What to Pack for Labor and Delivery

If you’re water has broken and you’re leaking—or just in case it breaks on the way to the hospital—cover your seat with a trash bag or put towels underneath you to protect the car seat. You can even wear disposable underpants that you can buy at the pharmacy. You might want to have some things … Read more

Pregnancy Suitcase: What to Bring to the Hospital

~ Bras (if breastfeeding, nursing bras if …bottle-feeding, maternity bras) ~ Gown (if breastfeeding bring a nursing gown) ~ Slippers ~ Robe ~ Personal items (shampoo, hair dryer, brush, comb, etc.) ~ Clothes to wear home (something loose and comfortable) ~ Going home outfit for baby ~ Receiving blanket for baby ~ Infant car seat … Read more

Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy

Getting adequate amounts of calories to meet your energy needs is a priority. If caloric intake is too low your body will not use protein properly. Therefore, it is important to get enough calories during pregnancy. Nutrition Needed For Major Dietary Source Calories ~ Fruit, Nuts Meats Increased Energy Carbohydrates ~ Bread, Cereal, Rice, Pasta, … Read more

Evaluating a Child-Care Center

Putting your newborn in someone else’s care is a big decision and one that you will want to take great care in making. Whether you’re having to return to work or you just need care for a day, these are things to consider when leaving your baby at a child-care center. Evaluate the Setting 1. … Read more

Third Trimester Issues

Issue Cause Recommendations Shortness of breath and dyspnea occur in 60% of pregnant women Expansion of diaphragm limited by enlarging uterus; diaphragm is elevated about 4 cm (1 1/2 in); some relief after lightening Good posture; sleep with extra pillows; avoid overloading stomach, stop smoking; refer to physician if symptoms worsen. Insomnia (trouble sleeping) in … Read more

Birth Plan

Although it is impossible to plan everything that will happen during birth, you can at least think about what you would like to happen and let your wishes be known to your midwife or doctor and hospital. These are some things to think about, you’re sure to think of others as you get closer to … Read more

The Baby Blues

For many women, the days after birth are filled with many of mood changes. Some women find they feel weepy without any definite reason. Some women notice a change in their appetites. A few women notice they cannot sleep, even when very tired; others may feel like sleeping much more than before. In the first … Read more

Adjusting to Being a New Mom

Tips to ease your adjustment to being a new mom: • Plan Ahead. Most new parents say that the evening meal time is the most difficult time of the day. While still pregnant, prepare and freeze some meals that will only need heating up. This can make meal times much less hectic in the first … Read more

Choosing Childcare

There are several child-care options available to you, depending on your preferences, your budget, and your schedule. These are some ideas and guidelines to follow when pursuing your child-care needs. In the Home 1. Nannies are hired specifically to care for children. They typically do not do work around the home that does not relate … Read more

Epidural Anesthesia During Labor and Delivery

Epidural anesthesia is an excellent way of taking away the pain of labor and delivery. Like most invasive medical treatments it has risks and benefits, but it is generally safe, has significant advantages over general anesthesia, and less anesthetic is needed than with general anesthesia. An epidural causes less stress to the cardiovascular system because … Read more