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Among one of the greatest skills you’ll master as a new mother is bathing your baby. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of adjusting to make the experience pleasant for both you and your little one. Table Of Contents 1. Baby-Proof the Bathroom 2. Keep Your Supplies Nearby When You Bath Your Baby 3. Turn on Water and Test the Temperature with Your Wrist Before Baby Bath 4. Wash your Baby’s Upper Body First 5. Dry The Baby Off and Give Their Body a Rub Down with Baby-Friendly Lotion As your child gets bigger, it will be easier to get them situated in the tub but keeping them from getting into things becomes harder. With each stage of assisted bathing you take part in, you learn valuable lessons that helps you deal kindly with your kid. Use this list to help yourself get prepared to Bathe Your Baby. 1. Baby-Proof the Bathroom Baby proof your bathroom so the baby doesn't gets hurt. Many dangers exist in the home, especially in the bathroom. Invest in spout covers to prevent your baby from scalding themselves if they try to turn the hot water handle or knob. You’ll also want to invest in a non-slip mat for the bottom of the tub to keep a build-up of soap from causing accidents. Removing objects that the baby could knock over, put in their mouth or hurt themselves on is advisable. 2. Keep Your Supplies Nearby When You Bath Your Baby Make pre preparations keeping everything close by while bathing your baby. Gather everything you’ll need to bathe baby. Make sure they are within reach so you don’t turn your back on your child or leave them unattended for even a second. You’ll likely want to have tear-free, baby shampoo, a shampoo visor which prevents suds from getting into the child’s face, washcloths, toys, a hooded bath towel, diapers, diaper cream, moisturizer, and clothing available so you can wash, dry, and dress your little one with greater ease. 3. Turn on Water and Test the Temperature with Your Wrist Before Baby Bath Test the water temperature before it falls on your baby. That way, you know it's not too hot for your baby’s skin. You can also change the settings on your hot water heater. Temps should not be above 120 degrees Fahrenheit because anything above that cause damage to sensitive skin by scalding it. 4. Wash your Baby’s Upper Body First Start your baby bath with upper body first. Prop your baby up using a special bath board and start washing their upper body. Then, work on their lower extremities before putting on the shampoo visor and washing their hair. Make sure all signs of soap are gone from the baby’s body before removing them from the tub by rinsing them well. 5. Dry The Baby Off and Give Their Body a Rub Down with Baby-Friendly Lotion Dry your baby gently with soft tender towel rub. Take the hooded towel and start gently rubbing the baby’s skin until its dry. Keep them warm by cuddling them inside the towel as you dab at the wet parts of them. Once they’re warm and completely dry, apply lotion to their body You can then diaper and dress them and get them ready for bed or for the day, whatever time it is after their bath. Infant tubs are valuable tools to have on hand for the first few months of bathing your child. Then, they can graduate to the sink or regular bathtub once you’re more comfortable with washing them. Bathing your baby is something you’ll do often after giving birth. It becomes habitual after a short period of time. Once you’ve passed the learning curve that comes with all new babies, you’ll come up a routine that works well for you and your little one. That means less resistance, fewer tears, and cleaner bottoms! Bathing your baby requires you to engage your lower back muscles and your core. It is important for you to be able to hold your baby properly and safely. Many women experience that jelly belly feeling, core weakness, and back pain. Wearing a postpartum girdle shortly after giving birth will help new moms feel more secure and stable; physically and emotionally. It can be very frustrating and depressing for women not to feeling put together and not being able to care for your baby the way you expect you should. Bellefit® Postpartum Girdles & Corsets - Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Doctor-Recommended since 2008. Did you as a mother faced any other challenge while bathing your baby? Believe us, we would love to hear you story!

A strong relationship is necessary for couples expecting a child. After all, things will be very different once the baby arrives. You’ll instantly have another person’s needs and feelings to consider. Developing a bond that withstands the test of time provides a strong foundation of love and support for the baby you’re bringing into the world. Table Of Contents 1. Keep the romance alive 2. Do something unexpected 3. Communicate your wants and needs, but make sure you actively listen to your partner 4. Take a trip or a short weekend getaway before you no longer can Post Pregnancy Relationship Use this list to strengthen your bond and avoid a relationship breakdown during pregnancy. 1. Keep the romance alive Keeping the romance alive helps ensure a healthy pregnancy and a happier household. It’s important to give your partner the time and attention they deserve. You can do that easily by scheduling weekly date nights and being intimate whenever possible. Although your body is changing due to the hormones and weight gain that comes with being pregnant, celebrate every glorious inch of you. Your partner likely loves the way you look and can’t get enough of seeing you pregnant. 2. Do something unexpected Surprises, no matter how small, keep the spark alive. Spontaneity counts for a lot. Being surprised feels great. Keep your love alive by adding an element of surprise to your partner’s day. Do something unexpected and make them feel how important they are to you. It doesn’t need to be a grand gesture. Something small and heartfelt will do the trick. Slipping a note in their wallet or gym bag is one idea. Taking them to do something they’ve always wanted to do is another. Use your imagination and come up with a list of ways to surprise your partner. 3. Communicate your wants and needs, but make sure you actively listen to your partner Effective communication is key to ensuring a strong bond. It’s not enough to be a good communicator. You also need to be an excellent listener to avoid a relationship breakdown during pregnancy. That way, you’re not doing all the talking and failing to hear what your loved one has to say. Take turns talking and show interest in what your partner has to say by giving them verbal and non-verbal confirmation of what has been said. 4. Take a trip or a short weekend getaway before you no longer can Enjoy some me-time with your husband before your new bundle of joy arrives! The closer you get to your due date, the less likely you’ll be able to leave home. After all, you’ve selected a doctor and hospital to give birth at. If you’re in a different location and go into labor, you’ll be forced to rely on a stranger to help deliver your baby. Plan a vacation or spur-of-the-moment getaway. Make it something you both enjoy thoroughly by including activities that are different than what you normally do. Take lots of pictures, and don’t forget to sleep in whenever you get the chance. When you have a baby to tend to, that will get harder to do in the future. Your relationship automatically changes when your baby arrives. You become parents responsible for keeping a bouncing bundle of joy alive, well, and happy. That’s why it’s important that you work on strengthening the relationship you have now. You’ll be able to handle the demands on your schedule easier, be clear about whom will do what with the baby, and better prepare yourselves to be the type of role models every child deserves. Post Pregnancy Relationship There is a lot of pain and emotional stress that a woman goes through during pregnancy and it doesn't stop after you have given birth. Not only will you have to take care of a child together, but now you will have to take care of yourself too. In order to avoid taking out your stress and pain on your partner, it may be a good idea to try a postpartum girdle. Postpartum girdles help relieve back pain, combat diastasis recti, and get back you back to feeling your best. And when you feel your best, your baby and your partner feel better too. So, check out Bellefit's postpartum girdles to start feeling better. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles & Corsets - Medical Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended Since 2008. Available in 8 Styles as well as Plus Sizes. Do you think that it is possible to avoid relationship stress during pregnancy and build a healthier, happier bond by communicating effectively?

It turns out that our grandmothers were right all along: Postpartum girdles are an important part of the recovery process. They can help you to stave off back problems, poor posture, and diminished muscle tone in the core region. However, they are not a miracle cure. Postpartum girdles will not restore your pre-baby figure in a week, and they are not a substitute for exercise. What they can do is give you an instant confidence boost and make it easier to get back to your daily life, including caring for your new bundle of joy. The History Of Girdles You may think that wearing girdles is a relatively new phenomenon, but the concept has been around for thousands of years. Girdles have been used by many ancient cultures worldwide, and were typically linked with fertility and childbearing. In fact, Ishtar – the Egyptian goddess of fertility – was illustrated wearing a girdle. The Difference Between a Girdle and A Corset Girdles and corsets have a similar purpose, to helps slim and support your core. In terms of their differences, the boning used in corsets makes them stiff enough to remain in place on your body. Because they lace up, corsets can be pulled extremely tight to temporarily or permanently reduce waist size and elevate the breasts. If used incorrectly, they can cause damage to vital organs, result in broken ribs, and can create breathing difficulties. Comprised of firm but stretchy material, girdles do not contain boning. The design allows them to provide compression and support without being so tight as to risk damage to your organs. What Can a Girdle Do For You? Following delivery, a girdle can help you to: Recovery faster Relieve diastasis recti (abdominal separation) Shrink the uterus Boost confidence Reduce pain Help protect C-Section incision Wearing a postpartum girdle can help you walk farther after delivery – getting you back to your normal activities faster. Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) affects up to 25% of mothers after delivery. Although PPGP often resolves within 4 months, 20% of women may experience symptoms even 2-3 years later. Abdominal support, like a postpartum girdle provides, is one of the standard treatments for PPGP. It is believed to reduce intensity and duration of pain. Incidence of Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) 25% of women experience PPGP after delivery. In most cases, PPGP resolves within 4 months. 20% of women still have symptoms and pain 2-3 years postpartum Choosing the Right Girdle For You There are several things you should take into consideration when you are choosing the right girdle for you. What’s Your Area of Concern? Some girdles are designed to give you lots of tummy support, but not a lot of back support. Others may give you firm compression in both areas. Most girdles will have compression panels, so you can easily see where they offer support. This is important not just for aesthetic purposes, but to help relieve pain. If you have pain in your abdomen, back, or both, you will want to choose a girdle that supports those areas. Hook and Eye Closure vs Zipper There are many different styles of girdle on the market. Some offer 3 rows of button-up closures in the front so that you can adjust their tightness according to your needs. These are a great option if you want to avoid having to purchase more than one girdle as your abdomen starts to return to its normal size. Some girdles come with a zipper on the side. Although these are convenient (easy to put on or take off) they are not adjustable. Other designs offer the best of both worlds, featuring an adjustable button closure and a zipper on the side. Alternatively, some girdles have no closures and are simply one piece. These can be more difficult to get into, but they stay in place and you won’t have to worry about the closures being seen under your clothes. Bathroom Consideration You’ll want a girdle that allows for easy bathroom access, especially considering how frequent your bathroom trips will be following delivery. Many girdles have snaps or buttons on the crotch, called a gusset, so that you can use the bathroom without removing the girdle. I highly recommend selecting a girdle with this feature. Bra or No Bra A majority of girdles will hit directly below your bust line. However, some are designed with shoulder straps for maximum support and to help with your posture. They can also prevent the girdle from moving out of place. Some girdles also have a built-in corset that functions as a bra. I do not recommend this type of girdle for postpartum wear, because your breasts will change sizes and likely much sooner than your waistline. In other words, finding a girdle that fits your breasts now and a few weeks down the road can be a difficult task. A better option is to choose a girdle that allows you to wear your own bra. This ensures the proper fit and support in all areas. This is also great if you are nursing, because it allows you to combine a nursing bra with your girdle. Full Rear? Are you feeling cheeky? If you enjoy wearing thongs or high cut underwear, you can find girdles with the same design. You can choose full rear coverage, or “cheeky” minimal coverage. Girdles are also available in thong, so you can choose the rear cut that fits your needs best. If your butt needs firming and shaping after your delivery, a full rear offers the lift and support that makes you look great. However, if your butt is already on the smaller side, a full rear can make it look flat. If you want to show off your natural curves, choose a cheeky cut or thong. Registered Medical Device Some postpartum girdles are registered medical devices. A registered medical device is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to diagnose, prevent, or treat a disease or other condition. When selecting a postpartum girdle, choosing one that is registered as a medical device to ensure that you get the support and quality that you need. Quality When you purchase a girdle, you will likely be wearing it up to six months after pregnancy. In fact, many women choose to continue wearing girdles long after they give birth. Simply put, you will want a girdle that can stand up to everyday wear. Some less expensive brands sacrifice quality for price. Bear in mind that it may fit well at first, but will likely become looser and less supportive over time. In addition to choosing a girdle with support panels (that is a registered medical device), there are a few other factors to consider. First, the best girdles have 3 different layers. It is unlikely that you will be able to see these layers, but the information will be contained in the manufacturer’s listing. Second, when shopping for a girdle, check the quality of the fasteners. Velcro is cheaper than other methods, and may indicate a lower overall quality. Hook and eye closures or a well-made zipper are better options, though a little more expensive to manufacture. Lastly, check the product reviews. A quality girdle will have honest testimonials attesting to its benefits, as well as how well it holds up over time. A postpartum girdle can bring you many benefits. They can relieve PPGP pain, diastasis recti, shrink your uterus, reduce postpartum bleeding, and protect C-section incisions. They can also help you to be more active and experience less pain following childbirth. Not Just Physical Benefits In addition to the physical benefits, wearing a postpartum girdle can give you a confidence boost. Your body performs a miracle throughout pregnancy and during childbirth, but all the changes your body goes through can be difficult to handle. After you give birth, you may experience frustration when your body doesn’t return to its pre- pregnancy state as quickly as you would like it to. No one wants to be asked “When is the baby due?” after giving birth. A postpartum girdle can instantly make you look slimmer and more shapely, which can give you the confidence to enjoy your postpartum life and focus on building a bond with your new bundle of joy. 8 Best Postpartum Girdles by Bellefit

Just under 10% of pregnant women are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, a form of the disease that occurs during pregnancy. Although it’s alarming to think of what could happen if complications occur, regular monitoring of blood sugars, as well as diet and exercise, help prevent the unthinkable of occurring. After your doctor has diagnosed you with gestational diabetes, you’ll be required to see him or her regularly to ensure that the disease isn’t worsening with time. Here is what you need to know about gestational diabetes. The placenta is to blame for the blockage of insulin you’re experiencing. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that converts fats and carbs and uses the sugars that your body makes as a source of energy. When you’re unable to produce insulin on your own, the blood sugars go haywire and can cause irreparable damage to the body. It can negatively affect your blood vessels, nerves, and vital organs. Gestational diabetes typically occurs in the middle stages of pregnancy. You’re most likely to develop it during the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. Blood tests administered by your doctor reveal the disease. You’ll then be forced to take your blood sugars regularly with a glucometer to monitor them. Hyperglycemia occurs when the insulin in your body is low or non-existent which causes your blood sugars to skyrocket. There are risk factors that increase the likelihood of you having gestational diabetes. You’re at higher risk for the disease if you’re overweight, older, and have a history of gestational diabetes. If your mother or grandmother had diabetes during pregnancy, you, too, could have it. These are things to consider when visiting with your primary care physician. Giving detailed information about your family history and personal experience with gestational diabetes helps the medical professional determine the course of action that is best for you. You’ll notice some rather significant symptoms with the disease. If you can’t seem to quench your thirst and need to go to the bathroom frequently, it’s likely due to the gestational diabetes. Other symptoms include fatigue and sugar present during urine analysis. Your physician will let you know if it is present so that you can do what you can to prevent the disease from worsening. Ways to treat gestational diabetes range in approach and level of difficulty. There are many ways to treat gestational diabetes. Among the easiest is through diet and exercise. By eating right and being more physical, you’re able to prevent blood sugar levels from increasing. Eating small meals and snacks throughout the day can prevent your blood sugar from dropping. It also keeps you from bingeing on foods that you shouldn’t eat because you feel like you’re starving. Don’t Let Gestational Diabetes Progress into Another Type of Diabetes If you’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it’s important that you follow your physician’s instructions for diet and exercise. That way, you don’t exacerbate the problem and cause harm to yourself or your unborn child. This form of diabetes usually goes away after birth but could turn into adult onset diabetes if not closely monitored.

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.

If you’re debating whether to breast or bottle feed, know that fed is best. A combination of the two gives you greater freedom. It ensures that your growing tyke gets adequate nutrition all the days of his or her infancy. Don’t Let Other People’s Opinions Stand in the Way of Your Child’s Health Rather than feel guilty that you don’t breastfeed full-time, know that you’re taking care of your baby’s needs excellently when you opt to make sure he or she is fed well. If that means preparing a bottle for them while you work or run errands, consider it done. Only you know what is best for your child, and they want nutrition in whatever manner they can get it. Here are some tips to help you get started: Nurse right after the baby was born. He or she may need extra help with latching onto your breast. Attempting to breastfeed in the hospital allows you to take advantage of the staff there who are trained to help with the process. It also provides the baby with colostrum which helps strengthen the immune system and prevent disease. The very first time you breastfeed, your baby gets the substance that is vital to their health and well-being. Use formula the first few days. While you’re waiting for your milk to come in, it’s good to supplement the baby’s diet with formula. It helps you want to nurse longer because you know that you can give the child a bottle. Make sure that the amount of formula given is small so that the baby still wants to nurse later on through the day. If he or she is too full, they won’t breastfeed which means you’ll have to pump. Keeping them on as regular of a feeding schedule as you can and monitoring the amount of formula that you give the child helps tremendously. Invest in a good pumping machine. The sooner you learn how to pump your breasts, the better. You’ll know that your baby is getting the finest quality nutrition. You’ll be able to pump excess milk out of your breasts and store it for your baby to drink. You’ll depend less on formula that way. It also gives you a break from nursing. Your baby will still be getting breast milk from you but in another manner. The way you choose to feed your infant is a personal decision that is yours and yours alone. The list of suggestions above has helped many mothers provide sustenance to their children either by breast or bottle. Even if you choose to only bottle-feed, know that you’re doing best by your child. Continue to Feed Your Child However You Feel is Best for Them Fed is undoubtedly best. Don’t take a chance on your child’s health by allowing other people’s opinions to influence your actions. Give your baby the breast when it’s convenient and a bottle when it’s not. They won’t care so long as they’re being fed!

A strong relationship is necessary for couples expecting a child. After all, things will be very different once the baby arrives. You’ll instantly have another person’s needs and feelings to consider. Developing a bond that withstands the test of time provides a strong foundation of love and support for the baby you’re bringing into the world. Use this list to strengthen your relationship during pregnancy. Keep the romance alive. It’s important to give your partner the time and attention they deserve. You can do that easily by scheduling weekly date nights and being intimate whenever possible. Although your body is changing due to the hormones and weight gain that comes with being pregnant, celebrate every glorious inch of you. Your partner likely loves the way you look and can’t get enough of seeing you pregnant. Let them experience you this way. Do something unexpected. Spontaneity counts for a lot. Being surprised feels great. Keep your love alive by adding an element of surprise to your partner’s day. Do something unexpected and make them feel how important they are to you. It doesn’t need to be a grand gesture. Something small and heartfelt will do the trick. Slipping a note in their wallet or gym bag is one idea. Taking them to do something they’ve always wanted to do is another. Use your imagination and come up with a list of ways to surprise your partner. Communicate your wants and needs, but make sure you actively listen to your partner. It’s not enough to be a good communicator. You also need to be an excellent listener. That way, you’re not doing all the talking and failing to hear what your loved one has to say. Take turns talking and show interest in what your partner has to say by giving them verbal and non-verbal confirmation of what has been said. Take a trip or a short weekend getaway before you no longer can. The closer you get to your due date, the less likely you’ll be able to leave home. After all, you’ve selected a doctor and hospital to give birth at. If you’re in a different location and go into labor, you’ll be forced to rely on a stranger to help deliver your baby. Plan a vacation or spur-of-the-moment getaway. Make it something you both enjoy thoroughly by including activities that are different than what you normally do. Take lots of pictures, and don’t forget to sleep in whenever you get the chance. When you have a baby to tend to, that will get harder to do in the future. Your relationship automatically changes when your baby arrives. You become parents responsible for keeping a bouncing bundle of joy alive, well, and happy. That’s why it’s important that you work on strengthening the relationship you have now. You’ll be able to handle the demands on your schedule easier, be clear about whom will do what with the baby, and better prepare yourselves to be the type of role models every child deserves.

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.

A strong pelvis is beneficial to pregnant women. It prevents incontinence and makes birthing a baby smoother and less painful. Kegels are exercises that help strengthen the pelvic wall resulting in a successful delivery of your baby. The Benefits of Doing Kegels There are many benefits that come with doing Kegels. For example, the exercise is free and doesn’t require special equipment. It can also be done in the comfort of your own home and discreetly which increases the likelihood of women doing them regularly. How Will Doing Kegels Help Me? There are many ways to prepare your body for delivery and recovery after pregnancy. Bellefit helps you compress and support your body post-partum. You’ll have an easier time expelling fluids, reducing swelling, and improving your posture by wearing one of our special girdles. How Long Should I Hold Each Kegel? If you want to know how often you should do Kegels, you’re not alone. When you first start out, you’ll find them somewhat difficult to do. You should only tighten the pelvic muscles for three to five seconds before relaxing them for an equal amount of time. Doing this four to five times in a row a couple times of day is sufficient. Once you’ve conditioned the pelvis, however, it’s easier to hold the tightened muscles for longer. You can do this for up to 10 seconds at a time with practice as well as increase the amount of repetitions that you do. By the time you’ve been practicing Kegels for a while, you should do three sets of 10 of them daily for best results. Keep in mind that it’s much better to get quality squeezes in opposed to a bunch of squeezes that do nothing to condition the pelvic muscles. The idea is to get the most use out of the exercises so that you’re able to give birth easily and prevent incontinence wherever you go. When Should I Start Doing Kegels? You can start doing Kegels early on in your pregnancy. That way, you have more time to condition the pelvic muscles. Even after you’ve delivered, you can continue doing the exercises. They’ll help you speed along healing and improve muscle tone. You can even use smartphone apps to help remind you to do your exercises. There are many options available for iOS and Android users. So, to summarize, Kegels can be done at the beginning stages of pregnancy and long after your baby has been delivered. The exercises work well for women who have never been pregnant before as well as moms who already have given birth in the past. What makes them so great is how accessible and simple that they are. Kegels are easy to do, free, and beneficial. As a pregnant woman, they can be done daily to help improve your experience. You’ll have a much easier time delivering and recovering after giving birth because of these exercises. They’re also great for improving your sex life. When the pelvic muscles are strong, pleasure enhances. It’s a positive experience for both you and your partner.

If you thought that baby proofing your home would be difficult, you haven’t been introduced to Dreambaby - an internationally renowned and awarded child safety brand. We recently met Carolyn, founder of Dreambaby, and learned about her passionate commitment to educating parents about the child safety issues all parents face. Carolyn and Dreambaby are innovators in child safety and they've created everything from corner cushions to furniture anchors and everything in between. So which products does Carolyn from Dreambaby recommend to get started with? 1. Safety Problem: Falling off the Crib or Toddler Bed Babies and Toddlers are squirmy. They can move around in bed so much that it's easy for them to end up on the floor with a very preventable injury. SAFETY ITEM RECOMMENDED: Bed rails are excellent for peace of mind while transitioning your child to a toddler bed. 2. Safety Problem: Getting into unsafe areas of the home. When your baby is learning to crawl and walk, they can get into restricted areas impressively fast. SAFETY ITEM RECOMMENDED: Child Safety Gates. Parents can feel at ease knowing that their little one will not be able to access any unsafe or unsupervised area of the home. 3. Safety Problem: Bathroom Dangers The bathroom is an area of the home where parents spend a lot of time training their child so baby proofing the bathroom is a must to keep your baby safe. SAFETY ITEM RECOMMENDED: Inflatable Bath Spout Cover Bath time can get a little too fun at times. Protect your baby's head from the dangers of the water spout in the bathtub. Potty Training Toilet Seat the most ideal place to potty train your baby is on the actual toilet. These safety toilet seats are great for tiny butts, easy to clean and will prevent any gross falls into the toilet. Room & Bath Thermometer Before placing your baby or toddle into water, it's important to be confident that the water temperature is safe. 4. Safety Problem: Sharp Corners around the home. Sharp corners are around every corner of the house. They are almost inevitable, but what is completely avoidable is injuries from running into corners SAFETY ITEM RECOMMENDED: Corner Cushions & Bumpers. No more running to place your hand between your baby's face and the sharp corners. These corner bumpers are literally life-savers! 5. Safety Problem: Doors & Cabinets. Babies and Toddlers want to get into everything and they love playing with doors. SAFETY ITEM RECOMMENDED: Door Stoppers. Slamming a door is so easy, a baby can do it. These simple door stoppers can keep their little fingers safe. Magnetic Cabinet Locks Parents store a lot of unsafe items in their cabinets. These easy to install locks will prevent your baby or toddler from accessing unsafe items. Door Knob Covers If they cant open the door, then they wont be able to slam it or escape. Your number one goal after giving birth is to protect your child all the days of his or her life. Taking the precautionary measures necessary to make their home environment safe from harm is imperative as it reduces the risk of harm. As your baby becomes more independent, parents can feel more confident in the safety of their home thanks to Dreambaby and Carolyn's mission to keep all children safe. Click to Watch Carolyn's Handy Hints for more info on what she recommends to keep your child safe.

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