With more babies being born by Cesarean section, a new movement is campaigning to create a more natural experience for both mom and baby. It's known as the "Natural Cesarean" or "Family-Centered Cesarean". But, is it right for you?
Having a baby is a big deal. There are so many choices to make. And to make those educated choices, we need information about our options. You may have heard of the term “evidence-based” information, but what exactly does that mean? And how does it differ from other kind of information out there?
You think you're having contractions, so it's off to the hospital you go! So, what should you expect when you arrive? At what point are you provided with a labor and delivery room? How many people will be caring for you as you await your baby's big debut? And what typically happens after your baby is born?
Your first baby was born via c-section and with this time you're hoping to have a vaginal birth, or VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). You may have heard about some of the risks, but what does it all actually mean? Are VBACs more risky than having a repeat c-section? What factors should you consider before making this big decision for both you and your baby?
Most women have been told not to eat anything while in labor, but why? What are the risks to both you and your baby. How do current guidelines vary for vaginal versus cesarean births? Today we'll discuss why most medical providers restrict what you can eat and drink prior to the birth of your baby, and you'll learn more about a new study indicating a light meal during labor can actually be helpful for low risk pregnancies.
Whether you choose to birth in a hospital, birth center or home, there are small things you can do to help make your birth experience as calm and comfortable as possible. How can we tame our five senses so we can relax more easily? Can aromatherapy and essential oils help your labor progress faster? Does special lighting help with pain management? And can your favorite music playlist re-energize you for those last few pushes when baby is crowning?
You've heard of contractions during labor and delivery, but what about back labor? What exactly is back labor, what does it feel like and what causes it to happen? Plus, we've got tips on how to prevent it and methods to naturally manage it.
When you first find out you're pregnant, you probably aren't thinking much about your cervix. But this tiny organ is already preparing for your baby. It softens, lengthens, elongates, dilates, thins, and does all sorts of interesting things right up to the moment your baby is born. Learn more about what causes these changes and what it means for your labor and delivery experience!
This application is the most convenient way to keep track of your labor contractions. Simply tap a single button to track the start and end of each of your contractions, and “Full Term” will take care of the rest. The application is designed to keep track of the times, durations and frequency of the entire… Continue Reading
There's a lot of unknowns when it comes to being pregnant, and you may not be 100% comfortable asking your doctor all the questions you have buzzing around that pregnancy brain of yours. Will you really "poo" when you push? What's happening with your boobs? And will you ever fit back into your pre-pregnancy clothes again?
Your water breaks. What do you do now? It's not always as dramatic as the movies make it out to be, but you should still be prepared. What can your amniotic fluid tell you about your baby? Why are babies usually delivered shortly after a mother's water breaks? And what does T.A.C.O. have to do with it?
A scar is the body’s natural response to injury. Even our cervices can grow scar tissue. And that scarring may affect fertility, pregnancy and labor. Learn how to recognize the signs of having cervical scar tissue so you can take control of your birth experience.
We're continuing our series to help you choose the best health care providers for your birth. In this episode, we'll explore the role of a postpartum doula. How can they help you after your baby is born and how can you find the right one for you?
Your body experiences many changes throughout pregnancy. The uterus becomes 1000 times its normal size. Learn more about the uterus and how it protects your baby and helps it grow throughout pregnancy.
