Aside from this, you will also experience all sorts of discomfort like nausea and vomiting (morning sickness is a myth — it strikes anytime), loose joints, even gas pain. Basically, you can say that pregnancy is a time when you lose control over your body. But all these happen for good reason: the child in your womb.
With all of these said, pregnancy is a very crucial time to be healthy not only for your baby but also for you. You need to have a healthy pregnancy diet that’s rich with all the important nutrients, particularly these ones in our list.
For optimum pregnancy nutrition, you need to have a diet that is rich in calcium. Calcium is vital for your baby’s development as it is necessary in building strong bones and teeth. Aside from that, calcium also helps in the development of the circulatory, nervous, and muscular systems.
Perhaps one of the more commonly known nutrients given through prenatal vitamins is folic acid or folate. Folic acid is a nutrient responsible for the development of your child’s brain and spinal cord as well as the production of both red blood cells and white blood cells. Taking folic acid daily also prevents birth defects such as neural tube defect.
Iodine is the nutrient that helps the thyroid gland produce hormones that are essential for brain development and body growth. Iodine intake is necessary in preventing thyroid problems for you and your child. Aside from that, lack of iodine can also result in cognitive delays.
Iron-deficiency anemia can be common among pregnant women, which is one of the causes of nausea and fatigue. Aside from these symptoms, lack of iron may put you at risk for infections. A diet that is rich in iron will help increase blood flow, alleviating pregnancy symptoms and discomforts, and will help in supplying enough oxygen to your baby.
Finally, to complete the essentials of a healthy pregnancy diet, you need the right amount of protein, which is vital in building your baby’s muscles and fetal tissues — especially the brain tissue. Protein also helps in increasing blood supply both for you and your baby.
Protein helps build a baby's muscles, bones, and other tissues, especially in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The recommended protein intake during the second half of pregnancy and while breastfeeding is 71 grams daily. Healthy sources of protein include lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, peanut butter, eggs, and tofu.
Your body does a lot of hard work during pregnancy, which can be seen in the symptoms that you may be feeling. To have a healthy pregnancy, you need to eat a well-balanced diet rich in all the essential nutrients that will benefit you and your growing child.
You see, not every baby product is made the same. Some look cute and adorable outside, but you know that you shouldn’t be looking for just cute. Instead, it is more crucial to look into each baby product and make sure that it doesn’t contain toxins that can harm your child.
To help you shop wisely for your baby, here’s a list of harmful chemicals that you need to avoid.
Talc powder is a common ingredient of many brands of baby powder, and while they smell and feel fresh, it’s actually an allergen that is known to irritate lungs when inhaled. The mineral talc has also been studied as a potential carcinogenic. Choose talc-free baby powder made of alternatives like corn starch, tapioca, and rice.
Newborn babies smell delightful, so there’s no need to mask that natural scent with artificial fragrances! Aside from being unnecessary, fragrances can contain synthetic chemicals that are derived from harmful sources like coal and petroleum, which can cause skin, respiratory, and even neurological issues. Instead, always choose fragrance-free baby products!
BPA used to be a common chemical found in many plastic baby products like baby bottles, sippy cups, plastic feeding containers, and others before it was banned in 2012. Unfortunately, alternatives to BPA (BPS, BPE, BPF, etc.) are just as toxic and harmful. In order to totally avoid BPA and its alternatives, it’s best to choose products that are not made of plastic, such as stainless steel, hospital-grade silicone, and glass.
Like BPA and its alternatives, parabens are also a common ingredient found in many baby and household products like shampoo, soaps, and body washes. But parabens are linked to hormonal, reproductive, and skin issues. In general, you need to stay away from any ingredient with “paraben” in its name, including alternate names like “methyl,” “butyl,” “propyl,” or “benzyl.”
Another toxic substance to watch out for is the flame retardant, which can be found in baby products like bedding, pillows, mats, and even car seats. The issue with flame retardant is that it is linked to lower IQ, fertility issues, thyroid issues, ADD, and others. The best way to avoid this substance is to choose baby products that are made of 100% pure cotton.
Similar to BPA, pthalates are a toxic chemical that serves as a plastic softener and can be found in baby and lifestyle products like fragrances and personal care products. Pthalates are harmful as they are linked to developmental disorders, respiratory issues, and fertility issues. Again, go for fragrance-free baby products and avoid products with vinyl. As much as possible, buy baby toys that are made of cotton instead of plastic.
Baby massage is a nice and beneficial part of your bedtime routine; however, you should also be careful with the kind of oil that you use on your baby. Mineral oil, which can be found in some baby oils, are a byproduct of petroleum and can cause skin irritation. Choose natural oils instead like coconut, olive, and sunflower.
Babies are sensitive and delicate, so much care and consideration should be given when choosing baby products and essentials. With this list of toxins and harmful chemicals to avoid, we hope you will have an easier time identifying the right products for your child.
]]>But while you may have access to anything through the internet, the opposite is also true. Your social media followers can see everything in your personal life, including your family life. This is why it’s challenging to keep your parenting choices to yourself. This is why many moms are pressured to fit in.
As if being a mom is not stressful enough.
There is nothing worse than unsolicited pieces of parenting advice, but they are all so freely given on social media. Your posted photos are often taken as an invitation to say something about your choices. Breastfeeding? Formula feeding? Gave birth via C-section? It seems like everyone has a lot to say about how wrong you were.
It’s no wonder why many moms are under a lot of pressure to create an image that they think is acceptable. The Pinterest mom, the Instagram mom, the domestic diva, the career woman… all picture perfect.
But there is no perfect mom. Every mom who loves her children to death is a supermom in her own right.
You see, it is one thing to strive to become the best version of yourself. But it is a completely different thing to put up a social media persona for everyone else’s approval. At the end of the day, the only approval you need is your family’s.
Raising a family is a challenge, but it does not need to be this complicated. You don’t have to get yourself stuck in a lifestyle of conforming to what is fashionable. You don’t have to lose yourself to become a good mom!
If you are also feeling the pressure to become the perfect mom, here are some things that you can do.
The best thing you can do to stop being pressured on social media... is to spend less time on it. Honestly, this might be easier said than done. But if you take the time to train yourself to not check your social media profiles so often, you will gradually get used to this new habit.
If you need help getting started, you can try putting your phone away during the day. If you need to use the computer, you can download apps that limit your social media usage. You can also have your partner or a friend remind you of your new goal. There are more things to life than social media, don’t forget that!
Social media is not bad. The lovely thing about social media, for example, is that it connects you to family and friends who live far away. Another benefit is how you are able to track your children’s milestones and document your family’s memories. There are many great reasons to have a social media account.
Unfortunately, not every person you meet on social media is well-meaning. By all means, continue to post your baby’s pictures and document special occasions. But do it for the people who care about you and your family. Set privacy limits on your account, don’t add people you don’t know, and keep the nosy neighbors out.
Comparison is the thief of joy. With social media, it is incredibly easy to follow another person’s life and be caught up in comparing their progress against ours. So what if their babies talked early? So what if they potty trained before 1? We have different timelines, and raising babies is not a competition.
To avoid finding yourself in the trap of comparison, you can simply unfollow the people who make you feel bad about yourself. But the better thing to do is to be happy about their life and to stop worrying about yours. If your children are healthy and loved, then you are doing just fine.
This is a different world that we are living in, but your life does not have to revolve around technology and the internet. Go for a walk and take in the wonders of nature. Experiment in the kitchen and try new recipes – you just might be a whisk away from a new family favorite.
Read the books that you have always planned on reading. Actually use your phone for its intended use: calling! Reach out to friends and family that you haven’t spoken to in a while. In the time of social media, be truly social and build relationships… and yourself.
Take a good look at your little unit of society: your family. Set your eyes on the amazing children you have made. If you prioritize your family over everything else, then you won’t have time for meaningless things. You won’t be tempted to look at another mom’s backyard because all you see is yours.
Spend afternoons cuddling with your baby in soft sheets and blankets. Play with simple toys, read classic books, listen to soothing lullabies. You will see that spending time with the most special people in your life is far better than pleasing people you don’t really know.
Social media has allowed us to connect to other people in seconds. It will be so much better if we use this power to build each other up. The vlogger mom who bakes the best cakes? She is a cool mom, but she has flaws, too. The hands-on mom who exclusively breastfeeds and uses cloth diapers? She is trying her best, just like you.
There is no perfect mom, no matter what the internet dictates. But there are plenty of good moms – just like you – doing their best to raise good kids in the time of social media.
Because you are no longer limited to film cameras and paid photographers, there is way more freedom when it comes to taking pictures. It is definitely possible to capture all the little moments of your baby’s magical first year. There is a lot to look forward to!
Absolutely yes!
First, it’s a fun way to track your baby’s growth and development. Writing down numbers inside a baby book can be boring and tedious, but taking milestone photos does the job and makes it more enjoyable!
Next, your baby will not be a baby forever. It may seem like it’s taking an absurdly long time for your baby to go from one stage to another, but in reality, it happens in the blink of an eye. The year will pass, and your future self will be thanking you for taking time to freeze fleeting memories.
It’s also during this year – your baby’s first year – that you will witness their many firsts. You will see their first smile, their first meal, their first word… There will be no other chance to do this! Time goes by so fast, and before you know it, your child no longer fits in the crook of your arm. So take advantage of the moment that you have now!
When you have a newborn baby, it’s hard to run out of milestones. Every month, as you know, deserves a dedication. But your baby’s first bath, first yawn, first swaddle, and even your baby’s first time to sleep inside their nursery are all worth documenting.
Celebrating every little milestone with your baby is one of the sweetest parts of parenthood. You may opt to book a professional photographer to document these milestones. However, there are also a lot of do-it-yourself milestone photo ideas that you can follow. The result are sweet photos taken in the comfort of your own home.
Here are seven creative ideas for taking adorable baby milestone photos.
Simplicity is key when it comes to taking photos of your newborn baby. When taking photos of our baby’s first week or month, the best message to deliver is that of peace and tranquility. Then again, simplicity works for older babies, too. After all, classic photos never go out of style!
Taking baby milestone photos at home has become even easier with milestone blankets! These are blankets with numbers printed on them; these numbers typically stand for months. All you have to do is take an object from your house to highlight your baby’s current age.
If you dislike editing or adding text to your photos using your phone or the computer, then message boards are for you. You can use them as the lone accessory of the photo, or you may use other elements like toys. Bonus: you can write whatever message you want!
Another great way to make creative milestone photos easily is to use milestone cards. You can get personalized ones that feature your baby’s name. You may also get cards for monthly milestones and ones for developmental milestones – or just get both to cover everything.
Keep your baby milestone photos interesting and attractive by using items from nature like foliage and flowers. These are pretty photoshoot elements that don’t fail to catch the viewer’s eye. They make any photo look romantic and dreamy in an instant!
Adding your baby’s favorite toys not only makes the milestone photo more adorable but also more meaningful. Use toys that your baby has used from Day 1 to show how much they have grown month by month. Your child will take delight in watching the photos when they’re older.
Finally, another thing you can do with your baby’s milestone photos is to include some current information about them. For example, you can include your baby’s current height and weight, the things that they are able to do like rolling over, their favorite food, and so much more!
With these creative DIY baby milestone photos, capturing your baby’s most important moments have never been easier!
This is why it is very essential to develop a bedtime ritual and to stick to it. If you already have a set routine before your baby’s bedtime, then you’re doing an amazing job!
But to take things to the next level, if your bedtime routine includes reading a bedtime story, then you just might be setting your baby up for success.
Establishing a regular pattern helps your baby understand what is about to do next, as well as what they are expected to do. This means that a consistent bedtime routine, aside from calming your baby down, will remind them that it is time to sleep.
Many bedtime routines look like this: bath time, lotion and massage, cuddle, and feeding. This is a great bedtime ritual, don’t get us wrong. But adding just one element – a bedtime story – will make a huge difference.
You see, reading bedtime stories is impactful, even if you are reading to a newborn baby. You may not exactly see it right away, but reading to your baby now is already making dramatic developments in their brain.
A newborn baby may not know how to talk, much less read and understand books. During the first weeks of their life, they couldn’t even see that clearly yet. But there are some things that we can be certain of.
Upon birth, a baby already has a keen sense of touch and a developing sense of hearing. Most of all, they already know your warmth and your voice. Reading to your baby stimulates these senses and enhances your baby’s knowledge of you, strengthening your bond.
Here are seven more reasons why you should be reading to your baby.
People often say that little children have short attention spans, but don’t underestimate their capacity. Children, even newborn babies, can develop longer attention spans, and reading bedtime stories definitely help. When you read them a bedtime story, try to use animated voices and expressions to entertain your baby and keep them attentive.
It is never too early to start building your baby’s vocabulary! By reading bedtime stories, you are helping your baby uncover new words. More than that, they will eventually understand the meaning of these words by recognizing letters, identifying related pictures and imitating the sounds that the words come with.
Babies absorb information like a sponge, so take advantage of this time to introduce new concepts. These include numbers, letters, shapes, colors, and so many more. If you want to introduce a new concept, you can start by reading a related bedtime story. You may even introduce traditions and holidays like Christmas using relevant stories.
Repetition is your friend when it comes to teaching your baby basically anything. And because babies are brilliant learners, they can eventually memorize things – even stories. Enhance this skill by reading the same bedtime stories every night. This may seem tedious and monotonous, but by repeating stories, you are helping your baby develop a sharper memory.
When you read a bedtime story to your baby, they will eventually learn how to relate to the story’s characters. They will feel happy when the character is happy and sad when the character is sad. It may not look much, but reading is actually helping your baby develop emotionally. Because of this, they may grow up to be an empathetic and responsive individual.
You can surround your baby with toys and baby products that aim to spark the imagination. But truthfully, nothing will be more effective than reading them a bedtime story. The pictures inside the story book and your voice and expressions are fodder to their growing curiosity. You may not see it, but their imagination is already soaring!
Finally, a benefit that is applicable to both your baby and you! We know that your day as a new parent is full-packed, and it feels great to de-stress after a long day. Spending time with your baby will calm you. At the same time, your baby will feel cozy and comfortable listening to their parent’s voice. Reading a bedtime story will help get you settled in for a relaxing night ahead.
If you come to think of it, reading a bedtime story has virtually no negative effects. Even if you think it’s still a bit too early, do it anyway. Babies are always learning and taking in new information, so there is no reason why we should not encourage it. With reading, there is nothing to lose and everything to gain.
But far more crucial than these mental and social benefits is the time you spend with your baby. Simply getting your baby tucked into bed, the two of you cuddling while you read a bedtime story, is building their self-esteem. By simply reading, you are equipping your baby with all the right skills to be a well-rounded person.
If you want to make your baby feel secure and loved, and if you want them to lead a successful life, read them a bedtime story.
From birth to three months of age, a baby is called a newborn. Your child, all new to the world, is in their first stage in life. Thus, you can expect that there will be great adjustments that apply to both you and your baby.
Every day will be different, and you will discover that anything can happen with a newborn baby. But sooner or later, you will get the hang of it.
Feeling anxious about dealing with all of these changes is completely normal. Don’t worry – you can handle this! First, you need to understand that despite their tiny size, your lovable newborn baby is their own person. Parenting a newborn usually works best if you consider the needs and feelings of your baby and follow their lead.
Next, you can never be too ready. It may initially seem like preparing two diaper changing stations at home is an overreaction, but it may come to your rescue one day!
Finally, even if you are being stressed out by all the challenges of parenting, always find ways to hold your baby. Your newborn baby loves the feeling of your warmth, so give them a lot of it. It will make them feel more secure, which will help them adjust more easily. After all, it’s impossible to spoil a newborn baby.
Read on for more specific ways to care for your newborn
Let your baby lead the way when it comes to feeding. It may seem like your baby needs milk very often, and you’re right! Your milk is very easily digested, and your baby needs all the nourishment they can get to grow healthy.
While you can certainly bottle-feed your baby, too, it is best to let your partner offer the bottle. It will prevent confusion (especially if you are lactating), and it will give the two of them a chance to bond.
Creating an atmosphere that soothes your baby is a great help in keeping them asleep. Aside from a musical mobile, you may want to use dark curtains to keep the light from coming in. You may also use a lampshade if it is too dark to see.
But, at the same time, you don’t need to tiptoe around your sleeping baby. Let them get used to normal household noises so that they will not have problems sleeping later on. If it gets too noisy, you can play some white noise to mask it.
Tummy time is essential in the growth and skills development of your newborn baby. Aside from the play mat, you may also want your baby to do tummy time on your chest or belly for skin-to-skin bonding and added warmth.
At this stage, your newborn baby has limited control of their body. Thus, it is better to use a wearable blanket that stays in place rather than a loose blanket. Don’t forget to choose a breathable blanket that is safe for your baby’s skin.
Can’t figure out what’s causing your baby to cry incessantly? The pain and discomfort of gas could be the culprit. To relieve this, bring your baby’s legs to their chest and do gentle bicycle motions.
It can be challenging to have your newborn baby drink their medicine. Rather than using a dropper, you can use a pacifier with a hole in it and let your baby suckle. If your pacifier doesn’t have a hole, use a sterilized needle to puncture it.
With all the things that you are doing at home, it is easy to forget the last time you gave your baby a medicine dose. To prevent this problem, you can draw a calendar on the side of the medicine bottle to keep track of the doses you gave.
Cradle cap is normal and is no cause for worry. However, you may want to remove the flakes for your baby’s comfort. Avoid pulling them out dry as it may hurt. Instead, use a baby comb and some coconut oil to gently take them out.
Onesies have a wide neck for a reason: they are supposed to be pulled down your baby’s body instead of being pulled over the head. This keeps your sleeping baby from getting disturbed, and it’s especially helpful during diaper blowouts!
The best time to trim your baby’s nails is when they are fast asleep. You can do this at around 15-20 minutes after they fall asleep. You can use baby nail trimmers, nose hair trimmers, and other safe options.
If you live in a house with multiple floors, you are going to greatly benefit from preparing different diaper changing stations at each floor. You wouldn’t want to have to run upstairs after an urgent diaper blowout!
If putting together different changing stations is not practical, you may also opt for a portable basket that you can bring up and down whenever you need it. Look for a durable basket or container with a wide mouth and sturdy handles.
It is alarmingly easy to forget to put a pack of wipes or extra diapers inside your diaper bag. For emergencies, it is useful to just stash extra diapers and extra boxes of wet wipes inside your car. Don’t forget a change of clothes, too!
Your child is only a newborn baby once. Remember to pull out your phone or camera every now and then to capture moments that may not happen again. It may seem like a stressful time now, but you will miss it when it’s over.
Finally, it definitely helps to change your perspective. Your day may be full of challenges and it will be very tiring, and it’s okay to get stressed. But instead of thinking that your newborn baby is giving you a hard time, think about this: they are having a hard time. They are little, and they just can’t help it!
For you, the newborn stage is demanding and hectic, but for your newborn baby, it is terrifying. They need you to be there to guide them, provide for them, and love them. We hope that these simple parenting hacks make life a tad easier for both you and your baby!
And then there’s also a need for newborn tummy time.
At this point, you may be wondering what tummy time is and why you need to add it to your already full parenting schedule. However, the advantages of doing tummy time outweigh all the possible objections.
Tummy time is not just a position or an activity that you occasionally do with your baby. It should be done regularly and become part of your baby’s daily care routine. Doing so will unlock many benefits that will affect the health and well-being of your newborn baby.
Basically, tummy time means putting your baby on their stomach when they are awake and alert. Because a newborn baby spends a lot of time during the day – as long as 14-17 hours – sleeping on their backs, they should be on their tummies when they play and start discovering the world.
Before we proceed, let’s go over some tummy time tips.
It is crucial to note that your baby should be really awake when doing tummy time. Be wary of the time when they seem awake but are actually drowsy as they may fall asleep in this position, which is unsafe.
The best time to put your baby on their stomach is moments after waking up from a nap, when they are fully conscious. Leave them in this position for a few minutes, the duration of which you can gradually increase as your baby grows older.
It is also a good idea to do a few minutes of tummy time several times a day on a flat, firm surface with some muslin blankets or on the floor with a soft play mat. Refrain from letting your baby do tummy time after feeding as it may cause a spit-up. And remember: never leave your baby unsupervised!
We have already established what tummy time basically is, but why does your baby need to do it?
The primary reason why a newborn baby needs to have tummy time is because it strengthens their core muscles, particularly their neck, shoulders, arms, and upper body. These are muscles critical for development; however, when a baby spends most of their time lying down, these muscles get little to no exercise.
With tummy time, your baby learns to lift their head, strengthening their neck muscles. Gradually, with your encouragement, they will learn to reach out and move toward your or an interesting toy’s direction, strengthening the muscles of their arms, shoulders, and upper torso.
Tummy time can also help your baby achieve their milestones! With stronger muscles and a better control of their body movements, your baby will learn how to roll over, sit, and crawl. Without tummy time, there may be some delays in following these developmental milestones.
Aside from strength and control, tummy time also helps with the development of your baby’s motor skills, both fine and gross. Also, with tummy time activities using supplies like a plush toy, an unbreakable mirror, and a textured towel, you are also stimulating your baby’s senses.
Flat head syndrome or “plagiocephaly” refers to the condition where a baby’s skull develops a flat spot at the back. This is typically caused by the newborn baby spending too much time in one position, particularly lying down on a flat surface on their back.
To reduce the risk of your baby developing a flat head, doing regular tummy time is a great help. Exposing your newborn to different positions, like lying on their stomach, prevents prolonged pressure on one area of the head, in the process preventing skull deformities.
Spending too much time in one position does not only affect your newborn baby’s physical development but also limits their imagination! When a baby spends most of their time on their back, they only get to see one thing: the ceiling! If you want to encourage your baby to learn about the world, then you have to let them see it.
Allotting time for regular newborn tummy time gives your baby a chance to see the world from a different perspective. With this, they are able to fully explore their surroundings, stimulating their imagination. This activity also helps develop their mental and cognitive skills.
Finally, if you are not yet convinced, tummy time is also a brilliant way to bond with your newborn baby. While tummy time is vital in helping with the development of your baby’s body and thinking, it is an undeniably great way to play with your baby, too!
When your baby does tummy time, you can lie down on the space next to them to see the world from the same perspective. You may also use toys and soft rattles to engage with your baby. You can also lay your baby down directly on your chest and use the same moment for some skin-to-skin contact!
The significance of newborn tummy time to your baby’s health and well-being is definitely unquestionable. It may come with some initial objections, and your baby may not even enjoy it the first time they do it.
However, just like a workout, your baby will gradually adjust, which means their muscles are getting stronger and they are gaining better control of their movements. Don’t give up because your baby shouldn’t miss out on the benefits of tummy time!
]]>Cord blood is the term used to refer to the blood and fluids left in the umbilical cord and placenta after childbirth. It contains cells called “hematopoietic stem cells,” which are used in modern medicine to treat various diseases. These diseases include anemia, auto-immune disorders, and even cancer.
While these cells can also be taken from the bone marrow, what makes cord blood special is it makes the stem cells easier to collect. It also contains 10 times more stem cells than bone marrow, and the cells from cord blood rarely carry infectious diseases.
Cord blood banking or cord blood registry is the practice of preserving the cord blood collected from the umbilical cord and placenta. The whole process involves the collection of cord blood, its storage (through public and private banks), and release.
As mentioned, you can store your cord blood through either public cord blood banks and private cord blood banks. For allogenic transplants, which means that the cord blood can be donated to anyone eligible, the storage happens in public cord blood banks. These banks may also store your cord blood for free if you intend it to be used by a relative with a disease that can be treated with stem cells.
On the other hand, private blood banks charge a yearly fee for storage. You may choose to store your cord blood in these banks if you are meaning to have the stem cells ready for personal use in the future.
Stem cells, which are abundant in the ford blood, can be used to treat various diseases in the blood like leukemia and sickle-cell anemia. They are also used to treat immune disorders, metabolic disorders, and even some forms of cancer.
Unlike bone marrow donation which can be painful for the donor, cord blood donation is painless and completely safe for both the mother and child. Cord blood is found in the umbilical cord and placenta, organs that are already out of the body, making the procedure noninvasive.
You just might be making a significant contribution to the medical community with the donation of your cord blood. With plenty of cord blood donations, experts are able to do vital research on how to treat more diseases with stem cells.
Even though stem cells have been found to treat a number of diseases, and even though more research is underway, it does not mean that stem cells can cure everything. If your baby, for example, has a genetic condition, then they cannot be treated by their own stem cells since these cells will be carrying the same condition, too.
Choosing to store your cord blood in a private cord blood bank may be a good step in ensuring your and your family’s health, but private banking does not come cheap. Private banks charge yearly and may charge different fees for collecting, testing, and storage.
On the other hand, you can always choose to store your cord blood in public cord blood banks which won’t charge you anything. However, once the cord blood has been donated, it means that you no longer own it. This means that these particular stem cells may not be available for you or for your family member if you ever need them.
Cord blood contains an abundant amount of stem cells that are found to be helpful in curing many diseases. What makes cord blood banking beneficial is the painless and easy procedure, making it popular among many parents worldwide. And with the increase of donations also comes the increase of medical advancements and innovations. Soon, there will be more diseases that stem cells from cord blood can cure.
The first trimester was a period of adjustment and experiencing so many things for the first time. During this stage, you have gotten to know your body and what it’s capable of. It also felt like you were not in control of your body, but you gradually adapted to the changes.
Next came the honeymoon period — the second trimester! It was during this stage when the hormones have calmed down and you have felt well enough to travel, shop, nest, and simply be active.
Finally, you are in the third trimester! During this stage, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation, especially towards its end. While it is normal to both anticipate and fear the arrival of your baby, the best thing to do now is to know what to expect during labor and delivery.
At this point, you will find yourself keenly attuned to even the tiniest changes in your body. To know if it’s truly time for your baby to come, here are the 6 signs of labor to watch out for.
To be honest, you have been tired since the first week of pregnancy, but you may feel a different kind of tired towards the end of the third trimester. You can attribute this fatigue to your growing belly — and growing discomfort. It may also become increasingly difficult to sleep at night, but try your hardest to rest as much as you can!
If you are observant, you may notice changes in your vaginal discharge. In the weeks or days leading to labor, you may see an increase in both the quantity and thickness of your vaginal discharge. You may also have a pinkish discharge, which is called “bloody show.” This is a pretty good sign that your baby is about to come out!
If you find yourself waddling like a penguin during the third trimester, that is most probably caused by your baby “dropping” or descending into your pelvis. Also called “lightening,” your baby’s descent into your pelvis means that they are starting to move into position ready for birth.
With lightening happening, you may also experience an increase in pelvic and rectal pressure as well as urination (again).
Cramps, aches, and diarrhea are, unfortunately, not exclusive to the first trimester of pregnancy! You may notice the return of these symptoms, especially when you’re nearing labor, due to hormonal changes. You may also experience a dull ache in your lower back. If the ache intensifies instead of fades away, then it is possible that labor is approaching.
You may feel false contractions even in the beginning of your third trimester. Called Braxton Hicks contractions, these are irregular and less intense than true birthing contractions. So how do you know if the contractions you are feeling are the real thing? Here are the signs:
The rupture or breaking of the amniotic sac, which results in the leak of amniotic fluid, is often called the breaking of your water. While this may not happen to every pregnant woman, membrane rupture is a very reliable sign that labor will shortly happen. It is also possible that labor has already begun before your water breaks.
There are many ways to prepare for labor and delivery. It is vital to continue eating a balanced diet and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. It is also crucial to know what to expect during labor and delivery. Know the real signs of labor so that you can identify them when they happen!
]]>The pacifier habit is one that’s hard to quit, but this goes both ways. While babies seek comfort in the pacifier, some parents find it hard to quit the binky because it’s a convenient way to calm a fussy baby.
It looks to be the perfect soother. Unfortunately, you can’t use the pacifier forever.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the use of pacifiers is not harmful to infants. They do not cause medical or psychological problems. However, pacifiers are not meant to be used long-term. Before your baby reaches the age of one, it is best to wean them off the pacifier.
Babies more than 1 year of age no longer need to suck to soothe themselves. By this point, they should have adopted other methods of self-soothing. Also, sucking on a pacifier beyond infancy can affect the shape of the baby’s mouth as well as the alignment of their teeth.
Weaning your baby off the pacifier can be a tough job, but there are many methods that you can try. Here are a few approaches that you can follow in taking the pacifier away.
For many babies, because they have learned to be reliant on their pacifiers, the best approach is to go slow. Wean them slowly and gradually, beginning with moments when they are not so dependent on the pacifier, such as playtime.
During playtime, even though they may have a pacifier inside their mouth, they are not too focused on sucking. You can start taking the pacifier away during these moments that they are distracted.
Gradually reduce the number of times in a day that they are using their pacifier. It may come to a point that you will only allow the pacifier during bedtime. Though this approach takes time, eventually, your baby will learn to live without the binky.
Then again, instead of going gradual, you may opt to go cold turkey and ditch the pacifier all in one go. If you decide to go cold turkey, the advantage is it minimizes the risk of regression (which can happen in the middle of a gradual process).
Going cold turkey is not for the faint of heart. Expect some rough days ahead while you and your family adjust to this big change. However, this will eventually end and your baby will forget about their attachment to their pacifier.
Whether you go gradual or go cold turkey, offering an alternative to the pacifier is always a good idea. An alternative will soften the sting of losing a soother. For example, when taking away your baby’s pacifier, you can offer them a soft cotton blanket instead to give comfort.
Of course, the alternative does not always have to be an object. During this stage, your baby will need all the comfort they can get. And the best kind of comfort comes from you! Be available both physically and emotionally for your baby while they adjust.
If none of the previous method has worked, then instead of taking away the pacifier, you can try making it unappealing. Since your baby sucks on it for comfort, you can make it taste unpleasant. You can, for example, dip it in lemon to give it a sour taste. It turns your baby off the pacifier without harming them in the process.
Aside from the taste, you can also alter the physical appeal of the pacifier. Many moms swear by cutting a small hole in the pacifier. The hole makes it hard for your baby to suck the pacifier, removing its appeal. Be careful with cutting though. Use really sharp scissors to cut the hole straight through with one snip rather than with rough hacks that can leave broken pieces behind.
Finally, make a big deal about taking away the pacifier. In fact, prepare a ceremony about it! If your baby already listens to you and understands you, you can try to reason with them. Explain to them that only little babies need pacifiers, and because they are a big boy/ a big girl now, they don’t need one anymore.
Make a fuss about it – a good fuss! The point is to make your baby feel good and proud about themselves about giving up their pacifier. Ceremony ideas include gathering up all of their pacifiers and keeping them inside a special box. You may also choose to give it away to another baby.
Another way to celebrate their “graduation” from their binky is to come up with a new bedtime tradition. For example, instead of using a pacifier, this time, they get to choose their own bedtime story or help make their own glass of milk. Be generous with praises, too!
The pacifier is, indeed, a huge help to many parents. So many babies have gone to bed and slept well because of the pacifier. It is undeniable that it serves as a great soother and a convenient source of comfort for many babies.
However, your baby’s binky is not meant to be used long-term. After the first year, continuing the use of pacifiers may lead to negative consequences to your baby’s health. It is not easy, but weaning your child off the pacifier habit can be done using many proven methods. We hope we were able to help you with this challenge!
Pregnancy symptoms can be subtle and can often be mistaken for the symptoms you experience before and during your period as they are very similar. You may feel slight physical changes that can be attributed to either PMS, menstruation, or pregnancy, so it helps to pay attention to your body closely.
To help you understand the early signs of pregnancy and recognize them when they do come, here’s a list to remember.
One of the first symptoms of pregnancy that you may not identify right away is a raised basal body temperature. This is your temperature when you wake up in the morning. In a regular cycle, your basal temperature increases after ovulation and remains elevated until your next period, where it goes down. However, if your basal temperature remains elevated for more than two weeks, you may be pregnant.
If you are actively trying to get pregnant, chart your basal body temperature to identify if it has increased and remained in elevation.
Another early pregnancy symptom that you may miss has something to do with the hormonal changes that affect your breasts. While you may feel tender or sore breasts almost right away, it can be mistaken for tender breasts that happen before and during your menstruation. If you are pregnant, you may also find that your breasts feel heavier than usual.
Vaginal discharge is normal at certain points of your menstrual cycle, especially during your fertile days when you may be ovulating. It may also happen when you are having a hormonal imbalance or a yeast infection. However, there is a kind of vaginal discharge that doesn’t itch, is clear, and odorless. Called “leucorrhea,” this kind of discharge is an early pregnancy symptom, so pay attention to your vaginal discharge!
Similar to the other symptoms described in this list, cramping is a symptom that can occur before you get your period, during ovulation, and during your actual menstruation. But did you know that cramping can also signal pregnancy — even when you don’t get a period?
Cramps can happen during implantation, which is when the fertilized egg or embryo implants in your uterus. It may also be accompanied with some spotting or bleeding. This bleeding can also be mistaken as the beginning of menstruation, but generally, implantation bleeding is a lot lighter in both color and quantity.
Stress, anxiety, and physical exertion can all cause tiredness and fatigue, but there is a different kind of fatigue that signals pregnancy. This is the kind of fatigue that is overwhelming and even unbearable. It’s no wonder why some women realize they are pregnant when they find it hard to rise from their beds!
Fatigue, which is an early symptom of pregnancy, is caused by the elevated progesterone hormones. Aside from this, during the early days of pregnancy, most women have lower blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure, which contributes to the feeling of immense tiredness.
Finally, if you’re actively getting pregnant and are experiencing all the symptoms above and are feeling bloated and constipated as well, there’s a good chance you may be pregnant. Also caused by the increase of progesterone, you may experience changes in your digestion and bowel habits during the early stage of pregnancy.
Some “more obvious” pregnancy symptoms could accompany these slight digestive changes, such as food cravings and food aversions.
While there is no symptom that tells you you are 100% pregnant, it definitely helps to look out for possible early signs of pregnancy that are easy to miss. Then again, not every woman experiences pregnancy the same way, so it’s possible that you may or may not experience every symptom in this list.
Whether or not you are already experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, the best thing to do now is to prepare your body for pregnancy by getting enough rest, hydration, and physical activity and eating a healthy, balanced diet.
]]>We spend a considerable chunk of our days sleeping. For the lucky few, it’s at least 6 to 8 hours of unadulterated, undisturbed quality snooze time. And for the rest of us (we’re looking at you, exhausted mommy!), it’s whenever we have the time to get some shut eye.
]]>We spend a considerable chunk of our days sleeping. For the lucky few, it’s at least 6 to 8 hours of unadulterated, undisturbed quality snooze time. And for the rest of us (we’re looking at you, exhausted mommy!), it’s whenever we have the time to get some shut eye.
We always look forward to getting into bed at the end of a tiring day. It’s the same thing for babies! Because they spend the whole day discovering the world, they need the most peaceful sleep they can get in order to recover.
If sleep is so important, we think it only makes sense to choose the best crib fitted sheet money can buy. But what is it?
When you choose 100% cotton fitted sheets, you are prioritizing not only a relaxing night but also your baby’s overall well-being. Comfort is essential and, to be honest, is there really anything more blissful than diving into ultra-soft sheets? But aside from that, when you buy 100% cotton, which is one of the safest materials out there, you are also making the best decision for your baby’s health.
Whatever your baby’s sleep hours are, no matter how long, if you want to make the most out of her bedtime, look no further than fitted sheets that are made of pure, premium quality cotton.
We have established that babies spend a big part of their waking time playing and just being active. With this said, they can get sweaty and warm especially during hot summer days. To prevent them from getting drenched in sweat while they are sleeping, you need to get them fitted sheets that are lightweight and breathable.
High-quality cotton is your best bet when it comes to breathable fabrics. It allows plenty of airflow and lets heat escape your baby’s body, helping her stay cool. Cotton is also able to draw away moisture and sweat, helping your baby remain fresh and dry.
Another thing that makes cotton superior over other fabrics is its softness and smoothness. They are not stiff or clingy like other fabrics tend to be. We doubt there’s any material that comes close to 100% cotton when it comes to coziness!
Our crib fitted sheets here at Living Textiles are crafted with soft, premium cotton percale, which means they are, in equal parts, crisp and smooth. They feel absolutely amazing against the skin, but, hey, don’t take our word for it: feel our fitted sheets yourselves and see the difference.
A newborn baby has very delicate skin, and the worst thing you can do is damage it unknowingly. You see, synthetic fibers and fibers that are of poor quality can easily irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. This can cause rashes and, for some babies, even trigger eczema and other serious skin problems.
But because cotton is a natural fiber, it does a great job in protecting your little one’s skin. It is antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and is not harsh on your baby’s skin. This only means that a fitted sheet made of 100% cotton will help her get some good quality zzz’s.
It seems that choosing the perfect crib fitted sheet is not as simple as it sounds, but we are here to help. Aside from the material, another important thing to consider is how it fits a standard-size crib. It is crucial to get a well-fitting sheet to prevent accidents and injuries.
In the US, a full size crib follows the prescribed dimensions of 28 ± 5/8 inches in width x 52 3/8 ± 5/8 inches in length (source). Here at Living Textiles, we make sure that all of our crib fitted sheets fulfill these guidelines and fit your crib securely.
A full elastic should be on top of your list when looking for the perfect fitted sheet for your baby’s crib. Some fitted sheets only have elastics at the corners, and while this may work, these sheets are not as secure as fully elasticized fitted sheets.
Fully elasticized fitted sheets have elastics that go all the way around the four sides. When a fitted sheet is fully elasticized, just like our muslin crib fitted sheets, it stays firmly in place, which means less work for you! More importantly, a fitted sheet that stays in place means a fitted sheet that’s safe for your baby.
Aside from full elastics and compliance to the prescribed size guidelines, the ideal crib fitted sheet should also have deep corners or pockets. No matter how much your baby rolls around when she’s sleeping, a fitted sheet that has deep corners will not come undone!
Because your baby’s well-being is our utmost priority, our Living Textiles crib fitted sheets are thoughtfully designed with extra deep corners. Even if you use an extra thick crib mattress, our fitted sheets deliver! With extra deep corners, we guarantee not only a snug fit but also your baby’s safety.
We mentioned that cotton has antibacterial properties, but did you know that it also repels dirt? As if this reason is not enough, cotton is also a very durable fabric. So aside from the fact that it stays clean, cotton can withstand regular washing, too. If these reasons don’t make you want to hoard cotton sheets, we don’t know what will!
This brings us to another point. Crib fitted sheets that are made of 100% cotton may cost a bit higher than some sheets made of synthetic fabrics. But because cotton sheets last for many, many years, they give you more value for your money.
If you think that 100% cotton crib fitted sheets are boring, think again! Our sheets come in a variety of classic colors and tasteful prints to fit the theme of your baby’s nursery.
We have several timeless prints and patterns if you prefer a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Some of our bestsellers include Grey Clouds, Pink Hearts, and Starry Night.
On the other hand, if you have an inclination toward quirky and fun designs, we have them, too! Check out our Lolli Living line for playful designs such as Sparrow, Peaks, and Green Scallops.
We hope we were able to help you make an informed decision about the best crib fitted sheet for your baby. If you are ready to shop, start here! ☺
]]>Now, there is already so much to prepare with a baby due anytime soon. So if you are planning to breastfeed, whether exclusive or not, it is best to start preparing the supplies before you give birth.
Don’t worry; you don’t need a lot of products to breastfeed. In fact, at the end of the day, the only non-negotiables you need to breastfeed are your breasts! However, because you may encounter some difficulties, it is better to invest in some supplies for a better breastfeeding experience.
Breastfeeding is not just about feeding. Yes, nursing your baby will provide them with excellent nourishment. But aside from that, the act alone of breastfeeding is vital for their overall health and well-being. This includes boosting their physical, mental, and emotional development.
The act of breastfeeding creates an intense connection between you and your child. With this said, breastfeeding is two-sided. Your baby benefits from the nourishment and comfort breastfeeding provides. At the same time, it gives you not only a feeling of contentment but also several health benefits like faster recovery from childbirth.
This is why it is important to create a healthy breastfeeding experience from the very beginning. Feeling good about breastfeeding is key to maintaining your nursing habit, which results to a continual breast milk supply. Now, what supplies do you need to have a better breastfeeding experience?
One thing you need to know about breastfeeding is that it doesn’t usually last for only a few minutes. Some babies are content to latch on the breasts for 30 in a single session, and some sessions may last for an hour! So take care of your back because you would not want to be hunched over for a long period of time.
A nursing pillow props your baby up to a position that is much easier for breastfeeding. This gives you the support you need and reduces the strain of breastfeeding on your back… and your neck and shoulders. It will also help carry the weight of your baby, giving your arms a rest.
Another thing you need to breastfeed is a soft and comfortable blanket. A baby blanket is multi-purpose. It will provide warmth to you and your baby especially during chilly nights of breastfeeding. It will also keep your baby snug against you, which makes them feel more comfortable and secure.
Then aside from this, a baby blanket gives you the privacy you need especially if there are other people around. While you may opt to buy a separate nursing cover, simply using a baby blanket is more practical because you probably already have one. Also, you can use your blanket for many other things as your baby grows up.
Next, it is also good to invest in a good nursing bra. A good nursing bra not only gives you proper support but also makes you feel more comfortable. You see, your breasts may feel heavy once your milk comes in. A high-quality nursing bra is effective in supporting your breasts and relieving strain.
Also, it is important to have a nursing bra especially if you are breastfeeding throughout the day. Unlike ordinary bras, a nursing bra has flaps that will give you – and your baby – easy access to your breasts. With a nursing bra, it will be more convenient to nurse anytime.
If you didn’t know about this breastfeeding fact before, then it’s time to know that your breasts will leak especially in the first months of breastfeeding. While having leaky breasts is common and normal, it may feel uncomfortable and embarrassing, especially if you’re not home.
During the first months when leaking is an issue, it is very helpful to have a supply of nursing pads at hand. The nursing pads will catch your leaks, protecting your clothing from stains. They may not prevent the leaks from coming, but they will definitely make you feel more confident and secure.
Another essential that you need for breastfeeding your baby is a breast pump. Even if you exclusively breastfeed, don’t discount the importance of having a pump around. During the times when your baby is too full to feed, pumping will relieve engorgement from your breasts and will help you collect your breast milk.
Breast pumps are also highly useful if you are planning to return to your workplace. In this case, it is recommended to invest in two heavy-duty electric pumps: one for work and one for the home. Electric breast pumps are more efficient and can stimulate your breasts to produce more milk.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, having enough breast milk storage options is a must! If you are a working mom, these are essential as you will need storage options for your pumped milk. You can use bottles, but storage bags are lighter to carry and more convenient to use.
If you are a stay-at-home mom, as mentioned above, you should expect to occasionally pump, too. Because of this, you will also need storage solutions like bottles and bags. You may also use glass containers or milk trays. With breast milk containers around, it will be much easier for your husband or a babysitter to feed your baby.
Finally, to create a better breastfeeding experience, it is also crucial to have clothes that make nursing easier. There are many brands that make tops and dresses specifically designed for breastfeeding. They have flaps or cuts that give your baby easier access to your breasts while protecting your privacy.
Then again, you don’t necessarily have to buy new clothes. A more practical solution is to make use of the clothes that you already have. Buttons, zippers, and snaps are your new friend. Simply wearing a stretchy tank top under a button-up blouse does the job!
You don’t have to buy a lot to successfully breastfeed. These basic supplies will help create a beautiful breastfeeding experience that is cozy, conducive, and comfortable for both you and your baby.
]]>
It is very crucial to prepare your home for the arrival of your baby. Their clothing must be ready, their blankets in place, and their nursery set up and complete. You have to make sure that your baby’s essential products are made of materials that will not irritate their delicate skin. And you also have to consider getting toys that will stimulate their imaginations.
If you think this list is complete, well, it’s not – at least, not yet. Aside from the things mentioned above, you also need to baby proof your home before your baby arrives.
Yes, it’s not too early to begin babyproofing! Once your baby arrives, you’ll never have the time to go over the entire house and baby-proof. So take advantage of your nesting phase now and get your home 100% ready for your baby.
Simply defined, babyproofing is the process of removing all the things that pose potential risks to your baby. Sooner or later, your baby will begin exploring the house, touching – and tasting – almost everything they see, and you need to be ready. You need to make sure that there is nothing your baby can reach that can cause them harm.
The tricky thing about babyproofing is that not everything harmful to babies is obvious. It’s easy to remember to put away scissors and knives and store dangerous chemicals in places your baby can’t reach. But there are “friendly” things like balloons and wallets that can cause sufficient danger to a child.
This is why it is helpful to have a complete checklist of everything you need to consider when babyproofing your home.
The first thing you need to do to ensure not only your baby’s but also your entire family’s safety is to install smoke detectors and carbon detectors. Make sure at least one smoke detector is installed on every floor of your home. Also, make it a point to change the batteries every month.
Have a list of all the medicines your baby needs and place it in one box. Place your baby’s medicines and your medications in separate boxes, and put both of them inside a locked cabinet that your baby can’t reach. Also, have a first-aid kit ready at every floor of your home, plus another one for each car.
It is a good idea to have a list of your emergency contacts and have multiple copies of it. Have a digital copy of it in both your and your partner’s phones. Then, make physical copies and put it on the fridge, inside your bedroom, in the nursery, and by the phone.
Go over all of your furniture and cover their edges and corners with bumpers. A cheaper alternative is cut-up pool noodles, but there are many ready-to-use safety bumpers that are affordable enough. Cover all edges and corners – even those that don’t seem sharp.
If you thought walls were safe, think again! If you’re planning on having your walls repainted or wallpapered, make sure the job gets done at least 2 months before your due date to minimize exposure to fumes. Also, check your paint for flaking and peeling. Get them sealed or removed; otherwise, they can be ingested or inhaled.
Also remember to put non-slip pads under all of your rugs. This is especially crucial once your baby begins to attempt walking.
Babyproofing outlets is one thing you should never forget. You can use safety plugs to cover all open outlets, or you can also block them with furniture. If you do use safety plugs, choose those that are hard to pry out of the wall. If you can find plugs that need to be screwed on, that’s even safer.
Make sure there are no loose cords or wires that your baby can get tangled in. You can use cord holders to keep them tightly fastened and store them up high.
Little babies will explore anything and everything they can get their hands on – even your TV and your heavy furniture like bookshelves and dressers. To prevent them from falling over your child, you need to secure them using furniture straps that will hold furniture and appliances tightly against the wall.
Unplug all appliances like the coffee maker and the microwave oven when you’re not using them. If possible, store them inside locked drawers and cabinets.
Speaking of drawers and cabinets, you also need to lock every drawer and cabinet that your baby can possibly reach. Use safety latches, and make sure these latches can’t be easily opened.
Curtains are not spared from babyproofing, too. Dangling cords and tassels pose safety risk to young babies, so you need to get rid of those. It’s also a good idea to not put your baby’s crib or bed near the windows.
Now, let’s go to the bathroom. The water inside your toilet can look irresistible to an exploring child, but this is highly risky. Keep your toilet lids locked down using a safety latch specifically made for toilets.
Bath time is a great way to bond with your baby, so make sure they’re completely safe, too. Install a bathtub thermometer to keep the water at a safe temperature. You may also use a soft cover for the bath tub spout.
You are going to use the changing table a lot of times, and while they are generally safe for newborn babies, it can be dangerous once your baby learns to roll over. To be safe, get a changing table with safety straps and make sure your baby is buckled up when you’re changing them. And even with safety straps, never leave your baby alone on the changing table.
Toys are a baby essential that you can’t do without, and since your baby is going to use them so much, look for safe options. For newborn babies, the ideal toy is soft, made of cotton, and much larger than their mouth. The ideal toy also doesn’t have long strings or small parts that can be removed.
There are some guidelines to follow in choosing baby-safe bedding, too. While it is good to get soft bedding, avoid ones that are too fluffy or furry. Instead, choose ones that are structured but lightweight. It is also a good idea to choose bedding made of 100% cotton, which don’t irritate newborn babies’ delicate skin.
You also need to check your doors, your windows, and your stairs. For doors, use door stops that prevent them from slamming shut on little fingers. For windows, use window guards that prevent accidental falls. For the same purpose, you also need to install safety gates to block stairways – there should be one gate at the top and another at the bottom.
Finally, get a partner or a friend to have a final check of the house. Get them to inspect each part of the house thoroughly, and for a more accurate perspective, ask them to get down on their hands and knees and crawl. They will see things at baby’s eye level, and they can check the floor, too, for small, pointy objects.
Babyproofing is a tough task, but because your baby needs to explore the world, the best you can do is to keep them safe while they’re doing it.
]]>If you have just given birth or are busy taking care of a little baby, at this moment, your world may revolve around this new person. You’re tracking every tiny development and just taking delight in everything they do. That’s understandable and totally normal!
But don’t forget about your husband. Instead, make this new chapter in your lives a reason to make your relationship even stronger.
Remember that a better marriage helps you become better parents. The good news is that there are many ways to keep the spark alive after having a baby. These tips will help intensify the emotional connection between you and your husband.
You don’t need grand gestures to express love, especially when you’re in the middle of this hectic new phase. Putting thought into the little things we do every day makes a huge difference. It may not be easy at first, but sooner or later, expressing love with the little things you do will become second-nature.
Begin with the things that you are already doing. If you think it’s household chores, then begin with household chores. As unromantic as it may sound, you can actually bond together while mopping floors or washing dishes. Take this time to catch up and talk.
If you stay at home and your husband works – or vice versa – send little text messages throughout the day. You don’t need to spend an entire afternoon texting (because who has time for that?), but a few text messages just might make your day.
Unlike the old days when you only had eyes for your partner, now, your time is divided. Most of your attention understandably goes to your baby and fulfilling their needs. But don’t fall into the trap of neglecting your husband. Even a few minutes of quality time with your partner works wonders.
If you can spend an hour fully devoted to each other daily, then that would be amazing. However, if a few minutes is all you can spare now, don’t feel bad. What’s important is how you spend it. For example, after rushing through a hectic morning routine, spend 10 seconds at the door for a sweet goodbye kiss.
At night, after your baby’s bedtime routine is done, spend a few quiet moments with your partner. Ask them about their day, and tell them about yours. De-stress together and give each other a backrub. Your husband is your support group, and if you are doing this parenting thing, then you should do it together.
One way to express your love is by dishing out compliments every now and then. What’s wonderful about this is that you don’t have to schedule it – you don’t even have to think about it once you get into the habit! Be generous with the compliments and don’t scrimp on the praises.
You see, it’s easy to become critical once you become a parent. When you’re used to a certain standard of parenting or keeping the household, it can become dangerously easy to focus on what went wrong. But instead of looking for flaws, be on the lookout for the things that went right.
Don’t hesitate to praise each other for little things like a new haircut or a delicious meal. Because you are a team, you need to encourage each other with positive words rather than criticisms. Let other people criticize you – your home is supposed to be a safe haven, so leave all the negativity at the door!
Who doesn’t like receiving a handwritten letter? It’s a very thoughtful way to show someone that you care. Even with all the chaos at home, you don’t have to stop writing letters! A simple letter – even a short note scribbled on a brown bag – is guaranteed to brighten up your day.
You will not always have time to sit down and compose a romantic letter. Well, if you do have the time, then go ahead and write! But for ordinary days, writing a quick note does the job, too. Write a little note and stick it to where your partner can see it, such as the fridge or the bathroom mirror.
If your partner leaves for work, then stick a note on their briefcase or inside their lunch bag. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to talk, a simple note will show your partner how much you love and care for them.
Playing games is not only for kids! By spending some time playing, you get to de-stress and be entertained. More importantly, it is a nice way to bond with your partner and remember how much fun you have with each other. Take a lot of pictures because you are making memories, too.
Sweat it out and get some exercise while being romantic with your partner! If you are both athletic, you can, for example, take your baby with you to a nearby tennis court and play a friendly – or competitive – game of tennis. If you can leave your baby with a babysitter, then that’s better.
You may also opt for board games or card games, which are just as exciting. You don’t have to leave the house, which is a plus if you can’t get a babysitter. And if you don’t have board games at home, there are a lot of game apps that you can download. It doesn’t really matter what you play as long as you’re able to spend some quality time with your loved one.
You may have noticed a theme here: you don’t have to express your love for each other grandly. You only have to be consistent. The theme also applies to this tip. You don’t have to buy each other expensive gifts; instead, you only need a little token to remind your partner that you’re thinking about them.
Observe your partner. What do they need? Perhaps they need a new razor and just didn’t have the time to buy one. A little surprise never fails to make someone feel special, and they will surely appreciate the thought and effort that went into the gift, no matter how small it may seem.
It doesn’t even have to be anything they need. You can pick up a new book, for example, because you know it’s written by their favorite author. And you don’t have to actually buy a gift. If you like baking, then you can surprise them with their favorite cookies. It’s a great way to show them how special they are to you.
Once in a while, go on date nights. It can be a challenge to look for someone who can babysit your baby for the night, but it will be worth it. If you can’t do it weekly, then have a date twice a month. Whatever you decide on, pencil it in your calendar and prioritize it over everything else.
Again, it doesn’t need to be an expensive date. You can have dinner somewhere or watch a movie. You can even go grocery-shopping and bond over that. You just need to do something that will make you feel connected as a couple and increase the intimacy between the two of you.
If life becomes too hectic and it’s impossible to find a sitter, you can have date nights at home. Watch a movie and cuddle on the sofa underneath soft blankets. During these date nights, your full attention should be on each other. No distractions and definitely no phones allowed!
Saying “I love you” is such an underrated way to show your partner how much you love them. But words are just as powerful as actions, and sometimes, it’s these words that can make and break a couple. Say “I love you” to your partner often and really mean it.
There is power behind words. Even when you say “I love you” in random, the words will leave a lasting effect that will strengthen your connection with each other. These words give you the assurance that you are loved, which makes you more confident and less stressed.
Saying “I love you” is a simple way of reminding your partner that you’re a team and you’re doing life together – even when everything else seems messy, with a new baby in your midst.
Keeping the spark alive after having a baby is no easy feat, but spending time building your relationship with your partner is one thing that you will never regret doing.
]]>Fatigue occurs so frequently during pregnancy that it often becomes your body’s default condition. In other words, it is normal to feel tired and sleepy when you’re pregnant. After all, your body is working double time to form the new life that is in your womb.
Now, it’s also normal to want to look for remedies or procedures that can relieve the feelings of tiredness and soreness that accompany pregnancy. And when we look for ways to relieve fatigue, massage usually ranks high on the list. It’s no surprise if getting a massage has already crossed your mind once or twice… or more.
An elderly aunt or a grandmother might have discouraged you from getting a massage. The good news is that prenatal massage — a kind of massage therapy targeted to pregnant women — can actually be beneficial and healthy. Just remember to seek your doctor’s or care provider’s go signal first before attempting any kind of therapy.
Here are 6 benefits of pregnancy massage that you should know.
Pregnancy can be undeniably stressful. Aside from the physical fatigue that you are probably feeling, when you’re pregnant, your hormones can fluctuate beyond your control, making you feel emotional and anxious. Prenatal massage therapy has been shown to result in a reduction of stress and anxiety and a general improvement in mood.
Pregnancy can also bring about nerve pain, particularly sciatic nerve pain that you can feel from your lower back into your legs. This happens as a result of the pressure of the uterus on the pelvic floor and lower back. With pregnancy massage, the tension on these inflamed nerves is relieved, reducing nerve pain significantly.
Another thing that you may experience during pregnancy is edema or swelling, which is a result of reduced blood circulation that ultimately causes fluids to collect in your joints. Massage therapy helps stimulate circulation, reducing the collection of fluids and, as a result, reduces swelling in your joints.
Many pregnant women suffer from nausea and heartburn as a result of hormone overdrive and other bodily changes. For some women, massage therapy can help relieve both nausea and heartburn. However, results may vary and some pregnant women report that their symptoms have gotten worse after getting a massage.
Aside from relieving the feelings of stress and fatigue, as well as pregnancy symptoms like edema and nausea, pregnancy massage therapy has been found to be effective in soothing discomfort. This includes aches in various parts of the body like the neck and cramps especially in the legs.
Because pregnancy massage therapy can relieve muscle tension and nerve pain, reduce stress and anxiety, and soothe pregnancy-related symptoms and discomforts, it only follows that you will feel more comfortable. And because massage can make you feel more relaxed and rested, you will be able to sleep much better.
Pregnancy is not for the faint-hearted. Accompanying it are common issues like fatigue, stress, nerve pain, swelling, cramps, and more. But there are ways to relieve these issues and help yourself feel better and much more comfortable, and one of the things that you can do is to get a pregnancy massage.
]]>But if you think about it, a newborn baby is supposed to be needy. Your baby has spent the first 40 weeks of their life inside their mother’s womb. Being born into this world is not just new – it is terrifying. They need you because yours is the only voice they are familiar with, and yours is the only presence they find comfort in.
Then again, even if you do know this, it does not change the fact that the newborn stage is undeniably hard. This period in your life will take everything you can give, and somehow it will keep on taking more.
Now, nothing is sweeter than a newborn baby. You will love like you never did before, and the lovely moments will take your breath away. A primal need to care for your baby will overcome you, and you will make like a mother cub: fierce and protective. The maternal instincts will take over you, even when you thought you didn’t have any.
Yet you will never be ready for the worst moments. No class can ever prepare you for the sleepless nights. No book or routine will stop your baby from crying while you helplessly guess why. Just when you thought you have figured things out, a new challenge looks you in your self-assured face.
The newborn stage will help you see the skills that you previously thought you did not have. But the newborn stage will also make you question whether these abilities – or you – are good enough. If there is one thing you can be certain about this stage, it’s that it is unpredictable. All you can do is take it day by day.
But what else can you do? Here are 6 things to help you cope with the challenges of the newborn stage.
Despite the unpredictability of the newborn stage, your newborn baby actually thrives on predictability. Establishing a clear routine will help them gain an understanding of what is actually happening around them. Knowing what happens next soothes your baby’s anxiety and helps them adjust to this new life.
For example, having a bedtime routine is essential in helping your newborn baby understand that it is time to sleep. It may not come to them immediately, but eventually they will understand what your routines mean.
As aforementioned, being born into a completely new world is a scary experience. You can minimize your baby’s fear by making sure they feel safe and secure at home. Surround them with soothing things and veer away from things that are loud, jarring, or overstimulating.
To do this, it is vital to create a safe environment where your baby feels calm and secure. For example, you may want to put in your baby’s nursery a secure crib and ultra-soft baby blankets. You may also want to add a musical mobile that plays a sweet lullaby to soothe your baby.
If your baby is fussy, you may want to try swaddling them with a soft cotton swaddle blanket. Swaddling means keeping your baby wrapped in a cloth. This position is supposed to mimic the feeling of being inside the womb, making them feel secure and warm.
At the same time, keep touching your baby. Even though swaddling mimics your touch, there is nothing like the real thing. Make your presence felt by holding your baby close and initiating skin-to-skin contact. Contrary to what others may say, holding your baby will not spoil them; instead, it will build their confidence.
Parenting is hard, and parenting during the newborn stage may be a hundred times harder. Even if you think you can do it yourself, it is always better to be surrounded by people who guide and encourage you.
With a support system (check out Moms for Moms group here), you will be able to ask for help and seek for guidance or advice. Even if it is as simple as sharing similar experiences with fellow moms, having a support system will definitely make the burden of parenting a newborn baby lighter.
Don’t forget about yourself, mommy! It may seem like being a parent to a newborn baby eats up all of your time, but if you can, try to look for pockets of time within the day to treat yourself.
You don’t have to get out of the house or spend money for your “me time.” Even something as simple as watching television or talking to a friend or even napping does wonders for your mental well-being.
Are you pressured to raise the perfect baby and keep a spotless home? The truth is no one expects you to be perfect. No one expects you to keep a spotless home when you’re busy looking after a new human being.
The newborn stage will take all of you, so it’s okay to admit that you need help. Asking for help from your husband, your family, or your friends does not mean that you are not equipped for parenthood. On the contrary, it means that you know how to prioritize, knowing that your and your baby’s well-being is more important than keeping the floors clean.
If you feel like giving up, just know that you are not alone. Don’t feel guilty if you think you are not enjoying the newborn stage of your baby. This is completely normal, and it does not mean you don’t like your baby – it just means that you don’t like this stage.
The good news is that the newborn stage does not last forever. Take everything in, the good and the bad, because it will be over before you know it.
]]>During your pregnancy, a lot of changes – both subtle and huge – will happen to your body. Not long after you see that positive sign on the pregnancy test, you will begin to feel tired most of the time, and you may experience morning (or whole day) sickness.
There will also be awkward changes like urinating frequently, constipation and/or diarrhea, and acne flare up. And we haven’t started talking about the hormonal changes yet where you tearfully watch animal videos on the internet.
Also, pregnancy is going to make you second-guess things. Are you really hungry or is that the first warning sign of acid reflux? Are you having cramps or is it just gas?
And then there's cravings.
Some people believe that pregnancy cravings are only myths propagated by movies and television shows. But ask any pregnant woman and she will gladly tell you that cravings are real… and strong... and intense.
Craving specific foods during pregnancy is normal and common. In fact, for some women, it was not the missed period that led them to ask themselves if they were pregnant. It was them craving for something that they didn’t particularly like before!
These cravings range from mildly weird, like bananas dipped in ketchup, to plain inedible, like dirt or metal. But what causes these pregnancy cravings?
Many experts claim that pregnant women crave what they lack. For example, if you lack calcium, you may crave ice cream. Basically, they are saying that cravings are a way to fill the nutrients that your body may need.
Some also believe that cravings are a natural way to increase a pregnant woman’s appetite. When you are pregnant, it is essential to increase your daily caloric intake for the health and development of your baby. This may be true when a woman craves foods that are high in calories, such as chocolate cake or pizza.
But what about unusual pregnancy cravings? What are they for? Like pregnancy itself, cravings can be weird and unpredictable. To help you prepare for this phase of pregnancy, here are ten things you might want to know about cravings.
Craving during pregnancy is generally harmless, but to be able to better prepare for it, here are some things you should know about the experience.
On top of the most popular foods craved by pregnant women are carbohydrate-rich – and often sweet – foods like chocolate and pastries. According to OB-GYN Felice Gersh, M.D., one theory has something to do with survival. Food cravings increase the chances of survival of a mother and her baby.
By craving carbohydrate-rich foods, the doctor says that it may help replenish the nutrients that were lost during the first trimester, when nausea and vomiting happened often.
Pregnancy cravings are stilled viewed as a mysterious topic, as evidenced by the prevalence of old wives’ tales. One of the most popular old wives’ tales says that if you are craving sweet foods, you are having a girl. And if you are craving salty, sour, or spicy foods, then you are having a boy. However, these tales are usually not true.
It is possible for a pregnant woman to experience vomiting and food cravings at the same time. In this case, it is common for women to prefer foods that alleviate morning sickness. For example, eating acidic foods like citrus fruits and salty foods like crackers are great way to relieve nausea.
Unfortunately, not all cravings are safe. Some women crave inedible food like dirt, coal, raw flour, and even cigarette butts. Called “pica,” the urge to eat these substances are often linked to anemia or particularly iron deficiency. Pica is also more common among women who were underweight before getting pregnant.
While it may seem like cravings are intensely uncontrollable, you can actually do something to manage it. One of the most effective things you can do is to eat often. Skipping meals make cravings worse, but if you eat – healthy – from time to time, cravings can be manageable.
Common cravings typically belong to these groups: salt, dairy, sweet, and fat. According to Alisa Vitti, a functional nutritionist, salt cravings are connected to a magnesium deficiency. Dairy cravings may be caused by a calcium deficiency. Sweet is for carbohydrate deficiency, and fat is for essential fatty acid deficiency.
The good news is that during the first trimester, when you are riddled with a lot of big changes, food cravings are not usually an issue. It does begin during that point, but the cravings don’t typically intensify until the second trimester. Then they gradually go away during the final trimester.
Ironically, you may be experiencing intense food cravings at the same time as intense food aversion. During pregnancy, you may experience craving foods that you did not like before. Conversely, you may also find yourself repulsed by foods used to be your favorites.
While some cravings can be explained by nutritional deficiencies, most are actually emotional cravings. A lot of the commonly craved foods are what we call comfort foods and junk foods, and many pregnant women get away with eating these foods. By justifying these urges and calling them “pregnancy cravings,” it is easy to fall into the trap of unhealthy eating.
One of the funniest things about pregnancy cravings is that you will often end up not eating the food you craved. Many pregnant women share that after intensely craving a particular food, for example a banana, once it’s given to them, they immediately lose interest.
There are a lot of theories and explanations surrounding pregnancy cravings. It is the 21st century, but this topic is still considered mysterious. The best way to prepare yourself for this new experience is to know the facts, know what’s healthy from unhealthy, and understand the real needs of your body.
]]>
This is because you are experiencing motherhood for the first time: all its joys and all its difficulties. Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, but it is also very complicated. If you are a Type-A person, venturing into pregnancy will be like venturing into new and unexplored territory. Not everything will go as planned, and you will encounter a lot of challenges that you did not prepare for.
If you are planning to get pregnant, it is best to keep an open mind and expect the unexpected. But it definitely helps to be ready and be familiar with the turf you are about to explore. Before you get pregnant, there are some things that you might want to know – tips and pieces of advice from women who have been there.
After all, when it comes to pregnancy, no one knows better than a fellow mom.
It’s challenging to prepare for something that you have never experienced yet. But with these pieces of advice from mothers who have been there, you might as well consider yourself armed and ready.
A lot of people talk about sleeping while you can before the baby arrives, but virtually nobody talks about sleeping even before you get pregnant. You see, even though you would like to sleep all day when you’re pregnant, sleeping with a growing tummy is not as simple as it sounds.
While you still can sleep in any position you prefer, sleep! If you are already pregnant and are having trouble sleeping, we suggest you get a soft body pillow that will help you be more comfortable.
Speaking of a growing tummy, there seems to be something about it that people cannot resist. It’s really common to see a total stranger touching a pregnant woman’s belly on the street. But it does not need to be a thing.
If you are uncomfortable being touched by a stranger (a very understandable feeling), don’t be afraid to say no. You are not disrespecting another person by not allowing them to invade your personal space. Instead, you are helping them understand their boundaries.
Pregnancy will be a forty-week journey filled with awkward moments, so be ready! As your body is working hard to adjust to this new life inside of you, you will also experience physical changes like gas, constipation, diarrhea, insomnia, even incontinence.
But all of these things are completely normal and are not reasons to be embarrassed. Simply prepare for the possibility of any of these happening, like bringing pads wherever you go and watching your diet.
Many women feel less attractive when they are pregnant. While this is certainly not true, many pregnant women struggle with weight gain, acne, and fatigue. It’s understandable to not feel like taking a picture with all these changes taking place.
But pregnancy is not permanent. It will eventually come to pass, and believe it or not, you will miss being pregnant. So while you are still pregnant, document your journey and take a lot of photos!
A lot of pregnant women struggle with fatigue and overtiredness, which makes sense because your body is working hard to nourish a little human being. But even if you feel like sleeping all day, it is important to get up and for regular physical activities.
Your body is going to thank you, especially when you are about to give birth. Pregnant women who exercise regularly are more equipped for labor and birthing than women who stayed idle.
Disclaimer: Don’t forget to get your doctor’s approval before doing physically straining activities.
It is normal to not want to be with your partner all the time when you are pregnant. Your hormones will be acting unpredictably, so there will be times that you can’t get enough of your partner, but there will be times that you will hate their scent with a passion.
But keep in mind that this is probably the last time that it will just be the two of you. When the baby arrives, you will be a family, and while you will still have each other, it will never be the same again. So take advantage of this time and make a lot of memories with each other.
Do not wait until you are about to give birth before preparing your home for your baby! For starters, there will be a lot to do, and it is not possible to do all of them during your third trimester. While you can still move freely, start preparing your nursery with the help of your partner or a trusted friend.
It is also a good idea to start shopping for baby essentials like clothes and toys. There are a lot of gender-neutral options to choose from! Also, you might want to start slowly packing your maternity bag so that when the time comes, you are ready to go to the hospital.
A birth plan is a document that details what type of birth you have, including your preferred labor and whether you prefer medication or not. Everyone will tell you to prepare a birth plan, and you absolutely should. It will give you a clearer idea of what to expect
If it is followed, you will have a positive birthing experience. But even if you have prepared a birth plan beforehand, complications may arise that will cause you to abandon your birth plan. This is completely fine. What’s important is that you are able to communicate with your doctor or midwife about what you want to happen.
The truth is it is hard to parent alone. After you give birth, there will be so many things to do with a needy newborn baby in tow. It is easy to get overwhelmed, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Even when you are still planning to get pregnant, it is a good idea to start preparing a list of people to call. You may ask some people to help you look after the baby, and you can request some people to prepare dinner for you. It really does take a village to raise a child.
Don’t worry. You are going to conquer pregnancy like the warrior you are!
]]>A diaper bag is definitely one of the most important baby essentials that you should not forego buying. It will contain everything your baby will possibly need when you go out, so it is very crucial to choose one that fits a lot of things without much effort on your part.
The appearance of your diaper bag depends on your taste, but take note that there are a lot of stylish diaper bags that don’t look anything like the diaper bags of the past. Don’t like toting a babyish bag with pink and blue appliques? You absolutely don’t have to!
Diaper bags come in many forms. There are gender neutral diaper bags in classic colors like black and white. You can also choose among backpack diaper bags, messenger-style bags, shoulder bags, and more. Your choice will greatly depend on your lifestyle! What’s important is that it should have the right features that you should look for.
First of all, you need to consider how spacious a diaper bag is. Initially, you may want to choose a smaller diaper bag for mobility, but if it has no space for your baby essentials, then it is not practical. Keep in mind that you’re going to have to bring a lot of things, like diapers, baby bottles, extra clothing, a blanket, and more. But don’t worry; there are many options with ample space inside that is lightweight and not bulky at all and still make for stylish diaper bags!
Even if it is spacious inside, it’s hard to love a diaper bag that is flimsy and unstable. If you have a newborn baby that you still have to carry, then it is necessary to get a diaper bag with a stable base. Remember that with a baby in one hand ー a squirming little baby in particular ー will require you to get baby essentials with the other hand, so look for a bag that stands on its own.
Because you will be bringing with you a lot of baby essentials and baby gear, it is important to get a diaper bag that will help you keep all your stuff organized. The best diaper bag will have several pockets and compartments ー everything in its own place! You will need at least one insulated pocket for your baby bottle, a compartment you can use for diapers, another one for wipes, an external easy-access pocket for your baby’s pacifier, and one for your personal belongings.
You’ll be toting your diaper bag all day long, which means that it should have sturdy straps that won’t break. Try the straps by pulling on the bag and testing it with something heavy. It is also important to choose adjustable straps to keep them from slipping off your arm. Finally, the best diaper bag comes with padded straps for your comfort!
Your diaper bag will inevitably come across many stains, from milk spills to spit-ups, from pee to poop blowouts! Thus, it is crucial to choose a diaper bag made of waterproof material so you can easily clean it on the go. A machine-washable waterproof diaper bag is perfect! Also, for practical reasons, dark colors will hide stains more easily than light or bright colors.
If you use a stroller regularly, then it makes a lot of sense to buy a diaper bag that comes with stroller clips. Stroller clips will attach your diaper bag to your stroller. Choose ones with sturdy clamps and straps that won’t break so you don’t have to worry about your bag falling. Stroller clips will also free your arms for more mobility and convenience.
You probably have a changing pad listed in your checklist of baby essentials. However, it will certainly help to get a diaper bag that comes with its own changing pad as it most likely has its own compartment. This means it will stay in the bag, which comes in handy if you forget to bring your main changing pad. You can count on it in times of emergency.
Long gone are the days when the mommy is the only one wearing the diaper bag. These days, dads and secondary caretakers typically carry diaper bags, too. To avoid having to buy two or more bags, and to save time transferring baby essentials from one bag to another, why don’t you consider gender neutral diaper bags? These look very stylish and modern, and it will be no surprise if you continue using them even after your baby has grown up!
Diaper bags come in many colors and many forms, but what’s important when buying a diaper bag is its features. The best diaper bag will be stylish, durable, and convenient to use!
]]>Your body goes through a lot with one pregnancy. The changes start occurring during the first trimester and continues throughout the third trimester. You need to understand your body – and the third trimester symptoms – to know whether these changes are normal or not.
The third trimester begins in the 28th week or 7th month of pregnancy and lasts until you give birth to your baby. At this point, your baby has grown a lot bigger and may weigh from 6 to 9 pounds. With this amazingly fast growth rate, expect to see drastic physical changes and feel new sensations in your body, too.
The third trimester can be greatly different from the first two trimesters of pregnancy. It is normal to have a relatively easy pregnancy during the first and second trimesters and then be surprised by third trimester symptoms that take a toll on the body – or vice versa.
The burst of energy you felt during the second trimester could, unfortunately, be short-lived. Because the baby inside you is growing rapidly, the extra weight could cause you to feel tired and lethargic. This, along with anxiety that normally goes with pregnancy, can cause your energy levels to plummet, which is why it is very important to have enough rest and eat a balanced diet.
If the frequent urination you experienced during the first trimester was caused by your hormones, this time, it’s physical pressure. Your baby is growing, pushing against your bladder, which causes you to urinate more often. This extra pressure may also cause you to leak, so don’t forget to do your Kegels!
There may be changes with your breasts, too. Many women report having enlarged breasts toward the end of pregnancy, growing by as much as 2 pounds. If your due date is close, you may also see fluid leaking from your breasts. This is most probably your colostrum, and the leak is a sign that your body is preparing to nourish your child.
It is also normal to see more vaginal discharge at this point of pregnancy, especially when your due date is fast approaching. This thick and clear discharge is your mucus plug, and seeing this is a sign that your cervix is already starting to dilate. This means that your labor may begin anytime soon. Be prepared for regular contractions and, quite possibly, your water breaking.
Not to be confused with actual labor contractions, Braxton Hicks Contractions are mild contractions that you may feel in your abdomen. These contractions may occur after exercise or after sex. Unlike labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and can be seen as your body’s way to prepare for labor.
Note: If your contractions are getting regular and more intense, your labor is likely starting. Inform your doctor or health practitioner right away!
There are two factors to blame for the back pain you may feel toward the end of your pregnancy. First is your and your baby’s weight gain, which take a toll on your back. The second factor is a hormone called relaxin, which is responsible for loosening the tissues and ligaments in your back and pelvic area in preparation for labor.
During the last stretch of your pregnancy, your uterus may push your stomach upward, which can cause acid reflux and heartburn. A hormone called progesterone also relaxes the muscles of your esophagus, causing your stomach to release acid into the former. To relieve heartburn, eat several small meals throughout the day. It is also helpful to avoid spicy and acidic foods.
If you never had hemorrhoids before, you may be in for a big surprise. Hemorrhoids acquired during pregnancy is relatively common. They are caused by pressure brought about by your weight gain. They can also be caused by an increase of blood circulation, which is also normal during pregnancy. Increase your fluid and fiber intake to minimize the chances of developing hemorrhoids.
Along with third trimester symptoms and third trimester pains, which are all physical, this stage can also be an emotional time. If you thought you were hormonal and emotional during the first trimester, wait until the last trimester.
During the third trimester of pregnancy, because your baby’s arrival is so near, you may find yourself panicking, thinking that you’re not yet prepared to handle the new responsibility. You will also be looking forward to a due date, and it is possible that you may see this date come and go without any signs of labor.
The important thing is to stay positive and not let your stress and disappointment overcome you!
*This blog post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.
]]>
There are many ways to learn the ropes of breastfeeding. You can read books about it or attend classes. For personal coaching, you can go to a lactation consultant, or you can pay your mom a visit. You will get a lot of valuable tips from her about rearing your child.
But it seems like all the education in the world will never prepare you for the realities of breastfeeding.
If you are planning to breastfeed, you might want to know a few candid things about it. While breastfeeding is a beautiful thing, there will be awkward moments and moments that will catch you off-guard.
Breastfeeding will create a strong bond between you and your baby. If you want to know more about breastfeeding, here are 10 things that you can expect to happen.
You will feel some pressure while breastfeeding, but if you feel pain during the first time you breastfeed, don’t be alarmed. While pain may be attributed to improper latch, it is also very possible to feel pain even with the correct latch. After all, a newborn baby can be a voracious sucker.
Aside from breast pain, breastfeeding can also cause you to feel pain in your womb. Breastfeeding stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin. This hormone causes your uterus to contract and shrink to return to its original size.
Breastfeeding will make you hungry all the time! Your body uses up a lot of the calories you consume to produce milk for your baby. It is no wonder why your body begs you to refuel every now and then. You will also feel terribly thirsty, so drink up!
While it may feel tempting to eat anything, you still need to be careful and maintain a healthy diet. Your baby is getting nutrients from you, so eat healthy. Also, some of the foods you eat may irritate your baby’s gentle stomach, so take note of these.
If you worry that you are not producing enough milk, the truth is your newborn baby is not going to need much at first. In fact, during the first day, your newborn baby’s stomach capacity is only 5-7 ml. That’s as much as a shooter marble.
Don’t forget to let your newborn baby drink your colostrum even if you think you are only producing a few drops. This magic liquid is chock-full of nutrients that will build your baby’s immune system. Your baby, again, will not need much, but they will definitely benefit from the goodness of colostrum.
Another thing you might not know about breastfeeding is how you do not really need to worry about timing your feeds. You also don’t need to measure how much your baby is getting. To know if you baby gets enough milk, count the number of wet diapers they have (5-6 in 24 hours). Another full-proof way to know this is to track your baby’s weight.
However, you might be surprised to know that your newborn baby needs milk more often than you thought. Because mother’s milk is very easy to digest, and because your baby’s stomach is so tiny, they need to feed every now and then.
As previously stated, you will have to consume more calories because your body will be using them up to manufacture your baby’s milk. You will be hungry all the time. But the good news is that you may not gain a lot of weight. On the contrary, you may even lose so much weight.
Of course, this is not true for every single breastfeeding mom. If you are eating more than what your body needs to produce milk, you may not lose a lot of weight. So it is still helpful to watch what you eat.
Nursing pads are heaven-sent nursing mom essentials! Once your baby has started breastfeeding, you will experience the let-down reflex. This happens when your breasts are stimulated by your baby’s sucking, signaling the release of oxytocin. This causes your milk glands to contract and produce milk.
You need to be ready because let-down can happen anytime – even when your baby is not currently breastfeeding. For example, the sound of another baby crying when you are out grocery shopping can trigger the let-down reflex. Thus, be ready with nursing pads to catch the milk flow!
Galactagogues are food substances that claim to increase milk supply. Examples of galactagogues are oatmeal, fruits and vegetables, and brewer’s yeast. For moms who have low milk supply, consuming galactagogues may be helpful.
However, not every mom benefits from galactagogues. For some, these foods do not have an effect at all on their milk supply. To increase your milk supply, it is still best to do the following: maintain skin-to-skin contact and increase the frequency of feeding.
If you think that one of your breasts feels heavier than the other, you might be right. This happens when you prefer to feed from one breast. This can also happen because your baby seems to be more comfortable feeding from one breast over the other.
While this is normal, it can feel quite uncomfortable. To prevent this from happening, practice feeding equally from both breasts. It is also really helpful to track which breast you used last to avoid accidentally using the same breast one too many times.
Your whole body participates in the breastfeeding process, not just your breasts. You will want to set up a comfortable breastfeeding corner with a cozy chair and a soft nursing pillow. Look out for your back, which can get strained when you are bearing your baby’s weight without support.
Don’t forget about your legs, too! It can get uncomfortable if your lap is too far from your breasts, so bring them to a higher position. For this, it is useful to get a stool for you to place your feet on.
Breastfeeding is definitely challenging especially during the first weeks. But after you have gotten the hang of it, you will discover that it can be much easier and convenient. It is best to master a particular position that works best for you and your baby – whether it’s sitting down or lying down.
]]>But our job does not end there. To be frank, it is easy to follow and do what everyone else in the industry is already doing. However, we know that we can always improve on what we already have and come up with something new, something better. We take pride in our desire to innovate.
This aspiration is the reason why, for decades, we continue to develop materials and techniques to produce top quality products that you can’t find anywhere else.
One of our favorite materials the muslin jacquard. It holds a special place in our hearts. In fact, because it is our choice material for many of our baby blankets, wearable blankets, and even hooded towels, you can say that we are quite proud of it.
But what is muslin jacquard and what makes our muslin jacquard products so special?
It’s hard not to praise the good qualities of cotton. For starters, cotton feels soft and smooth, and it gets even softer with every wash. Then it is hypoallergenic and non-toxic; it is gentle even for newborn baby’s skin. Aside from these things, cotton is also durable, can withstand regular use, and last a long time.
This is the reason why most of our products are made of 100% cotton muslin. Being in the textile industry since 1963, we can say with confidence that muslin is the best fabric for babies. Because it is made of pure cotton, it is breathable and prevents a baby from overheating. It’s also ultra-soft and smooth, perfect for precious little ones.
But what role does jacquard play in our baby products? Why did we choose this technique to make the perfect baby blankets, baby swaddles, and more?
Simply put, jacquard is a weaving technique created through a jacquard loom. This loom weaves a pattern onto the fabric. So instead of a design being printed on the fabric’s surface, the design is woven, producing a well-textured product. This reduces the need for printing chemicals so that the resulting material remain safe for babies.
Weaving a design using the jacquard technique also prevents your baby blanket or baby towel from deteriorating. Prints fade over time and can be removed when washed, but this is not possible if the designs are actually woven into the textile.
Lastly, the jacquard technique weaves the patterns together with the fabric. This is as opposed to printing, where the design is applied after the fabric has been woven. The designs are created by interlacing hundreds of threads, resulting to a product that is strong and durable.
Muslin on its own is already a great fabric for baby products. But for Living Textiles, we aim to create products that combine products, the pureness of muslin and the value of jacquard weaving.
We have come to discover that using the jacquard technique with the 100% cotton muslin gives better results. Here are 5 reasons why our muslin jacquard products are the best for babies.
Our muslin jacquard items are double layer to accommodate the complexity of the jacquard weave. Because of this, our baby products become thicker and even softer. They make for cozier and warmer baby blankets, baby swaddles, and more.
But muslin is lightweight and breathable, so even if two layers of muslin are used, the resulting product is not hot or heavy. Even with two layers of fabric, muslin jacquard products are still ideal to use throughout the year.
Another advantage of using the jacquard technique with muslin fabric is being able to create a product that is stronger and more durable. Because the jacquard technique interweaves hundreds of threads, the result is a tightly woven product that does not easily disintegrate.
While cotton is already a robust fabric, the jacquard weave makes it even stronger. This is the reason why we are confident in the quality and durability of our product. Our muslin jacquard products are resilient and are able to last for years.
Natural fibers are not as wrinkle-resistant as their artificial counterparts. This means that cotton muslin can wrinkle easily. As we all know, ironing should be the least of our worries, right? Ironing should be optional and only reserved for days when we feel like doing it.
But moms everywhere, rejoice! Here’s the solution to the common cotton woe. Giving cotton muslin a jacquard weave actually gives it a wrinkle-resistant quality. Cotton muslin jacquards making life easier for moms… who would have thought.
Toys are not the only things that can give babies the stimulation that they need early in life. The things that they come in contact multiple times a day – sheets, blankets, towels – play a vital role! Your baby learns a lot by using her tactile sense, so maximize this by surrounding her with items that she will love to touch and feel.
Muslin is ultra-soft and pleasant to touch, which means that your baby will take delight in how cozy and warm it feels. On the other hand, the jacquard weave adds intricate details to the fabric. Your baby will love exploring this interesting texture!
Elaborate designs are often a trademark of muslin products that sport jacquard weaving. Because of the level of intricacy that goes into this technique, the result is a product that looks beautiful and sophisticated.
There is something about woven jacquard designs that make our sheets and blankets look charming. The good news is that the designs are permanently interwoven with the textile and will not fade. This means that your muslin jacquard product will look as gorgeous as it looked the day you bought it.
Are you ready to go shopping for muslin jacquard blankets, muslin jacquard wearable blankets, and muslin jacquard hooded towels? Click here!
]]>The second trimester of pregnancy begins on the onset of the 4th month or the 13th week and lasts through the 27th week or just before the 7th month starts. During this time, pregnancy symptoms – like morning sickness and food aversions – may reduce in intensity and frequency.
Unsurprisingly, many pregnant women often choose the second trimester to announce their pregnancy, to hold the baby shower, and to travel. But while many would refer to this trimester as the easiest, it does not come without its own challenges.
The second trimester is when you may begin feeling more confident about your pregnancy, and this is for good reason. Your hormones, although still active, are no longer in “crazy overdrive,” and you will feel like you are finally regaining some control over your body.
At this point, you may already have adjusted to the feeling of being pregnant. You may feel less tired and less emotional during the second trimester. But your body’s work is far from done, and it will still undergo many changes to accommodate the baby. Thus, it is still important to arm yourself with a lot of information to survive the second trimester!
One of the things that often get some pregnant women frustrated is the fact that they won’t look pregnant during the first trimester. However, during the second trimester, the uterus will start to expand to accommodate the growing baby. This will cause your abdomen to grow, and you will finally start looking pregnant.
While it was not much of an issue during the first trimester, you may start experiencing steady weight gain now. During this stage, you may no longer feel sick at the scent and sight of your food, and you may not feel as nauseous as before, which means your appetite should be back to normal.
If acne was the bane of your existence during the first trimester, get ready for new skin issues in the second trimester. Your hormones will cause an increase of melanin production, so you might notice melasma (brown patches) on your face as well as linea nigra or a dark line on your abdomen. As with most pregnancy symptoms, these dark marks often go away after giving birth.
As your baby grows, your weight also increases, which often results in backaches. You may also experience leg cramps, which often occur while you are sleeping. This can be caused by hormones or a nutrient deficiency, so don’t forget to eat a healthy diet rich in calcium and magnesium.
Your hormones – and your uterus which pushes down on your bladder – may also have an effect on the flow of your urine. These may cause you to be at risk of developing a UTI or urinary tract infection. Once you feel the symptoms of a UTI, contact your doctor immediately!
Another thing that your hormones may do is increase your blood flow to your mucus membranes. This may cause your nose to swell, which may cause congestion, nosebleeds, and even snoring! Use a humidifier when you sleep to relieve these symptoms.
Many pregnant women report experiencing a mild swelling of their feet and ankles. Although they typically begin during the third trimester of pregnancy, they you may find your feet and ankles beginning to swell on the second trimester. It will help to exercise and stay physically active.
If daytime pregnancy is generally easier during the second trimester, bedtime is a different matter. Apart from leg cramps, congestion, and snoring, another thing to watch out for is heartburn. To reduce the risk of heartburn, eat frequent but small meals and avoid eating spicy, greasy, and acidic foods.
If you feel like you cannot feel your baby moving yet, don’t worry. This is normal, especially if this is your first pregnancy. You may, however, start to experience “quickening,” which is a delicate, fluttering feeling from deep inside your abdomen. This is your baby moving in your womb!
The second trimester of pregnancy comes with challenges of its own. You will still experience many physical changes and difficulties, but these are mostly temporary and will often go away after you give birth.
It’s important to take note, though, that despite these changes, this trimester is the time when you will be feeling most comfortable about your pregnancy. After all, they don’t call the second trimester “honeymoon stage” for nothing!
*This blog post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.
]]>Nausea during pregnancy is a very unpleasant feeling. What’s worse is that, contrary to its name, morning sickness can actually strike anytime and anyplace. You can be in the middle of your commute and feel the dreaded nausea coming up. Thus, it is definitely important to know how to relieve it!
Anti-nausea medication does work, but it can cause you to feel drowsy and lethargic. This side effect can be inconvenient, and it can also be downright dangerous if you have to drive. Even if it works, it is still better to choose natural morning sickness remedies with little to no side effects.
Before we go over the natural ways to soothe morning sickness, it is practical to learn about the condition first. Experiencing morning sickness is normal, and a lot of pregnant women go through it. But what causes morning sickness?
It does not necessarily mean that you are lacking in nutrients (although it is always a good idea to monitor what you eat). It can be caused by the increase of hormones, a decrease of blood sugar level, or simply the food that you eat. Morning sickness can be triggered by certain odors, certain foods, and even heat.
And it is also possible to have morning sickness occur without any trigger, so it’s best to always be prepared!
Many pregnant mothers swear by eating smaller meals more frequently instead of eating three big, square meals thrice a day. The former is said to help keep your blood sugar at an optimum level, which, as mentioned above, has an effect on morning sickness. When going out, don’t forget to pack light snacks in your bag such as crackers and sandwiches.
Another thing that can help stabilize your blood sugar is protein, so it can be really helpful to add more protein to your diet. Aside from meat and animal products, you can also get protein from a wide variety of sources such as quinoa, legumes, beans, seeds, and nuts.
Ginger is said to be really helpful in relieving the symptoms of morning sickness, as many mothers can attest to. If you cannot eat raw ginger, you may also take it in other forms such as tea, candy, and even soda. However, because ginger can also cause some side effects like diarrhea, clear it with your doctor first.
Citrus fruits and sour foods have a strange but positive effect on nausea. According to many women, they instantly work in quelling vomiting and are helpful in making you feel better. Eating fresh citrus fruits is best, but if you can’t, sucking on citrus-flavored or sour candy and drinking citrus drinks – even citrus-infused water – are just as effective.
Drinking water regularly is very beneficial for pregnant women, and it’s just a bonus that it helps relieve nausea. It is recommended to increase your water intake from 8 to 10 cups a day to combat the symptoms of morning sickness. If you are having trouble drinking water, you can also suck on ice cubes and homemade popsicles to keep you hydrated.
It is absolutely normal to feel tired and fatigued during pregnancy, but it helps to get up and do your regular physical routine. Exercising regularly is beneficial not only in keeping you in shape but also in releasing hormones that can combat the possible triggers of nausea.
Finally, get enough sleep! Pregnancy, as it is, can already drain you of your energy, and morning sickness can be linked to fatigue. Don’t forget to take power naps in the day if you can, and then sleep for a full 8 hours (or more) at night. After all, you need all the sleep you can get for your growing baby!
Morning sickness is an unpleasant symptom that many pregnant women – unfortunately – have to deal with. The good news is that there are many morning sickness remedies that are not only natural but also really simple to do.
*This blog post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.
]]>
With all the gifts the new parents – and the new baby – will receive, it’s a good idea to get a baby shower gift that is unique and memorable. You would want to give something that will stand out! But this is no ordinary task; in fact, it can be daunting if you are not sure of what to give to a newborn baby.
The great news is that we have a list of unique baby shower gifts for you!
But before we go over these baby shower gift ideas, here is a guideline that you should always remember when buying something for a newborn baby. More important than getting a unique baby gift, you must make sure that your pick fulfills the following recommendations:
Now that you already know the basic guidelines in choosing the perfect baby shower gift, let’s move on to the best part… the unique baby shower gifts to choose from!
A rattle is not just a toy! Instead, it is a tool that every newborn baby needs to help strengthen their muscles, improve focus, and stimulate their senses. However, the typical hard plastic rattle may harm a newborn baby if they accidentally drop it. It is a lot better to choose a soft and plush baby rattle.
The Theodore Elephant Knitted Rattle is a great choice for a soft rattle. Knitted with 100% cotton, it is ultra-soft and perfect for gentle little hands. Aside from the jingling sound, it has an interesting surface texture from the knit, which will stimulate a baby’s tactile sense.
Musical mobiles are everywhere, but did you know that you can get a good musical mobile that also doubles as a baby toy? Many mobiles are made of pure plastic. They make for good décor, but the baby cannot play with them. Instead, get one with plush hanging toys that the newborn baby will love to tinker with.
The Sparrow Musical Mobile has a sturdy plastic frame with a grey-and-white striped cotton covering. From its short strings, four plush woodland animals hang. They are wonderfully adorable and will spark the interest of any newborn baby. Plus, it plays classical melodies like Brahms’ Lullaby to lull them to sleep.
While we are on the topic of nursery décor that also doubles as a baby toy, a cushion makes a perfect baby gift, too! A cushion can be put on the floor with a play mat or inside the baby’s crib. This versatile baby gift can be used as an accent piece or a toy or a cuddle partner!
The Mountain Peaks cushion is made of cotton, which makes it ultra-soft, with a stuffing that makes it really fluffy. Its mountain shape is also perfect for tiny baby hands to hold and carry and play with! Finally, because it comes in a classic grey-and-white color scheme, it will be a great addition to any nursery.
While muslin swaddle blankets are always a baby essential, you can expect that the baby will receive numerous muslin blankets in the baby shower. If you want to give the baby something different but just as useful, then you may want to consider getting them a thicker knitted blanket.
Perfect for cuddling when the temperatures drop, the Living Textiles knitted blanket is ultra-soft and cozy. And the Knitted Bear Baby Bento Gift Set includes not only the knitted blanket but also an adorable knitted grey bear! This is a complete gift that truly takes care of the essentials.
Another unique baby shower gift that you can give is a quilt! Versatile and functional, a quilt can serve as part of the baby’s bedding as well as a wall decoration for the baby’s nursery. To fulfill these functions, it is important to choose a quilt that is not only soft and cozy but also attractive.
The Woods Baby Quilt is made of 100% cotton, which makes it soft – and even softer with every wash. It comes in brilliant colors and an eye-catching design. The animals printed on one side can be used to teach baby about animals. Also, did we mention it is reversible with a second design on the other side?
Finally, a crib bedding set is definitely a baby gift that the new family will appreciate. Its usefulness is undeniable, and because it is already comes as a set, it can serve as the focal point of the baby nursery. It may even help the family decide on the baby’s nursery theme!
The Safari Crib Bedding Set is a set of 4 that includes 2 fitted sheets, a quilt, and a bed skirt. All made of 100% cotton, they are incredibly soft and breathable. It also comes in a gender-neutral color scheme that is predominantly white with playful orange and blue animal accents.
With unique baby shower gift ideas like these, the perfect gift for the new baby in your life is in the bag! Are you ready to shop for baby shower gifts? Click here!
]]>
You have also gotten a selection of fine and comfortable baby bedding sets – only the best for your baby, of course. You also have the softest muslin blankets, the loveliest musical mobile, and the most adorable plush toys.
Now what?
If you have already taken care of the essentials but think something is still missing, you might want to add some baby decorations and baby accessories to your nursery!
Beyond baby bedding sets and knitted baby blankets, these adorable extras spruce up your room and help you bring your desired nursery theme to life. You just have to choose ones that are not only pretty but also high-quality and baby friendly.
6 Baby Decorations and Baby Accessories Your Nursery Needs
A lamp shade is the perfect baby decoration to go on top of your wooden dresser. It will serve as a cute accent piece to add charm to your baby nursery. A lamp shade will also – quite literally – brighten up the room with its warm glow. Its light is not too harsh and just right, which is ideal for night time feedings.
Recommendations:
Fox & Amber Herringbone Lamp Base & Shade
A cushion is a versatile baby accessory. From being part of your baby’s nursery, it can also be a toy or a pillow for cuddling and sleeping. It is essential to choose a cushion that is durable (for playing) and ultra-soft (for cuddling). Get a cushion made of 100% cotton if you can!
Recommendations:
Grey Twinkle Decorative Cushion
Blank walls? No problem! If you don’t want to commit to painting your walls a specific color to suit your nursery theme, there is an easier way to spruce them up: wall art! A lightweight canvas art is preferable over something with a wooden frame because the latter can seriously harm someone if it falls.
Recommendation:
Another easy and non-committal way to decorate your nursery walls is by putting up vibrant and quirky wall decals. Adding animals and characters to your wall is a great way to ignite your baby’s imagination, too. Best of all, they are removable and reusable so you can place them anywhere you please.
Recommendation:
If you are not a fan of sticking something to your walls, you can add pretty garlands as baby accessories. Like cushions, garlands can double as baby toys, too, especially if you choose the soft, knitted kind. Don’t forget to choose 100% cotton garlands to avoid irritating your baby’s delicate skin.
Recommendations:
A simple baby quilt can be one of the most versatile baby accessories you can get! You can use a baby quilt to add color and character to your nursery by hanging it on the wall or hanging it over your crib. It can also serve as your baby’s bedding and play mat.
Recommendations:
Though some may not consider these baby decorations and baby accessories as essentials, they will effortlessly brighten up any room! If you want to achieve a particular nursery look, these decorations and accessories might just be what you need.
]]>The art of swaddling is a centuries-old practice, and it looks like the wisdom of our ancestors is here to stay. Swaddling means wrapping a newborn baby snuggly in a blanket, meant to remind your child of the feeling of being in the womb and give them a feeling of warmth and security.
Swaddling done correctly creates great benefits for you and your child. Here are 6 reasons why you should be swaddling your newborn baby.
The main feature of swaddling involves enveloping a newborn baby snuggly so that it mimics a mother’s touch. This is done best using muslin swaddles that are made of cotton, which is soft, breathable, and gentle enough for an infant’s delicate skin.
Now, the Moro reflex or startle reflex is an indicator of a healthy baby, but it often disrupts their sleep. When a baby is properly swaddled, especially when done in the hands-over-heart position, they learn to soothe themselves and get back to sleep on their own. Swaddling then will help your baby sleep longer and better.
Swaddling is effective in lowering the incidence of SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. One of the factors that increases that risk of SIDS is letting a baby sleep on their stomach or on their side. But swaddling helps your baby maintain a supine sleep position – or sleeping on their back – which is the safest sleeping position at this stage.
Tip: It is important to note that sleeping infants need to be constantly monitored even if they are swaddled. It is also crucial that you stop swaddling once your baby begins to roll over. For babies who are already starting to roll over, the safer alternative to swaddling is using a wearable blanket.
Newborn babies are not able to regulate their own temperature. In fact, it’s only when they are almost 2 years old when they are finally independently able to adjust to variations in temperature. This means that infants are reliant on external factors such as swaddling and using lightweight cotton blankets to keep them at the right temperature – not too cold and not too warm.
Tip: To know whether your newborn baby is at their ideal temperature, simply feel your baby’s skin after swaddling. It should feel normal to the touch and not overheated.
Even though colic is common among infants, it is without a doubt one of the most challenging things that you can experience as a new parent. Your baby likely has a colic if they cry inconsolably for more than 3 hours a day. Apart from this, they are healthy babies; it’s just hard to soothe them and get them to calm down.
But swaddling is observed to have a calming effect on colicky babies. This is most probably because swaddling applies light pressure on their bellies, alleviating what pain and discomfort they might have. It also reminds them of the feeling of being inside the womb, which gives them a feeling of comfort and security.
Dr. Harvey Karp, an American pediatrician, wrote the book, “The Happiest Baby on the Block.” In this book, he praises swaddling and its ability to soothe crying babies, which is due to how it triggers a “relaxation” mechanism in infants. When swaddled, newborn babies remember the snug feeling of being inside the womb, pacifying them and causing them to cry less often.
Many parents swaddle because of the benefits it will have on their babies, but not everyone realizes just how valuable swaddling is for parents themselves. If swaddling helps your baby sleep longer and better, then you will sleep longer and better, too! When your child is healthy and happy, you will be healthy and happy, too. There will be less stress in your life – which is great because who needs added stress?
The bottom line of everything mentioned here is that swaddling helps an infant adjust to a whole new world around them. Everything is suddenly different, but swaddling will remind them of the familiar feeling of being safe and secure inside their mother’s womb. Because of swaddling, your baby will feel loved, nurtured, and cherished – nothing short of a good start in life.
*This blog post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.
At Living Textiles, each product is lovingly crafted with your baby’s comfort and well-being in mind. Using materials of the highest quality, Living Textiles products are made to give your baby layers of warmth and comfort. And you don’t need to take our word for it: feel our products for yourself. Feel the difference and feel the love!
We also take pride in innovating and using different techniques to create lifestyle and baby products that will give you the best value. We use a variety of textiles, techniques, and designs to suit diverse lifestyles and needs.
If optimum comfort is your priority, look no further than baby products that are made of cotton. We only use 100% high quality cotton – buttery soft and smooth – for your baby essentials.
Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, and no toxic chemicals have been added to our products. Because of this, it is safe even for your newborn baby’s delicate skin. It does not pose any health risk like skin irritations and will not trigger more serious conditions like eczema and asthma.
On the other hand, jersey is one of our favorite knitting techniques. It is done by interlocking loops of lightweight yarn with one flat and one piled side. The result of this method is the popular loose and stretchy fabric that we are all familiar with.
Now, jersey is a very common type of knit, and when people talk about jersey, they are usually referring to garments and shirts. But did you know that jersey is a fantastic method to use for baby products, too?
Because the jersey knit creates a fabric that is light and comfortable, it is a perfect material for creating baby products that can be used during any time of the year. We wanted to recreate the easy-breezy feeling of wearing a t-shirt and translate it to products that your baby can use every day.
While jersey can be made using different kinds of natural and synthetic fabrics, our jersey products are knitted using only 100% cotton. Cotton is our preferred material not only because it is natural and gentle but also because it is durable and versatile.
Here are four more reasons why a baby product made of cotton jersey is perfect for your baby.
The softness of Living Textiles cotton jersey baby products will remind you of wearing a comfy shirt. Because they are made of 100% premium cotton, they have an innate lightness and breathability to them. These characteristics make it possible to produce a product that is also 100% comfortable.
The jersey knit also uses small and even stitches. Because the stitches in our baby products, like our baby comforters for instance, are so consistent, the result is a flat and smooth surface.
The type of construction our products use, which is jersey, makes the fabric stretchable. This quality makes our cotton jersey products even cozier. Aside from that, because they are stretchy, products like our crib fitted sheets cling to your crib mattress more securely.
And another great thing about cotton jersey is that when it stretches, it does so without distortion. Even after the fabric has been stretched out, it just goes back to its original shape. With this said, to enjoy this property of jersey, it is definitely important to look for products that are made using high quality materials and meticulous techniques.
Another property of cotton jersey is its ability to drape gracefully. When loose, cotton jersey baby products are able to fall with style. And when worn or wrapped around, they naturally skim over the right places. Your baby will truly feel comfortable when swaddled in a cotton jersey blanket!
Cotton jersey skims and drapes comfortably. It may cling to some places, but it does not feel too sticky or bothersome. Instead, it will contour to your baby’s form. Using a cotton jersey baby product will feel like a warm embrace.
Baby products that are made of cotton jersey may feel lightweight and look delicate, but they are actually a breeze to care for. Living Textiles cotton jersey baby products are all machine washable. They are also durable enough to withstand regular washing.
Finally, cotton jersey makes life easier by creating baby products that are low-maintenance. Aside from being machine washable, cotton jersey products are resistant to both wrinkling and tearing. The fabric does not unravel easily, too, giving you value for your money.
All Living Textiles products are designed to last. We make sure that the products that we manufacture pass premium quality products. Each baby product is thoroughly checked, passing through a 5-point quality control process. It even includes being scanned by a metal detector to make sure that no loose parts have been left inside.
Living Textiles baby products also look gorgeous! They come in many different designs ranging from traditional and classic to fun and contemporary. From these designs, you will surely find something that will suit your taste.
Are you ready to start shopping for cotton jersey baby products? Click here!
]]>One of the needs of your newborn baby is the need to feel comfort and warmth. Your baby will look to you first for this need, but a good baby blanket will also help keep them feeling comfortable. For this reason, it is practical to get a baby blanket that is ultra-soft, cozy, and gentle on your newborn’s delicate skin.
But aside from keeping your baby nice and cozy, a baby blanket is also good for a lot of different uses. For example, you can use your cotton muslin baby blanket as both a receiving blanket and a swaddling blanket. Cotton muslin is lightweight and allows your baby’s skin to breathe.
When you go out with your baby in a stroller and you find that the afternoon sun is still a bit warm, you can use your muslin baby blanket, too, as a stroller shade. With proper supervision, it helps to keep the direct sunlight away from your baby.
If you are breastfeeding, you don’t need to buy a separate nursing cover – unless you want to. If you are looking to save money, any of your muslin baby blankets can work to give you and your baby some privacy when nursing.
When the temperature drops, it is also helpful to have a thicker baby blanket around. Thick baby blankets are not just useful for keeping your baby warm, too. They can also be used as a soft play mat for tummy time.
While you don’t need to get too many baby blankets, it is good to be prepared and have the useful kinds of blankets handy. Here’s a guide to help you know what kind of baby blankets to get for your newborn baby.
One of the first and most essential baby blankets that you can get for your baby are cotton muslin baby blankets. Because they are lightweight, they are perfect for the warmer months. They are breathable and allow a good amount of airflow and won’t trap heat inside.
Also, as mentioned above, they are pretty useful for pretty much anything. Aside from shading your baby from the sun and keeping your privacy as you nurse your baby, you can use them for emergency cleanups. They are so versatile that we recommend getting three or four good quality muslin blankets!
A good chenille baby blanket is incredibly soft, lush to the touch, and absolutely cozy. Your baby will love the feeling of being enveloped in one! The interesting texture of chenille baby blankets, given by interwoven yarns and fibers, will also stimulate your baby’s sensory development.
Another great thing about good quality chenille baby blankets is that they are tough and durable. Despite its delicate and soft look, it can withstand regular use. A good chenille baby blanket made of good material is also easy to care for, too, and machine-washable.
During the colder months, it is beneficial to have a baby blanket that is lined with sherpa. The sherpa lining provides warmth and insulation, protecting your baby against the cold. A baby blanket lined with sherpa is also super cozy and will feel like luxury.
Despite the fluffiness, sherpa is quick-drying and effective in wicking away moisture. Sherpa is also good alternative to genuine fur as it is more lightweight, less bulky, and more ecologically friendly. And compared to genuine fur, a sherpa lining is much easier to maintain!
Every newborn baby needs at least one wearable blanket made of cotton muslin because they are lightweight and stay in place. Because they stay in place, you don’t have to worry about loose blankets getting undone. A baby wearable blanket made of cotton muslin will allow air to flow freely inside, too.
When choosing a wearable blanket, avoid full zippers where your baby’s skin can get caught. Instead, it is much better to get a wearable blanket with snaps or click-together buttons on the sides. These will ensure a secure fit without restricting your baby’s motions.
The last two blankets on our list are not particularly essential, but it is nice to have them around! A baby milestone blanket is basically a blanket that contains numbers that represent months. When you take baby milestone photos, use a charming baby milestone blanket to mark your baby’s current month and stage.
Finally, it will also be amazing to have a personalized baby blanket made especially for your bundle of joy! You can get a baby blanket from Etsy with your baby’s name knitted or embroidered, but if you can do it yourself, it will be a great project to do while nesting. A personalized baby blanket is a treasure, and you can reuse it as a décor or keep it as an heirloom afterwards.
Baby blankets are truly a baby must-have that you cannot overlook when shopping for newborn baby stuff. We hope this simple list was able to help you know what to look for in baby blankets!
]]>