MindandMom

We talk about TTC, Pregnancy and Life as a mom to stay together inspiring each other for a mindful motherhood. I’ve always been fascinated by looking at the Healthcare industry and was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work in a company that dealt with customers in the healthcare segment.  

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Breastfeeding – Master The Art Before Your Baby Arrives

Learning about breastfeeding before the baby is born (when you have more time to take in the information and seek answers to your questions) can be the first step to helping you to reach your breastfeeding goals. It can be quite overwhelming to start learning the basics of breastfeeding, by listening to experienced mum’s, friends, nurses during the period when you and your baby are recovering from birth. Pregnancy Tracker App

Whether your first time was a breeze, something of a struggle, or somewhere in between, there’s always room to learn. Also, every baby is different. So the more you know about technique (how to position baby), mechanics (how to know baby is getting enough milk), and logistics (when a meal is over and when it’s time for another), the more confident and empowered you’ll feel when you breastfeed.

WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?

For centuries women’s breasts have always been symbolized as an icon of lust. It has been associated with Mangoes, melons, jugs, and whatnot.

The first time you put your baby to the breast, it may feel strange. Your new little one may nuzzle your breast with his mouth and nose, will not open his mouth, move his head from side to side with his mouth open, lick your nipple, or latch on strong and start sucking

1. YOUR NURSING SPACE

The starting weeks could be a little embarrassing if you are a first-time mum and have people around. Choose a comfortable place in your home where you can nurse your baby in the first couple of weeks. You will likely feel marooned there. But don’t worry! Very soon, you can nurse your baby anywhere – the couch, the dining room table under a napkin, in a baby carrier, in your bed, lying upside down (haha!), etc. Until then, choose a supportive place that can have your foot rested and is accessible to place things in easy reach – your phone, a drink (you will be so thirsty!), a snack (you will be ravenous!), and the remote. Now is not the time to worry about screen time – as she sucks away.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH AND GET PREPARED

Unrealistic pictures around the hospital rooms set an impossible standard by which new mothers judge themselves and cue the mom’s guilt/ feelings of inadequacy! Breastfeeding is hard, but at least if you arm yourself with real knowledge going into it, you will know what to expect and that your struggle is normal, that it is a passing phase, and that it is okay to ask for help or take time to master it.

Frequency of eating – around 10 – 12 times per day

3. LOW SUPPLY IS RARE

Your baby will seem hungry ALL THE TIME, and it is normal to feel like you are not providing him or her enough milk. This can be especially true if your baby lost a percentage of his or her birth weight, as is quite normal and is having trouble gaining it back. Low supply is pretty rare. 

4. BOOKMARK LATCH TECHNIQUE VIDEOS

Speaking of “the latch,” know what a good one looks like. For most, it is a learned skill. Reading about the latching technique is great, but for many, the videos with real mothers and babies were the most helpful. Watch them a few times before the birth and bookmark them so they are readily available when you bring your baby home. In the fog of new motherhood, this video is particularly very helpful.

5. PLAN FOR HELP

Last but not least – research lactation consultants in your area and choose one that is highly regarded and makes house calls. If you do this before the baby arrives, you will save yourself the stress of finding one when you desperately need help with breastfeeding and are preoccupied with the small task of keeping a tiny and fragile human alive. 

6. ARM YOURSELF WITH THE ESSENTIALS

This is the last item last on purpose since it is more important to educate yourself and invest in help than it is to buy gear. With that being said, there are certainly some essential items that can make your nursing experience much easier and smooth. These are the essentials for the earliest days of breastfeeding:

Nipple cream, breast pads, and gel pads – If you suffer from very painful, cracked nipples, these are very soothing and encourage moist wound healing.

Comfortable pull-away bra – In the early weeks, invest in a size nursing bra. Your breast size will fluctuate in this stage, so a simple pull-away style bra is best until your boobs land on a size. 

Nursing pillow – Nontoxic, very soft, has just the right amount of firmness, and can be repurposed later on to prop up your baby for playtime.

Nursing cover – To nurse your baby discreetly in public (in the early days, really just the doctor’s office for me), this nursing cover is incredibly soft and stretchy enough to accommodate various nursing positions.

Water bottle – You will be SO THIRSTY while nursing. You need a lot of water to produce all that milk. Having a water bottle by your side would be very much necessary, as you would not be adept enough to handle a baby and an open glass.

WHEN BREASTFEEDING IS CHALLENGING

The first breastfeeding is a learning experience for you and your baby. Some newborns latch on immediately and breastfeed well from the beginning and some might forget after a day or two. Some babies show little interest in nursing and don’t latch on at all. Other babies latch on but won’t suck.

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Periods– The Unexpected Guest During Pregnancy

IMPLANTATION BLEEDINGMISCARRIAGEMOLAR PREGNANCYECTOPIC PREGNANCYPLACENTA PREVIAPLACENTAL ABRUPTIONPREMATURE LABOR

Before you get to read the entire blog, I want to make sure that you understand – It is not possible to have a true menstrual period during pregnancy. This is because your hormone levels during pregnancy will change to prevent you from menstruating, and your body can’t shed its entire uterine lining while maintaining a pregnancy.

You must have heard from a lot of women around, read in newspapers, and listened to interviews and that they would have shared their stories, which you cannot refuse to believe. Especially the ones who get pregnant unknowingly, and give a reason that they have been getting periods hence, they didn’t realize that they were pregnant.

ERR, HOW BIOLOGICALLY IS THAT POSSIBLE?

It is, however, possible to have menstrual-like bleeding for a variety of reasons during pregnancy. Read on to know more about why unexpected guests show up for some women during pregnancy.

LET’S GET OUR BASICS STRAIGHT AND LEARN TO DIFFERENTIATE SPOTTING AND BLEEDING,

Spotting usually refers to a few drops of blood that would not cover a pad or panty liner, whereas bleeding refers to blood flow that is heavy enough 

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF FIRST TRIMESTER BLEEDING MAY INCLUDE:

You may experience some normal spotting within the first six to 12 days after you conceive as the fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of the uterus. Some women don’t realize they are pregnant because they mistake this bleeding for a light period. Usually, the bleeding is very light and lasts from a few hours to a few days.

There are can be different reasons and one of the major fear which every preggy shudder is Miscarriage. It is most common during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, it tends to be one of the biggest concerns with first trimester bleeding. But then, you can be relieved if you have seen the heartbeat on ultrasound and Over 90% of women who experience first trimester vaginal bleeding will not miscarry.

Molar pregnancy, also known as gestational trophoblastic disease or hydatidiform mole. It is an abnormality of fertilization that results in the growth of abnormal tissue within the uterus. Though you cannot call it a pregnancy, however, you start having the typical symptoms of early pregnancy. There are two ways in which this tissue will grow. In a complete hydatidiform mole, there is only abnormal tissue in the uterus and no fetus. But in the other, there is abnormal tissue growing along with the presence of a fetus. But then, this fetus will have severe birth defects. 

In this pregnancy, the fertilized embryo is placed outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. It is not just misplaced but the embryo keeps growing. As the baby grows and the tube distends, abdominal pain becomes increasingly severe. The fallopian tube isn’t big enough to host Additional causes of bleeding in early pregnancy include:

● Cervical changes. During pregnancy, extra blood flows to the cervix. Intercourse or a Pap test, which causes contact with the cervix, can trigger bleeding. This type of bleeding doesn’t cause concern.

● Infection. Any infection of the cervix, vagina or a sexually transmitted infection (such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes) can cause bleeding in the first trimester.

BLEEDING IN THE SECOND AND THIRD TRIMESTERS

Abnormal bleeding in late pregnancy may be more serious because it can signal a problem with the mother or baby. Call your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any bleeding in your second or third trimester.

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF BLEEDING IN LATE PREGNANCY INCLUDE:

The placenta which generally supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby sits low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the opening of the birth canal. 

The probability of placenta previa is very rare in the late third trimester, occurring in only one in 200 pregnancies. Though it causes painless bleeding, it requires immediate medical attention.

Sometimes, in super rare cases, the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus. It can happen before or during labor and blood pools between the placenta and uterus. This can be very dangerous to both the mother and baby.

Other signs and symptoms of placental abruption are abdominal pain, clots from the vagina, tender uterus, and back pain.

Your body is just getting ready to deliver. A few days or weeks before labor begins, the mucus plug that covers the opening of the uterus will pass out of the vagina, and it will usually have small amounts of blood in it (this is known as “bloody show”). If bleeding and symptoms of labor begin before the 37th week of pregnancy, contact your doctor right away because you might be in preterm labor.

Other symptoms of preterm labor include contractions, vaginal discharge, abdominal pressure, and ache in the lower back.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE ABNORMAL BLEEDING DURING PREGNANCY?

So now that you know the difference between bleeding and spotting, you should also be aware of what to do if you have abnormal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding in any trimester can be a sign of a problem, so call your doctor immediately. Wear a pad so that you can keep track of how much you’re bleeding, and record the type of blood (for example, pink, brown, or red; smooth or full of clots or tissues). Bring any tissue that passes through the vagina to your doctor for testing. Don’t use a tampon or have sex while you are still bleeding.

You should expect to receive an ultrasound to identify what the underlying cause of your bleeding may be. Vaginal and abdominal ultrasounds are often performed together as part of a full evaluation.

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Protect your baby from covid 19 | mind and mom

Avoid‌ putting‌ ‌on a face‌ shield‌Limit‌ ‌Visitors‌ and Practice Social DistancingBe‌ ‌aware‌ ‌of‌ ‌the‌ possible‌ COVID-19‌ symptoms‌ ‌in‌ ‌your‌ babies‌Visit‌ ‌your‌ baby’s‌ healthcare‌ provider‌ regularly‌ ‌Ensure‌ safe‌ ‌sleep‌‌A few tips for prevention of SIDS or other sleep-related issues include:Maintain‌ ‌Social‌ ‌and‌ Emotional ‌Health‌ ‌Instructions‌ ‌for‌ ‌Mother‌ Suffering from ‌COVID-19 ‌Tips‌ ‌for‌ ‌Infected Breastfeeding‌ ‌Mothers‌ ‌Isolation Period for Covid-19 Infected MothersFinal‌ ‌Thoughts‌ ‌

COVID-19‌ ‌has‌ ‌impacted‌ people of all ages ‌across‌ ‌the‌ ‌globe.‌ ‌It’s‌ ‌natural‌ ‌for ‌new‌ ‌or‌ ‌expecting‌ ‌parents‌ ‌to be ‌concerned‌ ‌about‌ ‌their‌ ‌babies‌ ‌being‌ ‌affected‌ ‌by‌ ‌the ‌global‌ ‌pandemic.‌ ‌

To‌ ‌keep‌ ‌your‌ ‌children‌ ‌healthy‌ ‌and‌ ‌protect‌ ‌them‌ ‌from‌ ‌contracting‌ ‌the‌ ‌virus,‌ ‌it is vital to ‌follow‌ ‌ preventive‌ ‌measures‌ ‌strictly.‌ ‌Due‌ ‌to‌ ‌the‌ ‌introduction‌ ‌of‌ ‌several‌ ‌mutations‌ ‌of‌ ‌coronavirus,‌ ‌the‌ ‌ research‌ ‌on‌ ‌its‌ ‌symptoms‌ ‌and‌ ‌impact‌ ‌on‌ ‌babies‌ ‌is‌ ‌still‌ ‌being‌ ‌conducted.‌ ‌

‌This‌ ‌article‌ ‌discusses‌ ‌the‌ ‌protective‌ ‌measures‌ ‌parents‌ ‌must‌ ‌follow‌ ‌to‌ ‌keep‌ ‌their‌ ‌babies,‌ ‌infants‌ , ‌and‌ ‌toddlers‌ ‌safe‌ ‌from‌ COVID-19‌.

SYMPTOMS‌ ‌OF‌ ‌COVID-19‌ ‌IN‌ ‌BABIES‌ ‌

Coronavirus‌ ‌spreads‌ ‌through‌ ‌the‌ ‌respiratory‌ ‌droplets‌ ‌released by an‌ ‌infected‌ ‌person‌ ‌in‌ ‌the air‌ ‌‌through‌ ‌coughing‌ ‌or‌ ‌sneezing.‌ ‌Physical‌ ‌contact‌ ‌of‌ ‌children‌ ‌with‌ ‌a‌ ‌surface‌ ‌or‌ ‌object‌ ‌contaminated‌ ‌with‌ ‌the‌ virus‌ ‌can‌ ‌also‌ result in ‌transmission.‌

The‌ ‌symptoms‌ ‌of‌ ‌this‌ ‌contagious‌ ‌virus‌ ‌are‌ ‌mostly‌ ‌mild‌ ‌in‌ ‌babies.‌ ‌The‌ ‌commonly‌ ‌found‌ ‌symptoms‌ ‌ include‌:

High‌ ‌fever‌ ‌

Coughing‌ ‌and‌ ‌Sneezing‌ ‌

Difficulty‌ ‌breathing‌ ‌

Headache‌ ‌

Congestion,‌ ‌runny‌ ‌nose‌ , ‌or ‌sore‌ ‌throat‌ ‌

Diarrhea‌ ‌

WHY‌ ‌DO‌ ‌BABIES‌ ‌REACT‌ ‌DIFFERENTLY‌ ‌TO‌ ‌COVID-19?‌ ‌

According‌ ‌to‌ ‌experts,‌ ‌children‌ ‌often‌ ‌suffer‌ ‌from‌ ‌cold‌ ‌or‌ ‌flu‌ ‌making‌ ‌them‌ ‌immune‌ ‌to‌ ‌illnesses‌ ‌such‌ as‌ ‌a‌ ‌common‌ ‌cold.‌ ‌The‌ ‌immune‌ ‌system‌ ‌of‌ ‌children‌ ‌interacts‌ ‌with‌ ‌the‌ ‌virus‌ ‌differently‌ ‌than‌ ‌adults‌ ‌ making‌ ‌it‌ ‌less‌ ‌harmful.‌ ‌see pregnancy tracker app

WAYS‌ ‌TO‌ ‌PROTECT‌ ‌YOUR‌ CHILD‌ ‌FROM‌ ‌CORONAVIRUS ‌

The‌ ‌number‌ ‌of‌ ‌babies‌ ‌contracting‌ ‌coronavirus‌ ‌is‌ ‌relatively‌ ‌less‌ ‌than‌ ‌adults.‌ ‌Around‌ ‌6%‌ ‌of children‌ suffered‌ ‌from‌ ‌COVID-19‌ ‌and‌ ‌only‌ ‌a‌ ‌few‌ ‌among‌ ‌them‌ ‌had‌ ‌severe‌ ‌illness.‌ ‌ ‌

However,‌ ‌intensive‌ ‌care‌ ‌and‌ ‌preventive‌ ‌measures‌ ‌must‌ ‌be‌ ‌observed‌ ‌to‌ minimize ‌the‌ ‌exposure‌ ‌of‌ ‌ your‌ ‌little‌ ‌ones‌ ‌to‌ ‌infected‌ ‌people‌ ‌or possible infected surfaces.‌ ‌The‌ ‌following‌ ‌precautions‌ ‌have‌ ‌proven‌ ‌to‌ ‌be‌ helpful‌ ‌for‌ ‌that‌ ‌purpose.‌ ‌

GENERAL‌ ‌PRECAUTIONS‌ ‌

The‌ ‌precautions‌ ‌parents‌ ‌and‌ ‌family‌ ‌members‌ ‌must‌ ‌follow‌ ‌to‌ ‌ensure‌ ‌that‌ ‌their‌ ‌babies‌ ‌remain‌ ‌ unaffected‌ ‌by‌ COVID-19‌ are:

Children younger than 2 years of age must not wear face shields or masks. It increases the risks of SIDS (Sudden infant death syndrome). Babies often move around and a face shield can block their nose or mouth and cause strangulation.

The arrival of a newborn brings together a family to celebrate the birth. But gatherings accelerate the risk of exposing yourself or your baby to people who have contracted coronavirus already. You must avoid bringing in people who don’t live with you.

Covid-19 patients can be asymptomatic as well, so you must prefer celebrating virtually. In case anyone visits, they must wear a mask, wash their hands and stay at a distance of 6 feet from you and the baby.

Premature babies or the ones with chronic medical conditions are more vulnerable to covid-19. You must be well-aware of the symptoms of this virus so that quick action be taken if your baby is at risk of getting infected.

You must visit your baby’s healthcare provider regularly on scheduled dates. It is essential to ensure the baby is doing well and doesn’t have any possible covid-19 symptoms.

The global pandemic has affected the mental health of everyone around the world. Most parents feel anxious and stressed during the current situation. However, you must make sure that your baby gets a sound and peaceful sleep.

Place your baby on his back or neck

The sleeping surface must be firm and flat

Bedding must be soft

Avoid overheating the room

Avoid smoking around your child

You must stay optimistic during these difficult times by consulting your healthcare provider and learning ways to cope with anxiety. Stay in touch with friends and family and try to lift each other during this pandemic.

The chances of coronavirus transmission from a mother to a newborn child are low. If you are covid positive, you must follow the below mentioned precautionary measures during the isolation period:

Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water. If water is not available use an alcohol-containing sanitizer

Wear a mask when you are near your child

Keep your baby 6 feet away from you

The newborn can be placed in an incubator if your pediatrician recommends it

Breast milk is a rich source of nutrition for newborns and protects them against diseases. Breastfeeding mothers suffering from covid-19 have to be extremely cautious while feeding their babies. Useful tips include:

Wash your hands with soap before breastfeeding

Wear a mask before feeding your child

If you provide breast milk, you must use your pump only. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the bottle or pump and clean it properly after use. You should wear a mask during the process.

The isolation period details for covid positive mothers are listed below:

For symptomatic mothers

24 hours of no fever without taking medications

10 days after initial symptoms appeared

For asymptomatic mothers

10 days after your corona test came out positive

CAN‌ COVID-19 AFFECT‌ ‌UNBORN‌ ‌BABIES?‌ ‌

According‌ ‌to‌ ‌studies,‌ ‌vertical‌ ‌transmission‌ ‌of‌ ‌the‌ ‌coronavirus‌ ‌was‌ ‌not‌ ‌observed‌ ‌among‌ ‌newborns.‌ ‌

However,‌ ‌the‌ ‌transmission‌ ‌of‌ antibodies‌ ‌from‌ ‌infected‌ ‌mothers‌ ‌to‌ ‌newborns‌ ‌was‌ ‌noticed.‌ ‌ ‌

The coronavirus wave has taken over the whole world. It’s extremely important to protect your babies from exposure to covid-19 by following a few easy and simple precautionary measures. If mothers or family members of newborns, infants, or toddlers contract coronavirus, they must wear a mask and wash their hands frequently to ensure the physical well-being of their babies.

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Pregnancy Wellness APP in india | Best tips for Pregnancy

“Hey, good news! We are expecting!”

“My wife is pregnant”

“You are soon going to be grandparents”

Well, hardly you hear any man who says, “I am pregnant or we are pregnant”

But why not?

 Best tips for Pregnancy

“We are pregnant” makes a huge difference in the way you feel about your pregnancy!

Creating life takes two loving people, so does the journey of embracing & nourishing pregnancy. Pregnancy is not just about the physical load of carrying the baby in the womb, but it is about both the partners embracing the beautiful journey together and being PREGNANT TOGETHER.

This phrase is much more meaningful and defines the depth of your relationship. It’s like preparing for the baby by doing everything together —from waking up together, spending sleepless nights, eating the same kind of food…

But most importantly, when you say “We’re pregnant,” You are letting everyone know that even though you are not carrying the baby, you are fully invested.

“PARTY ANIMALS TURNED PREGNANT” COUPLE:

When she decided to quit smoking, he without a second thought quit as well. There was not a single weekend that passed without drinks and smoke. However, when they decided to have a baby, she was pretty sure about quitting drinking and smoking at least three months prior to conceiving the baby. The best part is that her husband quit as well, without a second thought. He believes that the father is equally responsible for the child and should give up on some things for a healthy baby.

“THE RESTAURANT HOPPER TURNED PREGNANT” COUPLE:

Whenever there was a new restaurant or cafe that opens up, they were the first to ring their bell. Their fridge would always be filled with delivery leftover food, ready to cook packets or junk! Now when they planned to get pregnant, this dynamic couple adopted an organic lifestyle for their baby. They chose pure organic and homemade food, thanks to her mother who has an entire terrace garden of fruits and vegetables. They said that they did not eat anything that contains chemicals and fertilizers. Even the grocery they bought was organic (rice and wheat were sent to them every four months from their native place). 

They also tried to start with some home workouts and started regular yoga practices together.

“HUSBAND TURNED BOUNCER” COUPLE:

Pregnancy does not just bring in a lot of physical or mental stress alone. Financial stress comes with the package. One night when I found my husband missing at 8 PM and returned home at 2 AM, I was about to lose my cool. I stopped when I found something strange in his dress. He had taken a night job as a bouncer just to start the school fund early. I was in tears when I saw this. While I was curled up with my body pillow sleeping peacefully, he was kicking drunken college students out of night clubs for $20 an hour. Now that’s love.

“Words are very powerful, and in saying “we’re pregnant,” my point was that I was going to do everything I could to support my wife.”

Carrying and birthing a child is something only women have to endure, and the whole process is much harder on them than on dads. Some tips to “WE” the pregnancy with your wife –

● Plan to take time off from work to support her. Many companies encourage parental leaves for new fathers. Check with you HR on that. 

● You can wake up when he cries at night and give her company until she feeds him.

● Attending every appointment and prenatal classes so that you can understand what she is going through and learn too

● When you know that she has just finished her 457th vomit, try not to bring in the smelly food. You can still have it in the basement. 

● Even though you can’t share the pains of pregnancy and childbirth, you can be with her every step. Holding her hair back and rubbing her back through nausea, holding her hand through contractions, and getting her mints and mangoes(or whatever she craved for) would be of great help!

She did all the truly hard work, but you can still be a team and be proud of your role.

Children, more than anyone else, need to hear their parents referring to pregnancy as a thing they go through together. It teaches boys and girls both that pregnancy is more than just a woman only problem. More than anything, it reinforces the absolutely vital lesson that a child needs both of his parents, from the very beginning of his life.

We have babies together. We are parents. We love our children. We. Are. Pregnant. It might not be biologically accurate, but in the world we live in today, it is a phrase we need to practice, preach and embrace.

You are in it together. So, let him express that. Let him “we” the pregnancy a bit!

Mind and Mom is on a mission to spread the awareness through campaign #wearepregnant by letting the dad-to-be's be aware of the ways in which they can support their pregnant wife and most importantly, being mentally pregnant together!

On that note, Mind and Mom has launched a Pregnancy Wellness APP which enables the pregnant dads to help their wife with personalized workouts, insightful blogs, weekly growth updates and monitor her health dashboard in his fingertips.

With Mind & Mom, you are now ready to be a new-dad and a great partner!

We wish you a mindful pregnancy!

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Pregnancy Essentials: The Ultimate List - Mind and Mom

Pregnancy inevitably leads to other ‘p’ words- planning and purchasing! To get you started, here are some products you should invest in to make pregnancy comfortable and enjoyable! Pregnancy Essentials  The Ultimate List - Mind and Mom

Total body pregnancy pillow: Pregnancy is tough on the body and daily chores get harder to do. Total body pillows are designed to support the contours of your body, making you feel relaxed. 

Bra extenders: Often it isn’t your cup size but your band size that will need changing, at least in the first few weeks of your pregnancy. Bra extenders are a cost-effective, practical solution. 

Massage oil or lotion: As your pregnancy progresses, the blood circulation to your hands and feet boosts blood circulation.

Sleep mask: Exhaustion, ache, pain and soreness can all be a part of pregnant life. Getting good sleep is vital to recuperate and relax your body, and a sleep mask is essential.

Healthy snacks: You will most likely get hunger pangs throughout pregnancy, and it is essential to eat healthy food to care for your baby and provide proper nutrition during this time.

Shoe inserts: As you gain weight, you will need footwear and inserts that support your feet. Shoe inserts, in particular, are extremely helpful IN supporting the arch of your feet.

Soft toothbrush: Many pregnant women experience swollen and bleeding gums due to pregnancy-induced gingivitis.

Maternity belt:  Maternity belts come I a few different variations. They support your belly and are a relief for overstrained back and hips. A maternity belt is required in the second or third trimester when backache increases.

Diapers: Changing of diapers will be a frequent task, you will need a lot of diapers and diapering items.

Your pregnancy may be a life-altering event. It’s a tremendous time, however it is a rollercoaster of emotions. whereas their square measures 1,000,000 things to try and do to organize for your baby, there’s no got to feel stressed within the method. Best Guide with Pregnancy Tracker app  

With this pregnancy list, preparing for your new bundle of joy is a breeze! Use this list to assume ahead regarding what you’ll have to get done every trimester and the way you’ll feel throughout every stage.

Start checking things off your list and, in no time in the least, you’ll be able to welcome your baby into this world and your home

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How To Prevent The Mommy Pouch & Ways To Recover Faster From Diastasis Recti?

Have you ever noticed a ridge or coning of your belly when you sit up?

Lost all the “baby weight” but still feel like you have a pooch?

Does your core just not feel strong and stable?

While some women are quick to lose the pooch by a couple weeks to months postpartum, most struggle with it. The problem, though, is that the postpartum pooch isn’t a post-pregnancy scar, it’s actually a medical condition known as Diastasis Recti, and, if left untreated, it can have a lot of negative consequences on your overall health.

WHAT ARE DIASTASIS RECTI A.K.A. MOMMY POUCH?

Diastasis Recti is a repercussion of your pregnancy as the muscles in your abdomen separates & stretches in your body along with the pregnancy hormone called relaxin, which does the job of softening your body’s connective tissue to accommodate your growing baby. How To Get Rid of Mommy Pouch

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE DIASTASIS RECTI?

While it’s common for the 2 muscles that run down the middle of your stomach to separate during pregnancy, the amount of separation can vary. This gap naturally opens up during pregnancy in order to accommodate your growing baby, and for some women, it closes up by the time the baby is 8 weeks old. Best Guide tips in our Pregnancy App 

After you’ve had your baby, you can check the size of the separation with this simple technique:

Lie on your back with your feet flat on the floor and your legs bent.

Raise your shoulders off the floor slightly and look down at your tummy.

Using the tips of your fingers, feel between the edges of the muscles, above and below your belly button. See how many fingers you can fit into the gap between your muscles.

By doing this regularly you can check the gap to see if it’s gradually getting smaller.

ARE YOU AT RISK OF GETTING DIASTASIS RECTI?

If you are looking to prevent diastasis, it is good to know what increases your risk to the condition.

Reasons that increase your likelihood of abs separation during/after pregnancy

Having a damaged Core before your pregnancy: If you do incorrect Abs workout, if you have allergies such as coughing and sneezing or suffering from chronic constipation.

Genetic: if you have family members with the condition, you already know that you’re likely to get it, so you can really tackle prevention and reduce the severity of the gap.

HOW TO RECOVER FASTER FROM THE DIASTASIS DURING PREGNANCY AND PREVENT IT FROM STAYING AFTER YOUR DELIVERY?

Follow the below exercises before, during and after your pregnancy to get rid of the mommy pouch.

1. STRENGTHEN YOUR ABS

Before pregnancy

Having poor abs tone increases your chances of having the pouch. Hence doing crossover crunches and bicycle crunches is highly recommended because once you do have Diastasis Recti you should probably refrain from ever doing them again.

During pregnancy 

Once you are pregnant, you should AVOID any exercises that put excess tension on the abdominal muscles, especially after the 20-week mark when the gap begins developing. Tension causes your muscles to contract and get smaller, and the force of the tension also pushes out the underlying tissue at the gap, resulting in the pooch or making it worse. It isn’t limited to exercises like crunches, sit-ups, front planks, push-ups, press-ups, and double leg raise. 

BELLY BREATHING

The belly breathing exercise helps to strengthen your core and protect against diastasis recti. This is how it works:

1. Pick your position. You could either sit with your legs crossed, on a stability ball, standing up or against a wall.

2. Relax your pelvic floor (you ‘tense’ your pelvic floor when you tuck in your butt) while keeping your shoulders back and still.

3. Slowly inhale, expanding your ribs.

4. While you exhale through your mouth, draw in your abdomen towards your spine and lift up/contract your pelvic floor.

5. Hold this position as long as you can and repeat as often as you want.

HERE ARE A FEW AB STRENGTHENING EXERCISES YOU COULD TRY DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

Side Plank

Dumbbell Side Bends

Standing Side Crunches

Cat Cows

Standing Rotational Exercises

Head Lifts

All your workouts should only be attempted carefully, with proper knowledge, and upon doctor approval. Stay safe, stay fit and have a mindful pregnancy!

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OB-GYN Guide for pregnancy care | HealthPartners Blog Mind and Mom

As a newly pregnant mom-to-be, you may feel both excited and a little overwhelmed thinking about the journey ahead of you. Choosing an obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYN) you are comfortable with can help you feel more confident and relaxed as you move through the different phases of your pregnancy and prepare to meet your new little one. OB-GYN Guide for pregnancy care | HealthPartners Blog Mind and Mom

When you start your search, ask your doctor for recommendations. You can also ask friends or family if they know someone they might recommend. The questions below can help you choose the right OBGYN for you.

1. CONSIDER GENDER

Some women are uncomfortable discussing their personal details and during evaluation of their body. Think about if gender matters to you and you feel awkward discussing it with an obstetrician / gynecologist of a certain gender. It is important that you are comfortable talking to the doctor about all your concerns. At the same, make sure you do not avoid a best doctor due to their gender. Pregnancy Tracker app

2. REFERRAL

Choose a Doctor who is referred to you by someone who has had first-hand experience with having their baby delivered. You can research and may know a lot of doctors who are supposed to be experienced and rated well by friends/family, but choosing a doctor who has delivered for someone you know could be a bonus.

3. EXPERIENCE

Consider the experience of the doctor, as in some cases if you are facing any high-risk pregnancy or complex gynecologic problem, experience matters. There may be some OB/GYN who focus on obstetrics while some focus exclusively in gynecology. Hence, find out the number of procedures performed by the doctor and their complication rates.

4. DELIVERY METHOD VS THE DOCTOR’S EXPERIENCE

In India, most women prefer normal delivery (vaginal birth) as opposed to a C-Section as a natural choice of birth. If you prefer a natural birth as your choice, then it is advisable to analyze the doctor’s number of deliveries and the method of delivery done. Some doctors have a history of more C-Section than a normal delivery. On the other hand, there could be some doctors who could have a higher side on the number of normal deliveries performed. 

5. LOCATION

The distance from your residence to the hospital is the most important factor to consider. Choose a hospital which is closer to your residence. In case of any emergencies, you should be in a position to travel to the hospital at the earliest. Consider the different routes, road works, and traffic while calculating the travel time. In some cases, you may need to visit the same hospital post your delivery for check-ups. Hence, travelling along with your newborn could also be a factor to consider.

6. NUMBER OF PATIENTS

In most cases, the best doctors in town have a number of patients to consult. This leads to long waiting hours for your doctor visits. You will lose your patience during your pregnancy. In some cases, since the doctors have many consultations, they become very robotic and you tend to lose the bond. Especially,

7. A HOSPITAL WITH GOOD NICU FACILITIES

Another factor to consider while choosing the hospital is if the hospital has good NICU facilities. Be sure that the hospital is equipped enough to handle any sort of worst-case scenario for the newborn.

8. CONSULT TWO OR MORE DOCTORS

It is always better to consult two or more doctors as you get to know them. Choose a doctor who would listen to all your problems patiently. As you need to trust them with labor at the later stage.

9. DOCTOR SHOULD BE APPROACHABLE

The doctor should be approachable irrespective of any part of the day. If the doctor cannot give you that confidence, then you would find it difficult to trust.

10. INSURANCE-AFFILIATED

Make sure you choose the hospital which is listed with your insurance company to make your claim process easier.

11. PEDIATRICIAN AND GYNECOLOGIST IN THE SAME HOSPITAL

Post your delivery, you and your baby will be visiting the hospital for your respective consultations during the postpartum routine. There could be a date clash or simultaneous appointments. Hence choose a hospital where you can get the best pediatric care as well while considering the best gynecologist. 

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Maternity Cloths – The Ultimate Guide | Best Maternity Fashion

Yes, you can look glam while you don’t compromise on the comfort!

Pregnancy Tracker app comes with lots of changes, and that includes wardrobe changes! As the female body undergoes significant physical and physiological changes, many find it difficult to get themselves organized. Many pregnant women seek a guide to maternity clothing, especially when the baby bump starts showing up.

You don’t have to wait until the baby bump shows up before you start shopping for your maternity clothes outfits. The moment you find out you are pregnant is a good time to start thinking of your maternity outfits. 

Knowing that it might be difficult for you to shop for items or picture what you would look like in maternity clothing, this article has been created as your ultimate guide to maternity clothing shopping. 

WHY YOU NEED TO SHOP FOR MATERNITY CLOTHING

If you are pregnant, especially if you are a first-time mom, the chances are high that you have asked several questions about maternity and maternity clothing, such as, “do I really need maternity apparels? Isn’t it a waste of money buying maternity apparels?”

The fact is that shopping for maternity outfits is not a must, but you’d hardly get past your third trimester without needing certain maternity clothing items. You might be tempted to improvise, but the question you have to ask yourself is, “is improvising safe for my baby and me?”

Shopping maternity outfits is a necessary step for every expecting mom

You need to shop for some basic maternity outfits because, as much as possible, you need comfort when you are pregnant. Pregnancy makes you gain additional weight. Pregnancy is one of the reasons it is easier for women to gain weight and harder for them to lose weight. Here are some tips on how you can have a belly only pregnancy.

Expect that your clothes will start getting tight, especially around the abdominal area. This will make you feel restricted. The tight outfit can obstruct the free circulation of blood to all parts of the body and can cause body pain. You already have many pregnancy symptoms like nausea, fatigue and baby kicks to deal with and won’t want to add these to the list. Coming to terms with your changing body also means you welcome the idea of getting maternity clothing outfits that are fit for this stage of your life.

MATERNITY CLOTHING OUTFITS TO BUY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant soon, this guide to maternity clothing will come in handy to guide you on items to buy before your baby bump starts showing up. So, let’s get right to it. Where do you start from?

BUY FEW NICE TOPS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL AND LOOK GOOD

You should buy well-fitted but free tops for comfort

The idea is to buy clothes that are not too tight, but it also doesn’t mean you buy clothes that make you look like a hag. Buy yourself nice tops from trendy maternity clothing stores. Depending on your choice, you can go for short sleeves, long sleeves or even vests. The top should look stylish while still giving you enough breathing space. 

ADD NEW LEGGINGS TO YOUR WARDROBE

As your body shape starts changing, your pants will start feeling too tight around the waist. You shouldn’t skip buying leggings. Leggings are suitable outfits for pregnant women as they fit the body and stretch to accommodate the growing bump. 

You can wear leggings as underdressing or pyjamas pants. They look perfect when worn under a dress or a tunic. Another good thing is that you can continue wearing them even post-pregnancy as no one will notice the difference between maternity leggings and regular leggings but you.

DRESSES OR GOWNS MAKE PERFECT MATERNITY OUTFITS

Maternity gowns are a great outfit choice for both formal and informal occasions.

Not all pregnant women like going through the stress of putting on a top over jeans or leggings. Some will prefer wearing a simple dress. A maternity gown is one of the must-haves for a pregnant woman. 

What usually comes to people’s minds when we talk about maternity gowns are oversized garments that look like tents. But who says you can’t look gorgeous in maternity gowns? 

Shop for yourself maternity gowns that are free on you and in the same fashionable style. Asides from wearing maternity gowns as casual wears, you can also wear them for parties, especially those that skim over your bump, giving you that floaty, trendy style. 

YOU WILL NEED MATERNITY BRAS AND PANTIES

Maternity bras and panties ensure that you are comfortable beneath your external clothing 

There is no way we are skipping the undies. As your tummy starts growing, other parts of your body, such as your breasts and waist, also undergo changes in size. 

Bras and panties are among the essential everyday wardrobe items you need to change. You might be tempted to overlook them, but it is also important that you feel comfortable beneath your maternity outfit. You will need to buy comfortable maternity bras and maternity panties to feel at ease all day. The good thing is that you can even wear the bras post-pregnancy when you are nursing your baby.

THROW IN ONE OR TWO JEANS

Pregnancy is a nine-month journey, and even though you are in maternity, you wouldn’t want to be found always ransacking your wardrobe in search of what to wear to match those nice tops you purchased.  

To give you more clothing styling options, you can add one or two pairs of jeans to your maternal clothing shopping list.

GET A COMFORTABLE CARDIGAN OR JACKET

It is important to keep your bump warm, especially during the cold season. This is more reason you will need a maternity sweatshirt or cardigan to get yourself wrapped up when it turns chilly. 

Don’t forget to buy sweater or cardigan to protect your baby bump and keep the cold away

Cardigans are a perfect match for almost every maternity apparel, especially if you want to pull off a casual look. For a more stylish look, you might want to shop for an edgy jacket or trendy parka. Spice things up by throwing into the cart a matching scarf, hat and gloves. These clothing items will be ideal for a crisp autumn walk. 

MATCH IT ALL UP WITH COMFY SHOES

Our guide to maternity clothing covers everything from maternity underwear to footwear. We are not about to skip this part. You might want to discard those high-heels for a while, at least until you have put them to bed and are strong enough to go on heels. This reduces the chances of accidents or falls when you are pregnant.

Going on flat shoes like sneakers will be preferable during the first two trimesters. However, as your pregnancy advances to the later stage, it would be best to opt for more free footwears like no-heel sandals and slippers. This is because your feet will most likely swell during this pregnancy stage, and you would need to wear footwear that is not tight. While shopping for comfy shoes, you should have your maternity outfit styles and colours in mind, so you purchase footwear that matches. 

KNICKERS AND SHORTS ARE PERFECT FOR INDOORS

All this while, we have been reeling off maternity clothing outfits that are perfect for outdoor activities. What is indoor maternity wear? Pregnancy doesn’t mean you wear long gowns every day, even when you are indoors. 

You can go a bit sexy on some days, and knickers and shorts are just perfect for that sleek look. Shop around for cute maternity knickers and shorties. How will you know if a pair of knickers is a great maternity clothing choice? It should be light, super comfortable and loose, especially around the waist!

Remember, this is only a guide to give you tips on the maternity clothing you will need during pregnancy without breaking the bank and what to look out for while making your purchases. However, feel free to throw in some extras like swimsuits and socks and lingerie camisoles. 

Going on maternity clothes shopping is one of the fun things some women wish they did when they were pregnant. You can have your spouse go with you on maternity clothing shopping to help you make choices. Remember dads also play significant roles in parenthood.

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Pregnancy Skincare Routine | Skincare 101 For Mommies

Pregnancy is a time for funny changes in our bodies – and sometimes not so funny.

For instance, some of us get thicker longer hair, glowing skin, and stronger nails while some of us get dark necks and swollen faces. Some of us even get stretch marks early on. Our Indian traditional skincare has been tried and tested by our foremothers, and with a little patience & self-love, we can reap the head-turning

benefits of these simple Pregnancy Skincare Routines.

OIL MASSAGE

Okay, so this is something that is beneficial even if you are not pregnant or even if you are a man. Other than the general benefits like blood circulation and moisturizing the skin; when pregnant it helps your tight muscles relax, increase body flexibility and skin elasticity. Moreover, this gives you time to take care of your body and observe the changes. This improves sleep, reduces body swelling, and decreases muscle & joint pains.

BODY – NALPAMARADI THAILAM –

 this age-old remedy for numerous skin-related ailments is great for a mommy-to-be. Where do I start with the benefits? A regular massage with this miracle oil helps avoid stretch marks (a nightmare for every pregnant woman) and itchy skin. This oil is anti-microbial and anti-fungal which helps in fighting acne. It also helps in avoiding or reducing the dark area around the neck and inner thighs with regular use and even removes tan. After delivery, this oil can also be used on sore nipples – just remember to wipe it off before nursing your baby. This oil can also be used on your newborn if the climate is not too cold.

HAIR – COCONUT OIL/OLIVE OIL – 

There are a lot of changes happening to your hair also and it deserves pampering as much as your skin. Taking care of your hair ensures that postpartum hair loss is at a minimum. Use coconut oil if you are in a warm climate and olive oil if you’re living someplace cooler. Weekly 2-3 days can do the trick. You could also get your baby daddy to massage you . It helps you bond with your baby as a family and makes your baby happy.

 EXFOLIATION

Regular exfoliation is great for your body. Instead of using a store-bought processed and mostly artificial scrub, it is better to use an all-natural scrub made at home using basic ingredients like gram flour, turmeric, and curd. You can add coffee grounds to the same mixture for your hands and feet for an added exfoliation. Remember not to overdo it on your tummy, thighs, and back – it could irritate your skin. So please read Skincare During Pregnancy

EXERCISE

Some mommies may be advised minimum physical activity but unless advised so by your doctor, some exercise is always good for you. It helps your body flush out the toxins and keep you active. This opens up your pores and keeps your skin happy. If you want to know more about mommy safe exercise, check out our library/mommy’s paradise

WATER INTAKE

Water intake is crucial for your baby’s health as well as yours. Drinking enough water ensures that the skin on your body and lips do not become dry and chapped. We have a reminder option on our app ( Pregnancy app Download for Android or Pregnancy app Download for  Apple) if you need to keep a record and ensure that you’ve taken enough water for the day.

SUPPLEMENTS

Remember to take all your supplements on time as this is not only beneficial for your little one but also great for your skin and hair. We have a reminder option on our app (Android or Apple) if you need to keep a record and ensure that you’ve taken all your supplements for the day.

FOOD

Women are known to be conscious of what they eat during pregnancy, taking care to avoid foods that can hurt their baby. It is also important to eat foods that are good for your baby – most of these double as your skincare also. Example – green leafy veggies, colorful fruits and veggies like carrots, bell pepper, oranges, etc, salmon, mackerel… The more you take care of yourself, the healthier your baby will be. It is okay to spend time with yourself and invest in pampering yourself. Be happy and let the world know and no one can stop you from being beautiful.

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Best Travel Equipment For a Newborn Baby  | Mindandmom

The right Travel Equipment For Newborn babies can make traveling with an infant a breeze. Being able to feed, pacify, change, clean and keep the baby comfortable on the go can look daunting, but luckily this art has been mastered by “power parents” and product companies over the years, and we can take full advantage of these innovations.

Here’s a list of travel must-haves to make traveling with the little one an enjoyable experience for the baby as well as for parents. Pregnancy guide 

Travel stroller

The foldable umbrella stroller is a common choice to throw in the back of a car. They have minimal cushioning, usually have tiny canopies, and are made to be as lightweight and portable as possible.

Travel strollers. These are slightly bigger than umbrella strollers but still fit in an airplane overhead bin and are much lighter than traditional full-size strollers. These usually have better canopies and cushioning compared to umbrella strollers, They sometimes come with cup-holders and a storage basket too.

You want to pick the stroller-type between these two types according to your mode of travel and space. It may be worth owning one of each type – in addition to a full-size stroller for use at home – to use based on the type of vehicle and distance you’re going to travel. Whichever type you pick, pay attention to these factors:

How lightweight the stroller is

How easily it folds

How far it collapses (partially vs completely)

Whether it has ample sun protection/canopy

Whether it comes with a carrying case

Stroller bag A stroller bag can be a lifesaver when you travel. If you are flying, you can check it in or carry it with you. A few things to look out for when choosing a stroller bag:

Make sure it has back or shoulder straps like a backpack for easy carry

Check if it is waterproof, to be weather-ready

Ensure it has a wide opening to make it quick and easy to put the stroller in

Double stitching helps keep it durable

Some bags come with wheels, for easier use at airports and walkways

Stroller fan There is no telling when the weather can get extreme when you are traveling. It is as important to be prepared for high temperatures as it is to be prepared for rain. A battery-powered stroller fan will go a long way in keeping your little one cool as you walk through a zoo or go shopping in your destination. A few things to look out for when choosing a stroller fan:

See if the fan has a decibel rating. You want to buy a quiet fan if possible, to help the baby sleep better.

Look at the battery size. A powerful lithium-ion battery with a USB charger will ensure you can reuse your phone or laptop battery charger.

Some models come with clips and some with wraparound type holds to attach the fan to your stroller. The latter is flexible and lends itself to more sizes and shapes of surfaces, but clips are fine too.

Some fans come with LED lights, which could be handy in odd situations when there is a power outage or unexpected outdoor low-light settings.

Some models even come with aroma diffusers, that you can use for filling up mosquito repellent.

Stroller clips These are small but useful. You never know when you need to clip a bunch of clothes or a jacket or umbrella to the stroller. Having a few clips with you on the go can be a lifesaver for changing or feeding the baby on the go.

Baby carrier Baby carriers are a must-have in a parent’s arsenal of travel gear. Here’s why:

Sometimes you need your hands free to do stuff while carrying junior around

More body contact. According to research, babies who are carried three hours a day cry 43% less.

Much easier to navigate crowds and get to places quickly

Factors to keep in mind when choosing a carrier:

Fit and comfort: Ideally the carrier should fit the baby in a neat M-shape posture, this is good for the baby’s hip health.

Material: Breathable mesh material is preferable to keep the baby cooler whereas if you live mostly in cool climes, you may prefer a carrier with heavy knitting and padding.

Washable: Not all carriers are machine washable

Travel car seat A travel car seat is a must-have for safe travels with your baby if you are planning to go anywhere by car at all, including that taxi drive home. There are many travel car seats on the market on every budget. A few factors to look at when choosing a travel car seat:

LATCH installation system – modern cars come equipped with this type of installation that is more secure than just a seatbelt installation.

Weight and dimensions: You want one that easily fits into a car-seat backpack or bag, for easy carry

Convert to a stroller – yes, some travel car seats convert to a travel stroller, so you don’t have to carry both! But these tend to be expensive, so you want to choose wisely.

Travel car seat backpack Yes, you need one! Here’s why:

In places where you are not allowed to carry a car seat with you (like some airlines), your car seat can become a checked bag!

Protects your car seat from dings – especially the wheels that break easily

Easy carry to and from a taxi

Factors to watch for when choosing a travel car-seat backpack:

Material: Ideally, a durable bag with waterproof material will come in handy

Sturdy shoulder straps

Dimensions: Make sure the backpack fits your car seat’s dimensions

Weight: Some of these bags can get heavy! Ideally, you want something lightweight while still being durable.

Wheels: Some backpacks come with wheels and some don’t. Wheels can be handy especially at airports and train stations.

Travel crib You may not need a travel crib, but they can be handy. These usually come with thick and comfortable mattresses and can make the difference between your baby getting a good night’s sleep or not, at the travel destination. These can also be a lifesaver in case the hotel you stay in ends up having bedbugs. They usually collapse or disassemble easily. We would suggest taking these, especially on road trips if you have the extra trunk space in the car. Factors to look at when choosing a travel crib:

How lightweight it is

How easy it is to assemble or fold

The softness of the mattress

Sleepsack Sleepsacks or sleeping bags for your newborn are a nice to have. Some babies have trouble sleeping well in unfamiliar surroundings, and the sort and familiar smell and feel of their sleeping bags can help make them feel at ease. A couple of factors to pay attention to when choosing a sleeping bag for your baby:

Material. These usually come in cotton and synthetic. Cotton can be a better choice for softness. Some come with thick, mattress-like padding.

Ease of washing: Not all are machine washable

Ease of use: The easiest to use typically have zippers, but wraparound types are fine too.

Diaper bag A portable diaper bag can be a lifesaver on an airplane or public charging, station, or even in a car. There are a few different types of diaper bags:

Backpack diaper bags

Stroller attachment bags

Handbag-style diaper bags

A few factors to look at when choosing a diaper bag:

Size, dimensions and weight: For travel, you want one that is small enough to carry around easily and attach to a stroller while carrying enough stuff.

Included changing pad: Some diaper bags have these, and this is a must-have feature for travel.

Blankets Travel blankets are at the top of the list of travel must-haves for a baby. When changing, feeding, sleeping, or just cooing and saying hi to the world… babies love blankets! Blankets can double as sleep-sacks too. There are a few different types, with different advantages:

Swaddle blankets: These usually have thick and soft padding. Muslin is a good choice for this type.

Cotton blankets: A great choice all-around, generally friendly to most babies’ skin, and easy to wash.

Fleece blankets for cool weather, the inside of an airplane, or an air-conditioned car.

Sanitizing wipes Baby wipes are a staple in your travel kit. A few factors to look at:

Ingredients: You want to avoid wipes with any possibly allergic chemicals

Thickness: Generally, thicker wipes are more effective at cleaning

Size: You don’t want them too big for travel, and don’t pack too many. Buy as needed at your destination, but always have some handy.

Extra baby clothes Travel wisdom generally says NOT to pack too many clothes for lighter travel, but babies tend to be messy. You don’t want to spend the better part of your trip washing clothes, so pack a couple of extra sets of baby clothes that you think you will need. A few types of clothes you want to carry:

Rompers

Bodysuits

Pants

Sleepers

Hats

Socks

Swaddles

Battery-operated pump These can be convenient for lactating mothers on the go. A few types and factors to look at when choosing a breast pump to carry with you:

Charging system: Some come with AC adapters that use a car’s cigarette lighter / 12-volt socket. A USB socket is great too, as it would allow you to use your phone or laptop charger.

Pumping time: Typically varies between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how long you need to use.

Size and dimensions

Wet bags Wet bags are an important diaper accessory. There is no telling when there will be a mess. At some point, something will spill. A wet bag is designed to contain the smell of used diapers, so you always want to have a few of these handy. A few factors to look at when choosing wet bags:

Material: Polyurethane Laminate or Thermoplastic Polyurethane bags are both designed to keep smells well contained.

Reusable vs disposable wet bags: Disposable ones are more convenient but more expensive as they need to be replaced

Size and dimensions

Bottles When traveling, you want bottles that are small and lightweight. You also want to carry a bottle-warmer, to use restaurant milk in a pinch.

Baby first-aid kit A baby first-aid kit for travel is a must-have for well-prepared parents. Make sure it includes:

A baby thermometer

Baby Tylenol

Bandaids/plasters

Steriwipes

Anti-diarrhoea medication

Baby cream / lotion

White noise machine This can make a world of difference if the baby has trouble adjusting to a new environment and falling asleep. Some babies respond well to white noise in such situations, especially as they get more used to sleeping with white noise. Factors to look for when choosing a portable white noise machine:

Sound selection

Timer

Charging system: AC adapter or disposable batteries

Size / portability

Automatic shutoff

Night light (nice to have)

Travel baby monitor A portable baby monitor can be especially useful if you happen to travel to a place the baby is not used to, to be able to track their sleep and vitals. This is especially so if you and the baby may have to sleep in different rooms. A few factors to look at when choosing a portable baby monitor:

Audio-only monitors are cheap and portable

Pay attention to range and sound quality when it comes to audio

Video monitors are generally more expensive and come with camera features such as pan, tilt, and zoom.

Travel toys Having travel toys at hand can make the difference between the trip being enjoyable or just engaged keeping the baby entertained. A few types of toys can help keep a newborn engaged:

Rattle style toys – these are the classic, ancient baby toy and always work

Soft toys and bath toys especially for babies 6+ months old

Pacifiers and teethers

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Three Trimesters fashion tips | Maternity Fashion

Three Trimesters fashion tips For any woman, pregnancy is the time to vouch for comfort more than anything else; even fashion. But looking good while looking like a diva is not that difficult. Read on to know how you can look trendy while not wearing tight, uncomfortable, and even painful clothing/accessories.

TRIMESTER 1

This trimester for the most part you won’t know you are pregnant and the clothing/accessories don’t start becoming uncomfortable yet. The first change you would want to make is your footwear, especially if you use high heels on a regular basis – no unnecessary risks for your little one.

Check out these comfortable, yet stylish and colorful sandals.

Investing in a pair of flat bellies would be worth your money as these can be used no matter how big your belly gets… And even after delivery!

TRIMESTER 2

This is a confusing stage. Your belly is just starting to show, your feet start getting swollen if you have a long day, sweating increases and basically the “I need to be comfortable right now” stage starts.

Let’s go from inside to out.

Panties – Ditch the thongs for more comfortable cotton panties that also support your growing belly. Check out these super comfy high-waist maternity panties

Bras – Your boobs grow during pregnancy and stay that way even after delivery, so new bras are a must-have. So when choosing your new bras keep in mind that they are breathable and after delivery, you have to keep them on even during the night as you are lactating and your boobs will need support. A good-quality cotton bra will provide support while not making you uneasy.  Choosing a feeding bra can be useful even after delivery for easy nursing. This nursing bra comes highly recommended by moms.

Camisole Slips – We don’t really need a slip or chemise on a daily basis for most of our tops/dresses. This is just so that our excess sweat is absorbed and our clothing doesn’t look all wet and makes us uneasy. The best part is that it can double as nightwear, it is so airy and comfy. This pack of 4 camisole tops comes at a great price.

Indian Wear – Most traditional Indian wear is comfortable, but when mixed with fashion, the same cannot be said. Even then, it is quite easy to adapt Indian wear to trending fashion with ease while being comfortable at the same time. Check out the pretty Kurti that you can wear with a growing tummy as well as use it during the nursing period.

Western Wear – Times have changed, stretchy pants and maternity frocks are now designed with fashion and comfort in mind, with the choices available, you can surely find the fashion of your choice with ease. If not check these out – these maternity jeans.

Footwear – On long days your feet are swollen and tender, you need soft heels and more space for your foot. The solution to your problem – Sneakers. You get them in a variety of colors and models that you can adapt to make your own fashion statement. These durable casual shoes give you a great grip and keep your feet comfy.

TRIMESTER 3

Okay, so investing in comfortable fashion was done by the second trimester and since we are smart women, we made sure to use durable clothes and shoes that can be used during the third trimester and even after delivery. (For mommies reading this in their third trimester, please read the trimester 2 fashion choices.)

So what is left for the final trimester for the mommy diva? Photoshoot accessories!

I’m not going to tell you how to accessorize… Just a reminder – this is your happy memory, be yourself and remember that your baby loves you no matter how you look!.

In case you are looking for some really fun jewelry, check these out.

Let me leave you with some food for thought: your dressing should reflect who you are, never give up on being yourself; but, pregnancy is difficult some days and it is okay to not be dressed your best, no one will judge you for it.