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Pregnancy

AdoptionBabyHomeKidsMotherhoodPregnancyProducts

How To Get Your Home Ready For Your Baby

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Becoming a parent can be so stressful. There are so many things that you need to get done and so many changes to your body happening at the same time. However, getting your home ready doesn’t need to be complicated. There are three main things that you need to do to get your home ready for baby – get the furniture you need, pick out some fun toys and do your best to babyproof the spaces your baby will be in. 

Acquire Furniture

You are going to need a crib for your baby, even if you plan on co-sleeping for any stretch of time. You can even get ones that transition into a toddler bed and even a full-sized bed so that you have a little more time with a fairly large purchase before it needs to be returned. You’ll need to make sure you get one with a comfortable mattress in it so that you don’t have any additional issues.

You will also need to get enough storage for your baby’s things. This doesn’t have to be expensive. If you have friends or family that have had kids, chances are they have some things that they can pass your way. You can also usually find kid’s storage furniture for cheap on the Facebook marketplace and from thrift stores, which is a great way to make your life – and your wallet – greener. 

Find Stimulating Toys

Gender shouldn’t play into the kind of toys your baby gets. Make sure that you have a variety to choose from so you can see what things your child gravitates toward. As for the rest of the toys that your child wants nothing to do with, think about reselling them or donating them to a local charity. That way, your home will have a little bit less stuff for you to have to tidy up later on and you’ll be helping someone else’s baby out.

Babyproof Your Home

Babies have an almost magical ability to injure themselves on anything and everything in their paths. It’s kind of impressive. However, as a parent, your job is to do everything you can to keep your baby safe. 

With that in mind, you need to make sure that anything made of glass or easily breakable is moved far, far out of your baby’s reach. If you have tall shelves that are not built into the wall, do your best to keep your baby away from them to avoid any tipping issues. 

You should also pad any sharp corners that you have in the room. This will save you a lot of tears and headaches in the long run from babies grabbing them or running into them.

Last but not least, put babyproof handles on doors to anywhere that your baby could get into trouble. This means kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, even older kids’ bedrooms. By limiting the space that your baby is in, you will keep them just a little bit safer every day. As they get older and more responsible for their own bodies, you can start to open the house up a little more. 

If you aren’t sure about something, don’t be afraid to reach out to your support network, whether that is online or in person. Other parents will have some advice that might work out well for you and your family. 

About the Author

Heather Viera is a lifestyle expert and researcher for FamilyLivingToday.com. She is dedicated to achieving a balanced lifestyle, even with two small children and a full-time career. In the little free time she has, she enjoys hiking with her partner and taking her dog to the beach.

 

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BreastfeedingMotherhoodPregnancy

5 Hacks To Make Your Life As A Breastfeeding Mom Easier

by Jennifer Landis
written by Jennifer Landis

The joys of a new baby are endless. The snuggles! The new baby smell! But we’d be lying if we didn’t say new babies come with their fair share of challenges, as well. One of the biggest challenges facing new moms is breastfeeding. It may be natural and it may be beautiful, but honey, it can be a real challenge for some people. If you want to breastfeed your newborn, here are some hacks to make your new-mom life a little bit easier.

1. Invest in Nursing Pads

Your baby isn’t always on the boob when you let down, which can result in a milky mess. Being around someone else’s baby, hearing a baby cry, the cold air after a shower, and a number of things can trigger this response. Invest in nursing pads you can stick to or place inside your bra to catch the excess milk. If you need to store breastmilk for when you go back to work, consider investing in some Milk Savers — little pouches you can wear inside your bra that capture leaky breast milk so you can freeze it for later.

Milk Savers, Amazon

These little things are lifesavers if you’re the kind of mom that loses 3-4 ounces of breastmilk from the opposite breast during a feeding. The Haakaa – a silicone suction based breast pump – is another incredibly popular and easy to use “milk catcher” if you let down from the side you’re not feeding on.

The Hakaa, Amazon

2. Take Care of Your Nipples

We won’t beat around the bush — breastfeeding is hard on your nipples, especially in the early months when your little one is eating every couple of hours. If you don’t take care of your nipples, they’ll crack and bleed, and each feeding will be your own personal hell until they heal.

If you notice some cracks, start treating them immediately by rubbing some expressed breast milk onto the area, and let it air dry. You can also apply a nipple ointment like after each feeding. (Lansinoh, makes a good one.)

Lansinoh Nipple Cream, Amazon

Make sure you read your labels, thoroughly, as some are safe for baby to consumer and others must be washed it off thoroughly before the next time you feed.

If your nipples are getting cracked a lot, take a look at your latch and how you’re holding the little one. Shifting your position and making sure they’re latched properly can save you a lot of pain.

3. Feed Yourself Too

While feeding your baby is important, don’t neglect yourself in the process. Meal planning is a literal lifesaver when you’re too tired to do anything other than throw something in the microwave — a common state for new moms.

If you find yourself with a lot of leftovers, you don’t have to eat the same thing every day. You’ll get bored, and that makes it even harder to make yourself eat. Instead, repurpose your leftovers into something new and tasty. Turn leftover vegetables into a wild rice and veggie salad, or leftover sweet potatoes into pancakes you can eat with one hand while feeding your baby.

4. Pay Attention to Your Supply

It’s not always easy to tell if your little one is getting enough milk. Pay close attention to your supply, and take steps to supplement if you’re not producing enough. This is especially important if your baby is into cluster feedings, which can swiftly sap your supply.

One thing that many new moms neglect is their water intake. Your body needs water to produce milk, so make sure you’re getting enough to drink every day. If you’re worried about your supply, let your little one nurse on each side, then use a pump to empty each breast. This helps to augment your supply naturally, while also giving you a stash of breastmilk in the freezer if you ever need it.

5. Don’t Ignore Pain

Breastfeeding is hard, but it shouldn’t be painful. If you are experiencing lasting pain that gets worse when you’re feeding, or something other than standard engorgement pain — which, if we’re honest, is bad enough it’s own — talk to your doctor or pediatrician. If you’re feeling feverish, it could be Mastitis – a common infection that breastfeeding moms experience where your milk duct becomes inflamed and clogged, and can be extremely painful if untreated. You should also rule out the possibility of a tongue tie in your little one – which makes it difficult for them to latch properly and can cause extreme pain and discomfort while nursing.

Sore nipples and engorgement are one thing. If you’re experiencing additional pain, don’t ignore it. Don’t assume it’s a natural part of breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant to make sure you’re healthy and everything is working like it should.

Hope for the Breast

Breastfeeding isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your little one! It’s essential to remember that this is a learning experience for you and your infant. Ask for help — your hospital will likely have at least one lactation consultant on hand. Remember to take care of yourself, too. As a breastfeeding mother, you are your infant’s whole world – and sole food supply – so if you’re not feeling well, it’s harder to do your job as a new mom.

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HumorPregnancy

15 Hilarious Baby Shower Cakes You Can’t Unsee

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

Whether it’s a shower or a sprinkle, any time you are celebrating an expectant mother and her unborn child, there’s typically a cake involved. Usually, these cakes are sweet and nice, fashioned with adorable trinkets of all things baby. But sometimes, ideas to get creative come to form and the results can leave us wildly entertained. These cakes are the latter, and we promise, you’re going to get at least a few good laughs from this collection of the the funniest baby shower cakes you’ve ever seen.

1. Guess her milk came in on the cake, too…

2. Hurry, this Dad needs oxygen, stat!

3. I must say, this is the weirdest use of an Ariel baby doll I’ve ever seen…

4. I don’t know what’s more amusing, the cute little cake topper or the sperm cupcakes to match…

5. I don’t know what’s more strange about this baby shower cake: that it’s been left out in the sun or that the baby in it looks like something of my worst nightmare…

Pages: 1 2 3

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Pregnancy

4 Easy Ways To Take Care Of Your Feet During Pregnancy

by Guest Post
written by Guest Post

Congratulations on you’re pregnancy! While pregnancy comes with plenty of joy, it can also take its toll on your body. Nothing beats that feeling of a new life and feeling flutters for the first time, but those experiences are usually coupled with sore muscles and back, and let’s not forget aching feet! Everyone experiences pregnancy differently, but here are some simple ways you can take care of your legs and feet, so you can enjoy the next nine months.

1. Keep Moving

Avoid standing and sitting for prolonged periods. Remember to keep moving to avoid foot pain and leg cramps by staying active and trying simple exercises to keep your body and feet healthy. Almost 30% of women develop varicose veins during their first pregnancy and 55% of women who have had two or more full-term pregnancies develop varicose veins as well.  Varicose veins and spider veins show up during pregnancy due to poor blood circulation and result in aching feet, heels and joints, swelling in your legs and feet, and other related issues. Keep moving to stay healthy and avoid those obnoxious veins!

2. Keep Elevated

Keeping your feet slightly elevated when sleeping or resting helps to enhance blood circulation and reduce edema, one of the most common pregnancy side effects of swollen feet. When there is a buildup of fluid in the feet, it can cause the extremities to swell, which results in stretching of the skin and can ultimately lead to inflammation. Taking ample time to rest and put your feet up can help quell edema.

3. Stay Cool

Try to avoid extended exposure to extreme temperatures, especially hotter temperatures as excessive heat may cause your veins to dilate and induce swelling. Pregnant women are also at a high risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, otherwise known as DVT. The main reason for this is the increased blood volume at full term and the hormonal changes that increase blood coagulability, thus constricting blood flow. The expanding uterus also puts added pressure on blood vessels, restricting blood flow from the legs and pelvis back to the heart. Stay cool and keep both you and baby healthy!

4. Consider Compression Therapy

Clinical studies conducted in the past have shown that graduated compression stockings are beneficial to pregnant women as it is known to be the most effective method of preventing swelling in the feet. It also alleviates leg pain and heaviness by providing compression to enhance intravenous blood flow and prevents blood from pooling in the veins and reduces the risk of an elevated heart rate in both mother and child. Additionally, the enhanced blood flow provided by the compression stockings also help reduce the risk of varicose veins, phlebitis, and deep vein thrombosis. If you’re struggling with aching legs and feet, check with your doctor about the benefits of compression socks and if they are right for you!

 

Author Bio:

Kunal is a young and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognised across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Kunal at kunal@copperdefence.com or visit www.copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories and more.

 

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Beauty & StylePregnancy

Maternity Style: Trends, Tips & Money-Saving Tricks For Every Trimester

by Guest Post
written by Guest Post

From the moment you see that pink plus sign, you become obsessed with your belly and examine it carefully in the mirror each morning… don’t worry, we all do it! But as the days pass, your excitement is tinged with anxiety and you worry that you will start showing too early or that you will look fat or clumsy, you’re not alone in this either. You’re a gorgeous pregnant woman; it’s time to own it!

What To Wear And When To Wear It

You’re pregnant––not camping outdoors, so lose that tent! Modern maternity wear is as chic as it is comfortable and moms to be are now spoilt for choice. Of course this can make maternity shopping quite confusing so here are some ideas to help you get started.

Source: Pink Blush Maternity

First Trimester

The first trimester is generally the “secret” phase of pregnancy where you’re not yet ready to share the news with the world at large. Some women develop that unmistakable bump early on, which makes it a lot tougher to keep the secret under wraps. Speaking of wraps, wraparounds work wonders to hide an itty bitty baby bump!

When shopping for maternity clothes to hide your bump, look for outfits that have ruching, as this creates an illusion of a smaller waist. When it comes to jeans, you want to go with mid waist ones because high waist jeans accentuate your belly, while low rise jeans will make your tummy pooch out. For an evening out, pair a floral print blouse with a draped cardigan, as the print distracts from your baby bump while the cardigan provides a little extra mid-section camouflage.

Source: A Pea in the Pod

Second Trimester

The second trimester is the sweet spot where your nausea has disappeared and all that extra estrogen gives you an honest-to-goodness natural glow. Your motto should be, “if you’ve got it, flaunt it!”

High waist pencil skirts are a comfortable yet elegant choice for work but switch to a frame sweater with party pants or a Caftan for your evening out with friends. Swap your first trimester jeans for maternity denims that you can continue to use even in your third trimester. Another must-have in any preggers wardrobe is an empire waist dress, which is super flattering during pregnancy (think Queen Beyonce’s earthy goddess dress last year). You probably won’t want to go shopping in your third trimester, so invest in extra-long tanks and tees to stay comfortable during the final lap of your journey.

maternity style

Source: Motherhood

Third Trimester

The third trimester is when belts and sashes come into their own. You can glam up your old belts with chiffon flowers and satin rosettes or use ribbon and lace to make your own sashes. Wear a thin belt on dresses to accentuate your curves, but wear it beneath your hips if you’re wearing a long top – this will prevent that dreaded ‘parachute’ look. Maxi dresses and roomy tunics are adorable and can be paired with maternity jeans or leggings in the winter or a pair of chic shorts during the summer.

By this point in your pregnancy, just getting out of bed is exhausting, so date nights are ancient history, but it’s important to make the most of the time you have with DH – just the two of you. Take a page from Miranda Kerr’s book, and flaunt your baby bump in a figure-hugging tank dress – the perfect attire for a romantic night out.

maternity style

Maternity Shopping: How to Nail it on the First Try

1. Raid your wardrobe before you start shopping

You probably think that you need a whole new wardrobe but that’s far from true. Your blousy shirts, wrap-style tops, tunics, and fold-down waistbands are sufficient for your first trimester and maybe even part of your second. Before you start your shopping spree, go through your existing wardrobe and pack up all the clothes that you will not be able to use in the coming months. It’s always better to get these clothes out of sight so that you don’t get frustrated later on when you’re digging through your wardrobe for stuff that fits.

2. Borrow or Rent

Sisters and friends can be a goldmine for maternity outfits. Most women buy plenty of maternity clothes, which they pack away after their delivery. So, if you are offered maternity wear, don’t think twice before you take them up on their offer. If you’re a fashion forward mama and don’t want to spend money on clothes you may only wear a few times, you may want to consider renting. Companies like Le Tote, La Belle Bump, and Rent The Runway offer great monthly or one time deals for special events that keep you stylish but also prevent your closet from being bogged down with maternity clothes.

3. Don’t Fall for Sales Gimmicks

Many maternity stores have “buy two get one free” offers and similar deals to induce people to buy more than they actually require. Before you make these purchases, ask yourself if you really need three or if you can make do with one. Basics like undershirts and T-shirts are usually a good buy, especially if you can get some nursing or post-pregnancy use out of them––just shop wisely!

4. Get Crafty

Instead of shelling out big bucks for maternity clothes, you can also make your own. There are plenty of videos and instructables that can help you turn your regular clothes into maternity outfits. For instance, you can simply cut out the zipper area of a comfortable pair of jeans and replace it with a large piece of stretchy fabric. You will have a pair of jeans that are identical to the ones sold in stores for a fraction of the cost. Of course, this option isn’t for everyone, but you’d be surprised how easy it is to convert some super comfy regular clothes into the perfect maternity pieces. Check out Pinterest for some awesome ideas!

5. Shop Smart

When you’re out maternity shopping, don’t forget to pick up comfortable kicks. Your feet have to bear the brunt of the additional weight, so don’t wait until your third trimester to go shoe shopping. Swap out your pumps and wedges for ballet flats and sketchers right away, your feet will thank you. The most important thing to keep in mind while shopping for maternity stuff is that comfort is a priority but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal style. Shopping smart means keeping your own preferences in mind, and buying higher quality pieces that will last for future pregnancies if this is your first baby.

There are always ways to cut costs and stay on budget when it comes to maternity shopping. If you’re stuck on where to get started, check out What to Expect where you’ll find plenty of articles that address shopping for maternity clothes, along with links to some great deals!

 

 

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baby milestone blankets
BabyKidsPregnancy

7 Gorgeous Baby Milestone Blankets We Found On Etsy

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

There’s so much to do when it comes to welcoming a new baby into the world, especially when it comes to documenting how fast they grow! In addition to just taking tons of photos, a sweet way to mark all those moments is with baby milestone blankets. Basically, they are pre-made blankets with a pretty design and numbers 1-12 to mark days, weeks and years. It makes those monthly photos all the more special, and we’ve rounded up some gorgeous options from Etsy.

Source: Sweet Blooms Design Co. via Etsy

1. Floral Watercolors

Pick from fleece or minky fabric for this beautiful and feminine milestone blanket. The 30×40 blanket is the ideal size for baby and the bright colors will really make this monthly photos pop! We love the watercolor style and the ability to add baby’s name, too.

baby milestone blankets

Source: Blue Elephant Prints via Etsy

2. Hot Air Balloon

Boy or girl, this baby blanket is perfect for either on your new adventure as a parent! This whimsical design extends across the whole blanket that can be ordered as big as 40×50 in fleece or minky fabric. This is such a sweet design!

baby milestone blankets

Source: Occasional Genius Co. via Etsy

3. Little Prince

It’s been quite a year for the royals and it will be for your little prince, too! This sweet blanket is made from cotton and comes in either a black or white background, whit a personalized name option and enough date options to photograph from birth to 12 years old!

baby milestone blankets

Source: Sweet Chickadee Shop via Etsy

4. Boho Unicorn

Well isn’t this a gorgeous blanket?! The round shape is not one we’ve seen, especially with the beautiful feathers, arrows and mythical unicorn in ethereal water colors. It’s made from microfiber material and measures 5 feet in diameter.

baby milestone blankets

Source: Sparkly Prints via Etsy

5. Modern Geometric

Add baby’s name to this soft and minky blanket that has the option of coming with a gray back. This is the perfect style for modern parents, and can be ordered in sizes ranging from 28×38 to 40×50.

baby milestone blankets

Source: Finch and Fox via Etsy

6. Plaid Moose

Choose from soft or fluffy when ordering this adorable boy-inspired blanket. The poly-spun fabric makes a super soft backdrop for baby as you snap a ton of pics. Wouldn’t this be the perfect accessory to that adorable plaid shirt you got as a baby shower gift?

baby milestone blankets

Source: YayaTete via Etsy

7. Donuts

Need we say much more? DONUTS! Ok, if you’re not into the delicious baked treat, you can pick from 7 other patterns (like Llamas!), all in a soft jersey fabric. Sizes range from 30×40 to 50×60.

 

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springtime baby shower
Pregnancy

These Themes Are The Cutest For A Springtime Baby Shower

by Guest Post
written by Guest Post

Spring is here, but that’s not the only new season upon you: Parenthood is just around the corner. Because of this, you’re preparing for a lot of changes, as well as celebrations in honor of your new bundle(s) of joy.

You might not be planning your own baby shower, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a hand in choosing the theme. With the sun shining outside and Mother Nature putting on a show, there’s plenty of inspiration to be drawn from the world outside your front door. The sweet theme and festivities will set just the right tone for your most important arrival — here are eight ideas to get you started.

springtime baby shower

1. Nature’s Little Ones

This choice is a potentially obvious one for your baby shower at any time of year, but it’s especially relevant in the spring. That’s because many animals give birth to their broods at this time of year, too.

Within your baby animal theme are different types of creatures to choose from too. Woodland creatures, jungle critters, farm animals, under-the-sea…

All of these make soft, beautiful themes for your pre-baby party.

2. Pineapple of My Eye

Okay, so you might not be experiencing island-like weather in your hometown, but you can still relish in the sunshine. A tropical theme would do the trick: Bringing palm trees, pineapples and flamingoes into your home would create the easy, breezy vibes you can find only in the tropics. Plus, this theme will create some serious menu inspiration, from mom-to-be-friendly mocktails to fruity desserts.

3. Baby de Mayo

Everyone loves Mexican cuisine, so why not let our south-of-the-border neighbors inspire your baby shower? You already know how to do the food: Everything from guacamole and tacos to margaritas will readily fit the bill. Because Cinco de Mayo is already the ideal excuse for a fiesta, there are plenty of Mexican-inspired DIY décor ideas to set a colorful, festive, cost-effective scene.

4. Sweets for My Sweet

Have you spent the last nine months craving sweets? If so, your baby might require a candy-themed welcome party, which you can quickly put together with confections as your inspiration and menu.

Filling clear glass containers with fruity treats will give your food table lots of color. You can draw from these hues when choosing plates, napkins, streamers and more. It might be fun to serve everyone the candy that’s been your must-have throughout your pregnancy too.

5. Twinkle Twinkle

Here’s a sweet theme that’s a bit more classic: a riff on the classic lullaby that you’ll probably sing to your babe once they’re born. The moon-and-stars motif can help you decorate everything from your table to your cake.

On top of that, you can use the shimmering nighttime sky as an excuse to sprinkle everything with a bit of glitter. And if that’s not enough, you can complement metallic gold and silver accents with soft blue, pink or any other color you see fit.

6. Confetti Showers

It’s not a real celebration without throwing a little confetti. Why save those fun and colorful specks of paper for New Year’s Eve? After covering your tables with white tablecloths, bring them to life with a literal shower of cheerful confetti.

Brighten up your walls with paper chains in similar hues. You can even infuse your cake with a bit of edible confetti, aka sprinkles. It’s all about the happy colors, which represent how thrilled you are to be a mom.

7. Honey Bay-Bee

As soon as spring rolls in, so do the honeybees. They pollinate our flowers to keep them growing and collect nectar to turn into honey. All of these natural phenomena can be used to your party-planning advantage.

You already know a bee’s colors are yellow and black, so make the former your main hue with pops of the darker shade. A yellow tablecloth, for example, will set that sunny scene you’re envisioning. Bouquets of flowers will elicit the essence of spring, too. You can add a few bumblebee accents, such as paper ornaments dangling from flower vases. Finish everything off with a menu of honey-infused eats, both sweet and savory.

8. Paper Flower Shower

As we’ve mentioned before, the season has plenty of inspiration for your party theme. We’ve already used it for the baby animals, the bees and, now, the flowers. Crafting several bouquets of your own paper flowers will be equal parts beautiful and cost-effective. Plus, this party is super customizable: blue blossoms for a boy, pink flowers for your girl or blooms in a hue that you just so happen to like.

Welcome Them Home

With the perfect baby shower theme in hand, you can start putting together the decorations and treats that you and your guests will enjoy. And, with that out of the way, there’s only one thing left for you to do: Wait to welcome your baby into the world where you showered them with love even before they were born — how special is that?

Author Bio

Jennifer Landis is a 29-year-old healthy living blogger who loves yoga, running, and dancing it out with her toddler! You can find more from Jennifer at her blog, Mindfulness Mama, or by following her on Twitter: @jenniferelandis.

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stylish gifts
Pregnancy

6 Super Stylish Baby Shower Gifts For A Mom-To-Be

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

We all have that friend: the uber stylish, fashion forward gal who doesn’t like the usual baby registry items from places like Babies R Us or Target. She’s trendy and classy and you want a unique gift for her, despite having a registry full of regular baby essentials. While every mama-to-be is different, we hope this list of stylish gifts for your next baby shower comes in handy!

stylish gifts

Source: Nordstrom.com

1. Robe

Having a baby is a wonderful, emotional experience. Unfortunately, the physical part of labor and the following recovery period can leave new mamas feeling exhausted, uncomfortable and all around gross. A perfect gift for a new mom is a fresh robe. They’ll make her feel pulled together and covered up, a perfect combo. I love these Jersey robes from Nordstrom (they are 2 for $60!) because they come in all sorts of colors and are super comfy, but not so nice they you will fear ruining them with breastmilk or other baby bodily fluids.

stylish gifts

Source: ItzyRitzy.com

2. Nursing Scarf

It can be a nightmare packing a diaper bag and remembering all the accessories you need for finally venturing out into the world with you new baby. That’s why I like this super stylish nursing scarf. It starts out as an accessory you’re already wearing, and then unfolds into a generous nursing cover. When you’re done, just wrap back up around your neck and keep going! No need to cram back into your diaper bag. One less thing to carry!

stylish gifts

Source: FawnDesign.com

3. Diaper Bag

Moms have a love/hate relationship with diaper bags. On the one hand, they are absolutely essential. On the other, no back hurts worse than the mom’s who has been lugging a bulky diaper bag loaded down with baby necessities all day.  Stylish gals won’t pass up an opportunity to add to their bag collection with a functional and fun diaper bag. This particular bag by Fawn Design is the perfect combo of fashion forward, yet completely practical. It has a flat back and rounded shape that means tons of pockets, and a design that rests comfortable against your body. It can be worn as a cross body, backpack or over the shoulder. Pick a neutral color and hand it to your hubby to carry!

Check out the unique styles and colors at FawnDesign.com.

 

stylish gifts

Source: LittleTeether.com

4. Teething Necklace

It will be several months before baby starts chomping at the bit, but when they do, a new mama will be ready if they have one of these amazing Little Teether teething necklaces. Made with silicone, non-toxic and BPA free silicone, these chewable necklaces are great for baby’s sore gums, and even more perfect for mamas wardrobe.

Check out LittleTeether.com for tons of stylish options that will fit anyone’s budget!

stylish gifts

Source: BecoBabyCarrier.com

5. Baby Carrier

A baby carrier is just as much for mom as it is for baby, and some moms live in them in the first few months. There are TONS of baby carrier options out there, from wraps and slings, to more complicated carriers with straps and buckles. When it comes to style, the carriers from BecoBabyCarrier.com are one of the best. Not only do they have one of the only 4-way carriers on the market, they have the most amazing patterns too. No plain, beige and boring here!

 

stylish gifts

Source: Etsy.com

6. Jewelry

If there’s one thing we mama’s love, it’s proudly displaying our kids and that includes jewelry like this. It’s sweet and thoughtful, and something a stylish friend would adore. You can’t go wrong with a heirloom piece of jewelry like this!

 

Do you want more baby shower ideas?

8 Heartfelt Baby Shower Gifts

7 Fun Baby Shower Games You’ll Actually Want To Play

10 Unique & Creative DIY Baby Shower Gift Ideas

How To Throw An Awesome Baby Shower-On A Budget!

 

stylish gifts

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maternity costumes
Pregnancy

10 Super Cute Maternity Costumes For This Halloween

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

You only get a few chances in your life time to wear a maternity costume for Halloween, so why not make it super cute? Whether you and your partner go for a family costume, or you do it stand-alone, there are plenty of cute and funny options to celebrate your pregnancy. We’ve rounded up some simple ways to dress your bump this Halloween.

maternity halloween costumes

Source: Brit.co

1. Gumball Machine

Highlight your growing bump by turning yourself into a gumball machine! This is a super easy costumer that is also pretty comfy- a must when you’re pregnant. All you need is a red skirt, white T-shirt and a punch of pom poms and glue. A red wig really tops off this costume!

Check out Brit.co for 9 more super adorable DIY maternity costumes!

maternity costumes

Source: GoodHousekeeping.com

2. Avocado (or Chips & Guac)

Your belly is definitely part of the action in this costume.  Pull on a brown shirt, cut large piece of cardboard into the shape of an avocado (don’t forget to cut a hole for your belly, aka the avocado pit!), paint two shades of green and then grab some chips!

Check out GoodHousekeeping.com for 21 more hilarious pregnancy costume ideas.

 

A post shared by Amy (@bibbles87) on

3. Winnie The Pooh

The beloved Pooh Bear is known for his round tummy and love of honey. And since you’re pregnant, you’ll have no problem incorporating your own belly to get the full Winnie look. Some strategically placed orange and red shirts are all you need to carry of this Hundred Acre Wood style.

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health problems during pregnancy
Pregnancy

4 Common Health Problems During Pregnancy & How To Treat Them Naturally

by Guest Post
written by Guest Post

Now that you’re pregnant, your body will undergo many changes. Over the next nine months, expect both good and bad symptoms. Some women experience one or more health problems during pregnancy and these problems, in some cases, make it a high-risk pregnancy. Fortunately, there are lots of natural remedies to help combat these health problems. Here are four common health problems during pregnancy and natural remedies that can help you.

1. Gallbladder Problems

What are the causes of gallbladder problems? Pregnant women are at a higher risk because their bodies produce more estrogen. This can lead to an increase in the amount of cholesterol in the bile and also reduce gallbladder contradictions. Doctors refer to this process “cholestasis of pregnancy.” This process makes it difficult for bile to escape the gallbladder. And it is also associated with increased risk for complications such as the following:

  • Passing meconium (stool) before birth
  • Stillbirth
  • Premature birth

There are several symptoms of cholestasis of pregnancy. These include:

  • Urine darker than usual
  • Intense itching
  • Jaundice
  • Nausea
  • Pain in the upper right or middle section of your stomach
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Gas
  • Vomiting
  • Indigestion

Surgery is one of the most common ways of treating gallbladder problems. Experts say that more than 70,000 gallstone surgeries are done yearly in North America. However, the number of people turning to natural remedies is also incredibly high according to these same experts. The most common natural treatments include:

  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Avoiding rapid weight loss
  • Following anti-inflammatory diet to support the health of the gallbladder and liver
  • Being more active
  • Avoiding some birth control pills

 

2. Morning Sickness

Approximately three-quarters of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting, especially in the mornings. So, if you are suffering from the same, you are not alone. The good news is that these symptoms typically ease up at the beginning of the second trimester. Some natural remedies have also shown to help relieve these symptoms. Experiment with a few of them till you find one or a few combinations that work best for you.

Eat Smart

What and when you eat can determine the intensity of your symptoms. Avoid large meals and snacks and opt for easy-to-digest foods like warm milk, cheese stick, toast, and crackers. Ensure you eat a balanced diet but avoid spicy, high-fat foods.

Stay Hydrated

Drink between meals instead of while you are eating to prevent your stomach getting too full. You can experiment with ginger beer, ginger tea, ice-cold water, or sparkling water.

Consider Taking Vitamin B6

You can take a supplement of vitamin B6 or switch to one with a higher dose. If you are not sure, ask your doctor. Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce early-pregnancy nausea.

Clear your Mind

Don’t concern yourself with too much unnecessary stuff. Practice relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress.

 

3. Constipation

For some pregnant women, going to the bathroom is a big problem. This health problem can worsen by the third trimester, which can, unfortunately, result in more severe issues such as hemorrhoids. Be sure to talk to your doctor if your constipation is becoming a serious health issue. However, if there is no cause for alarm, you can just use the following natural remedies:

Hydrate

Ensure you take the right amount of liquids frequently to keep all body processes working normally. Always keep a water bottle beside you for whenever you feel thirsty.

Body Pillow

Use the right types of body pillows, especially donut-shaped body pillows. This can help reduce pressure in your rectal area.

Fiber

Ensure your diet includes a healthy fiber. Opt for foods such as fruits, flax seed, beans, hearty grains, chia seeds, prune juice, and vegetables. If you start this process early enough, you will be able to fight constipation and prevent hemorrhoids at the same time.

 

4. Heartburn

During their pregnancy, women can experience an irritating burning sensation in their throats and chest area. This always results from the ever-growing uterus pushing the stomach acid in the wrong direction. You can use these remedies to treat your heartburn:

Chew Sugarless Gum

Stay away from chew gums with peppermint. They are highly acidic. Opt for those that can stimulate the saliva for an acid-neutralizing effect.

Sleep Well

Wait for a while after a meal before lying down to sleep. Also, elevate your head when sleeping. If you still cannot sleep well, engage in different exercises a few hours to bedtime. After this, your body will calm down and be ready to sleep. Try these exercises that can you help you even on your delivery day. If you have no time or don’t know other exercises to help you clear your mind before sleep, use these and reap the two benefits concurrently.

Avoid Heartburn Triggers

At mealtimes, opt for carbonated drinks and sparkling water. However, avoid spicy or citrus foods. Instead of focusing on the three big meals in a day, try eating small snack-sized portions frequently throughout the day.

 

Final thoughts

Pregnancy symptoms such as heartburn, constipation, and nausea are common, and they put a real damper on most women’s excitement about having their own children. Use the above natural remedies to prevent these problems.

 

Author Bio:

Mike Jones decided to put to good use his knowledge of alternative remedies and writing by starting HomeRemedyShop. He hopes to convince others that nature has a great impact on our well-being and we should pay more attention to it.

 

Health Problems During Pregnancy

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