Dr. Lori Gore-Green | Women's Health Professional

Dr. Lori Gore-Green's Portfolio of Experience as a Women's Health Professional

5 Pregnancy Challenges That Nobody Talks About

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Congratulations! You’re pregnant! It’s a beautiful time filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe a touch of nausea (we’ve all been there). But between the baby bump selfies and the gushing over tiny clothes, there are some not-so-glamorous aspects of pregnancy that rarely get a mention.

Fear not, mamas-to-be! Here are 5 challenges you might encounter that pregnancy books don’t always cover:

  1. The Round-the-Clock Wardrobe Shuffle:

Gone are the days of throwing on your favorite jeans and heading out the door. Fluctuating hormones and that ever-growing bump can make finding clothes a daily struggle. Be prepared to invest in some comfy maternity staples (leggings, anyone?) and embrace the art of layering.

  1. Body Image Blues: Let’s be honest, pregnancy changes your body. It’s amazing what it can do, but it can also be emotionally challenging. Stretch marks, swollen ankles, and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of maternity support – it’s all part of the journey. Remember, this is temporary, and your body is doing incredible things!
  2. The Great Sleep Caper:

Insomnia? Heartburn keeping you up all night? Welcome to the wonderful world of pregnancy sleep (or lack thereof). Between bathroom breaks, strange cravings (who knew pickles and ice cream could be so appealing?), and the sheer discomfort of finding a good sleeping position, a full night’s rest can feel like a distant dream. Embrace naps, comfy pillows, and remember, this too shall pass.

  1. The Emotional Rollercoaster:

Pregnancy hormones are no joke. One minute you’re ecstatic, the next you’re weeping uncontrollably at a dog food commercial. It’s completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions. Talk to your partner, friends, or a therapist – having a support system is key during this time.

  1. The Socially Awkward Phase:

Let’s face it, some people just don’t know how to act around a pregnant woman. Brace yourself for unsolicited advice, intrusive belly touches (yikes!), and comments about your weight. The best defense? A healthy dose of humor and the ability to politely shut down unwanted commentary.

Remember, mama, you’re not alone! Every pregnancy is different, and these challenges can be temporary discomforts on the path to parenthood. Embrace the journey, find humor in the weirdness, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ve got this!

 

Top Pregnancy Milestones

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Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and numerous milestones that mark the progression of this miraculous experience. From the first positive pregnancy test to feeling those tiny kicks and finally holding your newborn in your arms, each milestone is a memorable moment on the road to parenthood. Let’s explore some of the top pregnancy milestones and the significance they hold for expectant parents:

The Positive Pregnancy Test

The first pregnancy milestone is undoubtedly when you see those two pink lines or a positive sign on a pregnancy test. It’s the confirmation that you’re expecting a baby and the beginning of a life-changing journey. Whether you’ve been trying to conceive for months or the pregnancy is a surprise, seeing that positive test result is an exhilarating moment filled with joy, excitement, and perhaps disbelief.

Hearing the Baby’s Heartbeat

Another significant milestone in pregnancy is hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time during a prenatal appointment. The rhythmic sound of your baby’s heartbeat provides reassurance and confirmation of your baby’s presence and well-being. It’s a magical moment that creates a tangible connection between you and your unborn child, filling you with a sense of wonder and love for the little life growing inside you.

Feeling the Baby’s First Movements

As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll feel your baby’s first movements, known as “quickening.” These gentle flutters, kicks, and rolls are one of pregnancy’s most memorable and exciting milestones. Feeling your baby move for the first time is a surreal experience that brings a newfound sense of connection and bond between you and your baby. It’s a reminder of the miracle of life and the incredible journey of motherhood that lies ahead.

Ultrasound and Gender Reveal

Another milestone in pregnancy is the ultrasound appointment, where you get a glimpse of your baby’s development and growth. Seeing your baby’s tiny hands, feet, and features on the ultrasound screen is a magical moment that brings the pregnancy to life in a whole new way. For many parents, the ultrasound also provides an opportunity to learn the baby’s gender, marking the exciting milestone of a gender reveal celebration and the beginning of planning and dreaming about your baby’s future.

Preparing the Nursery

Preparing the nursery becomes a significant milestone in pregnancy as your due date approaches. Decorating the nursery, assembling baby furniture, and organising baby clothes and essentials are all exciting tasks that help expectant parents feel more prepared and excited for their little one’s arrival. Creating a cosy and welcoming space for your baby is a tangible way to express your love and anticipation for their arrival.

Nesting Instinct

Towards the end of pregnancy, many expectant mothers experience the nesting instinct, a powerful urge to clean, organise, and prepare their home for the baby’s arrival. Nesting is a natural and intuitive behaviour that signals the final stages of pregnancy and the imminent arrival of your baby. It’s a time of intense energy and focus as you make final preparations and ensure everything is ready for your baby’s homecoming.

The Birth of Your Baby

The ultimate pregnancy milestone is, of course, the birth of your baby. After nine months of anticipation and preparation, the moment you finally hold your newborn in your arms is indescribable. It’s a moment filled with overwhelming love, joy, and gratitude as you marvel at the miracle of life and embark on the incredible journey of parenthood.

In conclusion, pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable milestones that mark the progression of this transformative experience. From the first positive pregnancy test to feeling those tiny kicks and finally meeting your baby for the first time, each milestone is a precious moment to be cherished and celebrated. As expectant parents, these milestones are reminders of the miracle of life and the extraordinary journey of bringing a new life into the world.

The Items You Need to Have on Your Baby Registry

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Creating a baby registry is an exciting and practical step for expectant parents as it helps friends and family contribute essential items for the upcoming arrival. To ensure you’re well-prepared for your baby’s needs, curating a comprehensive registry is crucial. Here’s a guide on the items you need to have on your baby registry:

Nursery Essentials:

Crib or Bassinet: A safe and comfortable sleeping space for your baby.

Changing Table: A dedicated area for diaper changes with storage for diapers and wipes.

Dresser: To store baby clothes, blankets, and other essentials.

Feeding Supplies:

Breast Pump: For breastfeeding mothers, a quality breast pump is essential.

Bottles and Nipples: Whether you breastfeed or use formula, having a variety of bottles and nipples is beneficial.

Nursing Pillow: Provides support during breastfeeding sessions.

Burp Cloths: Essential for managing spit-up during and after feeding.

Diapering Essentials:

Diapers: Stock up on different sizes for the first few months.

Wipes: Gentle wipes for diaper changes.

Diaper Bag: A spacious and organized bag for carrying diapers, wipes, and other essentials.

Diaper Pail: To contain and mask the smell of dirty diapers.

Clothing and Linens:

Onesies and Sleepsuits: Comfortable one-piece outfits for day and night.

Swaddle Blankets: Soft blankets for swaddling and keeping your baby snug.

Hats and Socks: Keep your baby’s head warm and feet covered.

Sleep Sacks: Provide a safe and cozy sleeping environment.

Baby Gear:

Stroller: A reliable stroller for walks and outings.

Car Seat: A must-have for safely transporting your baby in the car.

Baby Carrier: Allows for hands-free carrying and bonding with your baby.

Bouncer or Swing: Provides a soothing motion for naps and playtime.

Health and Safety Items:

Baby Monitor: Allows you to watch your baby while they sleep.

Thermometer: For monitoring your baby’s temperature.

Nasal Aspirator: Helps clear your baby’s nasal passages.

Baby First Aid Kit: Includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and infant-friendly medications.

Toiletries and Bathing Supplies:

Baby Shampoo and Wash: Gentle products for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Soft Towels and Washcloths: Perfect for bath time.

Baby Brush and Comb: Keeps your baby’s hair tidy and tangle-free.

Playtime and Developmental Toys:

Soft Toys: Stuffed animals and soft toys for cuddling.

Baby Gym: A playmat with hanging toys for tummy time and sensory development.

Rattles and Teething Toys: Helps with early sensory exploration.

Registry Completion Discounts and Perks:

Many retailers offer completion discounts for items remaining on your registry after your baby shower. Take advantage of these discounts to purchase any remaining essentials.

Gift Cards:

Include various gift cards to baby stores or general retailers, allowing you to fill in any gaps in your baby supplies as needed.

Creating a well-thought-out baby registry ensures you receive the items you need to care for your newborn. Regularly update your registry based on your preferences and needs, and remember to express your gratitude to those who contribute to your baby’s essentials.

Pros and Cons of Homeschooling

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Homeschooling has gained popularity recently, with more parents considering it for their children. While it offers distinct advantages, homeschooling also comes with its challenges. 

Pros of Homeschooling:

  1. Personalized Learning

One of the primary benefits of homeschooling is the ability to tailor the curriculum to your child’s specific learning style and pace. This personalized approach can lead to a deeper understanding of subjects and a love for learning.

 

  1. Flexible Schedule

Homeschooling allows families to create flexible schedules. This flexibility can accommodate travel, extracurricular activities, and a better work-life balance for parents.

 

  1. Individualized Attention

Children receive one-on-one attention from their parents or educators in a homeschooling setting. This focused interaction can help address learning challenges and nurture their strengths.

 

  1. Safe Learning Environment

Homeschooling provides a safe and controlled learning environment, reducing exposure to bullying, peer pressure, and other negative aspects of traditional schools.

 

  1. Customized Curriculum

Homeschooling enables parents to select curricula that align with their values, beliefs, and educational goals. This freedom allows for a more comprehensive and meaningful education.

 

  1. Flexibility in Teaching Methods

Parents can choose various teaching methods and materials to accommodate their child’s learning style. This adaptability can make learning more engaging and enjoyable.

 

  1. Strong Family Bonds

Homeschooling fosters strong family bonds through shared educational experiences. It provides opportunities for parents and children to bond and develop a deeper connection.

 

  1. Enhanced Safety and Health

Homeschooling can reduce exposure to health risks, such as contagious illnesses, and safety concerns associated with traditional schools.

Cons of Homeschooling:

  1. Lack of Social Interaction

Homeschooled children may have fewer opportunities for social interaction with peers. This can affect their social development and ability to navigate group dynamics.

 

  1. Limited Extracurricular Activities

Traditional schools often offer extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, and cultural events. Homeschooled children may have limited access to these opportunities.

 

  1. Parental Commitment

Homeschooling requires a significant time commitment from parents, which can be challenging for working parents or those with multiple children.

 

  1. Potential Gaps in Education

Inexperienced homeschooling parents may inadvertently overlook important subjects or teaching methods, resulting in gaps in their child’s education.

 

  1. Lack of Accreditation

Some colleges and universities may have specific admission requirements for homeschooled students, which can pose challenges for higher education.

 

  1. Resource Costs

Homeschooling can incur costs for educational materials, textbooks, and resources. It may also require one parent to stay home, impacting the family’s income.

 

  1. Legal Requirements

Homeschooling is subject to varying legal requirements depending on the state or country. Parents must navigate these regulations and meet educational standards.

 

  1. Potential for Isolation

Homeschooled children may experience feelings of isolation or a lack of exposure to diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

 

Homeschooling offers personalized learning, flexibility, and a safe environment, but it also poses challenges related to social interaction, parental commitment, and potential educational gaps. The decision to homeschool should consider your child’s needs, ability to provide a well-rounded education, and your family’s unique circumstances. Ultimately, homeschooling can be a rewarding experience when approached with dedication and a clear understanding of its pros and cons.

 

8 Ways to Get Your Children More Excited About Reading

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Encouraging a love of reading in children is a gift that can last a lifetime. However, getting kids excited about reading can be a challenge in today’s digital age. To help foster a passion for books, here are eight effective strategies:

 

  1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

A welcoming reading environment can make all the difference. Designate a cozy reading nook with comfortable seating, good lighting, and various age-appropriate books. Make it a special place where your child can escape the world of stories.

 

  1. Lead by Example

Children often model their behavior after adults, so they’re more likely to follow suit if they see you reading and enjoying books. Set aside time for family reading, where everyone can read their book or share a story.

 

  1. Offer a Diverse Selection

Stock your home with a wide range of reading materials, from picture books to graphic novels and non-fiction titles. Encourage your child to explore different genres, topics, and authors. Tailor their reading choices to their interests to keep them engaged.

 

  1. Make Reading an Adventure

Transform reading into an adventure by incorporating fun activities. For instance, you can:

 

  • Visit the Library: Take regular trips to the library, allowing your child to select books.
  • Read Aloud: Read stories aloud enthusiastically, using different voices for characters to make it entertaining.
  • Book Club: Organize a family or neighborhood book club where kids can discuss books they’ve read.
  • Book-related Outings: Plan outings related to books, such as visiting places mentioned in a story or attending author events if possible.

 

  1. Celebrate Milestones

Recognize and celebrate your child’s reading achievements. Set small goals, like completing a certain number of pages or finishing a book series, and reward them with praise or a small treat. Celebrating these milestones can boost their motivation to read.

 

  1. Participate in Reading Challenges

Join reading challenges or programs at your local library or school. These challenges often include incentives and prizes for meeting specific reading goals, adding an element of competition and excitement.

 

  1. Engage in Discussion

After your child finishes a book, engage them in discussions about the story. Ask open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and exploration of themes and characters.

 

  1. Incorporate Technology Sparingly

While digital devices can be distracting, they can also be used to foster a love of reading. Consider e-books, audiobooks, or interactive reading apps that bring stories to life engagingly.

 

Remember that every child is unique; what excites one may not work for another. Be patient and adaptable in your approach, and always keep the focus on the joy of reading rather than pressuring your child. By implementing these strategies and nurturing a positive reading environment, you can help your children develop a lifelong love of books.

 

Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

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Navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship simultaneously is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Balancing the demands of raising children while pursuing entrepreneurial ambitions requires careful planning, adaptability, and self-care. 

Here are some key considerations and strategies to help navigate the complex intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Time management:

Efficient time management is crucial for juggling the responsibilities of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Create a schedule that includes dedicated blocks of time for both roles. Prioritize tasks, delegate when possible, and set realistic expectations. 

Establish a support system: 

Building a solid support system is vital. Surround yourself with family, friends, and mentors who can offer emotional support, practical advice, and assistance with childcare. 

Define boundaries: 

Clearly define boundaries between work and family life. Set specific working hours and communicate them with your family. Establishing boundaries helps create a sense of structure and allows for quality time with your children. 

Delegate and outsource: 

Learn to delegate tasks at home and in your business. Enlist the help of your partner, family members, or trusted professionals to share the load. Consider outsourcing certain aspects of your business, such as administrative tasks or marketing, to free up more time for family commitments.

Embrace flexibility: 

One of the benefits of entrepreneurship is the ability to create a flexible schedule. Take advantage of this flexibility to attend school events, doctor’s appointments, or spend quality time with your children. 

Self-care is essential: 

It’s easy for entrepreneurial mothers to neglect self-care, but caring for yourself is vital for overall well-being. Prioritize activities that promote physical and mental health, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with friends. 

Set realistic goals: 

As an entrepreneurial mother, setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial. Understand that your pace may be different from that of others, and that’s okay.

Build a flexible business model: 

Consider designing your business model to accommodate the needs of motherhood. Explore options such as remote work, flexible hours, or creating a business that aligns with your family’s values and lifestyle. 

Seek mentorship and guidance: 

Connect with other entrepreneurial mothers who have successfully navigated this journey. Seek mentors who can provide guidance and advice based on their experiences. 

Embrace the journey: 

Remember that being a mother and an entrepreneur is a unique and remarkable journey. Embrace the challenges and joys that come with it. Stay true to your vision and purpose, and remember that you are setting a powerful example for your children as they witness your dedication, resilience, and pursuit of your dreams.

Successfully navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship requires careful planning, adaptability, and self-care. You can find a harmonious balance between your roles as a mother and an entrepreneur by effectively managing your time, establishing a support system, setting boundaries, and embracing flexibility. Remember to prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, and seek guidance from mentors who have traveled a similar path. Ultimately, embracing the journey and staying true to your vision can create a fulfilling and meaningful life as a mother and an entrepreneur.

Healthy Meals Your Children Might Actually Eat

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Encouraging children to eat healthy meals can sometimes be a challenge. Many kids have solid preferences for sweets, fast food, and snacks, making introducing nutritious options into their diets difficult. However, with creativity and the right approach, you can prepare healthy meals that your children might enjoy. 

Here are some ideas to make mealtimes more enticing and nutritious for your kids.

Make it colorful: 

Children are often attracted to visually appealing meals. Create colorful plates by incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables. 

Sneak in the veggies: 

If your child hesitates eating vegetables, try hiding them in their favorite dishes. Blend vegetables into pasta sauces, soups, or smoothies. You can also grate or finely chop veggies and add them to dishes like meatballs, burgers, or casseroles.

Use whole grains: 

Replace refined grains with whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat bread. Whole grains provide more fiber and nutrients than their processed counterparts. Try making whole-grain pancakes, pizzas, or sandwiches to incorporate these healthier options into your child’s meals.

Offer a variety of proteins: Children need protein for growth and development. Offer a range of protein sources like lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, and tofu. Experiment with different cooking methods, such as grilling, baking, or stir-frying, to make them more appealing.

Get creative with snacks: 

Instead of reaching for sugary snacks, offer healthier, fun alternatives. Make fruit kebabs, homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruits, or yogurt parfaits with layers of fruits and granola.

Make mealtime fun: 

Turn mealtime into an enjoyable experience. Arrange food in fun shapes or designs on the plate. Use cookie cutters to shape sandwiches or fruits into interesting forms. You can create a themed meal around your child’s favorite book or movie character.

Set a good example: 

Children are more likely to eat healthy meals if they see their parents doing the same. Be a role model by making healthy choices yourself. Show enthusiasm for nutritious foods and explain their benefits to your children.

Don’t force it: 

Remember that forcing your child to eat certain foods can create negative associations with them. Instead, introduce new foods gradually and repeatedly. Offer various options and let your child explore and discover their preferences over time.

Limit processed foods and sugary drinks: 

Minimize the availability of unhealthy options at home. Avoid keeping sugary drinks, chips, and cookies within easy reach. Instead, stock up on fresh fruits, cut-up vegetables, and healthier snack options.

Encouraging your children to eat healthy meals can be achieved with creativity and persistence. By involving them in meal planning, making meals visually appealing, and offering various nutritious options, you can increase the likelihood of them enjoying and embracing healthier choices. Remember to set a positive example, be patient, and keep mealtimes fun. With time, your children may develop a taste for healthy foods and establish lifelong habits that promote their overall well-being.

How to Make Your Kids Feel More at Home After Moving

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Moving can be a challenging experience for both parents and children. It can be difficult to adjust to a new home and community, especially for kids who may have to leave behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines. However, there are steps you can take as a parent to help your kids feel more at home after moving. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for making the transition to a new home easier for your children.

Involve Your Kids in the Moving Process

One way to help your kids feel more at home after moving is to involve them as much as possible. This can help them feel like they have some control over the situation and give them a sense of ownership over their new home. Consider letting them help pack their belongings, choose decorations for their new room, and even pick out furniture or paint colors.

Create a Familiar Environment

One of the challenges of moving is that everything can feel new and unfamiliar. To help your kids feel more at home, try to create a familiar environment by unpacking their belongings as soon as possible. This can include their favorite toys, books, and clothing. Setting up their room to look and feel like their old room can also be comforting.

Establish Routines

Routines can be comforting and familiar for kids, especially in a new and unfamiliar environment. Try to establish routines as soon as possible after moving. This includes meal times, bedtime routines, and extracurricular activities. Stick to these routines as much as possible to help your kids feel more at home.

Explore the New Community

Exploring the new community can be fun to help your kids feel more at home after moving. Take them on a tour of the new neighborhood, including parks, playgrounds, and other local attractions. This can help them feel more connected to their new surroundings and can also help them make new friends.

Get Involved in Local Activities

Getting involved in local activities can be an excellent way for your kids to make new friends and feel more at home in their new community. Consider signing them up for sports teams, clubs, or other extracurricular activities. This can help them meet other kids with similar interests and give them a sense of belonging.

Stay in Touch With Old Friends

Moving doesn’t mean your kids have to lose touch with their old friends. Please encourage them to stay in touch through phone calls, video chats, and social media. This can help them feel less isolated and give them a sense of continuity and connection to their old home.

Be Patient and Supportive

Adjusting to a new home and community can take time, and your kids may experience various emotions as they navigate this transition. Be patient and supportive, and listen to their concerns and feelings. Encourage them to discuss their experiences and offer reassurance and guidance when needed.

Moving can be a challenging experience for kids, but there are steps you can take as a parent to help them feel more at home in their new environment. By involving them in the moving process, creating a familiar environment, establishing routines, exploring the new community, getting involved in local activities, staying in touch with old friends, and being patient and supportive, you can help your kids adjust to their new home and make a positive transition.

Unexpected Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

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Expectant parents often expect the usual symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea and backaches. However, there are some unexpected side effects of this process.

 

Some things can be unexpected and even frightening for pregnant women. Unfortunately, doctors or family members often do not discuss these physical effects. So, here are unusual pregnancy symptoms that most people would never consider.

 

Sinus Issues

Nose bleeds and stuffiness is common during pregnancy and can be caused by increased blood flow through one’s nose. According to studies, the prevalence of nose bleeds during pregnancy is higher than that of non-pregnant women.

 

You can treat these conditions with natural remedies, such as using a Neti pot or a humidifier. However, if these don’t work, consult a doctor or midwife. Aside from being inconvenient, stuffiness and nose bleeds are rarely severe during pregnancy.

 

Trouble Sleeping

During the first and third trimesters, the effects of pregnancy can zap one’s energy. Some people also experience insomnia during this period.

 

Although insomnia can be an early sign that one is pregnant, it can also occur throughout the pregnancy. It can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty falling asleep or not being able to get back to sleep after being awakened.

 

It’s essential to keep in mind that insomnia can come and go. Although it can appear in the first and third trimesters, it can also occur throughout the pregnancy.

 

Digestive Issues

Is it a sign of pregnancy that you’re experiencing gas and belching? The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause your gastrointestinal tract to spin, and these symptoms can appear in the first and third trimesters. To minimize these symptoms, avoid consuming food that can produce gas.

 

Skipping processed food and consuming healthy and nutritious food can help minimize these symptoms. Holding gas can cause pain and make one feel embarrassed if they have to deal with it often.

 

Having a plan can also help minimize these symptoms. Some people avoid food altogether and go to the bathroom. Others try to limit their exposure to certain foods.

 

Abdominal Pain

One of the most common conditions women experience during pregnancy is pelvic girdle pain, caused by the growth of the uterus and the stretching of various tissues.

 

This condition can appear on the belly button or the abdominal skin. It can be referred to as belly button pain, which can be achy or intense when touched. It usually happens during the later stages of pregnancy as the belly grows. 

 

A midwife or doctor can also help you find relief. Some of the most effective ways to relieve pain are using a belly support band, taking a bath, and getting a light massage.

 

Constipation

Another condition that can affect a woman’s body during pregnancy is constipation. It can appear in around 11% to 38% of pregnant women.

 

The rise in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy can cause your gastrointestinal tract to slow down. This condition can make it hard for you to pass stool.

 

Some of the most effective ways to relieve constipation are drinking plenty of water, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising. However, if none of these can provide relief, you should consult a doctor or midwife.

 

Sensitive Gums

Due to the hormonal changes that can affect a woman’s body during pregnancy, her tender gum tissue can swell and bleed. It can also cause her to feel bloated and have a metallic taste in her mouth.

 

If oral problems, such as those caused by pregnancy gingivitis, are already present, they can be exacerbated during pregnancy. Having regular dental cleanings and brushing can help keep these conditions under control.

What to Pack for the Birth of Your Child

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When preparing for your child’s birth, you must have the necessary supplies to ensure that both the mother and the baby are comfortable and calm. Having the right gear can help make the experience as stress-free and relaxing as possible.

 

You must also have the necessary supplies to ensure the mother and the baby are comfortable and calm. To help you plan and pack the hospital bag, here are some suggestions for packing a hospital bag and what you should bring to the facility when your child is due.

 

Comfortable Clothing

Although the hospital usually provides a traditional gown, the mother might want to bring something loose that she can wear without being too attached. Wearing an open-back dress may be more convenient for epidurals. Other options include wearing an oversized cardigan over an open back.

 

Relaxation Tools

Some things you can bring that will make your partner’s experience even more relaxing include a playlist you have already chosen, a birthing statue, and a massage lotion. These items can help make the entire experience more comfortable. You can also set up photos around the room and have a birthing statue that your partner can use to focus on during labor.

 

Many people also bring essential oils and a baby diffuser to help keep the environment clean and comfortable during birth. Many recommend doTERRA’s aromatherapy oils, which can help create a relaxing atmosphere in the hospital. Another idea is to bring along positive affirmation cards, which can help the nurses identify helpful phrases for the mother.

 

Yoga Ball

Although hospitals typically provide a yoga ball, you can still bring your own if you’re in labor. Also referred to as a birthing ball, these large, portable devices can be purchased from sporting goods stores. These can help open the pelvis and relax the perineum.

 

The balls can also encourage the baby to move, and babies need movement to get moving. The gentle rocking motion can help with this.

 

Basic Hygiene Products

Even though hospitals are generally sterile, you and your partner will still need personal hygiene products. The father-to-be will need toothpaste, toothbrushes, mints, and gum.

 

Having fresh mouth smells can help keep the laboring woman’s breath fresh. In addition to the usual Dopp kit, you and your partner can bring several extras, such as a bottle of coconut oil and nipple cream. The hospital will also have pads and underwear, which can be filled with additional products.

 

New mothers will likely want to use nipple cream and can use witch hazel on the pads after birth to help with their healing properties.

 

Hair Ties

If the woman has long hair, a pair of elastics can be used to keep it in place during the hot and heavy labor. She may also want to keep it out of her face after giving birth.