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We have seen it before in movies, read it in books, heard from other moms giving birth; it is not quick and easy. Labor is hard work and can be incredibly painful. There are a million things that can happen, and if you have given birth before, there might have been more complications than today. We have all heard of things that can happen during pregnancy and labor that seem incredibly scary. What if the baby is in the wrong position? What if I can’t take the pain? What if I have to give birth in the car cause I can’t get to the hospital fast enough? What if my water breaks at an event or when I’m out shopping? There are many fears and things to worry about, and childbirth isn’t a piece of cake. But it is astonishing what the female body can do and go through when having a baby. Your body is equipped with all the things it needs to deliver the baby safely and soundly, but it is understandable to be scared, especially if it is your first baby. What if I need a c-section? In some cases, for example, if the baby isn’t in the proper position or there might be any risk in delivering the baby vaginally, your doctor might advise you to have a c-section. This is basically getting the baby out through your abdomen. The surgery doesn’t take too long, but the healing process does. Good news: every 3rd woman in the United States of America gets a c-section, so there is no need to be scared of the surgery as many women have gone through it before. There are ways to speed up the healing process: by wearing a compression garment, resting, drinking enough water, doing light stretches, etc. With these strategies, you will be on your feet sooner than you think. It’s not the traditional way, but you will not feel any pain while having the surgery, and it can also be planned. There are women that choose to have a c-section because of precisely those factors. What if the pain is too much? Ah, yes. You might think about this often while you are pregnant. How bad is the pain going to be? Maybe you have heard horror stories online or from your friends. The good news is your body makes you remember the pain of childbirth after delivery as less severe. That’s an evolutionary trick to make you want to have another kid. See, our body is smart. But there are actual ways to reduce the pain while in labor. For example, with medication, an epidural will help you if you want it. An excellent way to prepare for the process is to watch videos, read about it and ask other women about it; you can always choose not to go through that much pain and ask for medication. The epidural needle is enormous! The epidural needle is indeed 4 inches long. But before it even reaches you, the area is numbed, and you won’t feel a lot when the needle is injected. There might be a little pressure, but that’s it. You won’t feel any pain, and it will be over sooner than you think. So there is no need to be scared of the needle. I have heard your vagina can tear? Yes, you read that right. It can happen. Half of the women have at least one little tear happen during labor. Giving birth to your first child and gaining weight might make it more likely for you to tear during labor. It happens naturally and most of the time doesn’t even need too much fixing after. You can do things to prevent the tearing by gently massaging the area between your vagina and anus starting a couple of weeks before labor. If you have heard of episiotomy before, it is a cut from your vagina to your anus, but it isn’t used anymore as doctors realized it is better to let it tear by itself. So don’t worry about that. Will I poop when I push? Many women worry about this before going into labor. What if I push and I poop? It’s a common fear, but an unnecessary one. Chances are, nurses and doctors that help you deliver your baby have done it a thousand times before, and every woman going into that delivery room has worried about the same thing. When you push, you have to use muscles that are also in your rectum, and it will most likely happen that with pushing, you will poop. But no need to go crazy; everyone in the room is used to it and will not be surprised. What if I can’t make it to the hospital in time? What if I have to give birth in the car or at home cause I can’t make it to the hospital in time? Here is something to consider: most childbirths have a duration of eight hours. So the chance of you being stuck in traffic for eight hours is slim. What if something goes wrong? It’s an absolutely understandable fear of unexpected things happening that could put you and the baby in danger. You can speak with your doctor about them; chances are your doctor has delivered many babies and knows about complications and what to expect. Most of the complications that could happen can be detected while you are pregnant with an ultrasound, etc. So if there would be some big complication that might have an effect on your baby, your doctors would inform you beforehand, and you could have a c-section if that’s safer. The best way is to talk to doctors and nurses. It Will Be Alright There are many fears going into labor, and you are not alone. Millions of women feel the same way you do. Remember to talk to your doctor or nurse about your fears as they are experienced—they can give you good advice. All in all, don’t worry too much! Your body can do great things.

Labor positions are as old as time itself. Many women do not feel comfortable with the traditional labor position and try out different ones to ease the pain and deliver the baby safely. You might have done your research already, reading books and watching videos on how the delivery will proceed. It might be overwhelming to think about all the things that you need to look out for, and the actual labor might make you feel nervous and stressed. How bad will the pain be? Will I need a c-section? How will I feel afterward? Having a baby is hard work; maybe that’s why they called it labor... In this article, I will tell you all about labor positions, which ones are recommended, and whether they could ease pain and make delivery easier on you. You don't need to stick with the traditional on-your-back labor position that you see on TV. It’s your labor, and you decide if you want a totally different position or switch during the delivery to another one, or even do three throughout the delivery. You can ask your midwife, nurse, or doctor about the various positions. Don’t worry; it's really common for moms to use different labor positions, especially if you don’t take any medication, as every woman has to wait to push until the cervix is fully dilated, which can be quick or take longer depending on your case. Different labor positions can also ease the wait. Why use different labor positions? Even though it is called labor, you still can be as comfortable as possible while giving birth, and that’s what labor positions are for - to provide you with more comfort and ease your pain, as well as open your pelvis and give the baby more room. Common labor positions to try that might ease the pain: There are many labor positions out there. I will give you a list of all the common positions and take out three of them which have the best result and are very common to help many women ease the pain. Walking This labor position works with gravity—and while in delivery, gravity can be your best friend. Your baby will move down the birth canal easier, and your pelvis might have an easier time opening up. You can’t give birth walking around, but it might be a good way to get things going beforehand. Squatting This beloved exercise will come in handy again in labor. It allows the baby to have more room and opens the pelvis. Hands and Knees Another great way to open up the pelvis and might take the pressure off your spine and ease back pain, as well as give the baby more oxygen. Sitting Down Gravity comes in handy again when you sit down. You get some rest, and the perineum can be relaxed, which will reduce tearing. Laying on Your Side You can lay on your side and place a pillow or ball between your legs. This will help the baby move into the correct position. It also makes it easier to relax and can be used if you have high blood pressure. Lunges It seems strange, but lunges can actually help rotate the baby and give it more room. Get someone to support you when making these movements. Certain Scenarios Might Require Different Positions If you have an epidural (the medication injected in your epidural around your spinal cord), you won’t be able to walk around too much. Lying on your side or sitting down might be an option for you. If your baby's heart rate is monitored, you can still try the positions lying on your side, sitting, or squatting. Can there be any complications while I try a labor position? There are cases where certain labor positions can change how your baby’s heart beats, but the midwife, nurse, or doctor will let you know if you have to change positions. The lying on your back position can be advised against because it can put pressure on your blood vessels. All in all, there can be complications in any position, but with your doctor or nurse there, they will monitor you and the baby, so there should be nothing to worry about. Switching from one labor position to another can be beneficial, though. The three best labor positions for a comfortable delivery So what are the three best labor positions for a mostly comfortable delivery? Obviously, that might be different for everyone, depending on your situation and body. Maybe you have had a child before, or this is your first; these are factors that can contribute to comfortable labor. Some doctors say positions—where you are in an upright position—may reduce the duration of your labor as gravity is doing some of the work. Examples of these positions can be: Walking Squatting Sitting These labor positions open your pelvis and give the baby more room as well as push the baby deeper into the birth canal. If you have back pain, it can help reduce that and even make contractions less painful. If you have high blood pressure or your baby needs constant heart monitoring, the doctor might not recommend it for you, and you can try out lying-down positions. Get Ready There may be a range of labor positions that can help you - ask your doctor or nurse what might be best for you and the baby. Generally speaking, upright positions and the help of gravity might speed up your labor a little more. These positions are for your comfort and should help you ease pain and deliver comfortably. Your body will tell you what to do, and you will feel when to switch positions or what will work best for you. Listen to your own intuition. Sometimes you don’t even need to switch between positions too much, and in some cases, it might feel better to do many and keep moving. You can also ask your partner to support you during movements like squatting, etc.—it will make movements easier.

A cesarean section (c-section) is the surgical delivery of a baby through your belly and uterus and is surprisingly common. One-third of women in the U.S have a c-section when delivering a baby. It can be planned or be by emergency if something goes wrong during labor. When do I need a c-section? There are many reasons why a c-section can be safer for your baby than a vaginal birth: Macrosomia Your baby may be too big to fit through the birth canal and can't move safely. You Have Had a C-Section Before Some women can have a vaginal birth after having a c-section, but in some cases, it is advised against. Infections If you have HIV or other infections, you could give it to your baby through vaginal delivery. In this case, it is safer to have a c-section. You Have More Than One Baby If you are giving birth to twins or triplets, a c-section might be safer. The Baby Is Upside-Down In some cases, the baby can be upside down, meaning the head is on top and the feet or butt is facing down. There are ways to turn your baby around, but in some cases, it is safer for your baby to be delivered via a c-section. There Are Complications While You Deliver Sometimes complications occur during labor. It can happen that the labor doesn’t move fast enough or stops entirely, and the doctor might change to a c-section. There are also cases where the baby doesn’t get enough oxygen. The medical personnel detects an irregular heartbeat or if your baby has a congenital disability such as a very large brain due to fluid build-ups and the baby needs to be delivered via c-section. Placenta There can be problems occurring with the placenta, responsible for your baby to have oxygen and food. It can cause bleeding during vaginal birth, which happens when the baby's placenta is right above your cervix, called placenta previa. Medical Conditions Diabetes or high blood pressure can make a vaginal birth risky; a c-section will help reduce the risks. Cost of a C-Section Not surprisingly, the cost of having a c-section in the U.S is very high but varies depending on what state you live in as well as what insurance policy you have. If you have no insurance at all, the costs can sky-rocket from $30,000 for a vaginal birth to $50,000 for a c-section. If you have insurance, the costs are still high and can run you around $20,000 if you are insured with Medicaid and $24,000 with any other insurance for the c-section. Be sure to check with your insurance provider as some may not cover a c-section due to the risk that it can have on yourself as well as your child. What Happens After a C-Section It usually takes 2-3 days to be released from the hospital after a c-section. You should get plenty of rest and take care of the wound. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to handle your wound in the following days after delivery: Generally, if your wound is stitched or glued together, you can take showers. Be aware not to scrub or use heavily chemical body wash. Choose a natural soap instead. Look out for signs of infection, fever, heavy pain, heavy bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, redness, or lots of fluids running out of your wound. In that case, check with your doctor. You can expect vaginal bleeding right after surgery as well as pain and swelling. You can also have breast swelling, and as your hormones change, your hair and skin can change. Many women also see red or purple stretch marks on their bellies and breasts. Unfortunately, they won’t disappear entirely, but they will fade with time. Don’t lift anything too heavy in the first couple of days, and support your stomach by holding it while you sneeze, cough, or laugh as it can hurt otherwise. It’s okay if the pain is too overwhelming, and you can use pain relief such as Advil, ibuprofen, etc. Also, don’t forget to drink enough water and stay hydrated. You might also have to take mediation during the first few days after your surgery, but you can still breastfeed, and it won’t have a significant effect on your baby. There are ways to breastfeed your baby without putting too much weight on your belly, such as the side laying down position or the football hold. Focus on nourishing your body with good food. Vegetables make your breast milk have more flavor, and your child might be more likely to eat vegetables when growing up. Be aware that you might also feel tired and not have much energy due to all your body's stress. Give yourself time and care. If you keep feeling blue after a couple of days, you might have postpartum depression. Call a doctor or a therapist to help you cope. When you start to feel better, you can try returning to doing physical activities. Start with deep breaths, shoulder circles, and light stretches to stretch your belly. However, it’s generally advised to speak to a doctor first before returning to activities such as sports, driving, or lifting anything heavier than your child. Give your body time to recover, and don’t rush.

The past year has brought a host of changes with it that have been quite unwelcome for most people. The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on economies around the world, thrown millions out of work, and turned much of the way we work and live on its head. For some, this change has been welcome, and for some, not so much. It has made life more complicated, even at the simplest levels. Going to the grocery store requires bringing and wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer at multiple steps of the process, and staying socially distanced through the whole process. If something so simple can be made complicated when a health pandemic strikes, how is something so much more complicated like childbirth different during a pandemic? Delivery Location You will need to choose a delivery location close to you and one that has everything needed for delivering your baby. Likely, you have already chosen a hospital or medical center. Another thing to consider during this process is whether the delivery location is equipped to handle a birth during the pandemic and whether you will feel comfortable there. Visiting Policy It is highly recommended that a support person accompany you to the hospital, and be there for the birth of your child, during and after. Outcomes are often improved by having someone with you. Unfortunately, due to the current health pandemic, many hospitals or medical centers are not allowing anyone to accompany you. It is best to check the visiting policy of your delivery location ahead of time so that you know what to expect. If you are not ok with their visiting policy, then it is best to choose another location as long as it suits you and has the capability of protecting both you and your baby with the necessary precautions such as personal protective equipment and isolated spaces for the delivery. Food Due to the policies around visitors and the person that may want to accompany you, your delivery location may have specific policies around food and how to get it. To keep everything sanitized, most hospitals and medical centers will wrap their food in plastic as well as any cutlery. There will also likely be restrictions on when and where any visitors can get food. In some cases, your support person may not be able to leave for food or clothes to reduce the risk of exposure or infection to the coronavirus. You and your support person should plan to stay in the hospital for a few days at least. What to Expect When Arriving When you arrive at the hospital or medical center, you will likely be rushing and everything will be very exciting. At the same time, you might be nervous because of the pandemic. Luckily, hospitals are a sanitary and controlled environment in which to give birth, and you can trust that they will have the necessary precautions in place to protect you, your baby, and your support person. Who is Allowed In the Room? Your support person may or may not be allowed in the room with you, and this will largely depend on the delivery location’s policy. Since you will both need to be tested before entering, if your support person tests positive for the coronavirus, then it is unlikely they will be allowed in the hospital, let alone the delivery room. While in the room, social distancing (as much as possible) will be necessary. Your support person will be allowed in the room, but will likely need to stand away from the delivery area as the nurses and doctors are working. Measures In Place to Protect Mother and Baby The hospital is focused on protecting all patients, so you will not need to worry about your health as long as you follow the safety guidelines they have put in place. Personal protective equipment will be used by nurses and doctors, and sanitization and social distancing are paramount in any medical setting. You might also need to wear a mask to help protect the health of the nurses and doctors assisting in the birth of your baby. It may be uncomfortable, and make the delivery more awkward, but protecting the healthcare workers who are protecting you is paramount to everyone’s health and safety during this pandemic. What About Breastfeeding? Breastfeeding shouldn’t be an issue if you have been infected with or test positive for the coronavirus. Your healthcare professional will be able to advise you on what to do and whether you should or should not breastfeed. Expect the Unexpected It is normal to have a plan and want to be prepared for the birth of your child. It is the beginning of a new life and you have prepared both literally and in your mind for this special moment. Although your plan is in place, you should expect things to change. The pandemic has upended many normal things in our lives, and with that has come to the complication of managing the health risks of the coronavirus while trying to live a normal life. Anxiety and concern are normal through all of this. Expect the unexpected, and remember that your baby is only the one directing the plan, so don’t worry if something doesn’t happen the way you thought it would. Your doctors, nurses, and support person will all be there to help you along the way. Sources: https://www.whattoexpect.com/news/pregnancy/giving-birth-during-coronavirus-stories/ https://uvahealth.com/services/covid19/birth-coronavirus-faqs

We all know that childbirth is painful. What many people (and many first-time mothers) don’t realize is that the pain is not limited to the active labor and delivery portion of your childbirth. During childbirth, your vagina has to stretch and accommodate your baby’s head. Sometimes this can result in a vaginal tear. In this article, we will discuss what a vaginal tear is, what causes it, if you can prevent it, and what to expect for vaginal tear aftercare. What is a vaginal tear during childbirth? A vaginal tear also called a perineal laceration, is when the skin and muscle between your vagina and your anus are torn. The area between your vaginal opening and your anus is known as your perineum, hence the term perineal laceration. During the child birthing process, the skin around your vagina thins. This allows your skin/muscle to stretch during your labor and delivery. This is meant to decrease your likelihood of vaginal tearing. Sometimes vaginal tears still occur despite all necessary precautions and preventions. What causes a vaginal tear during childbirth? There are a few reasons why a vaginal tear may occur. The baby’s head is too large The labor occurs too quickly Forceps or other tools are used during the delivery process When the baby’s head is too large the tissue around the vagina is unable to stretch. This prevents the baby’s head from coming through the opening. The extra room necessary for the baby to come out can cause the surrounding tissue to tear. If the labor occurs too quickly the tissue and muscle around the vagina has not had adequate time to thin out. Without the necessary thinning the skin and muscle cannot stretch enough and this can cause a vaginal tear during childbirth. Finally, in particularly difficult labors, the baby may have difficulty coming out of the vaginal opening and may need extra assistance. In these cases, doctors may need to use forceps or other tools to guide the baby out. Despite their best efforts, this can cause some trauma to the surrounding tissue and result in a vaginal tear. Types of Vaginal Tears During Childbirth There are four degrees of vaginal tears that can occur during childbirth. The majority of women (90%) will experience some degree of tearing during childbirth. To determine the severity of the tear two factors are taken into consideration--how deep and how long the tear is. The first degree of vaginal tearing results in a small injury to the skin just outside of the vaginal opening and into the perineum. The second degree of vaginal tearing (the most common) affects the skin and the muscle outside of the vaginal opening and into the perineum. The third degree of vaginal tearing extends into the perineum and moves down toward the anus. The fourth degree of vaginal tearing extends all the way to, or into, the anus. Third and fourth degree tearing is uncommon and occurs in only 1% of women. First degree tears will heal naturally but anything above that will likely need stitches. What is an Episiotomy? Unlike a vaginal tear, which occurs naturally during the child birthing process, an episiotomy is used by a doctor to open the vaginal canal for the baby. An episiotomy is a cut, made by a nurse, doctor, or midwife, that extends from the vaginal canal to the top portion of the perineum. The cut creates more space for the baby. The patient must give the doctor permission to perform the procedure. Can you Prevent Vaginal Tearing During Childbirth? While there is not definitive or conclusive research to determine their effectiveness, some women do take measures to decrease the severity of their vaginal tearing. In order to decrease the severity of vaginal tearing you can Push slowly - if you take your time during the labor process, and don’t push too hard, your tissue has a chance to thin out and stretch. Your physician will help you through this process and advise you on when and how hard to push. Keep your perineum warm - during your labor you can apply a warm cloth to your perineum area to help it stretch and thin. Perineal Massage - prior to your labor, in the third trimester, you or your partner can perform a perineal massage to help stretch the area. Your physician can also perform this massage during the labor. Deliver in an upright position - Make sure you are comfortable during your delivery. Delivering in an upright/seated position can help reduce tearing. Vaginal Tear Care After your labor is complete you will be in a lot of pain. Your body has gone through a traumatic ordeal and the whole experience will take time to heal from. Depending on the severity of your tear your physician may have to give you stitches. Your doctor or midwife will give you instructions on how to care for yourself so be sure to follow their directions. In general your physician will advise you to Keep it clean by spraying warm water over it after using the restroom Keep it dry by patting it with a clean cloth or gauze Don’t touch it leave it to heal by itself Make sure to use the restroom. It is normal to be wary of the bathroom but it is important for your health. Some women recommend using stool softener to make it easy on those first few days while you are healing. How long does it take to heal? Like many cuts and lacerations it can take a while to heal. After about a week or a week and a half your tear should be healed within 7-10 days. However, you will likely still feel tender and experience a lot of pain for the next several weeks. How to Reduce Pain Pain is a natural part of the healing process but it can be frustrating and overwhelming when you also have other things to deal with. To reduce the pain you experience as much as possible try to ice it, heat it, numb it, prevent strain, and keep it cushioned. Using a cushioned donut pillow can be incredibly helpful. Besides your perineal pain you may also experience some pain elsewhere. Using a postpartum girdle can help reduce pain in other areas of your body. A postpartum girdle can help reduce pain and swelling, get you feeling better and more confident, and speed up the healing process. Not only that, but a postpartum girdle allows you to perform your everyday tasks without the fear of straining yourself. The support offered by a postpartum girdle allows you to perform tasks without the fear of hurting yourself. Key Takeaways A vaginal tear during childbirth is a normal and common part of the labor and delivery process. They can range in severity and may require stitches. Your doctor or midwife will give you instructions on how to care for it and there are ways you can reduce your pain. We at Bellefit want to make sure you are feeling your best so you can enjoy your time with your new baby. That is why we offer affordable and comfortable postpartum girdles. To make your postpartum journey smoother and easier. Try one out today!

Women often discuss the pros and cons of an epidural. Labor can be painful, long, and difficult and pain relief is often necessary at some point during labor. There are a wide variety of pain relief options, but one of the most popular and most effective is an epidural. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of an epidural and other pain management options available to you. What is an Epidural? An epidural is a type of anesthesia used for pain relief medication during labor and delivery. This medication injects into the lower spine and prevents your nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. As a result, you have decreased feeling in the bottom half of your body. Contrary to popular belief, an epidural is not supposed to make you completely numb in the bottom half of your body. It relieves the intense pain, but still maintains your ability to feel pressure and movements. This allows you to remain awake and alert throughout your labor so that you can push when the time comes. Types of Epidurals and How They Work There are three types of epidurals. The first is an epidural. This is the most common type for women in labor. A catheter inserts into the bottom part of your spine in an area known as the epidural space. This catheter administers the local anesthetic throughout your labor. The second is the spinal injection. These epidurals are fast-acting and quickly wear off. The injection goes into the epidural space, but unlike the epidural, it does not continue to administer the anesthetic. The spinal injection numbs your lower body for about two hours. Most times this is not used during labor unless they know the entire labor and delivery will take less than two hours. The last type of epidural is a Combined spinal-epidural (CSE). This type of epidural uses both of the above types. A doctor administers a spinal injection to decrease your pain quickly, and then they insert a catheter. The catheter administers the anesthetic throughout your labor. A CSE often uses a lower dose of the anesthetic so that you have a little bit more feeling in the lower half of your body. This allows you to be more aware of your pain and gives you more movement in your lower body. The type of epidural you receive during your labor will differ based on what your doctor and anesthesiologist recommend/use. If you think you may want an epidural during your labor talk to your doctor beforehand so he understands what your preferences are and you can discuss the pros and cons of an epidural. Pros of an Epidural As you are setting up your birth plan one of the steps will be to determine your preferred pain-relief method. An epidural is one of the options that is available to you. Some women, particularly those who want an all-natural birth, may choose to forgo an epidural in favor of breathing methods for pain relief. In order to make an informed decision it is important you understand the pros and cons of an epidural. Epidurals offer pain relief, increased speed of labor, immediate emergency c-section, and the ability to remain awake during labor. Pain Relief Labor is painful. And for some women, this pain can be too much to bear. An epidural offers the pain relief that is needed to continue with labor. It is a safe and effective method for the much-needed relief you may need from your contractions. Increased Speed of Labor This is not a guarantee. Stress hormones slow labor, so you can inadvertently slow your labor when stressed. This hormone can prolong your labor. Once you receive some relief from your pain, your body will begin to calm down and stop producing the stress hormone. This can cause your labor to begin to progress again. Immediate Emergency C-Section In the case of an emergency C-section, you will be able to remain awake and alert throughout it. During the C-section, you will be put to sleep if you did not have an epidural. In addition, you may not be able to see your baby immediately after giving birth. With an epidural, your lower body is numb and your doctor can perform any necessary surgery without putting you to sleep beforehand. Remain Alert During Labor Whether you are giving birth via vaginal delivery or C-section an epidural allows you to be alert and present during your delivery. The pain does not overtake your thoughts, and you can enjoy your baby as soon as they are born. Cons of an Epidural As with any medical procedure, an epidural does come with some risks. It is up to you to decide if the pros outweigh the cons of an epidural. The cons of an epidural include decreased movement, headaches, urinary catheter, lowered blood pressure, and infection. Decreased Movement: Due to the nature of an epidural any movement of the lower body will be limited. While you will still have some sensation in your legs and lower body you will not be able to get up and walk around after you receive an epidural. Headaches: Although rare, some women report getting severe headaches after insertion of an epidural. Urinary Catheter: Because your lower body is numb you will not have control over your bladder. A urinary catheter will collect your urine due to this decreased control. The urinary catheter is removed, once your labor is complete, and your epidural has worn off. After it is removed you may still feel stinging and soreness. Lowered Blood Pressure: For some women who are prone to hypertension this may actually be a pro, as an epidural can decrease your blood pressure. For some women, this is a problem as their blood pressure can drop too low and doctors will have to help increase it again. Infection: In very rare cases the catheter or needle, used for the epidural, causes infection. This is if they are not properly sterilized. There are other mild side effects that can occur from an epidural including itchiness, drowsiness, breathing problems, and muscle weakness. If you experience any of these side effects alert your physician right away so they can remedy the problem. Other Pain Management Options For some women, the pros are not enough to overcome the cons of an epidural. In these cases, there are other pain management options available to them. This includes opioids, pudendal block, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and other natural remedies. If you are attempting to have an all-natural birth with no medical intervention these natural remedies may work for you. Natural remedies include: applying heat or cold to the lower back Massaging the lower back taking warm baths or showers finding comfortable positions, such as crouching, standing, or walking using a labor ball Long Term Side Effects Thankfully after labor is complete and the epidural has worn off there are rarely any long term side effects. In some cases, the epidural can cause permanent nerve damage but these are very rare. In general, you may continue to feel numb after delivery for a few hours. Overall you should be back to normal once the epidural wears off. Unlike other medical pain management options, an epidural will not have any effects on the baby during or after labor. Thankfully after it is all said and done, you will have a baby to enjoy and a long journey ahead of you. Make sure you take care of yourself after labor so you can recover and enjoy all these new moments. Bellefit has everything you need to stay healthy and happy after your delivery. Check out our postpartum garments. We have nursing bras, compression leggings, and postpartum underwear so you can recover comfortably and quickly. We hope this has been an informative article that has helped you reach a decision on your pain relief options.

Giving birth at home has become much more popular in recent years, and many women are choosing a home birth over going to the hospital. There are many different factors to consider before deciding if giving birth at home is right for you. In this article we will give you everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision. What is a Homebirth? For centuries women have been giving birth in their homes. It wasn’t until the 1900s, as modern-day medicine improved, that women began to move to hospitals to give birth. As our collective knowledge of labor and pregnancy increases, women are beginning to feel comfortable giving birth at home again. There are many misconceptions about giving birth at home that have pervaded our understanding. A home birth is a vaginal delivery without the use of medication. A home birth involves the support of a trained professional, a midwife or a nurse-midwife, who helps safely deliver the baby. Many mind-body techniques are used to help aid the mother in reducing pain and having an easy labor and delivery. Is giving birth at home right for you? While a homebirth may seem like an enticing option there are a few things to consider before making a decision. For some women, giving birth at home is not an option. Women are not recommended to have a home birth if they: Are diabetic have preeclampsia experience high blood pressure are at risk for preterm labor have had a cesarean section in the past Are carrying multiples These conditions make it difficult for the mother to have a safe and healthy labor at home. A home birth may be right for you if you: have a healthy, low-risk pregnancy want to avoid medical intervention (pain medication, labor augmentation, or labor induction) Want to give birth surrounded by family and friends Have cultural or religious concerns Or want a less expensive labor What to expect when giving birth at home There are many misconceptions about giving birth at home, but here is what you can expect. Before Labor Before you are close to your due date, you will want to reach out to a midwife to formulate a birthing plan. This plan will detail where you want to give birth, who you want to be with you, how you want to reduce discomfort, and how you will handle complications/emergencies. You will both work together to have a physician on call in case you need to go to the hospital. Your midwife will also let you know what supplies to have available and how to prepare for your birth at home. During Labor A midwife will come prepared once you go into labor, and will guide you through the delivery process. Unlike many people believe, a midwife will have medical supplies necessary to deal with any birthing needs. Typically a midwife will bring pharmaceuticals, oxygen, IVs, equipment necessary to monitor and record vitals on both mother and baby, and other first aid equipment. In addition midwives are trained to use various other medical instruments that may be necessary during birth. After Labor Your midwife will be trained to take care of your baby post-delivery – including administering medications, or even how to perform a full resuscitation. Your midwife will also be able to guide you through the breastfeeding process, and teach you the basics you will need to know for them to fully latch on. You should keep your physician in the loop on your birthing plan and inform them once the baby is born. Home Birth Options When people think of giving birth at home they typically tend to think of a water birth. And while many women do have a water birth at home, some women choose not to. One of the benefits of having a home birth is being able to decide where you want to have your baby. If you want to have it on the floor, in the bathtub, on your bed, or even your couch. The whole objective of a home birth is to make you as comfortable as possible. Pros of a Home Birth Now that you know the basics of a homebirth, let’s talk about some of the reasons women choose to give birth at home. Don’t have to worry about transportation to and from the hospital All the comforts of your home are readily available to you throughout the entire labor and delivery process – including snacks, clothing, a shower, and your bed. The transition into breastfeeding and recovery is much smoother and more relaxed. You can have whoever you want come to the birth. May be easier on your bank account. Cons of a Home Birth There are so many pros of giving birth at home, but there are also a few cons. If the labor doesn’t go according to plan, hospital transportation will be necessary. Typically in these cases a “Plan B” has already been discussed so there should be no problems getting to a hospital. Not a good option if you do not have a low-risk pregnancy. Some women are not comfortable with giving birth at home and would have less anxiety about the delivery if they knew they would be in a hospital. Postpartum Care Unlike a typical hospital birth, postpartum care with a home birth is more frequent and personalized. A hospital usually requires a 48-hour stay and then sends you home with your new baby and no additional help. When you give birth at home, a midwife will come over multiple times in the first few weeks postpartum to check up on you and the baby. That way they can address any concerns or problems you may have. Postpartum care is essential when it comes to your health and your baby’s health. That is why Bellefit has created the best postpartum girdle around. Our postpartum girdle is made with medical-grade compression fabric and is designed to help you heal faster and with less pain. Don’t believe us? Check out our testimonial page to see just how much Bellefit’s postpartum girdles have helped. We hope that this guide to giving birth at home was helpful and gave you all the information you need to make an informed decision about your birthing plan.

What is preterm labor and what happens if you experience a preterm labor? Well, don’t worry we will break it down for you. And make sure you are prepared for anything that comes your way. What is preterm labor? Premature labor, also known as preterm labor, is when a mother’s body begins the labor process too early. Labor is typically considered preterm if it occurs more than three weeks before your due date. Preterm labor can lead to fetal complications if not treated properly. Complications of Preterm Labor One of the largest complications of going into preterm labor is delivering the baby too early. Babies continue to develop in the uterus throughout the entirety of a woman’s pregnancy. This means that it takes 40 weeks for a baby to fully develop and survive outside of the womb. Premature babies often need special care and can sometimes suffer with long-term mental and physical disabilities. Delivering a premature baby can lead to them living with birth defects, learning disabilities, or even physical disabilities. Causes/Risks of Preterm Labor While there is no one specific reason, there are many theories about what can cause preterm labor in pregnant women. smoking/alcohol/drug use – The use of elicit substances can cause miscarriage as well as low birth weight and birth defects. If the baby is experiencing any stressors from being in the uterus, the body will begin labor. small intervals between pregnancy – There is an increased risk of a woman experiencing preterm labor if they wait less than 18 months before becoming pregnant again. multiples birth – women who carry multiple babies at the same time are more likely to give birth to premature babies. The uterus is only designed to grow and feed one baby at a time. So in the case of multiple babies, there is an increased risk that your body will go into preterm labor. pregnancy complications – pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia can cause the body to go into preterm labor. problems with the uterus or cervix – If a woman’s uterus is malformed, too large, or has other problems it can be difficult to carry the baby to term. If the cervix is too short or cannot stay closed this can cause preterm labor as well. stress levels – Your stress levels directly impact your baby’s stress levels. Any traumatic incident can lead to the release of hormones that induce labor. occupational factors – If a woman works at a very physical job where they have to stand on their feet all day or perform physically demanding duties; they have a higher chance of having a preterm labor. maternal age – Women under the age of 17 or over the age of 35 are at a higher risk of experiencing a preterm labor. A previous preterm birth – If the mother has had a previous preterm birth she is more at risk for a preterm labor in her subsequent pregnancies. Symptoms of Preterm Labor So, what exactly should you be on the lookout for when it comes to premature labor? Contractions that occur every ten minutes. Bloody vaginal discharge. Cramps, similar to a period. Excess back pain. Increased pelvic pressure Unfortunately many of these symptoms are every-day problems that pregnant women face, so it can be difficult to tell the difference between everyday ailments and signs of a preterm labor. Just be as in tune with your body as you can be and pay attention to anything that may seem worse than normal. What Happens if You Go Into Premature Labor? Once your doctor determines you have gone into preterm labor, there are a variety of actions they may take. You may be admitted to the hospital, put on bedrest, treat with medications, or even given corticosteroids. These actions are used to try and stop preterm labor so you do not have a premature birth. How to Prevent It While there are ways that doctors can stop preterm labor, the best way to avoid it is by preventing it from happening in the first place. Space out your pregnancies – There is an increased risk of preterm labor if you are pregnant with a baby 18 months after having one. You can avoid this increased risk by spacing out your pregnancies. See your doctor on a regular basis – By keeping up with your doctor’s appointments on a regular basis, they will be able to catch any signs of preterm labor. In addition, they can give you instructions on what you can do to prevent it. Control your alcohol and drug use – Unless your doctor explicitly states that you can continue to take a medication, cut out all drug usage. You will also need to cut out all alcohol use. These substances cause preterm labor and other birth complications that you can prevent by simply not taking them. Take prenatal vitamins – Part of maintaining a healthy pregnancy is making sure you have all the necessary nutrients. To ensure you are getting all the necessary nutrients prenatal vitamins are essential. These will keep you and your baby healthy. Have a well-balanced nutrition – In addition to your prenatal vitamins you will want to maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet. This can also help you have a healthy pregnancy. Postpartum Care Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is important, and so is taking care of yourself after pregnancy. Not only will you have to deal with being a mother now, but you also have to maintain your own autonomy. That is where Bellefit is here to help. At Bellefit we believe that every woman deserves to feel confident and strong. That is why we design postpartum girdles that help you get back to feeling and looking your best. Not only are they functional – they are comfortable too. So what are you waiting for? Get yourself a Bellefit postpartum girdle today! We hope this has been a helpful guide to premature labor and walked away just a little more educated.

Sometimes life doesn't go according to plan. While you can plan every detail of your birth from scheduling the c-section date down to the outfit you and your baby will wear leaving the hospital, you should have a backup plan for an emergency birth. Going into labor by yourself certainly isn't an ideal situation. Still, if it happens to you, you should be aware of what to do in this unforeseen emergency. In this article, we'll discuss five crucial tips for giving birth alone and give you some advice for home-care postpartum recovery. Table Of Contents 1. Know The Signs Of Labor 2. Call 9-1-1 For Medical Assistance 3. Stay Calm And Make Yourself Comfortable 4. Don’t Push Unless You Can’t Wait Any Longer 5. Tend To Your Baby Until Help Arrives Recovering After Delivery 1. Know The Signs Of Labor Strong contractions often indicate quick birth. Do you know the signs of labor? The best preparation for any delivery is understanding the signs of labor. Here are some labor signals to be aware of: The baby "drops" — Your baby moves into position in the pelvis to prepare for birth headfirst, ready to come through the birth canal. Your water breaks — This is one of the final signs that the baby is on its way, but it doesn't always happen for women (15% of births or fewer). Regular contractions are getting closer and stronger over time. The contractions last 30 – 70 seconds each. Diarrhea — While it certainly feels alarming and embarrassing, this is natural. The muscles in your pelvis loosen up to prepare for the birth of your baby. Unfortunately, your rectum loosens too, which may result in diarrhea. Understanding the signs of labor is vital in preparing for your delivery. If you catch your signs early, you may have enough time to call your support system and still go ahead with your delivery plan with the medical attention you need. 2. Call 9-1-1 For Medical Assistance Get medical help as soon as possible to avoid any complications. If you don't have anyone around you to get you to the hospital, call 9-1-1 immediately. If you're at home, make sure to unlock your door, so that health professionals can come in. It's also a good idea to turn the porch light on in the evening or early morning, so the ambulance can easily find your home. In an even more unforeseen scenario where you're not home, call the local emergency number from your cell phone and turn on your location services to pinpoint your exact location for medical responders. When you're on the phone with the dispatch operator, let them know your name and age, how far along your pregnancy is, and the details about your contraction timing. Try your best to remain calm by focusing on breathing and answering any questions the operator asks of you so they can get you the help you need. Once you're off the phone with emergency responders, you should also call your partner, friend, or neighbor to get to you as soon as possible for further assistance while medical help is on its way. 3. Stay Calm And Make Yourself Comfortable Try your best to keep your cool in this situation. Take deep breaths, and know that you’ve got this. No matter how panicked you may be feeling at this point, trust that your body is capable of handling childbirth. Two out of every 1,000 babies born in the United States are delivered at home. As long as the baby has dropped into position for birth, delivery will happen very quickly. To avoid the set in of panic, compile the things you need to make yourself comfortable for birth: A bucket of warm water Clean towels or sheets to lay on the floor underneath you and another towel nearby for the baby Pillows to prop you up You’ll also want to clean your hands and the vaginal area thoroughly to prevent infection 4. Don’t Push Unless You Can’t Wait Any Longer Push only when you feel like you can't take it any more. You may want to lay in the bathtub to avoid the mess that comes with childbirth, but you'll only become difficult to move from the tub when help arrives. It's best you prop all your supplies in the living room and do your best with the supplies you have to reduce the mess. Lay down multiple towels, bedsheets, or a shower curtain if you feel you need to. When you're settled in a comfortable position, resist the urge to push until help arrives. As you are likely under a lot of pain at this point, try to focus on your breathing to calm yourself. The Lamaze breathing technique is a form of controlled breathing to promote relaxation and comfort popular for labor. If you can’t wait any longer to push, go ahead and do it. You’re going to feel pressure. Don’t be alarmed as this is your baby’s head and body moving through the birth canal. 5. Tend To Your Baby Until Help Arrives Let the baby gently slide out head-first. Make sure the umbilical cord is not wrapped around the baby's neck. If help still hasn't arrived, and your baby can't wait any longer to join you, you'll have to deliver on your own. Gently guide the baby’s head out of your body as you push. Make sure that the umbilical cord isn't wrapped around the infant’s head or neck by moving the cord out of the way or loosening the loop so the whole body can slip through it. When your baby is out of your body, do not pull or cut the umbilical cord. Leave it attached to your baby and the placenta until help arrives. Dry and warm your baby immediately with the clean towel you've set aside and let him or her rest on your chest or belly, allowing for skin-to-skin contact for warmth. There will be a lot of fluids around your baby's eyes, nose, and mouth. Babies are nose breathers, so you may need to clear his or her nostrils by gently running your fingers down the sides of their nose to clear the airway of mucus. Your baby should cry at birth, but if they're not crying, rub their back firmly up and down. You've done it! Your baby is here and help is on the way. All you can do now is keep yourself comfortable and your baby warm until help arrives. Giving birth alone certainly isn’t ideal, but if you do find yourself in this situation, knowing how to handle labor appropriately is essential to your health and that of your baby. Refer to this guide often before your due date. Recovering After Delivery The hard work isn't over now that your baby is here. There's still the road of recovery ahead. Postpartum recovery is something we're here to make sure you don't go through alone. Many moms order their Bellefit postpartum girdles and corsets before their due date, so they can start wearing it the day after labor to jump-start their postpartum recovery while swelling is at its peak. Our girdles and corsets are designed for the female post-pregnancy recovery in mind. There are eight styles to choose from in sizes XS – 3XL for the most extensive range of FDA-registered postpartum garments on the market. Bounce-back to your pre-pregnancy self sooner than you thought with the help our postpartum garments, and you'll never have to feel like you're recovering on your own.

Learning more about the procedure may make it feel less daunting, so you're better prepared for your delivery date. Moreover, it also gives you the opportunity to ask your doctor the right questions to understand what you can do to support your postpartum recovery.

Understanding the Benefits and Risks Vaginal births following C-Sections or VBACs are much more common than many people realize. Mothers who didn’t get to deliver their first or second children naturally may opt to do so for many reasons. They want to know what it feels like to have the baby travel down the birth canal which is an experience like no other a mother has. Table Of Contents Understanding the Benefits and Risks Vertical or T-Shaped C-Section Scars Indicate That Vaginal Birth is Not for You Uterine Rupture Instant Labor Makes Delivering Vaginally Easier Quick Birth Dystocia-Related C-Sections Prompt Doctors to Discourage Vaginal Delivery Obstructed Labor Your Weight Determines Whether a VBAC is Ideal The More the Weight the Higher the Risk Knowing Whether or Not a VBAC is Right for You Talk to Your Doctor Recovery from a VBAC Speed Up Your Recovery! Having a good idea of what is VBAC and its process prior to electing to give birth vaginally is important. It allows women to make informed decisions concerning their baby’s delivery. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to list the pros and cons of a VBAC birth. Vertical or T-Shaped C-Section Scars Indicate That Vaginal Birth is Not for You Vertical scars from a previous C-section could lead to uterine rupture during a VBAC. Uterine Rupture Uterine rupture is more likely to occur in women with these types of scars. Horizontal scars above the bikini line indicate a higher level of safety for a vaginal birth after c section. If you’re not sure what type of scar you have, look closely in a mirror or ask your physician to describe it to you. Instant Labor Makes Delivering Vaginally Easier Follow natural labor-inducing tips to ensure a successful VBAC delivery. Quick Birth Women with uterine scars do not usually get induced. So, if you’re able to go into labor without the assistance of your doctor, you’ll have a better chance of going through a VBAC delivery without complications. Following natural labor-inducing tips helps jumpstart the process and increase the likelihood of you delivering vaginally if that is what you desire to do. Dystocia-Related C-Sections Prompt Doctors to Discourage Vaginal Delivery Your chances of a having a successful VBAC will significantly decrease if you've had a dystocia-related c-section before. Obstructed Labor Your body may be slow at delivering a child. Rather than experience the issue that sparked your original C-Section by trying to give birth to the baby naturally, you’ll likely end up in surgery, having your next baby removed by Caesarean. That way, the risk factors lessen significantly. Your Weight Determines Whether a VBAC is Ideal Loose weight to boost your chances of having a successful VBAC. The More the Weight the Higher the Risk If you have gained a lot of weight during your pregnancy, your chances of having a VBAC labor decrease significantly. You’ll need to note that a gain of 40 pounds or more causes the success rate to lower by 40 percent. If you can’t get a handle on your weight prior to your delivery date, you probably won’t deliver the baby vaginally because of the VBAC risks that could occur. Knowing Whether or Not a VBAC is Right for You Your doctor will help you decide what's best for you and your baby. Talk to Your Doctor Giving birth vaginally after having a C-Section is something that many women do. That’s why it’s important to know the risks and advantages of VBAC prior to attempting to have your child naturally. Discussing your options with your primary care physician is advisable because they possess the medical knowledge and intimate details about your health to help you determine if a VBAC birth is, indeed, right for you. Recovery from a VBAC Bellefit Postpartum Girdles & Corsets – Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended Since 2008. Available in 8 Styles & in Plus Sizes. Speed Up Your Recovery! Every labor story has a recovery story as well, make sure yours is as smooth and painless as possible by investing in Bellefit postpartum girdle. These girdles help with swelling, back pain, and through abdomen compression, it alleviates fluid retention and eases discomfort. Whether you are recovering from a vaginal birth, a C-Section, or a VBAC a postpartum girdle is a great option to speed up you recovery and get back to feeling your confident and beautiful self. See for yourself what a corset, girdle or thong can do for you following a VBAC. As always, if you have any questions concerning our products, don’t be afraid to ask. It is our pleasure to assist you in every way that we can. Have you delivered a baby naturally after a C-Section? What was the experience like?

Consider this article as your guide to labor induction. You’ll learn more about it when it occurs, how the labor induction process starts, and why it’s sometimes necessary to induce a woman who hasn’t gone into labor naturally.