The “golden hour” right after birth refers to the first hour (sometimes up to two hours) that follows a baby’s arrival. This time is very important because it helps both the baby and the parent adjust physically and emotionally. Uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact during this hour helps the newborn leave the safety of the womb and...
Birth Plan Template for First-Time Moms
A birth plan is basically a written list of what you hope for and prefer during labor, delivery, and the early days with your newborn. For first-time moms, it’s a great way to sort out your thoughts and tell your medical team how you want things to go. Your birth plan can include things like...
Perineal Massage Techniques Before Birth
Perineal massage before giving birth means gently stretching the skin and muscles between the vagina and anus with your hands. Many people choose to do this to help their bodies get ready for a vaginal birth. But what exactly does it involve, and how can it help? The idea is to help the perineum-the area...
Signs Labor Is 24 to 48 Hours Away
As your due date gets closer, the eagerness to meet your baby often brings a mix of excitement and impatience. While no one can say exactly when labor will start, your body usually starts giving you some hints that it’s getting close. These signals can show up anytime in the last few days-or even hours-before...
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Getting ready for a new baby is both exciting and a bit overwhelming. As your due date gets closer, one of the most important things to do is to pack your hospital bag. Instead of hurrying at the last minute, take time to gather the items that will help make labor, birth, and recovery easier...
Is Running During Pregnancy Safe?
Many pregnant women wonder if it’s okay to keep running while expecting. For most women with healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies, running is usually safe and beneficial. Still, it’s important to pay close attention to your body and follow some guidelines to make sure both you and your baby stay healthy. Always talk to your doctor before...
How to Get Ready for Fatherhood Before the Baby Arrives
Becoming a dad is a big life change, filled with excitement, nervousness, and sometimes worry. You can’t be completely ready for everything a newborn brings, but there are lots of things you can do in advance to feel more prepared and involved. Getting ready isn’t just about practical tasks-it’s also about preparing your mind and...
How Can Fathers Support Their Partners During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a major life change for both parents. While mothers physically carry the baby, fathers are also key during these important nine months. They do much more than just wait-they have an active part to play through care, support, and shared responsibility. A dad’s involvement, from giving emotional help to lending a hand with...
Birthing Ball Exercises
Birthing ball exercises are a great option for parents-to-be, providing a simple way to deal with pain, build muscle, and help labor move along. Birthing balls aren’t just regular gym balls-they’re specially made to support a pregnant body during all parts of pregnancy, from handling everyday aches to labor and even recovery afterward. They offer...
Week 20-24: Halfway There — Your Baby’s Organs Are Developing Quickly
You’re halfway through your pregnancy! Weeks 20 to 24 are a special time, filled with noticeable changes for both you and your baby. Your baby’s organs are maturing quickly and starting to work together. What was once a tiny group of cells is now beginning to look and act more like a newborn. These weeks...