Changes and more changes!

As I'm getting closer and closer towards the end, I'm feeling a whole bunch of different things. I'm feeling a lot of different physical and emotional changes, which is making these last couple of weeks quite exciting. You'll hear a lot of women who are mostly in the ninth say how they feel so uncomfortable, and the baby's has got to come out. There is only so much space that your body can make room for, so your baby is getting a little squashy in there torwds the end, which makes it more uncomfortable for you too. The baby Is big now so you feel it all over, u can feel a kick in your ribs and on your bladder all at once, how fun is that! 

My baby is truly enjoying the game of hitting mommy in the ribs, especially my right side. But I'm not enjoying this game as much, it's actually no fun at all. I've been trying all the tricks to make the baby switch positions, like picking my hands up and breath or going down on all four, but they help for a few minutes and then the baby move right back to my ribs. It's sometimes not even kicks I feel, it's more like my baby wants to stretch and just leaves a foot nicely lodged by my ribs. It's starting to get a little crowded in there, and still has more to grow! 

Did you know that being uncomfortable towards the end, is actually one of the mircals of pregnancy? Allot of women enjoy the bond with there baby so much while it's still In them, that it would be difficult for them to give it up. So by getting uncomfortable, in away is breaking the bond between the mother and the baby, and making the mother want it to come out already, so she can form a new bond. 

My emotional changes I've been going through, are more mixed feelings towards the whole giving brith topic. One minute I'm excited, the next Im scared, and then I'm excited again. But I cant pin point the reason why I'm scared, am I scared of the unknown of labor? Or going through the pain of labor? Or the after part, and am I scared of being a mother? Or maybe I'm even scared of all! But even when I'm feeling scared, I still feel so excited. So I'm my emotions are just a mess when it comes to this topic, I can't he but to feel confused. 

But I know it's normal and I am definitely not the only one going through these emotions, and that is what's always important to remember. You are never the only one going though your emotional craziness, no matter how imbalance you think they are. 

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profile!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

What to pack in your hospital bag!

The end is coming near, 47 more days till my due date! Like everything else about my pregnancy, I am a fanatic about my hospital bag as we'll. I have some of the stuff I need set aside for a few weeks now, as if it's happening any day. Some of things I'm packing could be completely useless in the time of need for me, but it worked for others so it's on my list. 

I have already packed in my hospital bag a few thing, and the rest I'll add in closer to my due date. For labor and delivery there's things you need and for postpartum. I'll share a list your husband may want, we can't forget about them.

For labor and delivery

I have socks, unless you are one of those who love hospital socks, then bring your own. It's for walking around in the halls before and after birth, and to keep your toes nice and warm. 

I also packed chapstick, apperntly your mouth and lips gets very dry, so add that in. 

I packed a light weight snood (well see how long it last on my head) and a cotton head band, to keep my hair out of my face if the snood doesn't work out, also extra pony holders In case they snap. 

I have heard to take with you a pen and paper, to jot down any questions, thought, or names of doctors or nurses you'll want to thank after. But with cell phones in handy, you can write it down in there. 

Pen and paper can also be used to count your contractions, or you can be use your phone for that too, and I told you there is an app for that. 

Lollipops, socking candy, and ices are aloud to be eaten during labor. You may want to eat them, to help your mouth from getting so dry.

If you want your birth setting to be a relaxed environment, and music will help you. Make sure you bring a CD player. If it's plug in then great, but if it runs on batteries, bring extra. (Some hospitals provide a CD player)

Your favorite lotion or body oil for all the massages you'll be asking for. The smell can actually sooth you as we'll, so choose wisely.

If your really into the whole relaxing mode, buy those fake candles that run on batteries, since you can not light real candles in a hospital. 

Do you have a birthing ball/gym balls, you have been using through out your pregnancy? People swear on how helpful the ball is during labor, so bring that along. (Your labor coach may provide one)

If you don't want to wear those beautiful hospital gown, bring your own nightgown. I'm saying night gown and not pjs, because you will want it to be a one piece and long enough for you to do squats in, without mooning everyone in the room. 

Bring flip flops/water shoes, you may not want to shower bear foot. That's goes for before and after birth. 

If you'll want to shower during labor, you can shower In hospital gown or bring a top you don't mind wearing in the shower.

And most importantly camera/video camera, cell phones and all chargers needed!! (If needed an extra memory card)

For postpartum (after birth and your hospital stay) 

I bought a yummy cozy robe for after birth, to keep warm and comfy. I also plan to use it as my blanket, hospital blankets aren't that cozy and Im sure I can use a good night sleep.

Pjs, you'll want your top to have easy access, if you plan to nurse.

They say to pack two nursing bras, I have one so far I'll go buy another. They say two because you sweat a lot after birth, and your milk can leak.

Also a few pairs of underwear, doesn't/shouldn't be new ones, you'll probably ruin them.

Sweater, leggings, change of cloth, socks anything you'll want to wear and feel unfotable In. 

All toiletries! Toothbrush, tooth past, mouthwash, face wipes, face wash, body wipes, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair brush, if you have lens don't forget lens solution. Buying all your toiletries in travel size is a great idea. (You'll want to use some of them during labor) 

Pads and nursing pads if want to use ones you like but the hospital will provide them for you.

Entertainment, if starring at your baby isn't enough entertainment.

Food or snacks you want that the hospital doesn't have.

Some people take a towel/robe, because hospital towels can be small, and it can be really cold when coming out of a shower.

If you have a pillow you can sleep without, bring it.

Pack your make up, I know I'll want to look good while feeling bad.

A going home outfit for you and the baby. The baby will need undershirt, stretchy, a blanket, and of course a cute hat. You'll want a bundle me, if your giving birth in the winter.

You will need a car seat, most hospital will not let you leave without an approved car seat. 

For your husband 

If he's they type that's always cold pack a sweater, the room temperature will be according to the way you like and during labor I'm sure you'll be hot. 

You mite not be able to eat during labor, but he sure can, pack snacks or lots of changes for vending machines (your hospital may have a bichur cholem room, where he can take anything he wants)

If your baby is taking its sweat time to come and it's over night, your husband mite want to change into something more comfortable, so be a good wife and pack him a change of cloth.

Some toiletries, so he can freshen up.

Entertainment, labor can be long and boring for him.

I hope I got everything down, that is needed for labor and delivery. My brain hurts from brainstorming, of all the stuff you mite need/want. If you forgot something that is needed for after birth, your husband or someone coming to visit, can always go and get it for you. You don't need all your stuff in one big suitcases you can pack two small ones, one for labor and delivery and one for  postpartum. Your husband can always get your second suit case out of the car whenever needed.

I'll probably look like I'll be moving into the hospital, I'll be coming in with a massive suitcase, a birthing ball, and maybe even a pillow!! 

I hope this is helpful for you! It was quite time consuming to put it together for you. But I did promise I'll have a good one for today! 

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profile!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

Profile!

Good afternoon! Sorry I'm having a little bit of a busy day today, but I had to take the time and write something for today's post. So I did something simple but entertaining for you guys, I made a profile on myself for today. 

Name- Chumy Herman 

Birthday- December 12 1992

Age- 21

Height- 5'3

Weight- Now at 33 weeks, 135

Due date- February 11 i'yh

Baby gender- It's a surprise!!!

Craving- Watermelon flavored Laffy taffy

Go to food- Green apples

Best sleeping position- My tummy or left side 

Breakfast- strawberry and a coffee 

Lunch- Lebon and a salad 

Dinner- unknown 

Snack- Almonds

Hobbies- My blog

Me time- sitting and writing my blog.

Pain today- head ace!

Complaints- it's to cold!

Excited about- my new cozy earmuffs.

Worries- won't get everything done.

Loving- My baby

Looking forward to- Dinner time.

Need to do- too many things.

Feeling- Tired, but cozy 

Can't handle- Fried food 

Want- Maybe more coffee, and a taffy!!

Mood- Anxious

Baby's size- About 16 inch

Baby's weight- About 4.5 pounds

Baby's mood- Calm, come to think of it a little bit to calm.

Baby like- It's a new cousin, baby leora! 

Baby doesn't like- Spicy food

Baby loves- MOMMY AND DADDY!!

 

I'll promise I'll have a better one for you tomorrow! 

How awesome are my earmuffs!!

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profile!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

What to pack in your hospital bag!

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

Tips to eating right!

Some times trying to eat right during pregnancy, can be a real struggle, I'm hear to help, with some helpful tips. When I go grocery shopping, I buy everything I want to eat at that moment, and sometimes forget the things I actually went to the store for. I spy chips... add to cart, oh that chocolate looks good, I haven't tried it yet.... add to cart. Sounds familiar? People always say "Don't go to the grocery store when your hungry, because you'll just buy junk." It's true, when you go to the store hungry rather then full you come out with extra food and unwanted junk. Then you have it in your house, and it just stares at you every time you open the fridge or pantry, and of course you eat it. 

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! (Although to be honest, supper is for me) By eating a good breakfast you actually will feel fuller through out the day, which will help you cut down in all those extra snacks. By eating a good breakfast is not only for your benefit, it's for your baby's as we'll. If your one of those lucky ones and sleeps 6-8 hours a night, without waking up in middle of the night hungry, and getting a snack. That's 6-8 hours that your baby didn't eat either, and it needs those extra calories in the morning that it missed in that time. 

As if we're not planing enough thing right now, we now should try and plan our meals too. Making a weekly menu of you meals is a good way to plan, it's also a great shopping list. When your shopping try getting only the things on your list. When leaving the house take a healthy snack and water, so if your out and get hungry you don't have to stop and grab food or snacks. 

Did you know, that dehydration is misinterpreted as hunger? So drink, drink, drink!! Those 8 ounces everyone has been telling you to drink, is more important then you think. You can be eating everything right, but if your not drinking, you'll still be getting hungry. 

Does this ring a bell, "Oh, your eating for two you can eat whatever you want! Your so lucky! Here have a another cookie!" NO! NO! AND NO! 

A: You are not eating for two! Your baby is tiny, it does not need the extra amount of food as one whole person! Depending who you are, your doctor would say only 200-300 extra calories a day. At one of my appointment I actually joked and said I'm eating for two, and my doctor was so annoyed. She was like " No you are not! It's the biggest misconception about pregnancy! Do not think that, you can not gain that much weight!" I don't advise you saying it to your doctor they may get just annoyed.

B: People love to give pregnant women food, especially fattening food that they wish they can eat. They think it's ok for us to eat all day, and to gain lots of extra weight, and of course they think we're eating for two. So next time someone offers you food, try not to slap them, just say politely "No thanx I'm full." 

Hope these few tips can help you, I know I have to work on them as well. I don't plan my meals, I don't go grocery shopping when I'm full, I don't take snack. I end up buying snacks and junk, and when I'm out and get hungry, I stop at a dunkin or Starbucks. Yummy, but a bad habit!! 

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profiles!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

What to pack in your hospital bag!

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

Moms, pat yourself on the back!!!!

To all you moms out there, give yourself a huge pat on your back, you all deserve it! Over this weekend I got a little preview of what after birth would be like. The amount of time, energy and people it takes to take care of one tiny little thing. You moms are something's special, being in physical pain, emotionally drain and extremely tired, no matter how much you slept, you take care of your babies with such love and care. 

When your babies cry for no reason, they are just crying because their a baby, and you feel so hopeless. All you wanna do is cry with them, because you care so much. No matter what physical pain the birth gave you, has no effect on your love for your baby what so ever. I find it amazing how moms can put all that past them to physical care for there baby. I wonder if it even crosses your mind, how all the pain and tiredness is truly because of giving birth to your baby. But yet they are never the ones blamed for any of it.

I am now excited to be mom, to know and understand the true meaning of love with out benefits. But I am now also scared and nervous, how will I cope with the pain, the tiredness, and everything else after birth has to offer. Will I be able to nurse/physical provided food for my child? Will I wake up from it crying right away? What's if I don't hear it and it's crying for a few minutes already? Will I need the extra help from family, and maybe even a nurse to help?

So many questions and concerns, so many worried and fears. But it all comes with an amazing advantage, I i'yh get a beautiful baby out of it!!!! And the word mom, mother or mommy has a whole new meaning!! 

I love you mom! Thanx for providing and caring for me! 

  

Imagin you child saying this to you!! All you moms are amazing!!

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profiles!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

What to pack in your hospital bag!

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

Labor and delivery terms! Part 3 of Lamaze class

Recap!

Breathing- good, and not the only thing taught in Lamaze class.

Lamaze class- great with the right teacher, also known as a birth class!

My Lamaze teaches mechanism was, for us to be knowledgeable with the terms used during delivery. So we can make an informed decision (if we have a choice) of what is medically necessary and what can be held off. She explained to us how the medically field and medication, is there incase our body is unable to do something it should naturally. 

We were thought all the terms we would need to know during labor and delivery. We learnt different medication and their function, why we would need them and why wouldn't we. 

Everyone always so nervous how will they know when to go to the hospital? What's if I don't make it there on time? How will I know when to push? How will I know how to push? She explained how our inner wisdom guides us through birth, just like we know how to breath well know how to push. 

She helped us understand 3 different  stages of labor, there is early labor, active labor and transition. She told us what's happening during that stage, what it may feel like, and what we can do during that time period. 

Do you know how to count your contractions? You start and end the clock every time your contractions start and end, write it down and do math. Calculate how long the contraction lasted, and how many minutes apart it was, from the start of the previous contraction. Math is getting you nervous? Don't worry, there's an app for that! Download a contraction app and push start and finish by every contraction and it will take care of the rest. The app may use the terms duration and interval, duration is how long the contraction was for. Interval is how many minutes apart it was.

The magic number when counting is 5,1,1 that's when it's time to head to the hospital, (if you haven't already gone) When your contraction are 5 minutes apart from each other and they last for a minute long, and were consistent in the past hour. 

 (Someone's actual contractions from a contraction app) 

I'm not ganna give you a crash course on Lamaze class, and all the terms and definitions, I'll be here all day. But I'll go through the terms and its your homework (if you want) to know the answered to my questions!

What is early labor, active labor and transitioning?

What is Mucous plug and the bloody show? What do you do when it happens? 

If your water breaks what do you do? What's if it's greenish brownish coloring? 

What does the world meconium mean? 

When is IV needed? 

What is a fetal monitor? Why do you need it?

What is oxytocin? 

What is potassium? Why would I need it? Is it necessary? 

What is an Epidural? How is it preformed? Why would I want it? Why would I need it? 

What's Amniohook? Why is it used? Does it hurt? 

Episiotomy, what is it? Is it routine Why would I need it? 

What are forceps? Why would I need it?

What is a vacuum extraction? Why would I need that? 

What does dilated, effacement and station mean? What numbers are good?  

What's spontaneous or direct pushing mean? 

What is considered a natural birth? 

Cesarean/c-section delivery? What is it? Why would you need one? 

Sorry are you very overwhelmed? Do you know all or most of the terms used? If not, open a book and start reading or.....take a Lamaze class!!!!! 

This picture is showing the station of the baby! 

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Profiles!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

What to pack in your hospital bag!

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!

My experience! Part 2 of Lamaze class!

I started talking about Lamaze class in a previous post, (Title- breath! hoo...hee...hoo...hee) and how most people think it's all about breathing. I mentioned how, yes, we did discuss breathing, but only for a short amount of time. The previous post covers mostly what we discussed about breathing, we then also practiced a little in class.

I would describe Lamaze class as a birth class, we went through labor and delivery in detail. (Which I will get into more in detail in another post) Since I read the books and I read a lot more then I should on this topic, I thought I would know everything in class and it would just be a way for me to verbally hear it. But hearing it verbally made it so much more real for me, and made me visualize it in a way the books haven't been able to do. But there was also so much informative information that I learnt, that I would have not been able to get out of a book. 

My Lamaze teacher, beside for teaching Lamaze class, is also a doula. Besides for experiencing her own births and just teaching us text book style, she experienced many many other births and was really able to give us versatile information on how the experience of birth will be. Yes you can go online and read peoples crazy brith story and you can go and ask friends and family, but  there answer will probably either sound like a traumatizing experience and how labor was hours and pushing was crazy. Some will even make it sound like a blood bath, and make it seem gory and quite nauseating. Or some weird story how there epidural didn't work and they totally felt pressure. (which actually is completely normal) You'll have some say how they fought with the nurses, some will even yell. And maybe if your lucky someone will give you a positive answer and say how amazing it was.

We all know birth is not something that's easy breezy and how yes it is painful, but why does every one seem to tell us over, and over, and over how crazy giving birth is? Is there noting else to birth beside for how painful and tiring it is? 

One of things I got out of the Lamaze class, is that brith is not only a painful and dreadful experience. Giving birth/labor is giving brith to a new life in the world, you/I am creating a miracle right then and there in front of you. Something/someone that was 'living' inside of you, is about to enter the world and miraculously able to live out here. How is that not beautiful/amazing? Yes 100% it is no easy process, but we know that, everyone tells us that, where are all those story's about how beautiful it was?

Because my Lamaze teach is a doula, (and because of her positive personality) she was able to give over that side of their story. Maybe it is because she wasn't going through the pain, that she is able to give great insight and really make us feel other emotions toward birth, other then scares and pain. But how come when you ask the fathers the experience, it's sound just as bad and sometimes even worst then the one the mother told. 

I know I haven't gone through birth yet, and I seem all positive about it, (so not like me right? Usually I'm complaint to you guys) and I'm probably in for a major reality check when I am on labor. But why not go into labor with a positive feeling towards it, that baby gotta come out some how right! Being positive and feeling excited other then scared to go through the pain, isn't going to make the pain less painful. But when did being positive ever cause harm, it can only help and will make you feel the pain in a different way. 

For me Lamaze class was amazing, could be a personality thing, but I recommend it. Everyone take something else out of a class and with the right teacher there is no harm in taking one. 

I haven't even got to what we actually learnt in class, but that will have to be in a different post. 

The Lamaze class I took, brushy Mayer is amazing! 

Here's what to look for in up coming posts!

Lamaze class.

Profiles!

What not to say to pregnant women! 

How is your health?

What to pack in your hospital bag!

Baby registries!  

Babies heart beat!

Interviews!

Product reviews!

The advantage of exercise!

and much much more!

Happy Motherhood!!