When pregnant, new moms are faced with an array of decisions. One common and often most stressful decision regarding new babies is whether or not to breastfeed. While every mother is different, many women decide to at least try to breastfeed right away. However, some become quickly discouraged for various reasons, like a lack of milk production, discomfort, or pressure from others. Whether to breastfeed or bottlefeed is a personal choice; either decision is okay and right for your family. Sometimes, mothers cannot breastfeed because of medical reasons. Yet, for the ones who choose to breastfeed, this task can feel daunting or a little stressful.

So, I reached out to expert lactation consultants from Southeastern Indiana for their expertise, and they shared their wisdom and experience with me. Both lactation consultations have several years of experience, with one, Collisha Wright-Davidson, being an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Read more about what a lactation expert wants you to know.

Pros of Breastfeeding

Before we dive into what a lactation expert wants you to know, let’s look at the pros of breastfeeding. Sometimes, the topic of breastfeeding versus bottle feeding can be controversial. While both the AAP and the WHO recommend breastfeeding until the ages of six months to two years old, the decision is a personal choice. However, there are some great benefits to choosing breastfeeding.

• Breastfeeding is a cheaper option.
• There is no prep for breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding offers your baby all the fantastic nutrients they need to grow and thrive.
• It strengthens the baby’s immune system.
• Breastfeeding also aids in helping the baby’s digestive system.
• It can prevent SIDS.
• Breastfeeding is also great for preemies.
• Not to mention, breastfeeding is excellent for momma as well. It can aid in weight loss and recovery and lower the risk of postpartum depression.

Cons of Breastfeeding

Like anything, breastfeeding also comes with a list of cons.

• Breastfeeding can be uncomfortable, especially at first.
• Moms will need to watch their intake of foods and drinks.
• Newborns need to eat often, which can be demanding and tiresome for a new mom getting little rest.
• It’s not possible to see how much the baby is eating.

Now that we have discussed the pros and cons of breastfeeding let’s examine what a lactation consultant wishes all new mothers knew.

Learn All You Can About Breastfeeding While You Are Pregnant

When it comes to what a lactation expert wants you to know, one of the most essential things is that education is important. Lactation expert Collisha says that while you are pregnant it is the best time to learn everything you can about breastfeeding.

Many online resources are available, including the Office for Women’s Health. Additionally, hospitals typically offer classes for new moms and have a lactation consultant to contact with any questions.

Additionally, if possible, talk to your mother or grandmother about their experience with breastfeeding. While everyone’s journey is different, this may offer insight into any difficulties they may have had and help prepare you mentally for your journey.

Right After Birth, Place the Baby on Your Breast

After birth, the mother’s body begins to produce colostrum. This yellowish milk contains many nutrients and antibodies that benefit the baby.

Many lactation consultants suggest the best thing to do right after birth is to place the baby on the breast. The WHO and UNICEF agree that the baby should be introduced to breastfeeding within an hour of birth because it has many benefits. These benefits include:

• Bonding between mom and baby.
• It takes advantage of the baby’s wakefulness.
• Regulates the baby’s temperature, heart rate, and breathing.
• It can stabilize the baby’s blood sugar.

So, if your baby is born without needing urgent medical attention, you can try placing them on your breast right after birth. Collisha Wright-Davidson shared this interesting fact, stating that “babies can actually ‘crawl’ to the breast right after birth when placed on momma’s belly.”

If Possible, Stay Away From Offering the Bottle

Sometimes, moms have no choice but to offer the bottle. This can be necessary if they have to return to work after a short period or are having difficulties getting enough rest in those early days. However, our lactation consultant Collisha suggested that moms avoid offering the bottle while breastfeeding.

The reason for this is because doing so can cause nipple confusion. There are times when latch difficulties arise. If this happens to you, do not hesitate to contact a lactation consultant for advice and encouragement.

All Your Baby Needs Right After Birth is Your Colostrum

Sometimes, new moms become stressed if their milk doesn’t come in right away. However, the female body produces colostrum immediately, and it’s all the baby needs right after birth. Although colostrum doesn’t seem like much, it is packed with nutrients and antibodies that promote your baby’s immune system.

Additionally, when a baby is born, its belly is tiny—think the size of a cherry. This means that a baby’s belly can only hold a small amount of milk, around a teaspoon or less. This is one reason why babies need to eat frequently. So, do not stress if it doesn’t seem like your baby is eating enough. They do not need a lot, and your colostrum is enough.

Check Your Baby’s Output For Clues

For moms stressed about whether or not their baby is eating enough check their output for clues. Be mindful and note how many times a day they urinate. If your baby is not getting enough milk, they will stop urinating. This can be a clue that it’s time to reach out to a consultant or a doctor for advice on the next steps.

Breastfeeding is a Process

For some, breastfeeding comes easily; it feels as natural as breathing. However, for others, it’s more complex. It’s important to remember that breastfeeding your new baby is a process.

There will be bumps in the road and other days when everything goes smoothly. Keep walking the journey even if it doesn’t happen as fast or as you think it should.

Remember, Every Baby and Mom is Different

Any mother with more than one child will tell you that every baby is different. It’s also important to remember that every mom is different as well. Your journey is distinct from your friend’s or your sister’s.

This means you will be doing yourself and your baby a disservice if you compare your breastfeeding journey to anyone else’s. Instead, take it one step and one day at a time. Reach out for support from an experienced lactation consultant, a friend, or a family member. Someone who can remind you why you are on this journey, to begin with.

Enjoy Every Moment

The moments with our babies go by way too fast. It’s easy to get sucked into a mindset that makes us miss the important moments. Such as bonding with your newborn, watching them grow, smile, and laugh.

While it’s impossible to enjoy every little moment, taking care of yourself can help get rid of a negative mind and lead to refreshing. It’s important to find time for yourself and get plenty of rest because it can allow you to enjoy your newborn while they are still so small.

Don’t Be too Hard on Yourself

If your breastfeeding journey isn’t going the way you had dreamed, do not be hard on yourself. As stated before, every mom and baby are different. Breastfeeding may take more effort for you but do not beat yourself down.

A positive attitude will help you more on your journey than a negative one. This is why taking it one feeding at a time is important.

When Your Milk Comes in Will Vary

On average, a woman’s breast milk takes three to five days to come in. Breastfeeding moms will begin to notice their breasts becoming fuller. Additionally, their body will produce more milk each time the baby feeds. This means a woman’s milk supply will be well established on average after around a month.

However, “on average” doesn’t mean this is every woman’s story. It takes multiple times breastfeeding for milk to come in, and when it does will vary from woman to woman. If your milk isn’t coming in right away, stay encouraged. Continue working with a lactation consultant, monitor your baby’s output, and breastfeed exclusively if their output is okay. Before you know it, your milk will be in!

In Conclusion

Being able to breastfeed is a unique and beautiful part of being a woman and a new mom. However, this doesn’t mean it is easy. When it comes to breastfeeding these important tips are what a lactation expert wants you to know. For some women, their journey of breastfeeding their new baby is lined with curves and bumps in the road, while for others, it is smooth sailing. However, both experiences are normal because every woman and baby are different.

These tips from our local lactation consultants can help you become confident and prepared for your breastfeeding journey.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Iryna Inshyna/Shutterstock.com.

The post Here’s What a Lactation Expert Wishes All New Mothers Knew appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Baby monitors have come a long way since our moms had babies. Those old-school staticky, clunky monitors may have picked up the sound of babies crying — but not much else. Today’s parents have video options, of course, but we also have the choice of full wellness monitoring for our babies. Think: room temps, oxygen saturation, sleeping data, and so much more!

Many of these monitors have high-quality video screens or Wi-Fi connections to stream directly to your smartphones. Some offer recordings, so you can see what your baby was up to if you missed something in the night, and many offer alerts if your baby seemingly stops breathing or has an unusually low pulse. It’s all designed to give you peace of mind, so you can sleep like a baby while your baby sleeps. No matter what type you're looking for, we've created a list of the best baby monitors for modern parents.

Nanit Best-Selling Camera Bundle

Price: $479, occasionally on sale for $383.20

With thousands of positive reviews, Nanit’s The Best-Selling Bundle comes with the company’s beloved baby monitor that records crystal-clear 1080p HD video and streams to the accompanying app, plus tons of other accessories to make bedtime, well, a dream! The baby monitor comes on a floor stand that can easily be moved from room to room, as well as a sensor-free breathing band and travel case.

The phone app offers real-time notifications for crying, a record of your baby’s sleep patterns, and a video recording to ensure you don’t miss anything. It also offers sleep insights and a place for care logs to keep track of your baby’s diaper changes and more. BTW, you can also get the Nanit bundle in a wall mount!

Babysense Max View

Price: $199.99

Gone are the days of grainy images on your baby monitor. The Babysense Max View has a 1080p HD screen that provides a crystal clear view of your baby’s room. It comes with two cameras (but connects up to four!) and an optional split-screen view, perfect for setting up in two rooms if you have multiple kids or for putting one in the playroom and one in the bedroom.

Extra perks include a built-in nightlight, lullabies, and white noise; a 360-degree remote pan, tilt, and zoom; and non-Wifi connection for ensured privacy. Moms love it, with one person calling the baby monitor “an absolute game changer” thanks to the “really high quality screen.” “I can see my little boy sleeping really clearly as the image is so clear and if he makes any sound it is also picked up really well,” they wrote.

Owlet Dream Duo 2

Price: $320, occasionally on sale for $320

Known for their innovative Dream Sock that provides real-time health readings while an infant sleeps, Owlet is changing the game once again with their Owlet Dream Duo 2 bundle. It comes with the Dream Sock to track your baby’s pulse rate and oxygen via a phone app and the Owlet Cam 2 to provide 1080p HD video streaming via Wi-Fi. Alerts for low and high pulse rates and low oxygen will give you peace of mind, as will room temperature and humidity sensors, and sound and motion notifications.

Through the app, you can also keep track of baby's wake windows, light sleep, and deep sleep. One happy parent said, “My husband and I would not be able to sleep throughout the night without our Owlet.”

Hälsa Baby Wellness Monitor

Price: $299

The Hälsa Baby Wellness Monitor is another option for parents who want to monitor more than just their baby’s cries. This one measures your baby’s skin temperature variation (helpful if they are coming down with a fever!) as well as room temperature and humidity. The included Smart Sensor and ankle band also monitor your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels.

The monitor tracks sleep patterns and provides insights on the coordinating phone app. You can even set and review sleep goals and log feedings, diaper changes, and weight and height measurements. It’s an all-in-one app that parents will appreciate!

Motorola Nursery PIP11 Audio Baby Monitor

Price: $39.99

Keep it simple with Motorola Nursery’s PIP11 Audio Baby Monitor. This audio-only option is small enough to fit in your pocket and allows for two-way communication with your baby. Plus, its built-in room temperature sensor, night light, and lullabies add an extra special touch.

Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor with Wall Mount Kit

Price: $349, occasionally on sale for $199

Track your baby’s breathing without any wearable sensors with the Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor With Wall Mount Kit. It uses the AI platform Sensor Fusion to track motion, temperature, sound, light, and breathing pattern data.

From there, it gives you real-time alerts and keeps track of your baby’s sleep data. The coolest part is the way the app shows your baby’s breathing in a live waveform over the video feed. Being able to just glance at your phone and see your child breathing is a comfort like no other!

ChillaxBaby DM640 Daily Baby

Price: $149, occasionally on sale for $129.99

Don’t want to rely on a phone app? The ChillaxBaby DM640 Daily Baby monitor has an option for an app on your phone and a dedicated screen, so you can keep up with your baby in the way that’s best for you!

You can even log diaper changes and feeding from the screen and review it all in the accompanying app. If you want to switch WiFi off, the monitor comes with a toggle to ensure your privacy. Customers love everything from the monitor’s “nice crisp screen quality” to its “very clear” night vision.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Motorola Nursery.

The post The Most Innovative Baby Monitors Available appeared first on Moms Who Think.

When couples first learn they’re about to become new parents, they’re often overcome with joy and excitement. What may first come to mind–not just for the soon-to-be parents but for friends and family–is that initial excitement of all things baby. Images of adorable baby essentials—soft organic clothes, cozy blankets, and cuddly stuffed animals spring to mind. However, there are baby essentials new parents need and some that just aren’t worth it.

It can then be a bit overwhelming, and even scary, when couples realize how much there is to prepare for before the baby comes. Websites and publications don’t make it any easier, bombarding parents with endless lists of must-have items for their newborn. From baby swings to bottle drying racks to baby wipe warmers, it can be confusing knowing which items are essential. 

Moms Who Think has put together a list of 10 baby essentials new parents need and 10 that aren’t worth it. It can be confusing and tricky knowing exactly what your baby needs and what is just a waste of money. Which is why it can be extremely helpful to review which products will be most helpful. This list can help you prepare for your newest adventure.

Most Essential New Parent Products

Many cute, alluring, and fun baby items are on the market today. It’s hard to walk into the store without seeing all the adorable baby items for sale and having the urge to buy them. However, in reality, your baby needs only a handful of items. This fact is beneficial to remember if you’re working with a budget. Here are ten of the most essential new parent products.

Somewhere Safe for Baby to Sleep

The first item on our essential new parent products list is somewhere safe for the baby to sleep. This safe place can be a bassinet by your bed or a crib (remember the mattress).

Some parents decide to go straight for the crib and forgo the bassinet. At the same time, others prefer their baby to stay in the bedroom with them in a bassinet. Whatever you decide is okay. At this stage, parents don’t have to have both.

You can wait a while to get a crib if that’s what you want or skip the bassinet altogether. Additionally, if you go with a crib, remember you do not have to buy those $100 crib sheets.

Burp Cloths

One common fact is that many babies always have some type of liquid coming out of their mouths, whether it’s slobber from teething or spit up from acid reflux. This is why having several burp cloths on hand is necessary.

Many burp cloths on the market today are soft enough for a baby’s skin. They also come in packs. This makes them easy to collect and have around the house to use at a moment’s notice. Remember to stick a few in your diaper bag.

Stroller or Baby Carrier

After having a baby, you might not feel like getting out and about. However, give it a few weeks, and you may begin to feel stir-crazy. Having a stroller or a baby carrier on hand makes those outings much easier and more manageable.

There are many great strollers and baby carriers on the market today; the one you choose doesn’t have to be fancy. Unless, of course, you want it to be. Just as long as you have a safe place to put your baby, these items make it easier so you can get out and about when you want.

Feeding Necessities

You will need a plan for feeding your baby, whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Once you have a plan, you can narrow down what feeding necessities you will need. Some women choose to breastfeed exclusively, meaning they do not need other feeding necessities.

However, others choose the bottle route or a combination of both. A few necessary items include bottles, nipples, and bottle-cleaning tools. Additionally, a breast pump and feeding pillow (like a boppy) can come in handy.

Clothing in Varies Sizes

Babies need some clothing. Many parents love to stock up on sleepers, while others prefer cute dresses and sets. Whatever your style is, your baby will need something to wear.

Babies grow very fast, and it’s hard to know whether they will fit into a newborn size anyway. It’s often recommended not to buy many newborn clothes since your baby will grow out of them fast.

Also, if your baby is a fast grower, be sure to stock up on an assortment of sizes. You will have at least something on hand if they outgrow their favorite sleeper seemingly overnight.

Car Seat

Another essential baby item is a car seat. Hospitals will only allow new parents to leave the hospital if they have one installed.

Be sure to buy a car seat that has been safety tested. Also, avoid buying one secondhand, because if it has been in an accident, there’s a possibility it is damaged.

Diapers and Wipes

Diapers are a necessity for babies. Whether you use cloth or disposable, make sure to have plenty on hand. Babies, especially newborns, go through diapers very quickly.

If you are hosting a baby shower, a diaper raffle is a fun way to raise money for these essential items. Also, remember the wipes.

Essential First Aid and Health Items

Some items that often get overlooked when preparing for a baby are first aid and health items.

Having a first aid kit at home is a good idea because it saves time in case your baby falls sick or is experiencing a common issue that may arise. These ailments include stuffy nose, teething, or gassiness.

Some items to include in your first aid kit include:

• A thermometer
• Nail clippers
• A nasal aspirator (like nose frieda)
• Sanitizing wipes
• Baby-safe medication
• Diaper rash cream

While making a DIY first aid kit is possible, several great ones are on the market today.

An Outing Bag

An outing bag to cart all your baby items around is a necessity, especially if you enjoy leaving the house. Many parents choose to buy a diaper bag. However, a specific bag made just for babies isn’t always necessary.

There are many bags on the market that are geared toward carrying your baby’s items. Yet, you can also make an outing bag out of a purse, tote bag, or any other bag you have on hand.

When you leave the house, it’s important to have a place to put extra clothes, diapers, wipes, and other necessary items.

Somewhere to Put Baby When You Can’t Hold Them

One last necessary baby item is a safe place to put the baby when you can’t hold them. This place can be a bassinet or crib. Other handy places include a bouncer, swing, or even a play mat.

The item you choose doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy, just as long as the baby is placed somewhere safe where it will not accidentally fall (like an open bed.)

Unnecessary Items That Baby Doesn’t Need

Now that we have covered all the necessary items that new babies need let’s take a look at what you don’t really need. These items are often touted as necessary and helpful. Yet, many parents and families have noticed that they take up room in their houses and are hardly touched.

Wipes Warmer

A wipes warmer may seem necessary. After all, what baby will want cold wipes on their bum? However, many parents state that their wipes warmer either dries the wipes out or just sits there unused.

Most babies are perfectly fine with a regular wipe straight from the package. They get used to the feeling quickly, and it doesn’t last long, even if the wipes are cold.

Bottle Warmer

Like the wipes warmer, a bottle warmer is unnecessary. Some parents give their baby a bottle at room temperature; others go straight for cold.

While a warm bottle can be more pleasant for a baby to drink, there are other ways to warm it up, like placing it in a cup of warm or hot water for a few minutes.

Just be sure never to put the bottle in the microwave, as this can produce hot spots, which can burn your baby’s mouth.

Changing Table

Changing tables are appealing because they provide a place to keep all your changing essentials, such as diapers, creams, and wipes. However, buying a changing table is unnecessary. If you do not have the space for one, don’t be afraid to just opt out of buying it.

There are easier methods than walking to the changing table whenever your baby needs to be changed. One option is keeping a changing basket in every main room. Load the basket with diapers, creams, wipes, and a changing pad.

Then, if your baby needs a diaper change, you can change them anywhere in the room, whether it’s a couch or floor. Plus, many parents have stated that this option is much more comfortable for them than a changing table.

Diaper Pail

Diaper Genies do conceal the smell of a dirty diaper, which can be very nice. However, it isn’t necessary to buy a diaper pail. Instead, you can place dirty diapers in a plastic bag or take them outside to keep the smell away.

Baby Bathtub

A cute baby bathtub became extremely popular several years ago: the bath flower. While it’s adorable, it’s not strictly necessary to bathe your baby. Neither is a baby bathtub.

Newborn baths are simple to give and don’t necessarily require all the fancy add-ons. For this reason, many parents found that the bath flower was hardly used, bulky, and took up too much space.

An Expensive White Noise Machine

Some babies sleep better with noise, while others prefer complete silence. Whatever the case, you do not need an expensive white noise machine. Mainly since you have yet to determine if your baby will even like it.

If your baby prefers noise to sleep, it may be more economical to play white noise on your phone or Alexa. Additionally, stores like Walmart or Target sell white noise machines that won’t break the bank.

All The Fancy Baby Equipment

Yes, you need a safe place to put your baby when you can’t hold them. However, don’t feel like you need all the baby things, including a baby swing, bouncer, bouncy seat, etc.

Having one or two specific safe places to put your baby when you can’t hold them is more than enough.

Dreft (or Special Detergent)

Dreft is a special baby detergent that some prefer to use to wash their newborn clothes. However, buying a completely different detergent for your baby for the first few years of their life is also unnecessary. Instead, opt for a family detergent that is hypoallergenic and scent-free.

Special Baby Food Processor

For parents making their own baby food, buying a special baby food processor is unnecessary. Instead, you can use a magic bullet or your food processor or blender if you already have one.

Additionally, regular ice trays work just as well for freezing the baby food for later.

Special Drying Racks

Although the special drying racks are cute, they aren’t a must-have. When washing your baby’s bottles and utensils, a typical drying rack or kitchen towel will suffice.

In Conclusion

There are so many baby items on the market today that it’s difficult to know exactly what essential new parent products are. As a new parent, you want the very best for your baby, but that doesn’t always mean stocking up on the most expensive items that take up space in your home.

Instead, stick with the necessities. After all, your baby will outgrow these items by their first or second birthday, and they will be on to needing something else. When you look back on your child’s babyhood, you won’t remember everything they had or didn’t have. Instead, you will focus on how loved your child is and how much joy they have brought you.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Denis Shevchuk/ via Getty Images.

The post 10 Baby Essentials New Parents Need And 10 That Aren’t Worth It appeared first on Moms Who Think.

As a new mom, choosing a baby blanket that’s just right for your child is an act of love. When it comes to naptime, playtime, or even a sentimental moment, the only thing that stands between a mom and her baby is a cute, cozy blanket. With so many textures, shapes, and styles, the process of finding a high-quality blanket can be overwhelming – thankfully, this baby blanket roundup will make the process ten times easier for such an essential item.

Momcozy Muslin Swaddle Blankets

Price: $19.99-$36.99

Sometimes, you just need a tried and true baby blanket that has multiple uses but also holds up well over time. Momcozy has thought of it all when it comes to soft and versatile blankets. Although swaddling is their primary use, they're a top choice for moms for several reasons. The oversized measurements make for easy wrapping, the bamboo-derived cotton blend mimics a soft and womb-like feel, and they’ve been made with durability in mind. Purchase options range from 2-packs to 4-packs with eight long-lasting designs to choose from.

Promising Review: “These are super soft and lightweight! Perfect for warmer climates! I received some as a gift and then bought more. They are the perfect size to swaddle baby and they wash up well. They double as a great burp cloth and nursing cover too.”

Custom Catch Personalized Baby Blanket

Price: $19.89

Baby blankets aren’t always about practical use (although this Custom Catch blanket makes for a great swaddling cloth or naptime blanket!) and some have more sentimental value than others. Personalized baby blankets make great gifts but they're also the perfect way to give your baby something comforting and nostalgic. Moms can custom-order this fleece blanket with their baby’s name, along with additional options such as their birthdate and cute designs. It’s the perfect oversized winter blanket that babies can continue to use as they get older.

Promising Review: “This blanket goes everywhere with our boy. We were gifted this at our baby shower, and ever since he’s been able to sleep with things, he’s slept with this. He loves it SO much. It’s nice & light so not too heavy or bulky for him to sleep with or drag around. I just ordered a second as a backup since I can never get our current one away from him to wash!!”

Monica + Andy Coming Home Blanket

Price: $28, occasionally on sale for $13.99

For moms who only want the best for their babies, Monica + Andy created a baby blanket that’s 100% organic cotton, making it perfect for snuggling with your little one. Designed to swaddle newborns until they’re several months old, this is a blanket that you'll continue to use long after you arrive home with your baby. This Monica + Andy blanket is also GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) so you’ll always have the reassurance that your baby is being embraced by the best fabric out there.

Promising Review: “I was gifted a Monica & Andy blanket for my firstborn. I loved it so much I decided to buy another for my second child!”

Little Unicorn Cotton Muslin Baby Quilt

Price: $40, occasionally on sale for $19.95

Little Unicorn created the perfect blend of comfort, cozy, and durability with this muslin baby quilt. Featuring an adorable llama design (appropriately called “Llama Llama”), this signature blanket is one that you will cherish for years to come. Made of 100% cotton muslin, your Little Unicorn blanket will get plenty of use even after multiple washes. For the price point, it would be a sweet addition to any nursery, baby bag, or crib. 

Promising Review: “This was my first purchase from Little Unicorn and already, not my last! I just couldn't resist this pattern. I decided on the baby blanket size as I thought it would be great to grab for the stroller or car when it's chilly. It's also the perfect size for my toddler to grab and carry around. I find myself even using it as a lap blanket while watching TV at night. It's a heavier weight than I expected, which I love, but not too hot or heavy. Can't wait to receive my next purchase!”

CuddleBugCrafters Personalized Baby Blanket

Price: Starting at $14.99, depending on customization

If you’re looking for a blanket that your baby can grow into, a personalized option is the way to go. CuddleBugCrafters has created this custom embroidered knit blanket, perfect for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old. Moms have 16 custom font options to choose from alongside 34 stunning colors, truly making this baby blanket a beautiful gift as well as a cozy one!

Promising Review: “This blanket is absolutely perfect! Perfect weight/size and just a wonderful classic style. I would also like to compliment the customer service. The seller went out of the way to help with an issue I had and I could not be more appreciative. 100% recommend!”

Copper Pearl Three-Layer Security Blanket

Price: $11.99-$19.99

Whether you’re a new or experienced mom, your top priority is making your baby feel safe. That’s why Copper Pearl's Three-Layer Security Blanket is truly one of a kind, with a design that's specifically meant to soothe your baby on the go. This baby blanket features slightly smaller measurements, perfectly suited for infants who are traveling with moms. A premium blend of rayon and polyester in this 2-pack provides stretch, durability, and softness. The 21 unique designs also offer a fun theme your baby will grow to love! 

Promising Review: “We initially bought these because my son LOVES Elmo but once we got them we fell in love with the company!! We ordered these and two outfits. All were so cute and so very soft!!! Definitely going to keep ordering.”

TwoBeesBabyBoutique Personalized Green Minky Blanket

Price: Starting at $31.96, depending on customization

It doesn’t get much softer than plush, and the more soothing a blanket is to your baby, the better. The one thing that could put a blanket like this over the top is personalization, which is exactly what TwoBeesBabyBoutique offers for their Green Minky baby blanket. This cozy double-sided blanket features a soothing earth-toned green on one side, and a Herringbone print on the other for just a hint of elegance. Moms can pick from three sizes – Lovey (a mini size for diaper bags and cars) Baby (a full size suitable for toddler years), and Child (perfect for beds and use beyond toddler age) – as well as ten font choices. The best part? This blanket was custom-designed by an independent artist, making this blanket truly unique. 

Promising Review: “The baby blanket is perfect. Well made and adorable. The blanket is nice and heavy and works well on cold days and for the floor to lay the baby. I know it will last and last. Can’t thank you enough for the beautiful product.”

Hanna Andersson Baby Layette Blanket In HannaSoft

Price: $36, occasionally on sale for $18

Hanna Andersson calls this blanket “buttery soft” and that description could not be more accurate. Featuring an eco-friendly design made with TENCEL Lyocell (a semi-synthetic fabric), this blanket is hypoallergenic and eczema-friendly, standing out from many others that don’t offer quite the same softness or comfort. This breathable favorite is also moisture-wicking, making it a great early-age blanket and one that won’t cause discomfort during warmer months! Hanna Andersson also has the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100-certified seal of approval, bringing an extra level of reassurance to moms considering this blanket. 

Promising Review: “Truly the softest blanket!! Easy to wrap around baby or use as a nursing cover.”

The image featured at the top of this post is ©FabrikaSimf/Shutterstock.com.

The post Parenting Finds: Baby Blankets appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Appetizers are the perfect addition to any event—not too heavy but substantial enough so you aren't starving by the time the main course rolls around. By definition, appetizers are something small and light designed to stimulate the appetite, which works out perfectly when you're at a baby shower, sitting through a game of “Guess the Chocolate” or “Guess the Belly Size.”

These tasty appetizers are sure to please all your guests, with delicious bites ranging from creamy brie to the ever-popular stuffed mushrooms. Elevate your baby shower event with these crowd-pleasing recipes. Keep reading to discover a collection of creative appetizer recipes that will make your baby shower an unforgettable occasion.

Key Points of Baby Shower Recipes

• Be sure to offer a range of options to your guests in case an attendee has dietary restrictions.
• Prepare recipes well in advance, if possible, to allow for time for mingling with guests.
• Offer a mix of hot and cold appetizers to accommodate different preferences.
• Strike a balance between satisfying yet not too heavy when it comes to appetizer selections so as to not fill up guests before the main course

1. CRAB MEAT BACON ROLLS

Ingredients:

1/4 cup tomato juice
1 (6 1/2 or 7 1/2 oz.) can crabmeat (drained and flaked)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
Dash of pepper
1 egg, well beaten
1/2 cup fine dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
9 slices bacon (cut in half)

Directions:

Mix tomato juice and egg.

Add crabmeat, bread crumbs, parsley, lemon juice, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly.

Roll into 18 fingers, about 2 inches long. Wrap each roll with 1/2 slice of bacon; fasten with a toothpick.

Bake in oven at 350-400 degrees until bacon is lightly brown. Makes 18 rolls.

2. TORTILLA PINWHEELS

Ingredients:

Filling:

8 oz. sour cream
1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies, well-drained
1 can (4 oz.) chopped black olives, well-drained
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onion

5 (10-inch) flour tortillas
Salsa

Directions:

Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly. Divide the filling and spread evenly over the tortillas; roll up the tortillas.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap, twisting ends; refrigerate for several hours.

Unwrap; cut in slices 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Discard ends.

Lay pinwheels flat on a glass serving plate. Leave space in the center of the plate for a small bowl of salsa if desired.

Makes about 50 pinwheels.

3. BAKED BRIE AND ROASTED GARLIC

Ingredients:

4 lg. heads garlic (at least 2 1/2 inches in diameter)
1/3 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse salt
4 (4 oz.) wheels brie, toasted baguette slices

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove all but one layer of skin from garlic; do not expose the flesh.

Arrange garlic tightly in a small baking dish. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with salt. Cover with foil.

Bake until garlic is very tender, 75 to 90 minutes.

Preheat broiler. Score a large X on top of each wheel of cheese.

Set each in a small baking dish. Broil until browned and bubbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Serve immediately with garlic and toasted baguette slices.

Makes 8 servings.

4. QUICK PIZZA SNACKS

Ingredients:

8 oz. can Pillsbury refrigerated quick crescent dinner rolls
1/2 cup prepared pizza sauce
4 oz. (1 cup) shredded Casino brand natural Muenster cheese (or 100% natural Kraft shredded low moisture part-skim Mozzarella cheese).
Fresh oregano, if desired

Directions:

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Remove dough from the can in rolled sections; do not unroll.

Cut each roll into 12 slices; place cut side down, 1 inch apart, on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes. Remove from oven.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of sauce on top of each slice; sprinkle cheese over the sauce.

Return to oven; bake for 3 to 5 additional minutes or until edges are golden brown and cheese is melted. Garnish with oregano. Serve warm. 24 snacks.

5. COCKTAIL SMOKIES

Ingredients:

2 packages of Lil Smokies
1 can of Coca-Cola
ketchup (enough to cover Lil Smokies)

Directions:

In a Crock-Pot, add 2 packages of Little Smokies. Cover with enough ketchup to suit, and pour 1 can of Coca-Cola over the Smokies and ketchup mixture.

Cook on high for 2-3 hours. Simmer on low for an additional 30 minutes.

6. SWEDISH MEATBALLS

Ingredients:

1 egg
1 cup soft bread crumbs (2 slices of bread)
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup milk
Cooking oil
Sour Cream Sauce (see below)
Boiled potatoes or hot-cooked noodles
Minced parsley for garnish

Sour Cream Sauce:

2 Tablespoon butter
2 Tablespoon flour
1 cup beef broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup dairy sour cream, room temperature

Directions:

Blend ground beef, egg, and bread crumbs thoroughly with brown sugar, salt, pepper, ginger, ground cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and milk. Form 50 one-inch diameter meatballs and fry. Serve in the sauce from a chafing dish.

Sour Cream Sauce:

Pour all excess oil from fry pan. Add butter to the brownings. Stir in flour and cook until bubbly. Add broth, salt, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce; cook, stirring until thickened and bubbly. Empty sour cream into a large bowl. Gradually add sauce, stirring constantly.

7. BAKED STUFFED MUSHROOMS

Ingredients:

1 stick butter
1 small onion, minced
3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup sweet Vermouth
1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 cup plain bread crumbs
1 lb. mushrooms (remove stems and finely chop)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon oregano

Directions:

Melt butter in a skillet. Cook onion until translucent.

Add chopped stems. Stir in bread crumbs, seasonings, and cheese. Brown lightly.

Add sweet Vermouth last. Toss lightly to combine well. Stuff mushroom caps with mixture.

Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

8. DEVILED EGGS

Ingredients:

6 eggs
1/4 teaspoon prepared mustard
1/8 teaspoon dill
3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon salt
1-2 teaspoons milk

Directions:

Place eggs in a pan and cover with water. Boil eggs for about 4 minutes.

Remove from heat and place in ice water. Let cool down to room temperature.

Peel under cold running water. Slice eggs in half. Place egg whites on a plate or serving tray rinsed and dried.

Mash egg yolks with a fork and add all ingredients except for paprika.

If desired, you can add more mayonnaise with a little bit of milk (small amounts at a time, as you can always add but not take out or you'll end up boiling another egg or two.. lol..)

Fill each half about a teaspoon and sprinkle with paprika. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Makes about 6 servings.

9. EASY CHICKEN QUESADILLAS

Ingredients:

flour tortillas
1 can cheese soup
1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast

Directions:

Cook chicken as desired and shred meat in a bowl. Combine salsa, chicken meat, and cheese soup. Spoon 1/3 cup of mix onto tortillas. Fold, and place on a baking pan.

Bake in a 350°F oven for about 7 minutes.

10. GUACAMOLE

Ingredients:

3 avocados—peeled, pitted, and mashed
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup diced onion
3 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 pinch ground cayenne
pepper (optional)

Directions:

In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt.

Mix in onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic. Stir in cayenne pepper.

Refrigerate for 1 hour for the best flavor, or serve immediately.

11. SEVEN-LAYER TACO DIP

Ingredients:

1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 (16 ounces) can refried beans
1 (8 ounces) package cream cheese, softened
1 (16 ounces) container sour cream
1 (16 ounces) jar salsa
1 large tomato, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 bunch chopped green onions
1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 (6 ounces) can sliced black olives, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

In a medium bowl, blend the taco seasoning mix and refried beans. Spread the mixture onto a large serving platter.

Mix the sour cream and cream cheese in a medium bowl. Spread over the refried beans.

Top the layers with salsa. Place a layer of tomato, green bell pepper, green onions, and lettuce over the salsa, and top with Cheddar cheese.

Garnish with black olives.

Whether you are serving savory Crab Meat Bacon rolls or the zesty Seven-Layer Taco dip, these appetizers are sure to strike the perfect balance between being satisfying but not overly heavy. Be sure to prepare any ingredients in advance for these delicious recipes so you are able to mingle and enjoy the party with the rest of the guests. Additionally, it's important that you prepare enough appetizers depending on how many guests attend. Explore more recipe ideas for more baby shower menu ideas or just a weeknight dinner.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Liudmyla Chuhunova/Shutterstock.com.

The post Wow Your Guests with These Delicious Baby Shower Appetizers appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The first reaction most first-time parents have when finding out they are expecting a baby is excitement, joy, and elation. That initial moment when all you can think about is becoming a parent and visions of all the adorable baby gear usually springs to mind – the organic clothes, blankies, stuffed animals. It can then be a bit overwhelming, and even scary, when they realize how much there is to prepare for.

Websites and publications don’t make it any easier, with an influx of information telling parents everything their new baby needs. From tummy time playmats to baby swings to bottle drying racks, it can be confusing knowing which items are a necessity and which ones are extras. It can be tempting to get it all, but it can be a waste of space – and money – that can be put to better use elsewhere, like, perhaps a future college fund.

Moms Who Think has put together a list of 10 must-have products for new parents and 10 you can skip. Knowing exactly what your baby needs and what to forgo buying can be tricky. So, take a look at the most essential new parent products you will need. This list can help you prepare for your newest journey.

Most Essential New Parent Products

Many cute, alluring, and fun baby items are on the market today. It’s hard to walk into the store without seeing all the adorable baby items for sale and having the urge to buy them. However, in reality, your baby needs only a handful of items. This fact is beneficial to remember if you’re working with a budget. Here are ten of the most essential new parent products.

Somewhere Safe for Baby to Sleep

The first item on our essential new parent products list is somewhere safe for the baby to sleep. This safe place can be a bassinet by your bed or a crib (remember the mattress).

Some parents decide to go straight for the crib and forgo the bassinet. At the same time, others prefer their baby to stay in the bedroom with them in a bassinet. Whatever you decide is okay. At this stage, parents don’t have to have both.

You can wait a while to get a crib if that’s what you want or skip the bassinet altogether. Additionally, if you go with a crib, remember you do not have to buy those $100 crib sheets.

Burp Cloths

One common fact is that many babies always have some type of liquid coming out of their mouths, whether it’s slobber from teething or spit up from acid reflux. This is why having several burp cloths on hand is necessary.

Many burp cloths on the market today are soft enough for a baby’s skin. They also come in packs. This makes them easy to collect and have around the house to use at a moment’s notice. Remember to stick a few in your diaper bag.

Stroller or Baby Carrier

After having a baby, you might not feel like getting out and about. However, give it a few weeks, and you may begin to feel stir-crazy. Having a stroller or a baby carrier on hand makes those outings much easier and more manageable.

There are many great strollers and baby carriers on the market today; the one you choose doesn’t have to be fancy. Unless, of course, you want it to be. Just as long as you have a safe place to put your baby, these items make it easier so you can get out and about when you want.

Feeding Necessities

You will need a plan for feeding your baby, whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Once you have a plan, you can narrow down what feeding necessities you will need. Some women choose to breastfeed exclusively, meaning they do not need other feeding necessities.

However, others choose the bottle route or a combination of both. A few necessary items include bottles, nipples, and bottle-cleaning tools. Additionally, a breast pump and feeding pillow (like a boppy) can come in handy.

Clothing in Varies Sizes

Babies need some clothing. Many parents love to stock up on sleepers, while others prefer cute dresses and sets. Whatever your style is, your baby will need something to wear.

Babies grow very fast, and it’s hard to know whether they will fit into a newborn size anyway. It’s often recommended not to buy many newborn clothes since your baby will grow out of them fast.

Also, if your baby is a fast grower, be sure to stock up on an assortment of sizes. You will have at least something on hand if they outgrow their favorite sleeper seemingly overnight.

Car Seat

Another essential baby item is a car seat. Hospitals will only allow new parents to leave the hospital if they have one installed.

Be sure to buy a car seat that has been safety tested. Also, avoid buying one secondhand, because if it has been in an accident, there’s a possibility it is damaged.

Diapers and Wipes

Diapers are a necessity for babies. Whether you use cloth or disposable, make sure to have plenty on hand. Babies, especially newborns, go through diapers very quickly.

If you are hosting a baby shower, a diaper raffle is a fun way to raise money for these essential items. Also, remember the wipes.

Essential First Aid and Health Items

Some items that often get overlooked when preparing for a baby are first aid and health items.

Having a first aid kit at home is a good idea because it saves time in case your baby falls sick or is experiencing a common issue that may arise. These ailments include stuffy nose, teething, or gassiness.

Some items to include in your first aid kit include:

• A thermometer
• Nail clippers
• A nasal aspirator (like nose frieda)
• Sanitizing wipes
• Baby-safe medication
• Diaper rash cream

While making a DIY first aid kit is possible, several great ones are on the market today.

An Outing Bag

An outing bag to cart all your baby items around is a necessity, especially if you enjoy leaving the house. Many parents choose to buy a diaper bag. However, a specific bag made just for babies isn’t always necessary.

There are many bags on the market that are geared toward carrying your baby’s items. Yet, you can also make an outing bag out of a purse, tote bag, or any other bag you have on hand.

When you leave the house, it’s important to have a place to put extra clothes, diapers, wipes, and other necessary items.

Somewhere to Put Baby When You Can’t Hold Them

One last necessary baby item is a safe place to put the baby when you can’t hold them. This place can be a bassinet or crib. Other handy places include a bouncer, swing, or even a play mat.

The item you choose doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy, just as long as the baby is placed somewhere safe where it will not accidentally fall (like an open bed.)

Unnecessary Items That Baby Doesn’t Need

Now that we have covered all the necessary items that new babies need let’s take a look at what you don’t really need. These items are often touted as necessary and helpful. Yet, many parents and families have noticed that they take up room in their houses and are hardly touched.

Wipes Warmer

A wipes warmer may seem necessary. After all, what baby will want cold wipes on their bum? However, many parents state that their wipes warmer either dries the wipes out or just sits there unused.

Most babies are perfectly fine with a regular wipe straight from the package. They get used to the feeling quickly, and it doesn’t last long, even if the wipes are cold.

Bottle Warmer

Like the wipes warmer, a bottle warmer is unnecessary. Some parents give their baby a bottle at room temperature; others go straight for cold.

While a warm bottle can be more pleasant for a baby to drink, there are other ways to warm it up, like placing it in a cup of warm or hot water for a few minutes.

Just be sure never to put the bottle in the microwave, as this can produce hot spots, which can burn your baby’s mouth.

Changing Table

Changing tables are appealing because they provide a place to keep all your changing essentials, such as diapers, creams, and wipes. However, buying a changing table is unnecessary. If you do not have the space for one, don’t be afraid to just opt out of buying it.

There are easier methods than walking to the changing table whenever your baby needs to be changed. One option is keeping a changing basket in every main room. Load the basket with diapers, creams, wipes, and a changing pad.

Then, if your baby needs a diaper change, you can change them anywhere in the room, whether it’s a couch or floor. Plus, many parents have stated that this option is much more comfortable for them than a changing table.

Diaper Pail

Diaper Genies do conceal the smell of a dirty diaper, which can be very nice. However, it isn’t necessary to buy a diaper pail. Instead, you can place dirty diapers in a plastic bag or take them outside to keep the smell away.

Baby Bathtub

A cute baby bathtub became extremely popular several years ago: the bath flower. While it’s adorable, it’s not strictly necessary to bathe your baby. Neither is a baby bathtub.

Newborn baths are simple to give and don’t necessarily require all the fancy add-ons. For this reason, many parents found that the bath flower was hardly used, bulky, and took up too much space.

An Expensive White Noise Machine

Some babies sleep better with noise, while others prefer complete silence. Whatever the case, you do not need an expensive white noise machine. Mainly since you have yet to determine if your baby will even like it.

If your baby prefers noise to sleep, it may be more economical to play white noise on your phone or Alexa. Additionally, stores like Walmart or Target sell white noise machines that won’t break the bank.

All The Fancy Baby Equipment

Yes, you need a safe place to put your baby when you can’t hold them. However, don’t feel like you need all the baby things, including a baby swing, bouncer, bouncy seat, etc.

Having one or two specific safe places to put your baby when you can’t hold them is more than enough.

Dreft (or Special Detergent)

Dreft is a special baby detergent that some prefer to use to wash their newborn clothes. However, buying a completely different detergent for your baby for the first few years of their life is also unnecessary. Instead, opt for a family detergent that is hypoallergenic and scent-free.

Special Baby Food Processor

For parents making their own baby food, buying a special baby food processor is unnecessary. Instead, you can use a magic bullet or your food processor or blender if you already have one.

Additionally, regular ice trays work just as well for freezing the baby food for later.

Special Drying Racks

Although the special drying racks are cute, they aren’t a must-have. When washing your baby’s bottles and utensils, a typical drying rack or kitchen towel will suffice.

In Conclusion

There are so many baby items on the market today that it’s difficult to know exactly what essential new parent products are. As a new parent, you want the very best for your baby, but that doesn’t always mean stocking up on the most expensive items that take up space in your home.

Instead, stick with the necessities. After all, your baby will outgrow these items by their first or second birthday, and they will be on to needing something else. When you look back on your child’s babyhood, you won’t remember everything they had or didn’t have. Instead, you will focus on how loved your child is and how much joy they have brought you.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©antibydni/Shutterstock.com.

The post 10 Must-Have Products for New Parents and 10 You Can Skip appeared first on Moms Who Think.

It seems like a cruel twist of fate that there are foods you should avoid when you’re pregnant. Combine morning sickness and cravings with these restrictions and it can be hard to keep your weight up. It’s easy to become dehydrated if you aren’t getting enough liquid. If you’re someone who struggles with pregnancy nausea and vomiting, do your best to eat the foods that sound good to you, but the ones listed below are a no-no when you’re expecting.

Most women find out between 4-7 weeks of gestation that they’re pregnant. If you weren’t expecting a pregnancy, you may have eaten some of these foods already. Don’t panic if so. Speak to your doctor and identify anything in your diet that may cause problems, but don’t beat yourself up for something you didn’t know you were doing.

In this article, we want to help you understand 10 foods you should avoid during pregnancy, and which food is safe. We’ll go one step further and help you understand WHY you should avoid them because it’s much easier to apply rules when you know why you’re doing so.

Hot Dogs and Lunch Meat

Listeria is a bacteria that is found in hot dogs and lunch meat. Many foodborne germs can’t grow in refrigerator temperatures, but listeriosis can. That means hot dogs and lunch meat are out until the baby’s born.

If you heat hot dogs and lunch meats before you eat them, they can be safe. Always heat them to at least 165 degrees and eat them right away. Don’t store them in the fridge for later. If you insist on buying hot dogs, look for ones that are low or completely free of nitrates.

There’s no need to panic if you’ve eaten a hot dog or sandwich while pregnant and remember these are worst-case scenarios. Listeria can cause miscarriage early in pregnancy and has been linked with low birth weight, premature labor, and infant death in the second and third trimesters.

Homemade Dressings and Desserts

The problem with homemade dressings and desserts is the raw eggs. If you make your own dressings or have a chance to enjoy some homemade ones, wait until after the baby is born. Raw eggs are often used in homemade sauces and dressings, while store-bought versions are made with pasteurized eggs. Some examples are Caesar salad dressing, mayonnaise, Hollandaise sauce, and Bearnaise sauce.

Desserts like mousse, meringue, and tiramisu may also contain raw eggs. If you’re craving your homemade option, you can do it safely. Only use pasteurized eggs in your recipe, as they are okay to eat raw.

On a similar note, avoid raw cookie dough while pregnant for the same reason. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every 20,000 eggs contains salmonella bacteria. This isn’t a problem in the finished form because cooking them kills the salmonella.

Undercooked Meat

If you prefer your steak a bit pink in the middle, pregnancy is a time to change your habits. Undercooked meat can cause food poisoning, which harms you and the baby. Toxoplasmosis can be found in undercooked meat and can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or organ damage, while it’s harmless in those who aren’t pregnant.

When pregnant, you’re also more susceptible to food poisoning from other foodborne illnesses that can cause cramping, diarrhea, fever, and severe nausea. To prevent these problems, make sure all poultry and meat is cooked thoroughly before you eat it. Always use a meat thermometer if you’re cooking at home. Avoid ready-made meat salads, pates, and meat spreads from the refrigerator or seafood salads.

Soft Cheeses

Similar to lunch meats and hot dogs, there’s a small chance that soft or unpasteurized ripened dairy products may contain listeria, causing listeriosis. Soft cheeses with white coating have more moisture and are therefore more likely to contain bacteria. Cheese to avoid include goat, Camembert, Brie, feta, and blue-veined cheeses.

If soft cheese is individually wrapped, they are safer to eat. These are fairly easy to find at the grocery store. The good news is that if you’re a cheese lover, you’re not totally out of luck. Hard cheeses like Italian grana and Swiss are fine during pregnancy. Cooked cheese it fine as long as it’s to a steaming temperature that kills the bacteria.

Fresh Juices

The whole point of fresh juice is that it’s made with raw fruits and vegetables, but there are several problems with it. Some unpasteurized juices contain bacteria and parasites that can lead to neurological damage in a baby. If you’re making them yourself, there’s a chance that outside bacteria can get in through the process. Some common bacteria found in unpasteurized foods include salmonella, E. coli, and Cryptosporidium parasites.

You don’t have to completely give up juice while you’re pregnant, though. Stick to juice in bottles or boxes from the grocery store. Avoid juices with too much sugar as they can contribute to gestational diabetes. If you order juice at a restaurant, make sure it’s not freshly squeezed.

Sushi

It’s important to stay away from all uncooked meat during pregnancy, and this includes sushi. Both sashimi and sushi contain raw fish and are more likely to contain bacteria and parasites than fully cooked fish. If it’s hard for you to give up sushi while pregnant, don’t worry. Just stick to the cooked options.

Many fish used in sushi like bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, marlin, and swordfish are high in mercury. Mercury has been linked to blindness, deafness, brain damage, and other birth defects. Canned light tuna has very little mercury and is okay to eat occasionally, but avoid albacore tuna, king mackerel, tilefish, and shark.

Raw Sprouts

Raw sprouts can contain something we’ve talked about before here: listeriosis, caused by listeria. Before the sprouts grow, bacteria may enter the seeds, making it next to impossible to wash out. Even when the seed is clean, the sprouting process creates a prime environment for bacteria to grow. During pregnancy, the immune system is often suppressed, making your body more susceptible to food-borne illnesses.

You can keep eating sprouts as long as they are cooked to 165 degrees. Take raw sprouts out of salads or sandwiches at restaurants. Remember that this danger extends to radish, mung bean, clover, and alfalfa.

Refrigerated Smoked Seafood

Smoked seafood is a popular snack and often considered a delicacy, but once again, listeria is a concern. You’re safe to eat smoked seafood in things like casseroles or if it’s been cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. You can eat pickled fish, but avoid raw shellfish and oily fish as they can contain polychlorinated biphenyls and dioxins.

If you need Omega-3 acids and can’t get them while pregnant, turn to fortified dairy products, soybeans, edamame, and flaxseed. Many opt to take a fish oil supplement while pregnant but make sure to clear this with your OBGYN.

Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the most harmful substances you can expose an unborn baby to. While you may drink before you realize you’re pregnant, it’s important to stop immediately after you find out. Alcohol can lead to risks of preterm birth, stillbirth, miscarriage, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Alcohol can actually pass through the placenta and reach the fetus, increasing the baby’s blood alcohol levels to the level of the mother’s. The fetus takes longer to break it down and additional risks include problems with brain development, smaller-than-normal head size, and lower birth weight.

Finally, alcohol can lead to a serious disorder known as fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause lifelong disabilities. Children with FAS struggle with central nervous system problems, learning problems, physical disabilities, intellectual problems, and behavioral disabilities. They may also have abnormal facial features. The United States Surgeon General recommends that women who are trying to get pregnant, think they could be, or know they are should immediately quit drinking.

Unwashed Fruits and Veggies

Some unwashed fruits and vegetables carry a parasite called toxoplasma that can be particularly harmful to expecting moms and their babies. Other harmful organisms like listeria, hepatitis A virus, and norovirus can be found on unwashed materials. Run all food under running water, and brush the skin if possible, or use a chlorine-based food disinfectant.

Keep washed and unwashed food separate to avoid cross-contamination. Be careful if you have a home garden, and eat cooked vegetables in restaurants.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Anna Hecker / Unsplash.

The post 10 Foods Pregnant Women Should Avoid at All Costs appeared first on Moms Who Think.

More and more women are choosing to wait until later in life to start a family. This choice has many advantages, including financial security and more life experience. No matter the reasons for this choice, pregnancy in your 40s can be quite different from pregnancy in your 20s or even 30s. Here is what to expect from a pregnancy in your 40s, otherwise known as a “geriatric pregnancy.”

What is a Geriatric Pregnancy? 

If you have been alive for a while, you might have heard the term geriatric pregnancy. A geriatric pregnancy refers to a woman who is pregnant after the age of 35. However, recently, this term has been dismissed as outdated. Instead, in the medical community, a woman who is pregnant later in life is referred to as being at an advanced maternal age or AMA.  
 
Although women over 35 who conceive aren’t necessarily “elderly” like geriatric makes them sound, there is a reason for this title. It simply means that there is an increase in pregnancy-related health risks if a woman conceives later in life.   

 There is a Fertility Decline After 35 

One reason for this increase in risk is the fertility decline after the age of 35. Women are born with every egg cell they will ever have. As a woman grows older, her eggs grow older with her as well. This means that egg quality decreases as a woman ages.  
 
Sometimes, these “older” eggs may have chromosomal variations. This is one reason doctors recommend additional genetic testing in the first trimester. While they do this with all pregnancies, it’s strongly recommended in a pregnancy where the woman is at an advanced maternal age.

You Will Receive More Monitoring 

Since a woman with an advanced maternal age has risks of her eggs having chromosomal variations and also an increase in medical conditions, she will receive more monitoring. Her doctor will most likely want to see her more often.

Additionally, during the pregnancy, there may be more ultrasounds, blood tests, and overall monitoring to ensure the pregnancy progresses at a healthy rate.  

Higher Risk of Pregnancy-Related Conditions 

A woman who has a pregnancy over the age of 40 will have an increased risk of pregnancy-related conditions. The extra monitoring is to watch for anything out of the ordinary. Some of these pregnancy-related conditions include: 

• The baby has a lower-than-average birth weight. 
• Higher risk of ectopic pregnancy. 
• There is a higher risk of miscarriage. 
• Babies may have a higher risk of being born with congenital disabilities. 
• A pregnant woman over 40 has an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes. 
• There is a higher risk of high blood pressure the older we get (even when we are not pregnant.) 
• High blood pressure also increases the risk of pre-eclampsia.  
• There is also a higher risk of a stillbirth.  

Your Energy Levels May be Different 

Apart from more frequent testing and a higher risk of pregnancy-related conditions, there are other differences when a woman is pregnant in her 40s versus her 20s and 30s. You may find your energy levels are not the same as in your 20s.  

This energy change can be attributed to a number of things, such as a full-time career, medical conditions, older children to attend to, or even just age.  

If you are pregnant in your 40s, you may notice that pregnancy-related fatigue hits you harder and faster.

May Have More Aches and Pains 

Since our bodies wear down the older we get, it’s normal for a pregnant woman in her 40s to feel achier. These aches and pains are typical for any pregnant person; however, the older a woman is, the more she will feel.  

You may find your back or legs hurt more often. Additionally, hormones may give you more frequent headaches. Although these aches and pains are typically normal, never be afraid to consult your doctor if something seems concerning.  

 Higher Chance of Need of C-Section

Advanced maternal age also increases the risk of needing a cesarean section (C-section.) This is because pregnancy complications may appear more often when a woman is older than 40.

May Increase the Chances of Having a Multiples Birth

There are a few reasons why the chance of having a multiples birth increases when a woman is over 40. First, hormonal changes may cause a woman’s body to release more than one egg during ovulation.  

Additionally, more women choose to use fertility treatments, such as IVF, as they age. Doing so is also associated with an increased chance of multiple births.  

There are Benefits as Well 

Although having a pregnancy at an advanced maternal age comes with risks, there are also heaps of benefits as well. Many people say that the benefits outweigh the risks.

These benefits are why many women and couples choose to wait until much later to start families.

More Life Experience 

One benefit of waiting until later in life to have a baby is that you have more life experience. Many women choose to start careers, travel, and gather plenty of life experience before settling down and having a family.  
 
Starting a family is a personal choice; however, many women are choosing this path because it comes with a number of benefits. Life experience is great when raising a child because she can give her child wisdom and advice that she learned along the way. Additionally, having life experiences while young helps you mature and enjoy life in a way many don’t when raising a family.

Financial Stability 

Another reason that life experience is a good thing before starting a family is that it often comes with financial stability. Raising a family is not easy, and financial strain makes it even harder. The more financially stable someone is before having a baby, the more secure they and their partner (if they have one) will feel.  
 
Financial stability helps reduce some of the stresses of having a baby. While no one can reduce all the stress from having a family, having security makes it easier.  

Expect More Tests While Pregnant After 40 

If you decide to have a pregnancy after age 40, there are a few things to expect. First, your doctor will most likely suggest genetic screening. Typically, the first round of genetic screening is a noninvasive test that is recommended to everyone. While it is optional, it can be beneficial to a woman who is over 40.  
 
If a woman chooses to have a noninvasive genetic screening and needs more, then she may need to undergo a round of more invasive screening.  
 
Additionally, there may be reasons to see a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Typically, a woman will see one if they have a higher-risk pregnancy. Since being at an advanced maternal age does put a woman at a higher risk during pregnancy, it can be a good idea to see one.  
 
Furthermore, women will have more prenatal doctor visits, and testing may be done sooner during pregnancy.  

How to Lower Risk of Pregnancy Complications in Your 40s 

If you are at an advanced maternal age, you are probably wondering if there is anything you can do to reduce your risk of complications. The answer is yes. While you cannot prevent every complication, several steps can be taken to reduce risk and increase the chances of keeping your pregnancy healthy.  

Consistently take Prenatal Vitamins 

Be sure to take your prenatal vitamins regularly. These vitamins give you and the baby important nutrients and vitamins that you may be missing. They will help fill in any gaps in your diet.  

Stop Drinking Any Alcohol

If you drink alcohol, refrain from drinking any during your pregnancy. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can come with a whole host of complications. These can include Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, stillbirth, low birth weight, and even an increase in SIDS.

Start or Continue Eating a Healthy Diet  

Eating a healthy diet is good for any pregnancy. Be sure to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains. A healthy diet and prenatal vitamins can help give your baby and you the essential nutrients that are important as they develop.  

Manage Weight Gain 

Weight gain while pregnant can be a touchy subject. Every woman gains differently. However, maintaining a healthy weight gain while pregnant can help reduce the risks of high blood pressure and gestational diabetes. Both of these conditions may put a woman and pregnancy at a higher risk of complications.

One way to manage weight gain is to be sure to exercise regularly. This can be something as simple as going for an evening walk for 20 minutes every day.  

Manage Any Medical Conditions That May be Pre-Existing

Pre-existing medical conditions can put a woman at higher risks while pregnant. If you have a condition like high blood pressure, a mental health disorder, or diabetes, it’s important to continue managing these conditions while pregnant. Unmanaged medical conditions can complicate a pregnancy quickly.  

Keep Your Prenatal Visits  

Prenatal visits can be tempting to skip, especially if you are busy. However, it’s important to go to every prenatal visit your doctor makes. These appointments make it easier for your doctor to monitor your progress. Doctors will also be able to notice signs of something being out of the ordinary.  
 
If you don’t show up to your appointments, your doctor cannot detect any signs or symptoms of something going amiss.  

Reduce Your Stress Level 

Stress does a number on our health. It can increase blood pressure, make it difficult to sleep, and more. It’s important to try to reduce your stress level while pregnant. Say no to unnecessary commitments.

Get plenty of sleep and take care of yourself. It’s easy to neglect your self-care and mental health while you are pregnant and when you have other commitments. However, taking care of yourself is one of the most important forms of love you can show your children and future baby.  

In Summary 

Having a geriatric pregnancy, or being at an advanced maternal age, can be scary. After all, it comes with a number of pregnancy-related risks. Yes, you will be more closely monitored while you are pregnant. Yet so many benefits come with waiting until later in life to have a baby.

If you are over 40 and pregnant, don’t be discouraged. Maybe this pregnancy is a surprise and not what you expected, or you have waited to start a family. Regardless of your reasons, it is possible to have a healthy pregnancy that leads to a healthy baby.

Be sure to visit your OBGYN as much as they schedule, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and take care of yourself. These steps can help you enjoy your pregnancy, even in your 40s.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©shisu_ka/Shutterstock.com.

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When someone becomes unexpectedly pregnant, it can be a very confusing and emotional time. This unexpected pregnancy has taken them by surprise, and they have some important decisions to make during the next couple of months. However, as a friend, it is important to be understanding and sensitive. You may be wondering how you can offer support. Here are a few tips on what to say when someone becomes unexpectedly pregnant.

Offer Encouragement

The best thing you can do for someone who becomes unexpectedly pregnant is offer words of support and encouragement. Many expecting parents are often concerned about the transition into parenthood. As a family member or friend, you can lend an ear and offer kind words of encouragement to help them with their doubted feelings. Here are a few examples:

• “You’ve got this; you’re not alone; we are all here to help you.”
• “I am here for you no matter what.”
• “I admire your strength; you are handling this well.”
• “You are brave and capable I know you can do this.”

Remind Them That They Can Still Achieve Their Goals

Goals and dreams are still important despite an unexpected pregnancy. Remind them that they can still achieve their goals. It might take a little bit longer; however, when you set your mind to it, it can be done. For example, your friend may want to become a teacher. The lovely thing about the internet is that you can do online courses, and in your spare time, this enables you to still reach your goals and achieve your dreams. Online teaching is very popular, and many students look for extra support.

Seek Professional Help

The next thing you can say to someone who becomes unexpectedly pregnant is to try and encourage them to seek professional help either from a qualified nurse, doctor, or counselor. They will be able to help them understand and control their emotions and practical views during the situation.

Don’t Give Unwanted Advice

As the pregnancy is unplanned, we are assuming the parents have not had the chance to plan. This is going to take them some time to put a plan of action in place. As a supportive friend or family member, be mindful of the words you use, and don’t overstep your boundaries when providing support. However, even though you may have many thoughts that you would like to share, it is up to the expecting parents to make their own decisions. Keep in mind that they can always ask you for advice when they need to. Remember to be kind. If need be, they can always carry on with the pregnancy and consider adoption.

Closing Thoughts

Offer your support and assist with running errands and helping with child care. Assist with resources and advice that can help them make an informed and positive decision. Remember that each person has different feelings and emotions, and the choices they make are ultimately up to them, and your job is to be supportive.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/Liudmila_Fadzeyeva.

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Becoming a parent is overwhelming, joyful, stressful, happy, and every other mixed emotion you can think of. Most expecting parents have done their best to have a nursery set up, clothes purchased, and all the essentials in the hospital bag. It’s particularly stressful when it’s the first baby and Mom is going to deliver for the first time.

It’s hard to explain the feeling of terrified joy you feel when you realize you’re responsible for another human life, but every mother has felt it. If all goes well during the delivery, you still have sleepless nights, pain, and lots of spit-ups to look forward to. If there are problems during delivery with the mom or the baby, many life-changing things become normal really fast.

But becoming a mother isn’t negative, although many things can be extremely hard. There’s the surreal dream-like feeling of waking up to a baby that has your smile, your partner’s eyes, or your dad’s mannerisms. There’s the joy of watching them grow, learn, achieve, and even fail.

Mothers need all the help they can get in today’s world as society has higher expectations on things like when the body should be “normal” again and when the mother should return to work. Through all the ups and downs, mom guilt constantly lurks around the corner.

If there’s a new mom in your life and you want to support her, we have a few do’s and don’ts to adhere to. Even casual comments can have a lasting effect, so pay attention to your words when you’re around a new mom.

Do Say: I’ll Bring Dinner Tomorrow

Even if it’s just parents and newborns, the thought of fixing a meal can be exhausting when you’ve just given birth. Many moms feel the beginnings of failure this early, and while partners can help carry the load, they may be exhausted also. Offering to bring a meal in is a great way to take some weight off mom’s shoulders.

Don’t make the meal a chore for them. Freezer meals are great, and you can even get their favorite takeout. Offer to leave the meal on the porch to avoid spreading germs. Don’t inundate them with texts about what is best, but do check for food allergies. Try to do something simple that most people like, such as pasta or sandwiches.

Don’t Say: Are You Breastfeeding?

The reality is that how a mother chooses to feed her baby is nobody’s business. Some breastfeed exclusively, others rely on formula and some mix the two. It doesn’t matter what a mother chooses to do with her body or her baby. Asking this question can trigger a whole wave of emotions for mothers who want to breastfeed and can’t for reasons outside their control. Unless you’re invited into this topic, stay out of it.

Do Say: You Will Sleep Again

There’s about a two-week time period where it’s amazing to see your baby day or night. Once the lack of sleep hits your body, it’s a different story. About two months in, most moms hit a wall and their bodies tell them they have to sleep.

The problem with having a newborn is that your body can’t get the deep kind of sleep that gives you energy. Telling a mom that she will sleep again gives her hope, particularly if you’ve been there before. Better yet, if appropriate, offer to take the baby during the day so she can nap.

Don’t Say: You Hold Your Baby Too Much

First of all, offering your opinion when it’s not asked for is just tacky, so this should be a given. Moms worry about tummy time, nap times and feeding. The last thing they need to feel guilty about is how often they sit to hold their baby. When she’s grown a human being and delivered it, she can hold them whenever she wants.

Research also shows that babies need to be held and loved. Whether the mom chooses to rock her baby to sleep or start with a strict sleeping schedule, it’s their decision to make.

Do Say: I Am Proud of You

The effort it takes to get pregnant, deliver a baby, and raise a child is incredible. Most parents feel as if they’re getting it wrong no matter what they do, and the worry sticks around late into the night. New moms don’t want advice unless they ask for it. They simply want to be told that they’re doing a great job and that you’re proud of them.

These words can come from anyone. A friend, a neighbor, a sister, or anyone else who wants to support a new mom and build her up. Tell her as often as you can, because she will doubt herself many times, and if she hears your voice in her head saying she’s doing great, it may pull her out of a funk.

Don’t Say: You Look Stressed

Of course, a new mom is stressed, and she doesn’t need you to point it out to her. That only makes her self-conscious that she’s giving off the wrong kind of energy to her family. It makes her concerned about her appearance when she needs to be resting and caring for the baby.

If she seems anxious, use your actions more than your words. Ask her what you can do to help her or just remind her that she’s doing a great job. Mop a floor, drop off a gift card, or bring her favorite treat to her. Do what you can to lift her up rather than stress her out and break her down.

Do Say: Trust Your Instincts

It takes some time to adjust to the idea that you are someone’s everything and that they rely on you for food, shelter, and all kinds of care. Because of this, many new moms have a hard time tuning in to their instincts and trusting them, but the truth is they know what’s right for their baby. Bad or good, a mama’s instincts are one of the most important things she can learn to listen to.

Don’t Say: You’re Leaving the Baby Home Already?

The truth is that motherhood looks different for everyone. Some moms have to go back to work quickly, some need to get out with friends or their partner, and some just simply need to be someone other than mom. There is no timeline on when a new mom should leave her baby with her partner or a trusted sitter. A big part of fighting post-partum depression is taking care of yourself, and if she’s taking active steps to do that, encourage her instead of berating her.

Do Say: So Thankful Your Baby Is Here Safely

Maternal mortality rates are higher than they should be, and the truth is that giving birth is very hard on your body. Most women have some type of health problem during pregnancy whether it’s swollen ankles or nausea, and many of these problems can be life-threatening. Not to mention the birthing process itself.

It’s a relief to finally hold your baby in your arms and know your body is healthy. Make sure mom and baby know that you’re happy everything went well and that baby is here and thriving. This is particularly true for women who have hard labors, difficult pregnancies, or C-sections.

Don’t Say: You’ve Already Lost the Baby Weight

Society is hard on women in many ways, and one in particular is weight. Most women gain 25-35 pounds while they’re pregnant, but it’s possible to gain much more. As long as a health care professional is monitoring their weight, they don’t need comments on it from you.

The hips widen for the woman to give birth and it takes time for things to go back to “normal.” But ultimately, this is not the mom’s goal, nor should it be the focus. Her body did and continues to do a miraculous thing. She needs additional calories and vitamins to help her body recover. It doesn’t matter what she looks like while she does it, as long as she is healthy and happy.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©FamVeld/Shutterstock.com.

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We won’t lie, motherhood isn’t easy, and it’s not for everyone. However, while raising a child can be hard from time to time, there are certain attributes that someone may have that may make them more of a natural mother. In the past, we’ve talked about the personality traits of an amazing father. Now, we present the 14 traits that prove that your partner will be an amazing mother.

There are many interesting traits on this list. There are attributes that may seem like no-brainers, like the ability to be caring, flexible, compassionate, and patient. However, there are other traits that you may not have thought of before. Traits like being consistent and open-minded. A mother also needs to be able to understand self-care and her own needs. A good mother will also have a great sense of humor and the ability to be resilient when things get tough. If you are thinking of having a baby, see if your partner possesses any of these essential traits.

Flexibility

There’s a reason many people who work as managers also make great mothers and heads of household. The job requires someone who is flexible. You must be able to adapt to different scenarios because the day in the life of a mother is constantly changing. You may have a plan for the day, and it may start out right, but all of a sudden, the day changes, or your child has a change of heart, and you’re on an all-new path. A mother must be able to change plans quickly and be able to multitask. While no mother is perfect, and issues will occur, any sense of flexibility will make a big difference and make life much easier.

Empathy

One of the key traits necessary to be an amazing mother is a sense of empathy and compassion. A mate who already has these traits is likely to become a nurturing mother who treats her kids and everyone else with respect and care. To show empathy, a mother will need to be able to put herself in her child’s shoes so she can probably solve their issue while understanding their feelings. It’s far too easy for many mothers to get overly upset at their kids, but that won’t help anyone. So, if you’re looking for someone who will be a great mother, find someone who shows compassion to you and even the strangers she meets. Granted, every mother is likely to lose her temper at some point when under pressure, but a sense of empathy will help.

Patience

Patience and empathy often go hand in hand. Being patient is the only way to show compassion and not get overly upset. You’ll need to be patient a lot with kids. When they’re young, kids have a lot to learn, and they’ll do many things that will upset you. Even as they get older and gain more control over what they do, they’ll still likely make decisions that will cause your blood to boil. Still, it would be best if you tried to be patient. Kids will test you. If your mate doesn’t seem to have patience now, they’ll need to look deep inside to see if they have what it takes to not fly off of the handle. That doesn’t mean that someone with a short fuse can’t be a mother. However, they’ll need to look inside themselves and make some changes if necessary.

An Ability to Handle Stress

A good mother will have the qualities of empathy and patience, but even the most patient person will get irritated from time to time. As a result, someone who hopes to be a mother one day will need to have a proven way to alleviate their stress. Even if your mate doesn’t have a child yet, you can see how she handles stress at work, with friends, and with family. What does she do when she gets upset? Does she take a few breaths or count to 10? Or, does she immediately fold under the pressure? If someone has an issue dealing with stress, it doesn’t automatically mean that they can’t be a good mother. There are many ways to deal with anxiety. Finding a coping mechanism can make all the difference and help anyone be a better mother.

Understanding of Self-Care

Many mothers will want to give their all for their children, and that’s great. However, if you give your all but don’t take care of yourself, you’re asking for trouble. The ability to prioritize self-care is essential as a mom. You need to find a way to get enough sleep, eat right, and find time to exercise even with a busy schedule. Does your partner make it a point to take care of herself right now? Does she exercise regularly and make it a point to eat healthy? If so, she’ll likely continue the trend once she’s a mother. How a person takes care of themselves is often a good indicator of how they’ll take care of their children.

Consistency

One of the absolutely essential traits of a good mother is consistency. Your child will need the same things from you every day. They need food, positive reinforcement, and proper care daily. Failure to meet these needs could be bad for your child’s health. Part of consistency means sticking with a routine. Does your partner have a daily routine now? Do they wake up at a certain time, leave for work, go shopping on the same days, and eat meals at the same time? This type of regimen will also be important when caring for a child. If they’re not consistent at home, are they at least consistent at work? If so, then she’ll still likely be a fine mother.

Open-Mindedness

While a mother will need to stand her ground, especially as her children grow, she should not be stubborn. While every mom typically knows what’s best for her kids, it’s also important to be open-minded. As time goes on, there will always be new methods for raising children, and you never know when one of those options may be best for the kids. Plus, all children are different. You could have three children with three different minds and temperaments, so you may need to raise them differently. By being open-minded, a good mother will also listen to different perspectives, and it can be great for learning new things. Is your partner open-minded right now? Does she hear about new things and have an interest in trying them out? If so, she will likely excel as a parent.

Sense of Humor

While living life as a mother is an incredibly enjoyable experience, it’s not always going to be sunshine and roses, especially when your kids are living through their first few years. There will be stress and sleepless nights. However, a good mother will be able to do the best she can to enjoy the good and the bad and have a good time along the way. A great mother will be able to see the funny side of things, even when it comes to cleaning diapers and doing the dirty work. Does your partner have a good sense of humor now? Can she see the bright side of things even when times are tough? That will be a big part of surviving life as a parent and being an amazing mother.

Knowing That It’s Okay To Be Imperfect

As a parent, it’s vital that you know that it’s okay to make mistakes. Every child is different. There is no proven way to raise every single child. A good mother may try one strategy to care for her kids and find out that it’s completely wrong. That’s okay. The ability to be okay with making mistakes and change direction is what makes a great parent. Is your mate okay with making mistakes, or is she hyper-critical of herself? If she is, then maybe some stress or anxiety reduction techniques can help. Plus, a good mother must not beat herself up if her parenting doesn’t get the desired result. Just pick yourself up and try something else.

Enjoys Looking After Others

It might go without saying, but one of the defining traits necessary to be an amazing mother is the ability and desire to take care of others. Motherhood will often be a full-time job. Your partner must know that ahead of time. Many people dream of having a baby due to how cute they are, but it’s a lot of work, and your partner must be up for it. Does she currently take care of kids? Has she ever worked as a babysitter? Does she have nieces and nephews that she takes care of from time to time? If the answer is yes, does she enjoy those experiences? Does she often have a smile on her face? Does she often volunteer to take care of others? If she does, then she’ll likely be an amazing mother.

Effective Communicator

One of the most essential personality traits necessary to be an amazing mother is the ability to communicate. A child will communicate both verbally and nonverbally, and a mother will have to do the same. Communication includes telling the kids what to do but also teaching them important lessons along the way. If you can’t communicate, your kids will not get the message, and it can cause trouble. While you and your partner likely talk a lot now, how does she really communicate? How does she express her frustrations and explain her wants and needs? Is her language clear? Is she empathic when she speaks? Can she solve problems verbally and understand cues? Then she’ll likely be an amazing mother.

Resilience

Being a mom is very rewarding, but it isn’t always easy. So, a good mom must be resilient and be able to power through times of trial and come out in a good place on the other side. Reliance means that a mom can cope with adversity and conquer stress. Not everyone is born resilient, so there are many ways that a mom can become more resilient. For instance, resilience practices can include medication and prayer, journaling, taking quiet walks, resting and making sleep a priority, and always trying to look for humor in a tough situation. By being resilient, a mother can take on the tough challenges of motherhood and be a good role model for her children.

Prone To Give Affection

While many parents show it in different ways, there should be some sort of affection. A partner who easily shows affection now will likely show it when they have a baby. A child needs to know they’re loved and you can show that with hugs, kisses, cuddles, and other forms of affection. How affectionate is your partner now? Are they able to show their emotions and express their happiness? Are they always happy to give a hug or kiss? The more affectionate and nurturing a mother is, the better her kids will turn out.

Forgiving

Parents must have a forgiving nature, especially when kids are young and don’t know enough to stay out of trouble. If you fly off the handle every time your children do something wrong, it’s going to be a very stressful life, and your kids may not grow up in the nurturing environment that they need. Is your partner forgiving? Is she open to talking things out when you do something wrong? Better yet, can she forgive herself when she makes a mistake? If she is forgiving, she will likely be an amazing mother. If not, there’s always time to look inside and find forgiveness in the heart.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©buritora/Shutterstock.com.

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Starting a family with someone is a lifelong commitment. At the beginning of a relationship, a lot of the time, it is all butterflies, flutters, and excitement. Yet, after committing to a family, your life will look different years down the road. Your relationship changes and evolves. Sure, there may still be passion and love, but now you are responsible for little humans. Before you venture into a lifelong commitment with someone by starting a family, getting a good sense of who they would be as a parent is always a good idea. While having a magic genie who can tell us the future in this situation would be fabulous, it’s impossible. So, going with the next best thing is a good plan. Study the potential dad-to-be and be on the lookout for personality traits that show your partner will be a good father.

The future is unexplored, and knowing how your life will turn out is impossible. However, when you are ready to start a family, ensuring your partner is in it for the long haul is important. According to the Institute for Family Studies, studies have shown that children with an attentive and loving father reap many benefits, including being more likely to thrive in several areas (such as socially and financially) of their lives.

Why Children Benefit From a Great Father

Parenting is not always easy, and having someone who can walk alongside you and parent your children with you is a privilege for many. Children with two parents who are attentive, protective, and loving but know how to set boundaries are essential. Children can benefit from a great father:

• An authoritative father can help children thrive socially, academically, and emotionally.
• Promotes good mental health for infants and children.
• Father involvement may mean fewer behavioral issues in children.
• Dad’s involvement helps set up success for their child’s future.

How To Tell Your Partner Will Be a Great Father

If you are ready to start a family with your partner, several telling signs will reveal how he will do as a dad. While there are a whole host of personality types out there, he may not be every one of these things. However, if your partner possesses these positive personality traits, there’s a good chance he will make a great father.

Shows Respect to His Mother and You

Pay attention to how your partner treats his mother, grandmother, sister, and you. Does he respect the women in his life, or does he have a superior attitude? Even if it’s subtle, the future father of your children must have respect towards women (and really all people.) After all, there’s a fifty-fifty chance you will have a daughter with him one day.

If your spouse is respectful towards the women in his life and you, that’s a positive sign.

He is Patient

Patience is a virtue; it doesn’t come easily in our fast-paced world. Is your partner patient, or does he flip his lid at the slightest inconvenience?

Parenting will be a trying experience for both of you. Stresses come and go, children’s personalities don’t always mesh, academics, finances, etc. Multiple different situations will arise as parents that will test your patience. Will you always be able to be patient? No, but the more patient your partner is now, the easier it will be for him as you grow your family.

He is Supportive of Your Dreams

Great dads are supportive. Is your partner supportive of you and your dreams and goals? Does he do what he can to help you reach those dreams? If so, chances are he’ll be a great dad.

A good dad will know how to support their child’s dreams, even if they look different than his. Support when your ideas and thoughts don’t align exactly with theirs is also a great sign. This means he has an open mind and is willing to be supportive even if life looks different than what he thought it would.

He is Attentive

Children who have attentive parents thrive. That is why intention and involvement are important in families. Does your partner pay attention to you when you speak to him? Is he willing to go the extra mile and be involved in what you love? Is he intentional about your feelings, ideas, and plans?

If he is, he will carry that attentiveness over to your child, precisely what they need.

Can Show Empathy

Empathy is not something everyone possesses. Empathy, which differs from sympathy, means your partner can sense or imagine your feelings. They may have never experienced your situation; however, they can put themselves in someone else’s shoes and either sense emotions or be in tune with what a person is feeling or thinking.

Thankfully, empathy can be learned, so don’t give up if your partner lacks it.

However, if they already possess this trait, they will be able to be empathetic with their children, which is a positive sign.

Loves to be Playful

Children love to play. They also love to play with other people, especially their dads. If your partner isn’t serious one hundred percent of the time, that may be a great sign. Jokes, laughing, and playfulness are positive traits that may mean they will be great fathers.

Children benefit immensely from playing with their dads. According to the Michigan Psychological Association, children whose dads play with them are positively affected in many areas of their lives, including socially and emotionally. Playing with Dad also impacts learning how to control emotions.

He is Honest  

Honesty is essential for any relationship. If your partner is honest, they will likely make good dads. This is because honesty promotes healthy relationships. He won’t be worried about covering up a lie or living a secret life. Instead, he can focus on his children and build strong relationships.

Furthermore, honesty promotes a strong bond between father and kids. They will know they can trust their dad. Trust is one of the fundamental foundations of any relationship.

Has a Strong Work Ethic and is Dependable

Having a solid work ethic is beneficial in a few different ways. For starters, it means they aren’t afraid of hard work and doing what they must to provide for their families. Families will feel secure knowing their father will do whatever he can to care for them. These traits make it easy to count on him because he is dependable.

Additionally, a strong work ethic can be taught. Therefore, your partner can teach your children how to cultivate a strong work ethic.

He is Encouraging

Encouragement is important for children. If your partner is already encouraging, he will likely not have a difficult time transferring that encouragement to your children.

Does he build you up when you are feeling down? How about during a difficult season in life? Can you count on your partner to be there for you when tragedy strikes? Is your partner willing to give you a different, more positive outlook on situations? These traits come in handy as you parent children.

Has Sensitivity and is Slow to Judge

It’s easy to judge someone; it takes more effort to be sensitive. Does your partner possess the ability to be slow to judge? Your children will make mistakes and may have friends you don’t understand, ideas that are different than yours, etc. They will need you to be patient and sensitive as they navigate life.

Less judgment means having a more open mind and not jumping to conclusions.

He is Protective

If your partner already shows protective traits, he will likely be a protective father. Being protective and overprotective are two different things, though. A protective father makes it his business to keep his family safe. He will prioritize giving them a roof over their heads, food in their stomachs, and a safe place to grow up.

A protective father is also willing to make his child’s business his business. He will know their friends and who they are hanging out with. Furthermore, he will also be available to give advice and listen to his children.

He is Adaptable

Being adaptable as a parent is vital. Many situations will go differently than planned, but having adaptability means he is willing to go with the flow. If this is the case, you will feel more at ease, and so will your children.

Values His Time

Does your partner value his time? If so, that is a positive sign. A solid work ethic is a great trait; however, a great father will know how to prioritize work and family time. He will value time with his children and you. Additionally, a great father knows how to leave work at work and bring his mind back to his children and partner.

Easily Forgives

Learning how to forgive is a gift that you give yourself. It frees you from spending valuable time upset over something. Instead, it gives you time to prioritize your family.

Furthermore, children make mistakes, and so do partners. It’s important to know how to forgive and move forward to create a strong foundation. If your partner holds a grudge for years, it can be difficult to move past it and build the strong foundation that children need to thrive.

One Last Note

If you are considering starting a family with your partner, now is a great time to start paying attention to his traits. Is he patient and hardworking? What about dependability and sensitivity? Many characteristics make a good parent. Nevertheless, these 15 personality traits show that your partner will be a great father.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Maria Sbytova/Shutterstock.com.

The post 14 Personality Traits That Show Your Partner Will Be a Great Father appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Welcoming a baby into the world can be both exciting and downright scary. First-time parents have a million questions. They are also bombarded with information telling them that their baby needs all the things. Need a place to put your baby? Then you should buy this $300 swing. How about drying your bottles? Why not buy a $50 drying rack? Although all the fancy clothes, decorations, and baby gear are tempting, it can be hard on your wallet. This is why we put together a list of the 10 most essential new parent products (and 10 products that aren’t worth the hype.)

Even more, a few months after the baby is born, you may look around at all those adorable items and realize your baby never even touched them! Now, these items are just taking up unnecessary space in your home. However, knowing exactly what your baby needs and what to forgo buying can be tricky. So, take a look at the most essential new parent products that you will need for your little one. This list can help you prepare for your newest journey.

Most Essential New Parent Products

Many cute, alluring, and fun baby items are on the market today. It’s hard to walk into the store without seeing all the adorable baby items for sale and having the urge to buy them. However, in reality, your baby needs only a handful of items. This fact is beneficial to remember if you’re working with a budget. Here are ten of the most essential new parent products.

Somewhere Safe for Baby to Sleep

The first item on our essential new parent products list is somewhere safe for the baby to sleep. This safe place can be a bassinet by your bed or a crib (remember the mattress!).

Some parents decide to go straight for the crib and forgo the bassinet. At the same time, others prefer their baby to stay in the bedroom with them in a bassinet. Whatever you decide is okay. At this stage, parents don’t have to have both. You can wait a while to get a crib if that’s what you want or skip the bassinet altogether.

Additionally, if you go with a crib, remember you do not have to buy those $100 crib sheets.

Burp Cloths

One common fact is that many babies always have some type of liquid coming out of their mouths, whether it’s slobber from teething or spit up from acid reflux. This is why having several burp cloths on hand is necessary.

Many burp cloths on the market today are soft enough for a baby’s skin. They also come in packs. This makes them easy to collect and have around the house to use at a moment’s notice. Remember to stick a few in your diaper bag!

Stroller or Baby Carrier

After having a baby, you might not feel like getting out and about. However, give it a few weeks, and you may begin to feel stir-crazy. Having a stroller or a baby carrier on hand makes those outings much easier and more manageable.

There are many great strollers and baby carriers on the market today; the one you choose doesn’t have to be fancy. Unless, of course, you want it to be. Just as long as you have a safe place to put your baby, these items make it easier so you can get out and about when you want.

Feeding Necessities

You will need a plan for feeding your baby, whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Once you have a plan, you can narrow down what feeding necessities you will need.

Some women choose to breastfeed exclusively, meaning they do not need other feeding necessities.

However, others choose the bottle route or a combination of both. A few necessary items include bottles, nipples, and bottle-cleaning tools. Additionally, a breast pump and feeding pillow (like a boppy) can come in handy.

Clothing in Varies Sizes

Babies need some clothing. Many parents love to stock up on sleepers, while others prefer cute dresses and sets. Whatever your style is, your baby will need something to wear.

Babies grow very fast, and it’s hard to know whether they will fit into a newborn size anyway. So, it’s often recommended not to buy many newborn clothes since your baby will grow out of them fast.

Also, if your baby is a fast grower, be sure to stock up on an assortment of sizes. You will have at least something on hand if they outgrow their favorite sleeper seemingly overnight!

Car Seat

Another essential baby item is a car seat. Hospitals will only allow new parents to leave the hospital if they have one installed.

Be sure to buy a car seat that has been safety tested. Also, avoid buying one secondhand, because if it has been in an accident, there’s a possibility it is damaged.

Diapers and Wipes

Diapers are a necessity for babies. Whether you use cloth or disposable, make sure to have plenty on hand. Babies, especially newborns, go through diapers very quickly.

If you are hosting a baby shower, a diaper raffle is a fun way to raise money for these essential items.

Also, remember the wipes!

Essential First Aid and Health Items

Some items that often get overlooked when preparing for a baby are first aid and health items.

Having a first aid kit at home is a good idea because it saves time in case your baby falls sick or is experiencing a common issue that may arise. These ailments include stuffy nose, teething, or gassiness.

Some items to include in your first aid kit include:

• A thermometer
• Nail clippers
• A nasal aspirator (like nose frieda)
• Sanitizing wipes
• Baby-safe medication
• Diaper rash cream

While making a DIY first aid kit is possible, several great ones are on the market today.

An Outing Bag

An outing bag to cart all your baby items around is a necessity, especially if you enjoy leaving the house. Many parents choose to buy a diaper bag. However, a specific bag made just for babies isn’t always necessary.

There are many bags on the market that are geared toward carrying your baby’s items. Yet, you can also make an outing bag out of a purse, tote bag, or any other bag you have on hand.

When you leave the house, it’s important to have a place to put extra clothes, diapers, wipes, and other necessary items.

Somewhere to Put Baby When You Can’t Hold Them

One last necessary baby item is a safe place to put the baby when you can’t hold them. This place can be a bassinet or crib. Other handy places include a bouncer, swing, or even a play mat.

The item you choose doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy, just as long as the baby is placed somewhere safe where it will not accidentally fall (like an open bed.)

Unnecessary Items That Baby Doesn’t Need

Now that we have covered all the necessary items that new babies need let’s take a look at what you don’t really need. These items are often touted as necessary and helpful. Yet, many parents and families have noticed that they take up room in their houses and are hardly touched.

Wipes Warmer

A wipes warmer may seem necessary. After all, what baby will want cold wipes on their bum? However, many parents state that their wipes warmer either dries the wipes out or just sits there unused.

Most babies are perfectly fine with a regular wipe straight from the package. They get used to the feeling quickly, and it doesn’t last long, even if the wipes are cold.

Bottle Warmer

Like the wipes warmer, a bottle warmer is unnecessary. Some parents give their baby a bottle at room temperature; others go straight for cold.

While a warm bottle can be more pleasant for a baby to drink, there are other ways to warm it up, like placing it in a cup of warm or hot water for a few minutes.

Just be sure never to put the bottle in the microwave, as this can produce hot spots, which can burn your baby’s mouth.

Changing Table

Changing tables are appealing because they provide a place to keep all your changing essentials, such as diapers, creams, and wipes. However, buying a changing table is unnecessary. If you do not have the space for one, don’t be afraid to just opt out of buying it.

There are easier methods than walking to the changing table whenever your baby needs to be changed. One option is keeping a changing basket in every main room. Load the basket with diapers, creams, wipes, and a changing pad. Then, if your baby needs a diaper change, you can change them anywhere in the room, whether it’s a couch or floor. Plus, many parents have stated that this option is much more comfortable for them than a changing table.

Diaper Pail

Diaper Genies do conceal the smell of a dirty diaper, which can be very nice. However, it isn’t necessary to buy a diaper pail. Instead, you can place dirty diapers in a plastic bag or take them outside to keep the smell away.

Baby Bathtub

A cute baby bathtub became extremely popular several years ago: the bath flower. While it’s adorable, it’s not strictly necessary to bathe your baby. Neither is a baby bathtub.

Newborn baths are simple to give and don’t necessarily require all the fancy add-ons. For this reason, many parents found that the bath flower was hardly used, bulky, and took up too much space.

An Expensive White Noise Machine

Some babies sleep better with noise, while others prefer complete silence. Whatever the case, you do not need an expensive white noise machine. Mainly since you have yet to determine if your baby will even like it.

If your baby prefers noise to sleep, it may be more economical to play white noise on your phone or Alexa. Additionally, stores like Walmart or Target sell white noise machines that won’t break the bank.

All The Fancy Baby Equipment

Yes, you need a safe place to put your baby when you can’t hold them. However, don’t feel like you need all the baby things, including a baby swing, bouncer, bouncy seat, etc.

Having one or two specific safe places to put your baby when you can’t hold them is more than enough.

Dreft (or Special Detergent)

Dreft is a special baby detergent that some prefer to use to wash their newborn clothes. However, buying a completely different detergent for your baby for the first few years of their life is also unnecessary. Instead, opt for a family detergent that is hypoallergenic and scent-free.

Special Baby Food Processor

For parents making their own baby food, buying a special baby food processor is unnecessary. Instead, you can use a magic bullet or your food processor or blender if you already have one.

Additionally, regular ice trays work just as well for freezing the baby food for later.

Special Drying Racks

Although the special drying racks are cute, they aren’t a must-have. When washing your baby’s bottles and utensils, a typical drying rack or kitchen towel will suffice.

In Conclusion

There are so many baby items on the market today that it’s difficult to know exactly what essential new parent products are. As a new parent, you want the very best for your baby, but that doesn’t always mean stocking up on the most expensive items that take up space in your home.

Instead, stick with the necessities. After all, your baby will outgrow these items by their first or second birthday, and they will be on to needing something else. When you look back on your child’s babyhood, you won’t remember everything they had or didn’t have. Instead, you will focus on how loved your child is and how much joy they have brought you.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©New Africa/Shutterstock.com.

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Whether you’ve just had a baby or you’re about to, it’s important to stay informed and be prepared. You already know that you should pay close attention to what you consume during pregnancy, but what about after you’ve given birth and begin breastfeeding?

It’s recommended that new mothers consume more calories after giving birth than before conceiving due to the nutritional needs of themselves and their newborn babies. But it’s important to know what types of foods to avoid if you’re planning on breastfeeding. Here, we outline the 8 foods you should consider leaving out of your diet if you’re planning on breastfeeding. As always, it’s important to follow the advice of your pediatrician or doctor on any issues, including what to eat and what not to eat while breastfeeding your new little one.

Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of protein, but some babies may develop a reaction, such as eczema, two. It’s best to speak to your doctor or pediatrician before cutting anything out of your diet, but it’s also important to limit these types of food if you’re noticing any changes in your little ones skin.

Peanuts

One fear among most parents is their child having a serious allergic reaction, and peanuts are definitely a big one. Again, we recommend you talk to your pediatrician or doctor, but some new parents opt to limit or cut out peanuts from their diet just in case.

Spicy Foods

During pregnancy for some women, eating spicy foods can cause even more heartburn and digestive issues than you might be already experiencing. However, while breastfeeding, if you notice that your new baby is colicky or gets diarrhea, it’s important to put the hot sauce down or at least cut back on it until you’re done breastfeeding your little one.

Gassy Foods

Similar to spicy foods, it’s best to limit gassier foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage if you notice your new baby is experiencing abnormal gas or is colicky. However, if this is not a problem, then it’s fine to eat as regular. Just know, if your newborn is experiencing any of these symptoms, this could be the culprit.

Chocolate

Say it isn’t so! Like it or not, chocolate does have traces of caffeine in it. Not to say that you can’t enjoy your favorite chocolate bar once in a while, if you were sensitive to caffeine, there’s a good chance it could affect your breastmilk. If not, enjoy that chocolate!

Coffee

This one might be a no-brainer, but it’s definitely important to limit the amount of caffeine you consume, especially during breastfeeding. However, with that said, everybody is different. Just be sure to consume no more than 3 cups of caffeine a day, as that caffeine can pass through your bloodstream into your milk.

Certain Types of Fish

While most fish is a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, there are also some downsides to eating fish—especially while breastfeeding. Most types of fish contain mercury, so it’s recommended that if you are breastfeeding, you avoid such as shark, big guy, tuna, king, mackerel, and swordfish. Because it’s such a healthy source of protein, may not be necessary to completely eliminate other types of fish out of your diet, but it’s important not to overdo it.

Alcohol

We’ve all heard of the phrase “pump and dump.” Most mothers choose to enjoy that skinny margarita or glass of red wine (or two) after giving birth. Besides, it has been nine months. It’s best not to drink at all during breast-feeding, but if you choose to be sure, the alcohol is cleared from your milk before pumping or breastfeeding.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/Daisy-Daisy.

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The Chinese Pregnancy Calendar is based on legend, and has been used to predict whether an unborn child will be a boy or a girl. According to legend, the Chinese pregnancy calendar was buried in a royal tomb almost 900 years ago and was just recently discovered. Use the Chinese Birth Chart below to determine your baby's gender!

Key Points

• This chart is relatively simple to use. You'll need to know your month of conception to use it.
• If the square you land on is blue, a boy is on the way! If it's pink, your baby is a girl!
• There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that the chart is roughly 95% accurate.

Chinese Pregnancy Calendar

Directions for the Chinese Birth Chart

To use the Chinese pregnancy calendar, you will go down the column until you get to the age of the mother at the time of conception (it could be different if the mother has had a birthday since conceiving).

Then, go across that row until you get to the month the baby was conceived. If the square is blue, it's a boy! If the square is pink a girl is on the way!

Need an example?

Is the Chinese Birth Chart Accurate?

If you're taking a look at the Chinese birth chart, you might be wondering if it's accurate. Is there any scientific backing to this chart, or is it all based on faith?

The Chinese birth chart claims 95% accuracy. In a study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2009, researchers found that the Chinese birth calendar was no more accurate than a coin toss when it came to predicting a baby's gender. Another study in 2010 came to the same conclusion after reviewing records of 2.8 million births between 1973 and 2006.

So, it's safe to say there's no scientific evidence backing up the claim that the Chinese birth calendar is roughly 95% accurate. Rather, it seems to be more of a 50-50 shot that it will correctly predict a child's gender at birth. You definitely shouldn't be making any decisions based off of this chart's predictions. Save the blue paint for when an ultrasound can confirm the gender of your baby!

That being said, there's nothing wrong with using this chart for fun. It can spark conversations with your partner about your baby's potential gender, and can help generate excitement about your baby. Or, if you're currently planning for a child but aren't yet pregnant, it can be a fun exercise to do as you think about potential dates of conception.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Elena Schweitzer/Shutterstock.com.

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Key Points of Pregnancy at 9 Weeks

• Symptoms from 5-6 weeks will remain fairly consistent with pregnancy at 9 weeks. You find yourself with nasal issues
• Your baby has gone from an embryo to a full fetus and will have more definable features such as arms, legs, and even a tail! (Don't worry the tail will be gone by the time the baby is born.)
• Your doctor's visits for prenatal care and ultrasounds will show if the baby is healthy and developing normally. If not your doctor can advise on the best steps to take.

9 weeks pregnant is when your baby's development is kicked into high gear. Most recognizable features like arms, legs, and a head will be fairly developed at this point. You will most likely be experiencing more symptoms of pregnancy. You should have had at least one doctor's appointment at this point and they would have advised you for the coming weeks. This is still very exciting even if your morning sickness is getting the better of you.

Body Changes at 9 Weeks Pregnant

At 9 weeks pregnant, you may find yourself with a persistent stuffy nose. Nasal congestion and nose bleeds are fairly common during pregnancy. Try using a vaporizer or humidifier to help lessen the symptoms of pregnancy. You continue to feel tired, nauseated, and possibly dizzy. You also may be experiencing heartburn and indigestion, occasional food cravings and food aversions, nausea, bloating, mood swings, and weepiness from the hormones raging and changing throughout your body.

Your breasts may be feeling full and tender. This can be one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy. The areola typically darkens and Montgomery's glands, lubricating sweat glands on the areola, may become prominent and more numerous. Especially for those with a light complexion, veins in the breast often become more pronounced.

Your waistline may be expanding and you may even begin to show slightly. Each woman and each pregnancy is different; don't worry if you aren't looking pregnant yet!

Your Baby's Development at Week 9

During pregnancy week 9 your baby may be roughly 1 inch long. Your baby also weighs in at roughly .1 ounce. Your baby's physical body, including her arms, legs, and head, has taken shape. The embryonic tail at the bottom of your baby's spinal cord is shrinking, and your baby's head is now nearly half the size of its entire body.

More fetal developments that typically occur during the ninth week of pregnancy are the formation of nipple and hair follicles, the abdomen and chest cavities becoming separate, the eye muscles and upper lip developing, the nerve cells of the retinas forming in the eyes and the semicircular canals of the ears form. At this point, all your baby's fingers and toes are present. The urinary and rectal passages are completely separate and the intestines start to move out of the umbilical cord and into the abdomen.

Back to Pregnancy Week by Week

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Key Points

• Most key signs of pregnancy will appear around this point. Missed periods, morning sickness, and new cravings are all common symptoms.
• It's vital to schedule your first prenatal doctor's appointments around the 6-week mark.
• Basic human features will begin to form around this point but the embryo will only be the size of a grain of rice.

Around 6 six weeks is when most women find out they are pregnant. It is around the first missed period and around the time that home pregnancy tests are going start showing if you are pregnant or not. It is a very exciting and hopeful time for most. Here is what to generally expect in both your baby and your body.

Pregnancy Body Changes at 6 Weeks Pregnant

At 6 weeks pregnant, morning sickness may be rearing its ugly head. Nausea affects one-third to one-half of all pregnant women and usually subsides or even disappears by the start of the second trimester. It may be caused by a higher level of estrogen, as well as the rapid expansion of the uterus.

During week six of your pregnancy, your body is working hard to produce what will be your baby, which means that the symptoms of pregnancy can be more pronounced this week. Your nausea may get worse this week as your hormone levels rise. Remember it's called morning sickness, but it can strike at any point of the day. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Your breasts may tingle, or feel heavy, and the areola (skin around the nipple) may become darker. Food cravings and food aversions may develop. You may feel the need to urinate more often.

If you have not already done so, schedule your first prenatal appointment with your healthcare provider. Begin eating healthy if you haven't been, and avoid smoke, drugs, and alcohol. If you are struggling to quit nicotine, caffeine, or alcohol speak with your doctor about quitting for both your baby's and your body's health.

Avoid changing cat litter for there is a risk of toxoplasmosis. Let someone else do this duty for a while. Toxoplasmosis rarely has symptoms and can be hard to catch early on. Toxoplasmosis can cause pregnancy problems and problems in the newborn such as — severe neurological alterations to retinal lesions prone to potential flare up and relapses lifelong. In simple terms, brain damage, blindness, and other vision problems for life.

Your Baby's Growth and Development at Week 6

By week 6, your baby's brain and nervous system are developing at a rapid pace. The larynx starts to form as does the inner ear. Optic vesicles, which later form the eyes, begin to develop this week on the side of the head, as do the passageways that will make up the inner ear. The head and tail of the embryo are formed, limb buds are present, and basic facial features begin to appear.

It is a commonly held belief that a ‘heartbeat' is seen around this time. However, this isn't exactly true. Yes, the beginnings of a heart are starting to form but the early muscles are only fluttering and not actually beating. According to Dr. Saima Aftab, medical director of the Fetal Care Center at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami,

“This flutter happens because the group of cells that will become the future “pacemaker” of the heart gain the capacity to fire electrical signals.”

– Dr. Saima Aftab via Live Science Magazine

Because their legs are curled up against the torso for much of the pregnancy, making a full-length measurement difficult, babies often are measured from the crown to the rump rather than from head to toe. In week 6 of pregnancy, your baby is 0.08 to 0.2 inches from crown to rump.

While 6 weeks might only be the beginning of the incredible experience that is pregnancy, you will surely notice the changes in your body. Thankfully, this early detection of your pregnancy will give you ample time to plan and prepare for the upcoming changes.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/SciePro.

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You have just discovered that you are pregnant. Your heart is filled with joy and expectation about the new bundle growing inside of you. However, pregnancy can also be followed by unexpected symptoms. During the first 12 weeks, you can’t feel your baby move, and your body is changing quickly to provide nutrients to support the baby. These changes include increased blood flow, hormone levels, and changes in digestion. Keep in mind that everyone is different, so your experiences could be different from those of your family or friends. If you feel any concerns during your pregnancy, it is best to consult with your doctor, as they are equipped to guide and support you. We’ll go over 10 pregnancy symptoms no one warns you about and why they happen.

1. Feeling Tired

One of the first signs of pregnancy is feeling tired. This is known as “pregnancy fatigue.” Some women experience mild fatigue and others more severe. You may feel this in the first trimester and notice that you feel a little more energized by the second trimester. During the last 3 months, you may feel bushed again. Your stomach is heavier, and you might struggle to get a full night’s rest because your baby is pressing on your bladder. However, feeling tired can last throughout the whole pregnancy. Try these useful tips when you are feeling tired:

• It’s important to take naps when you can.
• Ask family members for help when you need it, for example, when doing the laundry or dishes.
• When your back is sore and you feel uncomfortable, put a pillow underneath or between your legs.
• To stabilize your blood sugar levels, eat regular snacks and meals. Apples, cheese, yogurts, and nuts are healthy options.
• Drink plenty of water.

2. Bad Taste in the Mouth

This is known as Dysgeusia pronounced (dis-GYOO-zee-a). It is when you have a metallic, salty, horrible taste in the mouth. Changes in pregnancy hormones are usually the cause. You may find that you don’t enjoy certain foods anymore or suddenly like to eat foods that you previously didn’t. Many women have mentioned that the taste of coffee was very off-putting while pregnant. Try these useful tips when you have a bad taste in the mouth:

• Try drinking lemonade.
• Don’t feel bad about avoiding certain foods.
• When brushing your teeth, brush your tongue too.
• According to Robyn Horsager-Boehrer, some prenatal vitamins can cause a metallic taste in the mouth, so it might be a good idea to switch to a different one.

3. Mood Swings

Being pregnant can be an emotional rollercoaster. One minute you’re happy and laughing, and the next minute you’re tearing up or hungry. There are times you may just feel like you are being overly dramatic. Mood swings tend to last in the first and third trimesters, so don’t worry; your feelings will soon return to normal. Mood swings are usually caused by hormone changes, fatigue, morning sickness, stress and anxiety, and physical changes in the appearance of your body. Try these useful tips to overcome mood swings:

• Getting some exercise by going for a walk or doing 20 minutes of yoga can help improve your mood and clear your mind.
• Eat well, choose healthy, nutritious foods like eggs, cream cheese, and whole wheat bread, and avoid too much sugar.
• Get enough sleep. A lack of sleep can make anyone grumpy, so make sure to take naps when you can.

4. Hemorrhoids and/or Constipation

Some women experience hemorrhoids and constipation during pregnancy. This is when the blood vessels swell around and in the lower rectum and anus. It can be very unpleasant; however, there are ways in which you can treat it.

• Eat more fiber-rich foods such as chickpeas, lentils, prunes, apples, corn, artichokes, sweet potatoes, and beans. Foods to avoid when constipated or suffering from hemorrhoids include salty fried foods, red meat, processed foods, chocolates, and sweets. You should also avoid soda and caffeine.
• Don’t sit for a long time; this puts pressure on the veins. You can also sit on a doughnut or ring cushion.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Lay in a warm bath without any soaps or bubbles.
• Additionally, you can also ask your healthcare provider for a hemorrhoid cream or stool softener that is safe to use during pregnancy.

5. Growing Facial Hair

It may sound odd; however, some women do experience facial hair growth. This is because of the increase in testosterone. Furthermore, you may notice hair growing around your nipples and belly. Luckily, this is temporary and usually disappears once your baby is born. Additionally, you can wax, shave, or tweeze unwanted hair.

6. Heartburn

Pregnant women experience heartburn when the muscles relax to send food down the esophagus into the stomach. Pregnancy hormones cause the valve to close slower, releasing the stomach acids back up into the esophagus. This can get worse during the last trimester as the uterus pushes up on the stomach. Try these tips to decrease heartburn:

• Drink milk or eat some yogurt.
• Avoid spicy foods and caffeine.
• Eat smaller portions, and chew properly and slowly.
• Try over-the-counter antacids such as Tums, Mylanta, or Maalox. Always speak to your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe to take during pregnancy.

7. Varicose Veins

These veins can be a common pregnancy symptom that not many women are aware of. You may be able to see swollen veins in your legs; this is because of increased blood flow in the veins. Additionally, vulvar varicosities can occur in the pelvic region during pregnancy because of increased blood flow from the lower part of the body to the heart. You might have a feeling of fullness or pain in your vulva. However, it usually goes away after birth. These veins tend to look as if they are bulging and purple or blue. Furthermore, if you experience any hardness, severe pain, redness, or large amounts of swelling, it is best to consult your healthcare provider. Try these tips to improve discomfort:

• Place a cold compress on your vulva.
• Like down on your left side with your hips elevated to take off any pressure.
• Drink at least 10–12 cups of water per day to improve blood flow.

8. Bleeding, Painful Gums

Pregnancy hormones can cause a spike in blood flow to the gums. This can lead to bleeding gums, sensitivity, and swelling. If you are susceptible to gingivitis, pregnancy can also cause a trigger in the gums. It is best to have regular dental checkups and use a soft toothbrush when brushing your teeth. Not to worry, though; after your baby is born, your gums should go back to normal.

9. Hair Loss After Birth

After birth, some women notice that their hair begins to fall out, which is known as telogen effluvium. This usually happens when there is a change in your body or you have experienced stress. You may notice while pregnant that your hair looks lavish and thick. This is because pregnancy increases the estrogen levels that prolong the growing phase of your hair. Once you have given birth, your hormones begin to return to their normal state and go back into the resting phase, where they fall out. Try these tips to improve hair growth:

• Increase your vitamins and minerals.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid using flat irons, curlers, and hair dryers.
• Use a volumizing shampoo and a conditioner for fine hair. If you have dry hair, you could try one of the following shampoos.

10. Discharge Issues

When pregnant, it is advised to buy pantyliners. Your body produces more progesterone and estrogen because there is more blood flow in your vaginal area. Sometimes it could be a green-yellowish color or white; this is known as leukorrhea. If the discharge has a fishy smell, it is best to see your healthcare provider to make sure that there is no infection. Furthermore, pantyliners are handy when you sneeze or cough in case you have an accidental tinkle drop.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/monkeybusinessimages.

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Nowadays it is common to have a gender reveal party for your unborn baby. What's more fun than to gather together friends and family, and all find out together what the gender of a new baby will be? The cringiest gender reveal ideas put a damper on these festivities. As with most kinds of parties, there's a way to throw a classically fun, engaging celebration. And, there are all kinds of ways to throw a party that goes off the rails for all the wrong reasons. From homemade cannons to very flammable fireworks, there are lots of ideas that couples should steer clear of when planning their gender reveal.

How did gender reveal parties even start becoming a thing? It's different than a baby shower and requires a fair amount of planning. Whatever way you incorporate the “gender reveal” aspect, it has to be kept hidden from the parents and revealed to the guests in an appropriately celebratory showing. The first documented gender reveal party took place in 2008, and since then they've burgeoned in popularity. Read on to learn about the history of the gender reveal party. We'll talk about some of the cringiest, and accident-inducing ideas for a gender reveal. And stick around to learn about some more attainable and reasonable gender-reveal ideas. By the end of this, you'll have a great idea of how to throw your own gender reveal party.

The History Of The Gender Reveal Party

It's entirely possible that revealing the gender of a new baby may have been a shared event in the past. However, the first viral documentation of a gender reveal party dates to 2008. A blogger, and soon-to-be-mom named Jenna Karvunidis held a gender reveal where she cut into a pink-icing-filled cake. Her blog about the event went viral. Soon after, more and more people began to create their own “gender reveals.” But, an event that started with cutting into a colored cake, soon expanded into an array of wild, quirky, and downright dangerous kinds of gender reveals. According to CBS News, some of these highly choreographed gender reveals have put guests in danger. Others have been massively detrimental in other ways. Let's get an idea of some of the cringiest gender reveal Ideas.

The Cringiest Gender Reveals

1. Steer clear of anything involving flammable props.

You may have heard of the El Dorado, California wildfire. Well, it was started by a smoke bomb intended for a gender reveal party. That one smoke bomb burned 13,000 acres and affected some 3,000 California residents. Earlier accidents involving pyrotechnics burned 47,000 acres of an Arizona forest. This blaze cost some $8 million to douse.

For obvious reasons, no gender reveal should impact the environment to this degree. Therefore, any flammable, unnecessary props, are out, especially when you could just cut into a delicious cake!

2. Another of the cringest gender reveals involves anything you can't easily clean up!

There are several articles online covering the number of gender reveal parties that leave trash in public parks, or natural lands. From Colorado State Parks to South Florida beaches, parties that have involved colored powder cannons, or paper confetti have wrapped up the festivities and then left behind a colorful mess. There are so many ways in which litter of this kind can impact the local wildlife, not to mention that someone is going to have to clean it up.

If you must use colored paper, or powder or cannons to celebrate the gender of your new family member, make sure it is easy to clean up or be prepared to pack those cordless vacuums, and trash bags for post-party clean up.

3. Avoid putting yourself, or your guests in danger.

A couple in Louisiana utilized their trained Alligator “Sally” in their gender reveal party. “Sally” made her debut by cracking open a watermelon that sprayed out blue jelly. While both Mike Kliebert and Rebecca Miller are trained Alligator handlers, an event like this could go downhill very fast, especially without the correct supervision.

In 2016, a couple documented their homemade cannon blasting out confetti and streamers much harder than anticipated. While the caption of the video ensures the audience that they laughed about it, someone could've definitely gotten hurt. In 2021, a gender reveal went very awry when a cannon used for shooting confetti harmed someone standing nearby.

Consider what kinds of stunts are worth pulling, and if the “virality” of a party idea is more important than the enjoyment of your guests, or the celebration of a new baby!

How To Throw An Enjoyable Gender Reveal Party

If a gender reveal party is still very much on your bucket list, there are ways to make it happen without loss of limb, littering, or liability. If the whole point of the celebration is to welcome a new baby, and to involve your friends and family, find ways to make it enjoyable and engaging.

Even the “creator” of the gender reveal party expressed that her only goal in accidentally starting it was to get others excited and involved as the due date approached. So, with this in mind, let's brainstorm some ideas on how to throw a straightforward, non-life-threatening gender reveal party:

1. Order sweet treats for everyone to sample.

Recently there's been a trend where every guest is given a sweet treat that could reveal the gender. One woman handed out cake pops to every member of the family, and in a viral TikTok video, they each took a bite until somebody's showed up with pink filling. While riffing off the original gender reveal, this was a low-key way to involve everyone in the ultimate gender reveal, and enjoy some treats!

2. Make it into a game.

Another option is to make the gender reveal into a game of sorts. The parents play, but everyone who's in attendance can have a good time watching. Some couples have set up a huge game of tic-tac-toe, and under each square is a possible gender. Connect three in a row and voila! The gender is revealed!

3. Go for a unique, buyable gender reveal.

The internet has some unique gender reveal props available for purchase, that are perfectly safe to use! Check out gender-reveal candles, that are safe to burn and once they're down to the wick reveal the color related to your baby's gender. You can order specialized cakes that have compartments in the middle for a paper sign showing the baby's gender, or get one filled with colored sprinkles.

While this may be closer to the original gender reveal party than any of the more unique variations, what's wrong with enjoying a little cake and finding out your baby's gender at the same time? Sometimes classic is classic for a good reason, and at the end of the day, pretty much everyone enjoys good cake!

4. Make it fun, as a celebration, not just a gender reveal.

If having a baby shower, and a gender reveal party seems like too much, why not combine them? The bottom line is that preparing for a baby to come can already be stressful and life-changing, so the events leading up to the birth should be fun, and relaxing (if possible) for everyone involved. Gathering your friends and family together can absolutely be centered around a gender reveal, but find ways to make it about yourself and your guests as well.

Get the food you enjoy, or bake treats you want to eat. Think of activities the guests can do outside of the main event. Baby names from A-Z or baby bingo cards can be a way to engage guests of all ages. Play a round of “Guess the size of the bump,” or take guesses on what the baby's birthday will actually be. Make it fun for all involved, avoid the cringiest gender reveal party ideas, and enjoy some cake — this will surely be a fun celebration of your new baby.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©aprilante/Shutterstock.com.

The post The Cringiest Gender Reveal Ideas No Couple Should Use appeared first on Moms Who Think.

During pregnancy, nutrition is an essential part of your health and the health of your baby. Although there are many things you should avoid eating during pregnancy, there are also many foods that can be beneficial for your health. Like many types of fruit, bananas can be beneficial in many ways during pregnancy. 

While there can be a risk in eating too many bananas, for most pregnant women, bananas are safe and can be an essential and healthy part of a balanced diet. From the high amounts of potassium to the benefits for your digestive health, there are plenty of reasons to eat bananas while you’re pregnant.

Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of eating bananas during pregnancy.

Are Bananas Safe During Pregnancy?

For both kids and adults, bananas are a popular fruit. They’re sweet, simple to eat, and you can include them in a variety of recipes. You might eat a banana on its own or slice it up as a topping for your morning oatmeal. No matter how you eat bananas, there are many health benefits to them.

Like many fruits, bananas are safe to eat even during pregnancy. In fact, they can be beneficial for you and your growing baby in many ways. Bananas are with many vitamins and nutrients that pregnant women need. They’re also a great snack before pregnancy, in the postpartum period, and even a great first food for babies 6 months and older.

Assuming you eat them in moderation, bananas are a great fruit for pregnant women because of their many nutrients and health benefits. Like any fruit, moderation is necessary because it can lead to an imbalance in the nutrients you’re consuming.

Also, bananas are high in calories so it’s important to avoid eating too many. In most cases, it’s considered safe to eat one to two bananas per day. However, they can be a really healthy part of a balanced diet for pregnant women.

Can You Eat Too Many Bananas During Pregnancy?

It’s possible to consume too much of any food, which is why moderation is key when it comes to your nutrition. Eating healthy means consuming a balanced diet so you can get a variety of nutrients and minerals from the food you eat.

This is especially true when you’re pregnant and what you eat directly impacts the health of your baby. There are many benefits to eating bananas during pregnancy, but it is also possible for you to eat too many bananas.

For the most part, it’s safe to consume one to two bananas per day during pregnancy. The concerns about eating too many bananas are due to the calories in bananas and the high amount of potassium.

One medium sized banana has about 100 calories and 14 grams of sugar. One or two bananas can still be a part of a healthy diet during pregnancy, but if you consume more than two per day, it can add a lot of calories and sugar to your day.

Additionally, potassium is one of the benefits of eating bananas, but it is possible to have too much potassium. A high amount of potassium in your blood, known as hyperkalemia, can cause serious issues including damage to your heart. High potassium levels during the beginning of pregnancy can also put you at risk for gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia.

Kidney disease is one of the main risk factors of hyperkalemia, so you’re not necessarily going to get this condition because you eat too many bananas one day. However, a high-potassium diet can contribute to your risk of getting hyperkalemia.

Although some people claim that bananas cause constipation, there’s not a lot of evidence to back up this claim. It is something to keep in mind and if you’re eating bananas frequently, make sure you’re drinking enough fluids as well. 

Benefits of Eating Bananas While Pregnant

Even though moderation is key, consuming the proper amount of bananas in your diet can be beneficial during your pregnancy. Here are some of the benefits of eating bananas during pregnancy:

High in potassium and folic acid

Although too much potassium can be a bad thing, eating one or two bananas can provide you with the potassium you need. Bananas also provide you with a healthy amount of folic acid. These key nutrients are beneficial for your baby’s development, especially when it comes to their developing brain and nervous system.

Great during morning sickness and nausea

About 70% of pregnant women experience some kind of morning sickness or nausea during pregnancy. When you’re experiencing morning sickness, it’s recommended for you to eat bland food, like you would when you have a stomach bug. Bananas can be a good source of nutrients but are also bland enough that they won’t further upset your stomach.

Benefits digestive health

Bananas are high in fiber which is great for your digestive health. This is especially important during pregnancy when your digestive system might seem off. Even though bananas do have sugar, they also have a low glycemic index, which means they don’t have a significant impact on your blood sugar. Bananas also contain pectin, which is a type of soluble fiber that can specifically aid in digestion.

Provides you with energy

Another benefit of eating bananas is the energy boost you get from eating them. The high amounts of sugar and carbs gives you a boost of energy, which is especially beneficial for pregnant women who are experiencing fatigue. 

Fruits That Benefit Pregnancy

Bananas are certainly a great type of fruit for pregnant women to enjoy, but what about other types of fruit for pregnancy? If you’re looking for a healthy way to add more fruit in your diet, here are some of the most beneficial types of fruit for pregnant women:

• Oranges
  Vitamin C is an incredibly important nutrient during your pregnancy, and citrus is one of the best ways to get vitamin C without supplementation. Oranges are also a tasty fruit that’s easy to eat for a quick snack when you’re on the go.
• Avocados
  Even though avocados often function as a vegetable in the kitchen, this fruit is incredibly beneficial during pregnancy. Not only is it full of healthy fats but it’s also a great source of vitamins such as vitamin C, B, and K.
• Berries
  Berries are one of the most popular types of fruit. Whether you prefer strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries, there are many benefits to eating berries during pregnancy. They’re high in antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, and many other necessary nutrients.
• Apples
  Apples are another delicious and healthy fruit for you to enjoy during pregnancy. Like citrus, they’re a good source of vitamin C. They also include pectin like bananas which is beneficial for your gut health.

No matter what kind of fruit you’re craving, any of these choices can be a delicious and healthy snack during pregnancy. All of them contain vitamins and nutrients that make them beneficial for your health and your baby’s health.

Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy

While there are many beneficial fruits for you to eat during pregnancy, you might wonder if there are any fruits you should avoid. All fruit should be eaten in moderation, especially because of the amount of sugar. However, there are a few fruits you may want to avoid during your pregnancy:

• Grapes
  Grapes are definitely a tasty snack and one of the favorite fruits for kids. However, they’re generally considered a fruit to avoid during pregnancy, especially during the last trimester. Grapes are a good source of resveratrol, which is a micronutrient found in certain plants. It’s safe for your baby and even beneficial in small amounts, but if you consume too much, it can negatively impact your baby’s liver development.
• Pineapple
  Pineapple is another fruit you don’t want to eat too much of during pregnancy. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain that can impact the softness of your cervix. The premature softening of your cervix could lead to premature contractions. The amount of this enzyme in one pineapple is unlikely to impact you, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re craving pineapple.
• Papaya
  Papaya is another delicious fruit that’s generally considered safe if you eat it when it’s completely ripe. However, unripe papaya contains latex, which can have a negative impact on your baby and cause premature contractions if you consume it. If you do eat papaya during pregnancy, make sure it’s completely ripe.

While the fruits listed here are considered safe in small amounts, it’s important to consider the impact of anything you eat during pregnancy. Your number one priority is keeping your baby safe and there are many fruits, like bananas, that don’t carry the same risk.

Bananas During Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

Like many types of fruit and vegetables, bananas are a great way to provide nutrients to your baby during pregnancy. If you’re looking for a nutritious snack or fruit to eat during pregnancy, try eating a banana or two a day. You can also enjoy berries, citrus, and apples if you’re craving fruit!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©lrpizarro/Shutterstock.com.

The post Are Bananas Safe to Eat During Pregnancy? Fruits to Avoid & That Help appeared first on Moms Who Think.

During pregnancy, it’s normal to wonder if your baby is preparing for birth just like you are. While complications can happen for some women during pregnancy, there are also many ways your baby prepares for birth without any intervention. One of the ways your baby prepares is getting into a head-down position. This position allows for the smoothest birth, but you might wonder when you should expect your baby to be in the head-down position.

While not every baby gets into the head-down position at the same time, most babies will turn between 32 and 36 weeks. If your baby isn’t head down by this point, there’s no need to panic. There’s still time for your baby to change positions before you go into labor.

If you’re currently pregnant, it can be helpful to know what to expect as you prepare for the birth of your little one. Keep reading to find out more about when your baby should be head down during pregnancy.

When Should a Baby Be Head Down During Pregnancy?

Toward the end of your pregnancy, you’ll start to notice some signs that your body and baby are preparing for birth. This might look like more frequent Braxton-Hicks contractions or shortness of breath as your baby grows. You also might notice that your baby is trying to get in the right position for birth.

Even though you might not know when your baby turns to get in the head-down position, you can usually tell after they’ve moved. If your baby is head down, you’ll start to feel your baby’s kicks towards the top of your belly or underneath your ribs. 

For most women, their baby gets in the head-down position between 32 and 36 weeks. Babies in utero tend to move around and change positions frequently but by 36 weeks, your baby should stay put in the head-down position. The bigger they grow, the harder it is for them to move around in your womb.

Even if your baby isn’t head-down by 36 weeks, there’s no need to panic. Some babies turn even later in pregnancy while others wait until you’re in labor to move! Let’s take a closer week at why it matters if your baby is head-down or not. 

Why Does Baby Need to Be Head Down?

Just like you’re preparing for birth during the third trimester, your baby is preparing as well. One of the ways your baby gets ready is by getting into the proper birth position. Your baby’s position matters because it can significantly impact how labor goes.

If your baby isn’t in the head-down position yet, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have any complications, but the head-down position allows for the smoothest delivery in most cases. 

It’s important to know there is more than one variation of the head-down position since your baby can be facing several different directions. There’s also the possibility that your baby doesn’t turn and stays in a breech position or even a side-lying position.

When it comes to pregnancy and birth, there are many variations of normal, so just because your baby isn’t head-down doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong. For many women, it can be scary to hear your baby is breech, however, breech births can go smoothly as well with the right provider. Either way, it’s good to know what to expect and know when there is a cause for concern.

Different Head-Down Positions

Head-down is a great start when it comes to identifying where your baby needs to be to prepare for birth, but there is more than one head-down position. If your baby is head down by 32 weeks, it could be in an occiput anterior position, occiput posterior position, or occiput transverse position. 

Additionally, each of these positions has a variation for what side your baby is facing. For example, your baby could be in a right occiput anterior position if they’re slightly facing the right side of your pelvis or left occiput anterior if they’re slightly facing the left side.

Occiput Anterior

The occiput anterior position means your baby is head-down and facing toward your back. This is considered the ideal position for birth and allows for the smoothest delivery. In this position, your baby is ready to make their way through the birth canal.

The left occiput anterior position, where your baby is slightly facing your left side is the most common variation. However, both variations of the occiput anterior position lead to fewer complications than other positions.

Occiput Posterior

The occiput posterior position is a variation of normal but is considered a more challenging position for your baby to be in. It’s sometimes known as the “sunny-side-up” position because your baby is head down but they’re facing your front instead of your back.

While there may be no complications that come with this position, pregnant women tend to experience more back labor when their baby is facing this way. Both the right occiput posterior and left occiput posterior position can lead to more pain. However, it’s not uncommon for babies in this position to turn to the occiput anterior position during labor.

Occiput Transverse

Another variation of the head-down position is the occiput transverse position. This position means your baby is head-down, but they’re completely facing either your left or right side. In this case, they’re halfway between a posterior and anterior position.

Like the occiput posterior position, the transverse position can lead to more pain during labor. However, if your baby was originally in a posterior position but moved to the transverse position, this can be a sign that they’re moving toward the anterior position.

How Do You Know When Baby Is Head Down?

Now that you’re aware of when and why your baby should be head-down, your next question might be how do you know what position the baby is in? It’s not always easy to identify a baby’s position yourself, but there are some ways you can tell.

One way that many women determine their baby’s position during pregnancy is called belly mapping. Belly mapping involves using your baby’s movements to predict their position.

There are some factors, such as the position of the placenta or the amount of amniotic fluid, that can make it difficult for you to determine your baby’s position. However, you can get a pretty good idea based on what types of movement you feel in certain areas. For example, if you feel strong, intense kicks on one side of your belly, you know that’s where the baby’s feet are located.

Feeling strong kicks consistently toward the top of your belly instead of the bottom is a pretty good indication that your baby is head down. If you’re concerned about feeling around your belly yourself, your midwife or doctor can help you identify your baby’s position, even without an ultrasound.

Ways to Help Baby Get in the Right Position

As you wait for your little one to get into the head-down position, it can be concerning if you’re past 32 weeks and they still haven’t moved. Not every baby follows the same timeline during pregnancy and it may require some patience on your part if your little one doesn’t turn head-down right away.

Although many babies move on their own before labor starts or even during labor, there are some ways to help babies get in the right position. Here are some tips your provider might suggest for helping baby get in the right position:

• Keep moving
  Movement is one of the best ways to ensure your baby is preparing for labor and for you to prepare for labor too. Taking frequent breaks from sitting and getting the right amount of exercise can help your baby get in the right position.
• Use a birth ball
  Birth balls are a great way to prepare for labor. You can bounce on the birth ball or do hip circles throughout the day to prepare and encourage your baby to move if they’re not head-down yet.
• Keep your pelvis tilted forward
  Proper posture is essential during pregnancy and you can help baby prepare by keeping your pelvis tilted forward when you’re sitting. If it helps, use a cushion on your seat or in the car. Keeping your pelvis tilted forward prevents you from arching your back and makes it easier for your baby to move to the head-down position.

When Should You Be Concerned?

If most babies turn to the head-down position by 36 weeks, what do you do if your baby isn’t head-down yet? By this stage in your pregnancy, your provider has likely identified what position your baby is in. What this means for your labor and delivery will depend on your provider and where you’re giving birth. 

Your baby being in a different position, like a breech position where your baby is feet down instead of head down, can be scary. Even though some doctors are not trained in delivering breech babies, a vaginal birth is still a safe option for some moms.

Even if your baby doesn’t turn head-down during the third trimester before you go into labor, one study showed that over 50% of women were considered eligible for a vaginal delivery despite their baby being in the breech position. 

Despite breech being a possibility for any pregnancy, it’s relatively uncommon overall. One statistic shows that only 3-4% of babies are in a breech position at full-term. Although the majority of breech babies are born via planned cesarean section, there are ways for trained providers to help turn breech babies to improve the outcomes for mothers and babies and avoid a c-section.

Head-Down Position During Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

Like any part of your pregnancy and birth, you’ll want to know what to expect so you can have peace of mind. When it comes to your baby getting into a head-down position, this happens for most babies between 32 and 36 weeks. However, some babies move into the proper position later. Some babies even wait until labor begins to turn.

Every position can be a variation of normal and still lead to an uncomplicated delivery with the right provider. By the middle of your third trimester, you can tell what position your baby is in or ask your provider for assistance so you know if your baby is ready for birth.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock.com.

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There is a large market for breast pumps, and finding the right one to do the job can be hard with so many options. For the purposes of this article, we’ll take a look at two of the larger breast pump brands and compare Spectra vs. Medela. We’re going to take a look at the reviews and the features of each brand, as well as which was voted the best among major publications. These reviews examine features, including usability, noise level, the weight of the device, and other user-friendly features. There are a few models of the Spectra vs. Medela breast pumps that made their way onto this list, so we’ll do our best to illuminate the features of each. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear picture of which one will be best.

A breast pump is an investment. You want to be sure the one you’ve chosen will not only fit your lifestyle but be easy and efficient to use. According to the CDC, pumping can help your body continue to produce breast milk at a rate that will benefit your baby. Not to mention, it helps you to relieve the build-up of breast milk and to store it for moments when you can’t breastfeed or aren’t available during a feeding. All this to say, what pump you get is important, as are its features. So, let’s take a closer look at Spectra vs. Medela breast pumps and see what we discover. 

What Is The Spectra Breast Pump?

Starting off with the Spectra S1 Plus, which holds Wirecutter’s top spot in terms of New York Times-reviewed breast pumps. The Spectra breast pump is quiet, compact, and portable. It has a rechargeable battery and multiple modes for suction strength. This breast pump also made the top of Good Housekeeping and Healthline’s list of best breast pumps. This model costs $204 at Amazon and $209 at Walmart. There is also an S2 model ($176) that doesn’t feature a rechargeable battery which impacts its portability. It’s not as heavy as the S1 model, but it does need a plug.

General Information About Spectra Breast Pumps

Spectra, as a company, promotes the use of “Natural Nursing Technology.” This means they use vibrations that mimic suckling to stimulate effective milk production. Overall, it’s a more comfortable, more efficient pumping experience. They have hands-free pumping options and lots of portable breast pump models with features like LED screens and bright colors. Each side of the pump is adjustable so that you can customize the speed and suction power. Overall, Spectra has five models of breast pumps available, ranging between $350 – $172. Their most expensive pump is the Double Adjustable Electric Breast Pump which won the 2023 “Top Choice Award” from the Baby Maternity Magazine.

What Is The Medela Breast Pump?

The Medela Breast Pump made Wirecutter’s list of best breast pumps. They referred to the manual Medela Harmony as one of their “top picks,” a pick that was echoed by Healthline. It has a swivel handle for adjustable grip, and there’s a stimulation mode that features smooth, smaller squeezes and a comfortable suction power. Medela’s portable electric breast pump, the Pump in Style with MaxFlow, made Good Housekeeping’s list, although admittedly below the Spectra S1 Plus. This electric breast pump regularly costs around $260. It is a compact, very efficient breast pump with an accessory battery pack ready for portable pumping. The MaxFlow breast pump is available for $160 from Amazon.

General Information About Medela Breast Pumps

Medela makes breast pumps for personal use as well as for professionals. The company, which has been in healthcare devices for the last 60 years, works hard to make its products accessible, easy to use, and effective. Medela has seven models of breast pumps. They also have a Swing Flex milk expressor, connective accessories, a shield, a bustier, and a silicone milk collector.

Of the pumps, only the manual Harmony pump is featured as a top choice on Wirecutter’s review list. This model features a single, lightweight manual pump perfect for the occasional expression of milk. It costs $25 on Amazon and $29 from Walmart. Good Housekeeping actually ranks this pump below the Medela Symphony, a hospital-grade breast pump, which is not technically a single-user breast pump. It’s also notably heavy and quite costly. This hospital-grade breast pump rings in between $2,103 at Amazon and $1,899 at Walmart.

Spectra vs. Medela Breast Pump: Which Pump Is Best?

Overall, the Spectra S1 Plus tops the lists from most of these major product review sites. Moms alike agree that the portability of having the rechargeable battery makes up for the weight. It is also relatively quiet, customizable, and user-friendly. However, Medela still shows up consistently on these lists, with quite a few products. If we’re comparing the most reviewed and recommended Spectra vs. Medela products, it would be the Spectra S1 Plus and S2 models of electric pump compared with the MaxFlow electric pump or Medela’s Harmony manual breast pump. A comparison shows that the Spectra breast pump models have more features like a timer, and nightlight setting, as well as customizable suction and pumping speeds. So, even though Medela’s breast pumps are perfectly great options if you’re looking for a breast pump that can really be tailored to your needs, it seems Spectra is the better option.

Other Recommended Breast Pumps

Also included on these review lists are the BabyBuddha portable breast pump ($190 from Amazon), the Hakaa Silicone breast pump ($13-$20), the Haakaa Manual Breast Pump and Milk Collector, the Willow 3.0 Wearable Breast Pump ($500), and the Elvie Double Electric Pump ($388). As you can see, there’s quite a range in pricing for breast pumps, so it’s important to research the features and accessories that will make or break your experience with pumping. 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©KPG-Ivary/Shutterstock.com.

The post Spectra vs. Medela: Which Pump is Best? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you're looking to get pregnant and are curious about how to know when you're ovulating, checking and tracking your basal body temperature is an option that some women use. According to the NIH (National Institutes of Health), the basal body temperature is the “lowest natural, non-pathologic body temperature recorded after a period of rest.”

But can knowing your basal body temperature actually help you get pregnant? And how does it play into ovulation? If you're considering using this method as part of your natural family planning or are simply curious about how it works, here's everything you need to know.

What is Basal Body Temperature (BBT)?

As mentioned, basal body temperature, or BBT, is your body's lowest natural temp after rest. Many women have begun tracking this number as a way to understand their body's tendencies. This number can also measure where they're at in their cycle and be used as a tool to see when they're ovulating.

On average, a woman's BBT before ovulation ranges from 97° F (36.1° C) to 97.5° F (36.4° C). After ovulation, this number can rise to between 97.6° F (36.4° C) and 98.6° F (37° C).

How Does Basal Body Temperature Tracking Work?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a woman's temperature increases slightly after ovulation and remains higher until the end of the menstrual cycle. Body temperatures can rise as little as half a degree to a full degree after ovulation due to the release of the hormone progesterone.

Keep in mind that tracking your BBT will only tell you when ovulation has already occurred. It doesn't tell you when you are currently ovulating. Because of this, knowing your BBT is not the perfect way to prevent or encourage pregnancy. However, tracking these numbers over time can help you see a natural cycle and trends.

Advantages of BBT Charting

While tracking your BBT is a simple process, it's also not 100% accurate. Because it only tells you when you're done ovulating, it's not as accurate as tracking ovulation in other ways (which we'll get into below). However, there are several advantages to charting your BBT if you're struggling with fertility or trying to get pregnant:

• There are no physical risks to BBT charting. You're simply taking your temperature each day and tracking it.
• It's a safe and non-invasive way to understand your cycle.
• It gives you comprehensive insight into your cycle and the way your body works.
• It can help you detect possible fertility issues, including problems with ovulation.
• It can provide information to you, your partner, and your healthcare provider when making infertility decisions.

How to Use a BBT Chart to Detect Ovulation

As mentioned, using a BBT chart to detect ovulation is simple, straightforward, and non-invasive. But there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind when using this method.

Before you begin, you'll want to make sure you use the same thermometer throughout your tracking process. While there are thermometers that are specifically used for tracking basal body temps, you don't need anything fancy. Just be sure the thermometer you choose is accurate and reliable.

Also, should you choose to change thermometers, start using your new one on the first day of your new cycle. This helps you to see accuracy throughout an entire cycle and prevents inaccuracies in the middle of one.

When to Begin Charting

The best time to begin BBT charting is on the first day of your period. Use your chart to mark your temperature and the time you took it. Then, you can continue to track your BBT all the way through your cycle. Starting at the beginning and tracking it all the way through can help you see patterns and understand your body, including when you ovulate.

When you check your temperature, be sure to write down what it was and what time you took it. This can help you look for trends as you track over time.

Timing

When it comes to tracking your BBT, timing is everything! In order to see the best results, you should track your temperature at the same time each day. You should also check it first thing when you wake up in the morning. If you've already gotten out of bed, moved around, or even gone to the bathroom, this can change your temperature.

Additionally, it's best to check it right after you've slept for at least three to four straight hours. This shows your body's natural temperature after rest. Avoid sitting up in bed if you can, as this can alter your temp. You'll want the least amount of variables possible to help you determine an accurate number and track regular changes in your cycle.

Other Reasons Why Your Temperature May Rise

When tracking your BBT, you may find a day or two where your temperature is higher, but you haven't actually ovulated yet. When you are done ovulating, your BBT will rise by 0.5-1 degree and remain high throughout the remainder of your cycle. However, if you have a day or two where your temp is higher but doesn't stay high, it could be due to the following factors:

• Fever due to illness
• Hot weather
• Some medications
• Physical or emotional stress
• Interrupted sleep cycles or not getting enough rest
• Room temperatures
• Traveling or changes in time zones
• Other gynecological disorders like endometriosis or diseases like an overactive thyroid

Keep in mind that in order for the rise in your BBT to actually be due to ovulation, your temperature will need to rise and stay high throughout the remainder of your cycle.

How to Choose the Right BBT Chart to Use

There are many basal body temperature charts that are available for use today. Below is a free chart that you can use!

Additionally, you may find other apps or software that can help you track your BBT and ovulation cycles. Keep in mind that some of these options may cost money. You will also want to consider how much information you want to track, like cervical mucus changes and days you had intercourse.

BBT and Pregnancy

One common thought about BBT tracking is that it can help you determine early if you're pregnant. While, again, this method does not provide completely accurate results, it can show signs of early pregnancy.

As we've discussed, your temperature increases after ovulation due to the production of progesterone. Right before your period starts, this hormone will begin to diminish, and your BBT will go back down to what it was before your ovulation period ended. However, when you're pregnant, progesterone levels continue to remain high, signaling that your BBT will also remain elevated.

If your BBT remains elevated when your period should have already started, this can be an early sign of pregnancy. However, keep in mind that this method is, again, not completely accurate.

Other Ways to Track Ovulation

If you're tracking your BBT in an effort to get pregnant, there are other ways to track ovulation that you may find helpful as well:

• Tracking changes in your cervical mucus can tell you when or before you ovulate, while BBT only shows when you're done ovulating.
• Some companies offer ovulation kits or test strips to help you understand when you're ovulating.
• Pay attention to how you feel. If you have light cramping or spotting, this may be a sign that your body is ovulating.
• Ovulation hormones can also make you feel bloated and increase your sex drive, which are signs to look for if you're tracking ovulation periods.

Final Thoughts

While tracking your basal body temperature is not 100% accurate, it is one method you can use to better understand your body and track your cycle and ovulation patterns. This non-invasive method also works well for natural family planning and can help you understand any infertility issues you may be experiencing. While you practice BBT tracking, don't forget to take good care of yourself, too.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MedstockPhotos/Shutterstock.com.

The post Use This Basal Body Temperature Chart To Detect Ovulation appeared first on Moms Who Think.

In recent years the term “rainbow baby” has been used more and more frequently as women choose to open up about miscarriage and pregnancy loss. But have you ever heard the term “double rainbow baby?” If so, you might be curious what it means.

In short, these are hopeful terms that are used to describe a pregnancy after loss. A rainbow baby is a healthy baby born after one loss. A double rainbow baby, on the other hand, is a term used to describe a healthy baby born after two losses.

Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to note that there is no right or wrong way to feel if you find that you or a loved one is having a rainbow baby or a double rainbow baby. Pregnancy loss and even pregnancy after loss can bring forth many emotions and feelings. You may find it difficult to celebrate the joy and hope of new life while still remembering and honoring your loss. It's okay to take your time and move through the process at your own speed.

What is a Rainbow Baby?

As mentioned a rainbow baby is a term used to lovingly describe a new pregnancy after loss. This loss could be through miscarriage, stillbirth, or other infant loss. While finding yourself pregnant after a miscarriage can bring mixed emotions, a rainbow baby can often be a bright spot in a parent's life after loss.

Where does the term Rainbow Baby come from?

According to Dictionary.com, the term “rainbow baby” first appeared in a 2008 story collection called Our Heartbreaking Choices: Forty-Six Women Share Their Stories of Interrupting a Much-Wanted Pregnancy by Christie Brooks.

This term has gained in popularity over the years as women continue to open up about bringing a healthy child into the world after loss. Even celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay Z have experienced loss and welcomed their own rainbow baby.

Are Rainbow Babies Common?

The National Library of Medicine reports that as many as 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. While this may seem like a staggering statistic, it's important to note that the accuracy of home pregnancy tests allows women to know that they are pregnant much earlier than they used to.

Still, while it seems that many who have a loss go on to get pregnant again, it doesn't mean that the feelings you may have aren't real. Many feelings about miscarriage can last a lifetime and it can be challenging to find hope after a loss. However, knowing that many parents have rainbow babies can be hope to hold on to as you move through your next or current fertility journey.

What is a Double Rainbow Baby?

As you might have guessed and we've as we've mentioned, a double rainbow baby is a healthy child born after two pregnancies or infant losses. This term signifies a double rainbow in the sky, an even bigger event after a rainstorm. It can also be used by parents who have lost a set of twins.

Other terms for a healthy baby exist including a golden baby. This term is used for a healthy baby born after the rainbow baby and signifies the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Other parents may simply use the term “miracle baby” as a way to celebrate their hope and joy after loss.

What's the Difference Between a Rainbow Baby and a Double Rainbow Baby?

As you likely know by now, these terms are different in that they are used to describe the number of losses before a healthy child is born. A double rainbow baby is born after two losses while a singular rainbow baby is born after one.

However, it's important to note that the term “rainbow baby” can be used as an umbrella term to describe a healthy birth despite the amount of losses. Additionally, some parents choose not to use these terms at all and simply want to remember their loss while celebrating new life.

Keep in mind that no combination of losses is more valid or difficult than another. The term “rainbow baby” is simply used as a sign of hope. Hope that even rainbows come after the rain!

How to Best Welcome a Double Rainbow Baby

Welcoming a double rainbow baby into the world can come with mixed emotions as you honor your losses and celebrate life simultaneously. As we've discussed, it's okay to take your time and process all of your emotions as you need.

Should you find yourself or a loved one welcoming a double rainbow baby, it can feel like a miracle! If you'll soon be welcoming your special baby into the world, here are a few tips:

Celebrate Life

While the road you've journeyed has been long and full of loss, heartbreak, and grief, your double rainbow baby is light at the end of the tunnel. A new life born after loss. It's okay to celebrate this! A new baby means a new life and can bring hope and joy to you and your loved ones.

If you feel ready to celebrate, you can host a party for family and close friends. If you know someone who is expecting after loss, ask them if you can throw a baby shower or sprinkle to celebrate. Keep in mind that not every parent will be ready or want to have a huge gathering. Make sure to take your time or give your loved one space.

Honor Your Losses

While celebrating new life, that doesn't mean you forget about or try to ignore your losses. The grief you feel from your miscarriages may never go completely away. While grieving and celebrating at the same time may seem complex, it is possible as these are very real and raw emotions.

One option is to honor your losses in a way that feels right to you. This may include planting a flower in your yard in memory of your loss or getting a tattoo as a symbol. Even talking to others about your losses is a way to honor them. Do what feels right to you when you are ready.

Consider Participating in Rainbow Baby Day

National Rainbow Baby Day is celebrated each year on August 22nd. While experiencing a loss and celebrating new life can feel lonely, this day gives you a chance to connect with other parents who have walked a similar path to yours.

This is also a great way for you to share your story which might encourage or help another mother who is going through the same difficult experience. However, if celebrating this day and sharing your story doesn't feel right to you, don't feel as though you have to participate. You can still process your emotions and celebrate new life without having to take part in a special day.

Celebrate with a Double Rainbow Baby Theme

Once your baby is born, you may want to share your announcement with your loved ones and the world. Should you choose, you could celebrate your new bundle of joy with a rainbow baby-themed announcement! This can be sent digitally or by snail mail. Only share when you're ready and in a way that feels comfortable to you.

Another idea is to use the rainbow theme in your maternity photos. This adds a personal touch and is one way to honor your losses while still celebrating new life.

Your Double Rainbow Baby

While labeling your child a rainbow or double rainbow baby may not be for every parent, this term still brings about hope. Experiencing pregnancy loss can be excruciatingly painful. A rainbow baby, or even a double rainbow baby, is a bright reminder that there is new life and joy ahead.

Up Next:

• Baby Names That Mean Rainbow
• Life After Miscarriage
• Common Questions and Answers about Pregnancy You May Have
• Every Term You Need to Know for Your Pregnancy

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Katrina Elena/Shutterstock.com.

The post What is a Double Rainbow Baby and How Does it Compare to a Rainbow Baby? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

At the very beginning of a parent’s nursing journey, there may be some questions about the differences between colostrum vs. milk. While both are produced in the early phases of milk production, colostrum is the first stage of milk. It is densely packed with nutrients and more yellow in color. Colostrum becomes milk a few days into the nursing process. Milk has a higher sugar content, less protein, more calories, and a creamier, less yellow coloration overall. So, if we take a look at color differences, nutritional content, and individual stages of milk production, there are lots of differentiators between colostrum vs. milk.

In this post, we’ll get into the details of how colostrum and mature milk are made. You’ll learn about how their nutritional makeup is integral to a baby’s first few nursing days. After all, there’s very much a biological reason that the body creates colostrum first before transitioning the flow into milk. Learn more about the health benefits of colostrum vs. milk. Once you’re done reading this post, you’ll know, without any doubt, the major and important differences. Let’s get into it!

Colostrum vs. Milk: What Is The Difference?

When comparing colostrum and milk, here's the easiest way to think about it: colostrum is the earliest stage of milk. Colostrum begins as the pregnancy ends and through the first few (typically 4) days of nursing. Then the milk comes in, first in a transitional form, then in its mature form. This mature form of milk is what the body produces until a baby is at the end of its nursing period. Colostrum and mature milk differ in nutritional makeup, maturity, and coloration. Now, we'll get into more of the details.

What Is Colostrum?

Colostrum is what is first produced once the baby is born. It is typically yellow in color, thicker than mature milk in consistency, and very dense in nutrients the baby needs. This golden, yellow coloration comes from the presence of the carotenoid pigment. Some colostrum is more white or transparent, and trace amounts of blood are also not uncommon. Some of the major nutrients found in colostrum include hemoglobin full of antibodies, and antioxidants. It's also packed with protein, and low in sugar, fat, and calories. Colostrum begins to shift towards mature milk after around 4 days (via Cleveland Clinic).

Origin Of Colostrum And Historical Facts

Colostrum has been produced since the origins of human pregnancies. However, its historical relationship to medicine is an interesting one. Early on, people likely didn't track the major differences between the shift from colostrum to mature milk. They didn't really have the tools for research of that kind. According to the Colostrum Research Organization, the use of colostrum for medicinal purposes has existed in Ayurvedic Indian culture since cows were first domesticated.

Early doctors were able to identify higher levels of antibodies in this early stage of milk production. These principles were applied in the creation of baby food to help immunize babies against diseases that could affect both cows and humans. The physician Albert Sabin, creator of the polio vaccine, used cow colostrum to isolate the first anti-polio antibodies. Sabin advocated for the use of colostrum in further medical research. And, throughout the years, the use of these nutrient-dense kinds of milk has been used in the treatment of immunodeficiencies, immunizations, and gastrointestinal diseases. Colostrum has always been integral to the health of nursing infants. It's simply incredible the ways it has been applied In the greater scheme of modern medicine.

What Is Milk?

Milk is a matured version of colostrum. It is a great source of continued nutrition for a newborn baby. Mil is chock full of proteins, sugars, and fats that are easily digested and absorbed by a new baby. Matured milk contains two types of proteins including whey and casein, as well as immune-supporting vitamins (via American Pregnancy Association). These attributes not only positively impact the baby, but can be great for the breastfeeding parent as well. Continuing to nurse into the first year of a baby's life can help the parent to heal after birth. It also encourages infant bonding and burns close to 600 calories while nursing is actively happening (via Women's Health).

Origin Of Milk

While we know where milk comes from, and what stage it's at compared to colostrum, let's take a look at its history. The practice of breastfeeding babies has, presumably, been around since the earliest of human pregnancies. However, the oldest written traces of the practice date to around 3000 B.C.

Through different ancient societies, “wet nursing” where another woman would provide the milk for a baby, was very popular. This had much more to do with the hierarchical roles of the society than any consideration of parental bonding with the child. “Wet nursing” continued throughout the second century A.D.

Like colostrum, mature milk was considered by Greek scholars as a potential medicinal avenue. As people learned more about colostrum, and the benefits of the milk already being produced by new mothers, attitudes shifted around breastfeeding one's own child (Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Project). Eventually, bottle feeding was introduced, and other milk options like formula, or animal milk, were introduced into the breastfeeding culture.

Nutritional Comparison

As we've discussed, the nutritional makeup of colostrum vs. milk is one of the more important differentiators between the two. As you can see from this handy chart below, a cup of colostrum compared to a cup of milk differs in calorie count, grams of protein, and vitamin/mineral ratios. Colostrum is lower in carbohydrates, fat, and sugar content, and higher in protein and iron content than milk. Milk, on the other hand, has more fat, sugar, and cholesterol, all things that the new baby needs as it continues its development.

Colostrum vs. Milk: Are They The Same Thing?

While colostrum is an early, nutrient-dense stage of mature milk, the two are still quite different. They can be compared in terms of their calorie, fat, sugar, carbohydrate, and protein content. Colostrum differs in the nutrient and mineral components, which in turn affect the coloration of the substance. Typical colostrum is yellow/golden in color. Howwever, it can also be more white, transparent, or tinged red, depending on the situation. Milk is less thick than colostrum, and creamier in coloration.

Possible Alternatives To Colostrum vs. Milk

Most medical organizations recommend breast milk as the healthiest way to help an infant grow. However, there are always going to be situations in which that is not an option. If possible, feeding an infant with breastmilk for the first 6 months before switching, can be one of the better options. Feeding with a bottle is also an option if latching or inflammation is the issue with typical breastfeeding. Pumping milk allows for more flexibility in how and when you feed your baby. There are also resources for breast milk donation, which in principle is similar to wet nursing. Be sure you know your source really well because their health can very much impact the health of the milk you're receiving.

There are still milk alternatives available if breastmilk is not the best fit for your situation. Baby formula can provide a good nutritional alternative to traditional breast milk. Be sure to seek out high-quality baby formula, if you are able. The formula contains a base of cow milk or soy-based proteins. There are also hydrolyzed formulas which makes the formula easier to digest. This last option may be best for infants with suspected food allergies. Be sure to do lots of research in regard to picking your formula. Keep in mind that the formulas available in the store are commercially approved and studied for health risks. These risks cannot be predicted for homemade formula trials. When in doubt, consult a medical professional to get the best ideas for milk alternatives to breastfeeding (via Web MD).

The image featured at the top of this post is ©narikan/Shutterstock.com.

The post Colostrum vs. Milk: How Are They Different & Nutritional Differences appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Are you about to attend a baby shower? Maybe you are asking yourself, “What is the best style to wear to the festivities?” What you decide to wear to a baby shower depends on your preference, the type of baby shower, and who the person throwing it is. If you are wondering what to wear to a baby shower, take a look at these ideas to help you plan your next outfit as you step out in style! 

What is Your Style? 

When planning what to wear to a baby shower, your style is the first thing you must consider. You do not want to wear something you are not entirely comfortable with. Therefore, if you love flowy dresses and feel very uncomfortable in business casual, don't try to force yourself to wear something you can't stand! With that said, many different fashion styles can be switched for one another and still allow you to feel comfortable. Do not be afraid to play with different styles to figure out exactly which one you love! 

What Type of Baby Shower is it?

The next question to ask yourself is, what type of baby shower are you attending? The most common type of baby shower is the in-person traditional shower. This is when a family member or friend throws a shower for the mom-to-be in a location where you meet in person. 

Another popular baby shower idea, especially in recent years, is the virtual baby shower. During a virtual baby shower, you hop on the computer or phone and enjoy celebrating the mom-to-be this way! Some people even combine the two for a fun hybrid baby shower.

Other types of baby showers include:

• Jack and Jill Baby Shower
• Gender Reveal
• Work Baby Shower
• Sip and See
• Baby Tea
• Baby Sprinkle

Another question to ask yourself is what is the baby shower's theme, and who is throwing it? Particularly, if you have a laid-back mother-to-be who will be in jeans and a T-shirt, it will be appropriate to dress according to what she will wear. On the other hand, if the theme is a baby shower tea and you know the person throwing the baby shower will likely dress up, opting for a dressier attire may be a good idea!

What to Wear to A Baby Shower: Over 30 Ideas

Below are a variety of ideas to wear to a baby shower! They range from ideas for casual wear to casual chic, business, and more. There are also ideas for the different types of seasons to help you plan accordingly. Look at the ideas below to get your brain jogging and plan your best outfit! 

Go with a Casual Wear Outfit

If you know that the baby shower will be laid back and casual, opting for something simple will allow you to be comfortable and relaxed. A casual outfit can undoubtedly include anything that will be comfortable and appropriate to wear daily. Casual ideas for women include:

• Wrap dresses
• Sundresses
• Jeans, a comfortable top, and boots or sandals
• Summer dress and a cardigan
• A skirt with a colored T-shirt

A casual style can be easy to throw together because it's likely you have something in your closet that will work! Casual styles can also be dressed up with jewelry, shoes, hats, or purses. This style lets you be practical and relaxed while looking trendy and put together. 

Opt for a Minimalistic Outfit

A minimalistic outfit can be trendy and comfortable while simple enough not to distract from the mom-to-be. If your style is more minimalistic, you may enjoy wearing the following: 

• Plain sweaters
• Long sleeve tops in a solid color
• Silk tanks
• Patterned shirts 
• Jeans
• Blazer 
• Dress shoes
• Dress pants
• Solid color dresses
• Wide leg pants
• Leather pants with an oversized blazer
• Tailored shorts

A minimalistic style includes basic, solid colors and often incorporates varying sizes for a trendy look or uses a layering effect.

Casual Chic Style is Cute and Stylish

Casual chic outfits are easy to assemble but can still make you look dressy. This is a fantastic style to wear to a baby shower because it is easy to put together but dressy enough that you do not look too dressed down. To put together a casual chic style, keep it simple. A few ideas include:

• Wide-leg pants paired with an oversized sweater and boots.
• Wide-leg pants with a cold shoulder tee.
• Cami dresses with a long-sleeved shirt underneath.
• Light jeans paired with a button-up solid shirt and simple gold jewelry.
• Jeans, a patterned scarf, and a solid-colored blazer overtop a white tee.
• White pencil skirt with an oversized solid-colored sweater. Pair it with timeless jewelry! 
• Jeans or jean shorts, solid-colored tee with an oversized sweater. Pair it with simple jewelry. 

Business Casual Outfits Are Comfortable and Polished

Business casual can be an all-encompassing term for several pieces of clothing. In particular, the purpose of business casual is to be both comfortable and professional. Many people enjoy mixing and matching diverse outfit pieces to achieve a business casual look. Therefore, if you want to go business casual to the baby shower, a few different ideas are: 

• A business jacket paired with a flowy top and black dress pants complete the outfit with dress shoes of a solid color.
• A trench coat overtop a dress. 
• Dress pants, a solid-colored sweater, heels, and simple gold jewelry. 

More ideas for business casual outfits include: 

• Trousers
• Sweaters
• Cardigans
• Blazers
• Neutral color suit skirt
• Basic solid t-shirts
• Versatile dress

Go With a Retro Outfit

Going retro will bring old styles into your wardrobe. Retro styles are both trendy and nostalgic. These styles include: 

• Bucket hats
• Paisley dresses
• Crocheted clothing
• Floral print dresses
• Thong sandals

Right now, 70's and 90's retro styles are returning to fashion and are relatively easy to dress in! 

• Pair a flower skirt, a solid shirt, and thong sandals together! 
• Opt for a comfortable paisley dress and solid sneakers.
• Wear a pair of jeans and a crocheted top. 

These are just a few ideas that can bring retro to the baby shower! 

Bohemian Style Outfit Ideas

Bohemian style is a popular form of fashion that incorporates a free-spirit aesthetic. First, it blends bold and colorful patterns into your wardrobe. Secondly, the bohemian style is very feminine and often includes flowy materials and bright patterns. Some fashion pieces that are part of the bohemian style are: 

• Patterned dresses
• Flowy skirts 
• Loose dresses
• Bold jewelry
• Hats 
• Belts

A few bohemian outfits to play around with are: 

• Long, patterned maxi dresses paired with a solid hat and handbag. 
• A long patterned skirt that flows, a plain t-shirt, and wedges. 
• Harem pants, a solid tank top, and sandals. 

Go With an Artsy Style To Express Your Personality

An artsy style gives you room to experiment and express your personality. Subsequently, the whole concept behind an artsy style is freedom and creativity. Therefore, an artsy outfit on one person may be different from another person. Artsy outfit pieces can include:

• Bright accessories
• Print Leggings
• Oversized tops
• Belts
• Bright tops and pants
• Abstract imagery
• Playful patterns

If your style is more artsy, there's no reason why you cannot incorporate your style to fit the theme of a baby shower! 

• Pair a bold, solid shirt with a jacket that has abstract imagery and a pair of jeans. 
• Wear printed leggings, a solid T-shirt, and patterned shoes. 
• Pair a jean jacket over a dress with playful patterns and a belt! 
• Wear jeans, a black T-shirt, and a brightly patterned kimono. 

If You Love Feminine Outfits, Go Girly

If your fashion is on the girly side, you can take your outfit in a variety of ways when dressing for a baby shower! Girly fashion typically includes: 

• Pink colors
• Pastels
• Frilly fabrics
• Mini dresses and skirts
• Cardigans
• Lace
• Ballet flats
• Heels
• Scarves
• Flower dresses

A few different ideas to wear a baby shower are: 

• A flowery dress paired with a solid cardigan and ballet flats
• A form-fitting mid-length dress and heels.
• Jeans, a pink, flowy shirt, and heels. 
• A glittery skirt, solid shirt, with a jacket, scarf, and a belt! 

Fall Outfit Ideas

What you wear to a baby shower can vary greatly depending on the season. Suppose the baby shower is in the fall. If this is the case, go with autumn colors like brown, orange, and yellow. Additionally, these can be in dress form or a cardigan paired with a solid t-shirt and jeans. Also, throw on a pair of solid brown boots, or wear printed pants with a solid orange or red sweater! 

Winter Outfit Ideas

Wear an oversized, stylish sweater and jeans if your baby shower is in the winter. Trench coats are another stylish choice, paired over long-sleeved dresses and leggings. 

Colors like red, green, and brown are also great to wear in winter. In addition to these colors, wearing jeans with an oversized sweater, wedge boots, and a scarf is trendy and comfortable. 

Spring Outfit Ideas

Spring is a great time to rock the flower patterns and light colors. Many women enjoy wearing comfortable wrap dresses that are pastel colors during the spring. Moreover, outfit choices can include sleeveless silk tops with khaki pants or maxi skirts with a flowy blouse. 

Summer Outfit Ideas

You want to be just as comfortable in the summer with the warm weather. Therefore, some of the best outfits to go with will keep in mind the temperature! A flowy print skirt paired with a solid tank top is also a great option. More choices include a cold shoulder crop dress, a flower summer dress, or a solid romper. These outfits will make you feel comfortable and stylish when rolling into your next baby shower! 

One Last Note

The outfit you choose to wear to your next baby shower depends entirely on your style and the type of shower you attend. Many fashion trends and ideas can work for your specific style! Do you love girly clothes or prefer something more business casual? Would you rather rock the bohemian style, or do you enjoy simplicity? Regardless of your choice, with the ideas on this list, you can express your style while enjoying celebrating the new baby and mother-to-be! 

Baby Shower Posts

• How Much To Spend On Baby Shower Gift, A Comprehensive Guide
• When Should You Have a Baby Shower?
• How to Plan A World-Class Baby Shower In 7 Easy Steps
• When Should You Send Out Baby Shower Invitations

The image featured at the top of this post is ©gpointstudio/Shutterstock.com.

The post Here’s What to Wear to a Baby Shower: Over 30 Ideas from Casual to Formal appeared first on Moms Who Think.

As parents, we only want the best for our babies, and so we look for the best formula to help them grow and thrive. Today, we’ll explore two brands and see how they differ. They’re not vastly different. However, the primary difference between Enfamil vs. Similac is that even though they contain many of the same elements, Enfamil includes some formulas that Similar does not. Still, they’re both high-quality products, and today we’ll explore a breakdown of each of them.

What is Enfamil?

This is a baby formula created by Mead Johnson, and it’s designed to be a near-perfect supplement for breastfeeding a child. It’s a formula that has been continuously updated as new science becomes available. There are various forms of Enfamil available depending on the specific child. There’s a version for tummy troubles, allergies, special dietary needs, and general everyday nutrition.

Many pediatricians consider Enfamil to be a reliable source of baby formula, and they like that it contains a good blend of proteins. The brand is great for premature infants because they often have specific needs.

Enfamil contains many incredible nutrients that help babies thrive. It contains Omega 3 DHA, which is necessary for brain development. It also contains a number of nutrients that support immune health, including vitamins C&E, Selenium, and GOS. Enfamil is inspired by breast milk, so it’s about as close as you can get to the real deal.

The immune blend in Enfamil has several functions. The prebiotics stimulate the growth of good gut bacteria, and it helps to support immune and digestive health. 

Pros and Cons of Enfamil

While talking to parents and combing through reviews, we have found some pros and cons of the various Enfamil products. 

Pros:

Price – While it can depend on where you shop, Enfamil is often a more affordable choice than many of the competitors. 

Availability – When in need, you can find Enfamil in almost any grocery or convenience store, even late at night when your child may be crying for food.

Options – Parents have a variety of options from which to choose, and since every baby is different, it’s essential that they get what they need.

Cons:

Child’s Choice – Every child will have their own taste, and many won’t like the taste or texture of Enfamil. As a result, they may throw it up.

Odor – The formula can have a peculiar smell, especially after it's been sitting in a bottle for a while.

What is Similac?

Similac and its variety of formulas are for young children who aren’t breastfed or can’t consume breast milk. The products are produced by Abbott Laboratories, a company that controls 40% of the market. Enfamil also controls 40%, so they share that similarity. Also, like Enfamil, Similac offers a variety of formulas for different babies. There are options for milk allergies, sensitive tummies, lactose intolerance, gas, reflux, fussiness, and more. The idea is to mimic breast milk as closely as possible. 

The special formulas of Similac offer many benefits for a growing baby. They have a complete set of nutrients for development and growth, including docosahexaenoic acid and lutein, which both help with brain development, vitamin E that protects your child’s cells and tissues, and nucleotides that help with their immune response. 

Similac is also free of added sugars, and it's free of palm olein oil, which can lead to weak bones. There are also some non-GMO options, which is good because GMOs can cause autism, allergies, and growth failure. Like the other formulas, Similac is also good for premature babies, and it contains linoleic acid that reduces cholesterol. The formula also contains taurine, which is critical for brain development.

Pros and Cons of Similac

There are many perks and benefits as well as a few shortcomings of Similar that new parents may want to consider.

Pros:

Variety – Similac comes in just about any variety that your baby may need, including soy-based, lactose-free, and hypoallergenic options. 

Safety – Although, like Enfamil, Similac doesn’t require approval from the Food and Drug Administration to market its products, parents can rest assured that the product does meet their standards and is safe for your child.

Cons:

Lack of Probiotics – Probiotics are good bacteria for a healthy tummy, and only a few Similac products contain them.

Non-Organic – Most Similac products are not organic formulas, which many parents consider to be a healthier alternative. 

Negative Ingredients – Many of the formulas contain some ingredients that aren’t really considered good for a baby, such as processed vegetable oils that contain unhealthy trans fats. There’s also maltodextrin, which can cause bloating, colic, and green stools. Some also contain corn syrup, which can promote obesity.

Possible Side Effects – Like most other types of formula, there are potential side effects, including gas, tummy ache, diaper rash, stains, and constipation. 

Enfamil vs. Similac: Different Formulas

As we mentioned at the start, although Enfamil and Similac are general products, they each have a number of different formulas for different types of babies and mothers. There are many sub-categories of products for different types of mothers and babies. For instance, each company has a special form of their product for pregnant women and a formula for overall infant development. 

However, Enfamil has some special formulas that Similac does not. For instance, Enfamil has a formula called Enfamil Restfull that helps infants to be full for longer, and Similac does not. Enfamil also has a formula called Pregestimil, that helps infants who have trouble absorbing fat, and Similac does not. Enfamil also has a product called Enfamil Tri-Vi-Sol, which offers additional vitamins A, C, and D for breastfed infants, which Similar does not. Of course, these products change over time, and new products are always introduced, but these are differences to consider. 

Enfamil vs. Similac: Other Considerations

There are various other factors to keep in mind when you’re using or buying Enfamil or Similac baby formula.

Nutritional Differences

Since there are many variations of each formula, the nutritional differences can vary. However, in the overall debate of Enfamil vs. Similac, both are about the same. When comparing one scoop of each, they have about the same amount of calories, protein, saturated fat, and vitamins. So, from that standpoint, you can go with either option. There are formulas available for both products that contain more positive nutrients, so read the labels before you buy.

Price

Since the products are competitors of each other, you’ll find that both are sold for about the same price, depending on where you shop.

Availability

Both Enfamil and Similac are found in the baby section of your favorite store or retailer and are readily available in the United States, Canada, and various other countries.

Benefits of Formula Feeding With Any Brand

Most doctors recommend that mothers breastfeed their children for the first six months of life because that provides all of the nutrition a growing baby needs. However, some mothers cannot breastfeed for various reasons, so formula may be the answer. Formula feeding does offer many benefits, including more convenience since a mother can simply give the baby a bottle to fulfill his or her needs. Formula feeding also provides more flexibility since a family member or fellow caregiver can feed the baby once they have a bottle. 

It's also worth mentioning that formula is also less digestible than breast milk and so your baby will likely be fuller for longer, which means less frequent feedings. Finally, when breastfeeding, a mother must be careful about the food and drinks she consumes so unhealthy stuff isn’t transferred to the baby. Formula feeding mothers can be less concerned about having a strict diet.

Enfamil vs. Similac: Which is Best?

In the end, there is no clear winner for whether Similac or Enfamil is better for your new baby. However, you should do your research and look at the different formula variations that each product offers and choose the one that’s best for your child’s needs. 

The post Enfamil vs. Similac: Pros & Cons and Full Breakdown – Which is Best for You? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Pregnancy causes many changes in the body. It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy due to the presence of amniotic fluid (fluid surrounding the baby), placenta, and the baby itself.

Because every pregnant woman's weight gain journey is different, there are no official guidelines for how much weight you should gain. The most important thing to remember is to keep your weight gain to a safe and healthy level for both you and your baby.

Is It Necessary to Gain Weight During Pregnancy?

Yes, gaining weight during pregnancy is necessary. Gaining the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy has been linked to positive outcomes for both you and your child. You will be better nourished, your baby will develop well and grow to an appropriate gestational size, and you will have an easier time carrying your baby to term and then returning to your pre-pregnancy weight.

How Much Weight Should You Gain While Pregnant?

Appropriate weight gain recommendations during pregnancy vary depending on factors such as pre-pregnancy weight and BMI, whether you are carrying twins or multiples, among others. You can calculate your BMI by dividing your pre-pregnancy weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared (or just use an online BMI calculator).

Here are some general suggestions for pregnancy weight gain (note that while BMI calculations offer helpful guidelines, they are not perfect indicators). Always consult with your doctor about the best weight-gain strategy for you:

Pregnancy Weight Gain Chart

What Weight Should You Gain During Each Trimester?

The amount of weight a woman needs to gain during pregnancy, as well as the extra calories she requires, varies by trimester.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) provides the following general guidelines for a woman with a moderate pre-pregnancy BMI who is carrying one fetus:

• First trimester: Extra calories are not required during the first trimester. During the first trimester, they may gain no weight or only 1-5 pounds (lb).

• Second trimester: During the second trimester, a woman requires an additional 340 calories per day. They may gain 0.5-1 pound per week.

• Third trimester: An extra 450 calories per day are required during the third trimester. They may gain 0.5-1 pound per week.

According to ACOG, a woman pregnant with multiples needs to add 300 calories to her daily intake for each fetus. As a result, a woman carrying twins requires an additional 600 calories per day. A pregnant woman should consult their doctor if they have triplets or more.

A pregnant woman who is underweight or obese should consult her doctor about developing a nutrition plan.

How Pregnancy Weight Is Distributed

Your baby could weigh 7 or 8 pounds (about 3 to 3.6 kilograms). That explains some of your pregnancy weight gains. What about the rest of the weight? Here's an example of a breakdown:

• 6 to 8 pounds of fat stored (about 2.7 to 3.6 kilograms)
• 2-pound larger uterus (about 0.9 kilograms)
• 1 to 3 pounds for larger breasts (about 0.5 to 1.4 kilograms)
• 2 pounds of amniotic fluid (about 0.9 kilograms)
• Placenta weight: 1 1/2 pounds (about 0.7 kilograms)
• 2 to 3 pounds more fluid volume (about 0.9 to 1.4 kilograms)
• 3 to 4-pound increase in blood volume (about 1.4 to 1.8 kilograms)

Factors Contributing to Pregnancy Weight Gain

Many factors are likely to contribute to pregnancy weight gain. However, your pre-pregnancy body weight appears to be the most important factor.

The following are some of the possible causes of pregnancy weight gain:

• Age: The effect of age on pregnancy weight gain is unknown. Some studies show a link between inadequate weight gain and small babies in young mothers. Other studies have found that this group is not at increased risk. Furthermore, older mothers have additional risk factors for excessive and insufficient weight gain, making determining the effect of age alone difficult.

• Pregestational body weight: Your pre-pregnancy weight is the best predictor of weight gain during pregnancy.

• Exercise: Exercising while pregnant is both safe and recommended. Active mothers are less likely to gain excessive weight during pregnancy.

• Height: Most studies take height into account by recommending weight gain based on BMI. Taller women typically have larger babies. Height, on the other hand, does not appear to be a significant factor in weight gain.

• Ethnicity and/or race: According to studies, up to 50% of underweight Black and Hispanic women do not gain enough weight during pregnancy.

• The number of births (parity): Weight gain is typically greater during your first pregnancy. However, it is also dependent on your pre-pregnancy weight. Those who begin pregnancy with a low BMI are more likely to gain insufficient weight.

• Smoking: Smoking while pregnant carries several risks, including stillbirth, low birth weight, and premature birth. During pregnancy, smokers appear to gain the same amount of weight as nonsmokers. Quitting smoking, on the other hand, is a risk factor for weight gain.

What if I Don’t Put On Enough Weight While Pregnant?

Depending on where you started and how many pounds “underweight” you are, not gaining enough weight during pregnancy may increase your risk of:

• Preterm delivery: According to research, gaining less than the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy is associated with an increase in preterm delivery, which is having your baby before 37 weeks.

• Low birth weight: Gaining less than the recommended amount of pregnancy weight increases your chances of having a baby who is too small for his or her gestational age. (This applies if your baby is less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces.)

For women with a BMI of “obese” or “overweight,” the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that gaining less weight than recommended does not appear to hurt a baby's growth or health.

Healthy Weight Gain Tips for Pregnant Women

Here are some pointers to help you maintain a healthy weight gain while pregnant: 

• After the 12th week, if you maintain a healthy weight, the extra food you require each day is roughly the same as a wholegrain tomato and cheese sandwich or a banana and a wholegrain peanut butter sandwich. If you are overweight or obese, the extra food you require is equivalent to two apples or one slice of wholegrain bread.
• It is not necessary to eat for two during pregnancy. You can eat as much as you normally would during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. You must eat nutritious foods.
• Drink water instead of fizzy or sweetened beverages.
• Replace full-fat milk with low-fat milk.
• Eat a healthy breakfast daily, such as wheat biscuits or porridge with low-fat milk or two slices of wholegrain toast.
• Snack on crackers, cheese, fruit, low-sugar or unsweetened, low-fat yogurt, a glass of trim milk, homemade popcorn, a small wholegrain sandwich, a few unsalted nuts (e.g., 6 or 7 almonds), and so on.
• Instead of white bread, choose wholegrain bread.
• Every day, consume at least 4 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit. Purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables or frozen vegetables to help reduce preparation time, waste, and cost. Tinned fruit in juice is another option. An example of a recommended fruit and vegetable serving is 1 kiwifruit (large), 1/2 cup carrots, broccoli, or peas1 medium orange, apple, banana, or potato
• Consuming dried fruit or fruit/vegetable juice contributes no more than one serving of the total recommended daily servings of vegetables/fruit.
• Eat home-cooked meals. Limit takeout to no more than once a week.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity 5 days per week, such as brisk walking or swimming (or as advised by your doctor, midwife, or physiotherapist). The ‘talk test' is a simple way to estimate intensity: while doing a moderately intense activity, you should be able to carry on a conversation but not sing.

Overweight or Obesity Risks During Pregnancy

Many obese women have healthy pregnancies and children. However, there are health risks associated with being overweight or obese during pregnancy.

These risks increase if you gain too much weight while pregnant, even if you were previously healthy. The greater your pre-pregnancy BMI and/or weight gain, the greater your risk of health issues or complications.

Some of the risks associated with being obese, overweight, or gaining too much weight during pregnancy include:

Medical Complications

These complications include issues with pain management during and after childbirth. For example, it may be more difficult to position women's bodies and medical equipment, as well as to maintain pain relief. There is also a higher risk of postnatal depression, longer wound healing time after cesarean, sleep apnea, pre-eclampsia, and bleeding immediately after birth.

Complications in Labor and Delivery

Overweight or obese women are more likely to have induced labor and longer labor. They are more likely to require birth interventions, such as cesareans, and to experience birth complications such as shoulder dystocia.

Pregnancy Diabetes

This is elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy, which can have an impact on your short- and long-term health as well as the health of your baby. At 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, most women are offered a gestational diabetes test. If you have a family history of diabetes or a BMI greater than 30, you are more likely to develop gestational diabetes.

Have a Baby with Fetal Macrosomia

Fetal macrosomia is when your baby weighs more than 8 pounds and 13 ounces at birth. Having a baby this large can lead to complications such as difficulties during labor and heavy bleeding after birth.

You are less likely to have these health complications if you do everything you can to stay healthy and follow the recommended weight gain guidelines for pregnancy.

Keeping Fit During Pregnancy

The following suggestions may help a pregnant woman stay healthy:

• Consult with a medical professional: Throughout the pregnancy, a doctor will monitor a pregnant woman's weight and overall pregnancy health. A dietitian can also help you plan how to reduce or increase your calorie intake as needed.

• Consume a well-balanced diet: This includes a wide range of foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, and lean protein. Reduce your intake of solid fats and added sugars. Avoid foods that are unsafe to consume during pregnancy. Consume small meals regularly to aid in healthy weight gains and pregnancy issues such as morning sickness and heartburn. Eating regularly also increases your metabolism, helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable, and prevents you from becoming overly hungry and overeating foods high in sugar and fat.

• Take plenty of water: Pregnant women should drink 8-12 cups of water per day. This is necessary for the production of amniotic fluid, the circulation of nutrients throughout the body, and the removal of toxins.

• Continue to be active: Unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional, physical activity is safe and healthy for pregnant women. Walking and swimming are two examples of safe and effective pregnancy exercises.

• Take supplements as advised: A pregnant woman should consult with her doctor about the supplements she needs. During pregnancy, a woman only needs folic acid and iodine. Some may require additional supplements based on their risk factors.

When to Consult a Doctor About Pregnancy Weight Gain

At each prenatal visit, your weight and baby's growth should be monitored. You do not need to increase your weight gain if you are gaining less than the recommended amount but your baby is growing normally. If your baby is not growing properly, your doctor may advise you to change your diet and exercise routine.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor:

• Quickened heartbeat
• Loud snoring (a sign of possible sleep apnea)
• Headaches
• Breathing difficulty
• Dizziness

Getting to a Healthy Weight After Childbirth

It is critical to continue eating well and engaging in moderate physical activity after giving birth. This will give you more energy to devote to your new baby's care.

There are a few other options for achieving a healthy weight:

Weight loss program

It's a good idea to make a weight-loss plan once you've recovered from childbirth.

You can start walking with your baby in a sling, baby carrier, or pram in the first few weeks after birth. You could also join a community-run or private weight-loss group, or go to a gym that provides child care. Many early childhood centers offer free walking or exercise classes to new mothers.

Breastfeed

Breastfeeding, alongside a healthy diet, can aid in postpartum weight loss because it helps to burn extra calories. Until your baby is about 6 months old, breastmilk is all they need for nourishment.

You can get ideas and contacts from your family and child health nurse, dietician, or GP, or you can look online for exercise or weight loss groups near you.

Conclusion

While weight gain is necessary for a healthy pregnancy, many people find body image and weight to be emotionally charged topics. However, it is critical to be aware of these issues because too much or too little weight gain can be harmful to both you and your baby.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout your pregnancy can reduce your risk of gaining too much or too little weight. Discussing any concerns with your doctor can also help you stay on the right track.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©/Shutterstock.com.

The post Free Pregnancy Weight Gain Chart: See What’s Normal appeared first on Moms Who Think.

It's never easy to decide how much to spend on a baby shower gift. You want to get something that the parents will enjoy and appreciate, but you don't want to spend too much money. So, how much should a baby shower gift cost? A good rule of thumb for a baby shower gift is to spend around $50. This way, you can get a nice gift without going overboard.

This article will help you in determining how much to spend on a baby shower gift based on a few factors. Also, learn about the types of gifts you can give new parents and their new baby at the baby shower party.

What to Consider When Deciding How Much to Spend on a Baby Shower Gift

Before you start looking around for that perfect baby shower gift that even your pockets agree with, read up on some baby shower etiquette and come up with a reasonable budget. There are a few important factors to consider when deciding how much to spend for this occasion:

Parents’ Gift Preferences

When selecting a gift for the baby shower, one of the first things you should consider is any requests/preferences made by the parents-to-be. Most parents will likely create a baby registry or something of the sort to give baby shower guests a practical idea of what they would like as gifts.

If you are close to the expecting mother and she has not created a baby registry, why not ask her if there is anything in particular that she would like for herself and her partner, or her child?

How Many Children Do the Expectant Parents Have?

Because new parents are often overjoyed with their first child, they likely purchased a lot of items such as baby clothes and toys that their little munchkins will outgrow in no time at all!

If the baby shower is for the firstborn, a gift basket may be appropriate, but practical gifts are exactly what they require for the second or third. It would also be ideal for getting a smaller gift for the newborn while also including small items for the big brother or big sister.

Close relatives may be surprised to receive maid services or meal deliveries, but it can be a thoughtful gift and caring gesture if a new baby is on the way.

How Close Are You to the Soon-To-Be-New Parents?

A good rule of thumb is to consider who you're shopping for. Is this person a stranger, a coworker, a friend, or a family member? How much you want to spend will most likely be determined by your relationship with the parents-to-be:

Family Member or Close Friend's Baby Shower

This is likely to be the most common type of baby shower to which you will be invited, and you will also likely spend the most money on baby shower gifts that fall into this category.

If you plan on attending a baby shower for a loved one or a super close friend, you'll most likely spend between $80-$250, especially if you're celebrating a baby shower for a best friend. That being said, if you're feeling generous and want to spoil a special someone or best friend with an expensive gift for their baby shower, this is perfectly acceptable.

Baby Shower for a Distant Relative or Friend

You're likely to be invited to a baby shower that falls into this category several times in your life, and if your upcoming shower falls into this category, a price range of $50-$150 is more than adequate.

If you're unsure what to buy, it is a good idea to ask the expectant mother if she has created a baby registry. A baby registry is a great way to see what the parents need for the baby and to ensure that you buy a gift that the parents need.

If you're at a loss for what to get them, a gift card is an excellent option.

Baby Shower for an Employee, Client, or Coworker

If the baby shower to which you have been invited falls into this category, we recommend that you choose a smaller gift rather than a larger one. Why?

It's important to note that the people in this category aren't your immediate family or closest friends, which is why a smaller gift is much more appropriate. A baby shower gift for a coworker should cost between $25 and $50. However, to determine how much money is appropriate for you to spend on a baby shower gift, consider your closeness to the new parents.

If you can’t seem to find the perfect gift for someone you know in this category, consider buying some useful items like diapers, or even a memorable gift that the parents will remember, like a small hamper or teddy bear.

Your Financial Situation

You should never go into debt to buy a gift for a baby shower or any other occasion. New parents usually appreciate a lovely gift. If you don't have extra money to spend on a baby shower gift, stick to your budget.

If the mom-to-be or parents-to-be know you well, they will understand that you are a student, just starting on your own, have a family to support, or are dealing with other financial issues. Most of the time, expecting parents will value your presence at their celebration more than anything else. Don't blow your budget on a gift if you can’t afford it.

When deciding how much to spend, you should also consider how extravagant the baby shower event is. A backyard potluck baby shower may have slightly different expectations than a fancy country club event.

Finally, keep in mind that there are numerous ways to give a unique gift without spending a lot of money. A personalized or customized gift can be more impressive and appreciated than a high-priced one. Something personal or one-of-a-kind will demonstrate that you put thought and care into the gift rather than just cash.

Selecting a Gift from a Registry

Many expecting parents now sign up for online gift registries. This can help guide your spending if you only choose one or two items.

It is customary and there are expectations to select a gift from the registry. Most registries will have a variety of items in a variety of price ranges. They include small gifts that can be packaged together to make a basket, some midrange items such as outfits or snowsuits, and higher-priced items such as strollers and highchairs. Start with a price point that you are comfortable with and that you can afford without straining your finances when choosing a gift from the registry.

The purpose of the shower is to shower gifts on the baby and its parents. You are making certain they have everything they require for their new journey together. The parents, on the other hand, do not want or expect their friends, family, and well-wishers to overburden themselves. It is acceptable to purchase items that are not on the registry if you are unable to find a suitable gift on the registry.

When shopping off the registry, look for a gift that many new parents do not consider. Perhaps you discovered a useful item after the birth of your child, or a friend or family member has been raving about a new item they consider a must-have. If possible, purchase this item while also purchasing a smaller item from the list.

For example, if you hear about an easy-to-use, versatile, and safe baby bath but they do not have one on their registry list, presenting it to them with towels or facecloths from the list will ensure a gift that is within the expected etiquette for what to purchase or how much to spend on a baby shower gift.

Budget-Friendly Baby Shower Gift Suggestion Tips

Don't worry if you're short on cash and struggling to find anything affordable! Here are a few pointers to start you off:

Group Gifts

Group gifts are a great option when you don't have a lot of money but still want to give an awesome baby shower gift. Gather a group of friends or family members and decide how much money to spend on each. Then, look through the registry for a large-ticket item and split the cost.

This is ideal for purchasing expensive baby equipment that will be in use throughout a baby's life, often into toddlerhood and beyond. The gift registry can be a good place to start. Simply gather your closest friends, coworkers, or family members and select a group gift for the expecting parents.

DIY Baby Shower Gifts

Making something special can be a lovely idea. And just because they aren't on the registry doesn't mean they aren't wanted. Handmade gifts made with love can become cherished family heirlooms. Some people believe etiquette requires including at least one small item from the registry with a homemade item. Blankets, whether quilted or knitted, have been given as baby shower gifts for the longest time. Alternatively, you can add some small registry gifts to a gift basket. Include some homemade items to make something that any parent will enjoy.

Knitted clothing such as sweaters, mittens, booties, and hats are popular handmade or DIY gift ideas. Stuffed animals, car seat covers, quilted bedding, or blankets are also popular choices for baby shower gifts. Furthermore, these are frequently of higher quality than those sold in stores. Personalized scrapbooks designed to document the first years of a child's life can provide parents with an easy way to commemorate each milestone and create memories.

Buy On-Sale Items

As previously stated, if possible, avoid ignoring the registry entirely; instead, choose a smaller gift from the list to give alongside your DIY gift. Digital thermometers, nipple creams, and baby nail clippers may be cast aside in favor of more attractive and impressive gifts. They are still very important and probably not that expensive!

Photo albums and pajamas are some of the easiest gifts to find on sale. They are also two of the most affordable options in most stores. If you're looking for ideas for inexpensive and cheerful handmade gifts, consider assembling a themed gift basket and selecting small gifts that complement it within your budget.

For example, you could put together gifts for both baby and mum. Items to include are nipple cream, a manual breast pump, baby cups, bowls, baby cutlery, and bibs.

Only Give What You Can

You can give the ideal gift without going into debt. A registry almost always includes expensive items. The expecting parents do not expect everyone to buy cribs, changing tables, car seats, and rocking chairs. The most important thing is that you come and celebrate the arrival of a bundle of joy. Unless you are a close relative who has already promised large sums of money, only give what you can.

Conclusion

There is no set amount that you should spend on baby shower gifts. It all depends on your budget and what you believe the soon-to-be parents will appreciate. If you're on a tight budget, a basket full of baby essentials like diapers, wipes, and lotion is a nice gift idea. You can also be inventive and make your gift. If you're artistic, you could knit a blanket or create a scrapbook of memories.

Whatever you choose to give, the most important thing is that it comes from the bottom of your heart.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kzenon/Shutterstock.com.

The post How Much To Spend On Baby Shower Gift, A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Key Points

• A birth chart is designed to tell you what celestial and universal forces were at play at the time a person was born.
• Some believe that a birth chart can give them insight into how their child may behave and develop.
• Birth charts are not an exact science.

If you are pregnant and you are expecting a child, then you may have many reasons why you would want to get your hands on a free birth (natal) chart. While not an exact science, many people depend on astrology to give them peace of mind and a possible glimpse into their future. 

The good news is that birth charts have been popular in recent years, so it is easy to get one online. For those unfamiliar with this concept, a natal chart is a way to learn about the celestial and universal energies that were in play at the exact minute that you (or, in this case, your child) were born into the world. For expectant mothers, this is a way to try to determine the personality type of their new baby and the connections they will make with others.

As the years have gone by, it has become easier than ever to obtain a birth chart online. There are many websites online that allow you to create a chart simply by entering the date of birth, city of birth, and the exact minute of the birth (or as close as you can get). A completed free birth chart will display the zodiac signs and the planets and how you relate to them based on your birth date. Or, in this case, it will tell you more about the child in your pregnant tummy.

Here is an example of a free birth (natal) chart for expectant mothers:

Understanding the Planets on Your Free Birth Chart

Once you get your personalized natal chart, you will notice that it features all of the planets around the circular perimeter. Each of the planets means something different. The positioning of the lines on the chart will help to explain your child's personality and what makes them unique. 

Sun

A circle with a dot in the middle, the sun sign represents your dominant personality trait and your direct identity. So, this could tell you if your new baby will be stubborn, practical, pleasure-focused, or something else altogether.

Moon

The crescent moon is a reflection of your emotional personality and the inner self that not everyone can see at first glance. The moon is about your emotions. More than just happy or sad, it can also tell if your child will be obsessive or have other unique traits.

Mercury 

Shown on your free natal chart as a circle with two horns at the top and a cross underneath, Mercury is about expressing yourself through communication and enjoying travel and technology. This planet is also synonymous with intelligence.

Venus

Depicted as the female symbol (a circle with a cross underneath), Venus is about love and beauty. Venus depicts your love language and how your baby will receive and give affection. Your baby may attract people with their looks or their words.

Mars

Mars looks like the male symbol (circle with an arrow pointing diagonally), and it is more about physical traits. A mars sign on your birth chart may show that your baby will be aggressive, outgoing, and action-oriented.

Jupiter

It looks like the number four with a curved arm. Jupiter may mean that your child will be lucky in life. They may rely on good fortune, luck, and truth. Jupiter may also mean that your child will be successful in their eventual occupation.

Saturn

Saturn looks like a curly “h” with a cross on top, and it may depict that your child will be more serious and intent on success. This planet represents rules, responsibilities, and challenges. Your baby may grow up fast and be a “13 going on 30” type.

Uranus

The symbol for Uranus looks like three vertical lines with a ball at the bottom of the middle line. It can often mean that your child will be unique and original and march to the beat of their own drum. They will be a true individual.

Neptune

Neptune looks like a trident, and it tells you that your child will be creative. They may be different from others, but in a good way, and they will likely be an artistic force as they grow up. This child may be a handful at first, but you will be proud of them.

Pluto

The Pluto sign looks like a wine glass with a circle in the center, and if you see this on your free birth chart, then you may have a fun journey ahead of you. That is because your baby may be passionate, obsessive, intense, and a bit self-involved.

How Accurate is a Birth Chart?

Some people believe that birth charts and zodiac signs are a highly accurate way to predict someone's behavioral patterns, or even to foresee the future. There is no scientific evidence to support this. Astrological beliefs have been rejected by the scientific community for having no supporting evidence of their connection to the universe and the occurrence of certain events.

Regardless, many people still have a personal belief in astrology. Even if you acknowledge the lack of scientific data to support a birth chart, it can still be a fun way for you to think about the baby you're going to have! It's important, however, to recognize that all children are different, and that you shouldn't make important decisions for them based off of a birth chart.

Conclusion

There you have it. Your own birth (natal) chart can give you a little insight into how your newborn child may act and how they might grow. Keep in mind that this is not an exact science, but it is a fun little activity that can tell you what you may be in for in the years ahead as your child grows and thrives.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/Lidiia Moor.

The post Free Birth (Natal) Chart For Expectant Mothers appeared first on Moms Who Think.