. A support group consisting of mommies-to-be. If you can’t find women in your community to meet up with, join an online group for pregnant women. You’ll get a lot of support and guidance there. It’s a great place to share your experience with others, ask questions, and even swap items that your baby no longer needs after he or she is born. Wide-width shoes. A little extra space to move your feet is a luxury especially after they’ve swelled like balloons. Look for wide-width shoes to see you through your pregnancy. They’ll be a welcome sight when you know you’re going to do a long day of walking. Your feet will thank you for taking good care of them. Being prepared for a baby takes time, research, and funds. You must make space in your life physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and even spiritually for your little one. Having the items that you need to comfortably navigate pregnancy is ideal. You may not even realize that some things are beneficial to have until after you’ve acquired them. The essentials are key to survival as they allow you to maintain your sanity and engage in self-care while carrying your child.

Flying will never be as easy with a baby or toddler in tow, so take advantage of the mode of transportation early on in your pregnancy. Your physician will recommend that you don’t fly once you’ve reached 36 weeks. The likelihood of you going into labor and being away from home is high. Hence, the restriction. There are some other things you should know about flying while pregnant. Even the airlines consider it a risk once you’ve reached the final stages of pregnancy. Rather than take a chance that could leave you without your primary care physician, stay close to home as your due date nears. If you insist on traveling for one reason or another, knowing what to expect can help avoid any conflicts that might occur along the way. Consider this your short, but helpful, guide to flying restrictions during pregnancy. Fly early in your pregnancy. You’ll get an “all clear” from your doctor as well as the airline when you opt to fly before you’ve reached the latter stages of your pregnancy. You won’t be feeling as fatigued early on as you will when you’re ready to give birth. The likelihood of you going into labor on the plane lessens, too, making flying somewhat less risky when you’re first pregnant. Make sure that the airline doesn’t enforce restrictions on pregnant women. Ultimately, the company has the right to say whether it feels comfortable tending to pregnant passengers. When in doubt, contact the airline. Make sure you’re able to request seating that is comfortable. An aisle seat is often best because you may need to use the restroom several times during the flight thanks to your baby pushing on your bladder. Stay hydrated and get adequate nutrition before flying. Carry an empty, refillable bottle with you. That way, you can fill it up with water before boarding. You may also want to eat a little something pre-flight to make sure that you don’t feel nauseous. Look for healthier options such as yogurt, fresh fruit, and cut up vegetables if possible. Wear comfortable clothing. You’ll appreciate the added support that Bellefit products give you. Our undergarments are meant to help alleviate discomfort by supporting your abdomen and back. They come in various sizes to fit your body comfortably, too. Be prepared just in case you do go into labor. Rather than fly blindly into another city, it’s important to know the name of a local practitioner and the hospital that you can go to in the event you go into labor while visiting your destination. You can even provide the information to your general practitioner at home so that the two can be in communication with one another if necessary. Having a copy of your medical history on hand is also important because it allows the medical staff at the hospital to help you quickly. Being prepared to fly while pregnant helps eliminate many of the mishaps that occur while traveling. You’ll be ready for anything that comes your way. More importantly, you won’t feel sick or uncomfortable because you took the extra time to be prepared. 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® https://www.bellefit.com/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

If your OBGYN has deemed your pregnancy “high-risk,” there are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to the diagnosis. After thoroughly examining you and knowing your medical history, lifestyle choices, daily habits, and prior pregnancies, the medical professional will determine whether your pregnancy poses a risk to you and your baby’s health. If it does, you’ll receive additional care and instructions on how to take good care of yourself until it’s time to deliver. What Causes a High-Risk Pregnancy ? So, what makes your pregnancy different than other people’s? Why are you considered high-risk? Is there something that you’re doing to make your pregnancy riskier than other people’s? Your pregnancy is considered high-risk if: You are overweight or underweight. Are under the age of 18 and over the age of 35. You have had problems with pregnancies in the past. Had issues getting pregnant in the past. You have an autoimmune disease such as lupus. Have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, diabetes, cancer or blood disorders. Have a STD including HIV. This list is just a sampling of why your pregnancy may be higher risk than others. Your doctor considers your unique medical history. He or she knows you as an individual, your wants, and needs which helps the medical professional come up with a plan of action that is in your best interest. You may even discover that after being pregnant for a while that your pregnancy becomes high-risk. This is the case for mothers who are carrying multiples, ones who have preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, and ones that even go into labor before the 37 week. Women who have infections such as Zika, listeria or toxoplasmosis are also at greater risk during their pregnancies. Receiving follow-up care from your physician is an absolute must because it helps you safely carry and delivery a healthy child until his or her delivery date. If you are considered “high-risk” by your OBGYN, they will want to follow-up with you more regularly. You may have extra appointments scheduled, so the doctor can monitor the baby’s growth and development. Making sure that you always do what your OBGYN has suggested helps prevent problems related to high-risk pregnancies. You’ll want to get the pregnancy tests and screenings needed to ensure a healthy delivery as well as eat nutritious foods, move your body by doing safe exercises, and take the pre-natal vitamin prescribed to you to prevent birth defects. Taking charge of your health and well-being by being knowledgeable, compliant, and communicative is key. Your doctor is available to assist you by answering questions and providing you with medically-sound advice along the way. Prepare for a High-Risk Pregnancy by Following Your OBGYN’s Advice Knowing what may occur during a high-risk pregnancy helps you better prepare for it. You’re not caught off-guard because you didn’t take the precautionary measures necessary to prevent complications. You’re able to follow up regularly with your physician who wants to monitor you and your baby closely throughout your pregnancy.

Table Of Contents Definition Diagnosis Causes Treatment Prognosis Women have the beautiful ability to experience pregnancy and childbirth. They can feel movement inside their bodies, see pictures through ultrasound, and experience the sheer joy of bringing a new life in the world. While pregnancy is beautiful, there are some not- so- great experiences a woman may have. A woman’s body is rapidly changing and growing. These changes may come with a pain you have not experienced before. One of the most recognizable pains during and after pregnancy is lower abdominal, inguinal, and groin pain. Understanding what this pain is and how to treat it will help you have a pregnancy with fewer worries. Definition Lower abdominal, inguinal, and groin pain is defined as a sharp or jabbing pain felt in the lower abdomen or groin. This pain becomes noticeable during the second trimester of pregnancy and is normally felt on the right side of the abdomen. Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be alarming. Make sure to contact your doctor if you experience any pain. Diagnosis It is always alarming to feel pain in your abdomen during pregnancy or shortly after delivery. In order to diagnose your pain, you need to know your symptoms and consult your doctor. In order to make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may order blood and urine samples as well as performing an ultrasound. These tests can rule out other causes such as kidney stones, appendicitis, urinary tract infections, or ovarian cysts. Causes Lower abdominal, inguinal, and groin pain is experienced due to the stretching of ligaments around the womb. As the womb becomes larger to accommodate the baby, the ligaments that hold the uterus in place must stretch. A certain ligament known as the round ligament is the culprit of your pain. This ligament attaches the front portion of the uterus to the groin. Normally, this ligament contracts and relaxes slowly when you sneeze, cough, or make rapid movements. During pregnancy, everything speeds up and more weight is applied to the ligament. Due to the enlarging of the uterus during pregnancy, the round ligament is stretched and contracts more quickly, therefore causing pain. Make sure to get enough rest to treat any abdominal pain you may feel during pregnancy. Treatment Treatment of lower abdominal, inguinal, and groin pain during pregnancy is easy. Some actions to add to your treatment plan include: Rest - Your pain should only last a few seconds and with rest, not be a frequent occurrence. Stretching - Having a regular exercise routine can be beneficial to keeping those ligaments pliable during pregnancy. Flexibility will also make delivery easier on your body. Avoid Sudden Movements- Slow everything down. Sudden movements can cause rapid contractions of the ligaments and sharp pains in your lower abdomen and groin. Remember there are two of you. It is understandable to take twice as long to do the same tasks. Abdominal binders or compression - Your doctor may prescribe the use of an abdominal binder or orthotic. Wearing an abdominal binder can help support your rapidly growing belly. Increasing support can keep the ligaments surrounding the uterus from over-stretching. Compression garments are a great way to treat post-delivery effects. Support and encouragement of blood flow allows the body to heal in a quick, efficient way. Prognosis Lower abdominal, inguinal, and groin pain during pregnancy is uncomfortable and can be alarming. The good news ladies is that you have a great prognosis. Once your bundle of joy has entered the world, your body will begin to heal itself and pain will subside. With proper rest and the use of an abdominal binder or compression, your body will heal more quickly, and you can return to your “normal” self. 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

Finding a place in your home for the abundance of baby shower gifts you received from family and friends can be a bit overwhelming! After all, no one wants your baby to do without. If this is your first child, people may go crazy getting you everything you requested on your baby registries. Don’t let this stress you out because a lot of new mothers are going through the exact same thing now. Here are some of the thoughts that pregnant moms have after the baby shower: Where am I going to put all of this? If nearly everything you asked for on your registries has been purchased, you may find that you have more gifts than you have room in your home for them. If this is the case, you can always return some of the items and buy them again when you need them. Most if not all gifts are returnable if they’ve been purchased off a registry. Some family members and friends tape a gift receipt to boxes for this precise reason. What on Earth do I need this for? You may have received items you didn’t know existed or even that a baby would require them in the first place. Again, this is when you determine how necessary these gifts are now. You could exchange them for something different such as for nursing pajamas or donate them to a mother in need. Wow! I’m going to be giving birth sooner than I imagined! Reality finally sinks in when you have a nursery full of things to welcome baby with. It’s a bittersweet moment because life will never be the same as you know it. You’re responsible for another human being, and it’s an incredibly exciting yet overwhelming feeling. Do I really need this diaper pail or bottle warmer? Although these gifts may not seem practical now, wait until you have a baby! You’ll see just how useful they are when it’s 3 AM and you don’t want to walk outdoors barefoot to toss a sack of dirty diapers into the garbage can. You also can save yourself time and prevent your baby from fussing by warming up his or her bottle. I can’t hammer a nail! How am I going to put a stroller together? Putting items together takes time, strength, and effort. You may need to recruit someone to assist you with this process now that the baby shower is over. After all, you’re going to need to save your strength for when you go into labor. If you’re not the handiest of all women, ask someone to come over and help you put together that stroller, crib or other baby necessity now while there is still time before your baby is born. There are many thoughts that pregnant moms have after the baby shower. Each is a legitimate response to the feelings of overwhelm you may be experiencing now. After all, having a baby is no easy task! It takes time, careful consideration, and planning to address all the things that your little one may need upon his or her arrival. 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

Sometimes called the “New Mom Crisis,” it’s easy to feel you’ve lost a part of who you are after giving birth. No matter what you see on the big screen and TV, transitioning from non-parent to mom is not always easy. It’s normal to feel some anxiety at this big change in your life. It seems like all of your being, your emotions, and your hormones are being used to nurture your new child. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the same things you enjoyed before pregnancy. You can still have your own adult relationships, and you’ll still be the same person with unique interests and ideas. Here are some suggestions for ways to keep your identity after having a baby. photo credit: pexels 1. Create a Support System All new moms need a support system. When you’re overwhelmed and unable to take a break, that’s when you feel the cracks forming in your identity. You start to forget what it is that used to make you happy since all your time is monopolized by your baby. It’s perfectly healthy to ask for help when you need it. Having a support system doesn’t make you any less of a mom. You need a strong group of friends and family you can talk to and rely on. Studies show this support leads to lower instances of depression and anxiety in new moms. This system will keep you from losing yourself, even when things get tough. 2. Find Your “Normal” One of the hardest parts of the transition to motherhood is losing your old routine. Suddenly you have to cater all of your waking hours to your baby, and this can leave you feeling disrupted. Instead, try to return to whatever “normal” was for you before you gave birth. This might mean going to the store by yourself while your partner watches the baby, or even just taking a bath before bed every night. These routines will help you remember that your wants and needs are still important. photo credit: pexels 3. Recognize the Stages When you’re raising your baby, every stage has a time limit. While it might seem stressful to be up half the night breastfeeding the baby right now, remind yourself this is only temporary. None of these stages you’re experiencing will last forever. It’s okay to feel frustrated by the lack of sleep or a particularly challenging stage in your baby’s development, just remember that it’s only temporary. 4. Treat Yourself You’ve been through a lot. Not only has your body gone through major changes, but your mindset has undergone a lot of pressure. As a new parent, there is a lot of fear of doing the wrong thing or not being good enough. Don’t let these thoughts get in the way or hold you back from giving yourself a break when you need it. You might want to spend a quiet night in with your spouse where your parents take the baby for the night. You might want to shop online for new undergarments that make you feel confident in your new body. These little things add up. photo credit: pexels 5. Stop Comparing Yourself In the digital age, it’s hard to avoid comparing yourself to other moms. With mommy blogs, Instagram posts, and our own Facebook feeds, there is a lot of pressure to be absolutely perfect. Self-judgement is a dead end street. You’ll only find yourself feeling worse. You don’t have to have a Pinterest-worthy outfit for the baby every day, and you don’t have to be a master at creating educational games. Just be the best mom you can be, on your own terms. It also might help to cut out social media for a while. Motherhood Your Way There is no single “correct” way to be a mom. You deserve to have your own interests, likes, and enjoyments outside of parenting that remind you of your own identity. This all relies on your support system, your ability to ask for help, and your perspective. As a new mom, you have a lot of room to grow. Think of this exciting time in your life, not as a limit, but a way to learn more about yourself and what it is that makes you unique. Your identity doesn’t have to change just because you’ve given birth. Avoiding the new mom identity crisis just takes some shifting in perspective. About the Author: Lauren Webber is a former HR manager and lover of psychology who now runs daintymom.com among her other pursuits. Her interests range from the corporate world to health and self-care to home improvement and parenting. Now if only someone came up with a way to extend the day by about 20 more hours, she could dedicate herself to all of these equally and constantly. 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

If you want labor to come naturally, there are some things you can do to induce it yourself without the assistance of a medical professional. The advantages of not needing to be induced by a doctor are that your baby arrives when he or she is ready. Versus when he or she is expected. It gives you more time to prepare because you know that once you’re ready to give birth. You can do the things necessary to induce labor while at the hospital. This guide offers some natural ways to induce labor while pregnant. Walking Gravity has its way of helping your baby drop into your pelvis. The pressure that is caused while walking can help your cervix prepare itself for labor. The more you walk, the better you’ll feel, too. You’ll be better prepared for when it is time for you to deliver because you’ve been working on getting your baby to drop. Tip: Invest in good footwear because you’ll need the extra cushioning when your feet are swollen. They’ll also prevent you from falling if they have sole with a good grip on them. Spicy Food Eating something spicy irritates your intestines. This causes your uterus to contract. You’ll want to be careful, though, because you don’t want to overdo it and cause a terrible case of heartburn. It may taste good to have hot sauce or chilis in a dish. There is no medical proof that this is a surefire way to induce pregnancy naturally. Eat as you wish but don’t overdo if you can’t handle it. Tip: Keep a cup of yogurt or yogurt-based smoothie nearby to help cool down your mouth if eating really spicy food. Acupuncture Inserting pins into the skin can help stimulate the uterus. If you want to coax your baby to move right along, see an acupuncturist for a treatment. It’s a safe and natural way to go into labor without the need to be induced. Acupuncture has many benefits that treat pregnancy-related symptoms, too, so it’s worth looking into at the start of your pregnancy. Tip: Acupuncture helps with sleep issues, headache, and depression, making it an effective therapy to consider during the latter weeks of your pregnancy. Acupressure The pressure point located in the web between your thumb and your pointer finger can be pressed as a way to help induce labor naturally. It’s always best to consult your healthcare practitioner first before doing any type of bodywork yourself. You don’t want to do anything that could potentially harm you or your child. Tip: Pressing on certain pressure points on your body while pregnant can help relieve symptoms of nausea. Use the tips listed above as ways to naturally induce labor. You’ll have better control over where it happens that way. You won’t be on the road on the way to the hospital when your baby decides to come. You’ll have prior notice that he or she is ready to make their entrance into the world! 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