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

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

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.

What to Know About Epidurals

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Epidurals are a commonly used medical intervention for pain management, particularly during childbirth and certain surgical procedures. Understanding the basics of epidurals can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare. Here’s what you need to know about epidurals:

Administration:

An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist typically administers epidurals. A needle inserts a small, flexible catheter into the epidural space. The catheter allows continuous medication administration, ensuring a more sustained pain relief effect.

Common Uses:

Epidurals are commonly used during childbirth to manage labor pain. They can also be employed in other medical situations, such as certain surgeries, chronic pain management, and relief from severe back pain.

Childbirth Epidurals:

In the context of childbirth, epidurals are often chosen by women seeking relief from the intense pain of labor. The procedure is generally performed when the cervix is dilated to a certain extent. While epidurals are highly effective in providing pain relief, they may slightly prolong the labor process in some cases.

Risks and Side Effects:

As with any medical procedure, epidurals might have unintended consequences and hazards. A dip in blood pressure, headache, itching, and, in extreme circumstances, nerve damage are a few of these symptoms. Anyone must think about getting an epidural to address these possible dangers with their doctor.

Timing and Decision-Making:

The decision to opt for an epidural is a personal one and may depend on various factors, including the individual’s pain tolerance, medical history, and birth plan preferences. 

Alternatives:

Although epidurals are a standard option for treating pain, there are other options as well. These might include breathing exercises, hydrotherapy, natural pain relief methods, and intravenous painkillers. Making well-informed decisions that align with personal preferences can be facilitated by talking about these possibilities with medical professionals before childbirth.

Post-Epidural Care:

After receiving an epidural, individuals may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the lower body. Following healthcare providers’ guidance on movement and positioning is essential during this time. Additionally, monitoring for potential complications, such as infection at the injection site, is crucial.

Effect on Mobility:

While epidurals are effective in providing pain relief, they may temporarily affect mobility. Some individuals may experience difficulty walking or standing, particularly immediately after the epidural administration. However, these effects are temporary and subside as the medication wears off.

Understanding the basics of epidurals is essential for individuals facing the prospect of labor pain or other medical procedures. Open communication with healthcare providers, consideration of alternatives, and informed decision-making contribute to a positive epidural experience and effective pain management. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance based on individual circumstances.

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.

 

How to Tell When Your Newborn’s Terrible Sleep Cycle Might be a Sign of Something More Serious

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Whether you have a newborn or an older infant, your baby may sleep excessively. An older infant who sleeps excessively is often only doing so when ill or after a hectic day, while a newborn who sleeps all day is more of a potential problem.

Due to their limited stomach size, newborns must feed regularly to receive the necessary nutrition. Breastfed infants shouldn’t go without food for more than two to four hours, while formula-fed infants shouldn’t go without food for more than three to four hours. Although leaving a very tired newborn asleep may be tempting, you must wake the baby up if it doesn’t feed on its own. Keep a tight watch on the time for the first two to three weeks, and wake your infant when it’s time. Allowing your infant to sleep for more than two to four hours while you are trying to nurse creates a double problem. The baby won’t get enough food, and your milk supply may decrease.

Each infant has somewhat varied sleep requirements and routines. During the day, older infants may take a longer sleep than usual after a very active day. The odd additional daytime rest is nothing to worry about as long as nighttime sleep isn’t disturbed. Giving your baby more than four hours to nap can make it more difficult to tuck them in at night or cause your baby to wake up earlier than usual the next day.

Long lengths of sleep followed by a refusal to wake up for feedings may indicate that your baby is sick. It’s natural for your baby to spend much more time sleeping when he has a sickness since sleep helps fight diseases and recover faster. If your baby sleeps for six to eight hours at a time when only a month or two old, call your pediatrician.

It may be challenging to get a sleeping baby to feed. If you wake your infant while in a light REM stage of sleep when his arms or legs are moving, his face is changing expressions, or his eyes are fluttering, you’ll find it more straightforward. Do your best to convince your infant to take a complete meal because you went to the effort of disturbing him. It’s alright to let your baby doze off again if, despite your best efforts, he is only interested in a bite. But let your doctor know if you’re having problems fitting in two whole feedings in a row.

Allowing your sick child to take longer or earlier naps than usual is OK. Even so, it’s worth waking him up if she takes longer naps than three to four hours at a period since lengthier breaks might prevent him from sleeping through the night.

Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy While Living Abroad

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Most young couples find it challenging to move overseas. This is particularly true if they plan to have a kid in the new location. When you relocate abroad, your baby’s health, safety, and well-being are priorities. Complications may arise from foreign healthcare systems, traditions, cultural differences, and language barriers. Here are some suggestions to assist people who want to give birth abroad.

Cost

You should know the associated medical costs when establishing a family while living far from home. Before becoming pregnant, ex-pat couples are highly advised to get foreign health insurance, including maternity. While medical expenses may differ from nation to country, many ex-pats probably overlook that having a baby while living abroad may be expensive. Foreign nationals should know their limitations if they want to give birth in a public hospital. Despite the availability of hospitals, some nations charge $39,000 for delivery services and check-ups, while others may charge a few thousand. Several nations, like China and the USA, charge around $3,000 per day for any further hospitalization. You can get direct billing recommendations from a doctor and hospital in your foreign health insurance provider’s network. 

There is often a 12-month waiting period before pregnancy costs are covered under individual ex-pat health policies. Some plans do not provide any maternity benefits. The last thing you want to discover is that you are not insured. The majority of group international health insurance policies offer free maternity coverage. Read the tiny print since maternity and infant care may be pricey.  

Citizenship

Most ex-pat couples ponder which country they want to raise their child when they become parents abroad. It’s critical for international couples to choose a birth location where they feel at ease. If specific legal conditions are completed, a child born overseas to U.S. or Canadian residents may often receive citizenship for themselves at birth.

Care Plan

You must educate yourself on the new country’s healthcare system as much as possible. Focus on the maternity care services you will have access to. A list of medical professionals and facilities of your global medical plan providers should be provided. Remember to examine the hospital where you will birth your child. Ensure that it is well-kept, capable, and reputable. Whether you are already an expatriate or before you go overseas, attempt to locate proper child care as soon as you learn you are pregnant. Your foreign employer can help or connect you with other foreign couples.

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.

 

 

3 Great TED Talks About Pregnancy and Childbirth

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When you’re looking to learn about something as an adult, you probably default to reading a book, or going online and reading articles and the like. If you’re having a baby or recently had one though, reading a book can be tough. You’re likely exhausted and might struggle to focus on it, or perhaps you just don’t have the time since reading can be time-consuming depending on your level. A great alternative to reading if you want to learn more about pregnancy and childbirth is to watch a few TED Talks on the subject. TED Talks are a great way to learn more about a subject in a concise manner from experts on that topic. Here are a few great TED Talks on childbirth and pregnancy worth checking out.

 

What We Learn Before We’re Born – Annie Paul Murphy

Annie Paul Murphy is an acclaimed science writer whose work includes the book Origins, which explores how the nine months before birth can shape the rest of one’s life. In her TED Talk, she discusses the importance of an environment that’s healthy for both the mother and the baby. Murphy explores the various aspects of fetal origins, which is a complex study that’s still in its early stages. She also talks about what babies learn in their first few months, such as the sound of their mother’s voice and the taste of food. Outside of discussing the scientific side of pregnancy, Murphy also talks about the responsibility that parents have to teach their kids.

 

Why It Matters How We Are Born – Bettina Breunig

In her TED Talk, Bettina Breunig discusses the importance surrounding how we enter the world through childbirth. Bruenig discusses scheduled births, such as cesarean sections and induction to the idea of scheduling death. The short but powerful talk (only 6 minutes!) she delivers adds to our understanding of why people schedule births and how important it is to have a healthy environment for both the mother and the baby.

 

Breaking the Silence of Pregnancy Loss – Tanika Dillard

Author and motivational speaker Tanika Dillard talks about her experiences with miscarriages and losing multiple children. She says that she always wanted to be a mother, and when she was eight years old, she had already decided on the names of nine potential children. She and her husband were thrilled when she got pregnant for the first time, and she shared the good news with everyone. Unfortunately, her water broke at only 16 weeks and she lost the baby. Over the next few years, Dillard and her husband conceived several children but lost them all. She tells these stories not because she looks for pity, but because she wants to break the silence on pregnancy loss. This is an inspiring talk that aims to normalize these difficult conversations and instill hope in women who might be afraid of trying to conceive a child.