Going for an epidural does NOT make you a bad mother or any less of a mother, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Deciding to give birth naturally without painkiller or getting an epidural is a decision only you can make for yourself.  

While couples do discuss this possibility and make different decisions about childbirth together, this decision is yours to make. You are the one who is going through the pain of labor and childbirth, and no one else can go through it for you. Not your husband and certainly not your family or friends. Do not let anyone bully you into making a choice that is not right for you, as long as there is no risk to you or baby.

It is smart to plan ahead and think about pain management before you go into the delivery room. Do your homework and research or speak to your doctor about your possibilities, different ways to manage pain during childbirth, which is most suitable for you and why. If you need it, take your time in making this decision, but try to make it before it is time…

And when time comes, have a birth plan ready, but also be open minded about changes that may occur as things progress or if there is a new for an intervention.

As if it is not enough to be anxious about actual childbirth, some of us are also uncomfortable with the thought of being exposed to the world (the obstetrician and staff, and whomever else you invited into the delivery room).

Some women worry about when and where you go into labor, or having your water break in the middle of the supermarket. Most of us (especially if it’s your first pregnancy) worry about the pains of labor and childbirth, the possibility you’ll tear or have to have an episiotomy done, etc.

But do you give any thought to the actual birth and embarrassing accidents that go with it? Well, some women do. So what can you expect (not that you really can control everything, but the number of non professionals you want in the room…) in the delivery room:

Having a bowel movement during labor is very common and normal. More so, the nurse will likely describe the way you should push as when you go to the bathroom. Don’t be embarrassed. The professional staff is not only used to it, they also know it is normal and common.

Some women have an accident while getting their epidural. It is common to pee during the epidural process and the anesthesiologist has likely seen it many times before. It is not uncommon and not a big deal.

When you are pushing your baby you may have gas. Do not worry about it. The doctors and nurses are used to it and there is no reason to be embarrassed.

Another unpleasant thing that can happen during labor and delivery is vomiting. Gain, it is normal, common, and you should not be alarmed or surprised if it turned into projectile vomiting.

If you are concerned about any of these things, all you really can do if limit the number of your (personal) guests in the delivery room. Other than that, just realizing it is natural and the professional staff is used to it. You have nothing to be embarrassed about.

On top of the newness of your life as a brand new mom, you are dealing with the aches and discomforts of your postpartum body, learning to breastfeed or bottlefeed, figuring out your new routine and more.

Of course this is a special and happy time in your life, there is no question about it, but it is also normal to be overwhelmed, tired and scared. After all, you are experiencing it all for the first time, and there is nothing wrong in asking for help, tips, assistant and anything else that may make your new lifestyle a bit easier. 

So how does your life change after childbirth?

The first thing that changes is the expansion of your family and the little bundle of joy that is now YOUR responsibility. Being responsible for another human being is huge, let along if this is a little baby who cannot do anything for himself. Simultaneously, your lifestyle as you know it is gone, at least for some time. Don’t freak out. This is an adjustment period. Treat it as such. And ask for help when and if you can!

Learning to feed your baby can be smooth or tricky. That depends on both you and baby. But first you have to decide if you are going to breastfeed or bottle feed. Even just this decision can be nerve wrecking for the new mom. If you haven’t thought of it before, this is a good time to speak to your doctor or ask to consult a lactation consultant.

If you are breastfeeding, you may not have your milk in yet, but only colostrum. Breastfeeding may be painful, uncomfortable, or just a complete disaster. Before you leave the hospital, ask to speak to a lactation consultant. She can observe you and baby during feeding and help with knowledgeable information and tips – how to hold the baby, how baby needs to latch, how to massage your breasts and more. If you have left the hospital already or gave birth at home, you can call any hospital for birthing and ask to speak to a lactation consultant, or speak to your doula or midwife.

If you are bottle feeding you may be overwhelmed by the variety of different bottles out there, the types of nipples and materials, bottle size and shape ext. Ask for help at the store. They know their stock and can recommend the most popular bottle, and your answer questions about the differences and recommendations for colicky baby, younger baby, etc. Also ask friends who have kids for their recommendation. Same goes for choosing the right formula brand and type. Don’t buy a lot, as you could find your baby does not respond well to one type or another.

As a new mom, you are learning how to care for your baby. It is OK if things aren’t perfect at the beginning; both you and baby are learning how things are done best, what is most comfortable for the both of you, etc. In a few short months you’ll be surprised to hear yourself giving other new moms advice. Take your time, don’t beat yourself up when you make mistakes along the way, get a book or take a baby basics class to help you where you need help or ask a family member or friend for assistant.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. After all, your body has been through childbirth, which is not something to take lightly. Try to rest when you can, eat well and follow any directions you got when discharged from the hospital. And if you notice anything out of the ordinary or experience pain, call your healthcare provider.

Happy motherhood!

Your pregnancy is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate fashion. When else will you let yourself loose with flowing fabrics & specialty pants with an elastic band for belly support?

In the last few decades, a real change in style has taken place in the world of maternity clothes. No more wearing tents, or your husband’s shirts, instead there are designs that flow with the curves of your changing body, emphasizing the belly and maintaining flattering proportions.

The current maternity collections favor the feminine body and the changes it goes through throughout the pregnancy.

Summer collection – leading trends

In the summer months, maternity collections feature light dresses, tops with generous openings and shorter pants. Comfort is the name of the game –walks in the park, “vegging” in front of the TV or even work. This summer we see more bold patterns that give a short sleeve shirt a fun twist; as well as, patterns rich in flowers and elements from nature.

Summer collection – tips for how to select the right items

Maternity clothes and body types: for those of use with slender legs airy dresses are recommended.  For those of us who are not as blessed, pants that widen at the bottom (such as bell bottoms) will be more flattering for those with not so slender legs.

If you wish to create the illusion of narrower hips, choose a high cut pair of pants that covers the belly. This cut will also give the appearance of longer legs. An A shaped skirt will also do the trick.

For a more voluptuous look, choose shirts or dresses with a V shape neck what highlight the chest and shoulder areas.

Wining fashionable combinations:

- Different color tights with a long tunic for a casual “chic” look.

- Maternity jeans with elastic bands and a half sleeve top.