Preggie Pals: Your Pregnancy, Your Way

Mothers who give birth at baby-friendly hospitals and birthing centers are more likely to exclusively breastfeed their babies and accomplish their personal breastfeeding goals. What does the term "baby-friendly" actually mean? What are the 10 steps that need to be completed in order to receive this important distinction? And what type of care can you expect to receive when delivering at one of the...

The Blessingway ceremony is growing in popularity. This alternative to a baby shower is an opportunity for experienced moms to celebrate their pregnancy and the birth experience they plan to have with the people who love and support them the most. So, what are some of the benefits and what options do you have when planning this important event? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/...

You think you're having contractions, so it's off to the hospital you go! So, what should you expect when you arrive? At what point are you provided with a labor and delivery room? How many people will be caring for you as you await your baby's big debut? And what typically happens after your baby is born? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've been trying to conceive a baby, but not having much luck. Could there be a medical issue preventing you from getting pregnant? What percentage of couples seek fertility treatments to help in this process? What does a basic infertility evaluation look like? Plus, do you really have to wait a year before seeking professional help? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Planning and saving for a new baby can be a challenge, especially if you don't know exactly what you'll need. With each new day that passes your wallet is shrinking. What are the most common mistakes new parents make? What are some smart ways to make your money last? We'll reveal some practical ways to help you save money throughout pregnancy and into parenthood.  Learn more about your ad choices....

Let's face it. There's a lot of pressure to find the perfect baby name. What are the current national trends when it comes to naming your newborn? What are the most common struggles parents have in choosing their names? Is there a specific formula you should follow when it comes to naming siblings and twins? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you know when labor is "the real thing" and not a false alarm? This is the question many pregnant women ask themselves, whether it's their first baby or their fifth. Since every pregnancy is different, what are some warning signs that indicate you're probably in labor? What do real contractions feel like as opposed to Braxton Hicks? How should you time your contractions? And what the heck i...

Pregnancy is a remarkable and transformative experience, but it comes with its unique set of challenges, and anemia is one that deserves our attention. In this episode, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and potential risks associated with anemia during pregnancy. We'll also discuss practical tips for prevention and management, from dietary changes to the role of supplements. Learn more about you...

When pregnant, being on bedrest may seem like a much-deserved break. However, bedrest can also be challenging. What are the main reasons women are put on bedrest? What are some of the potential complications of bedrest? And does it really work? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a lot of unknowns when it comes to being pregnant, and you may not be 100% comfortable asking your doctor all the questions you have buzzing around that pregnancy brain of yours. Will you really "poo" when you push? What's happening with your boobs? And will you ever fit back into your pre-pregnancy clothes again? So, today we're asking moms for their honest feedback on some of your most c...

Dilating to a full 10 centimeters is important if you're hoping for a vaginal birth. And having cervical scar tissue from procedures such as an IUD or LEEP procedure can prevent that from happening. So, what exactly is cervical scar tissue and how do you know if you have it? Plus, key questions to ask your medical care provider to make sure they know how to handle a possible issue during labor and...

Being plus-size and pregnant in today's world can be challenging. Still, overweight women all over the world are giving birth to healthy and happy babies every day. Why does your weight matter during pregnancy? What are the risks associated with being plus size and pregnant- and are these increased percentages really that significant?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s no secret that pregnancy takes a toll on the mother’s body. Most parts of your body are probably getting bigger including your breasts. But, there are many other changes that your breasts are experiencing as they prepare to nurture the little one. I’m Robin Kaplan, an international Board certified Lactation Consultant, owner of the Sand Diego Breastfeeding Center and host of the Boob Group, P...

Congratulations! You just found out you're pregnant. So, who do you tell the big news? How do you tell them and when? Today our panelists share what worked for them and we'll explore some fun ways to share your pregnancy online!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes birth plans don't unfold the way we want, and that may mean more medical intervention such as a cesarean. If a cesarean is needed, how can you overcome initial feelings of frustration and disappointment? After your birth, what key steps can help guide you toward self-forgiveness? Today moms who have had cesareans share their personal experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me...

Exercise during pregnancy is important, but working out when you already have little ones can seem impossible. Today we're exploring how you can accomplish your personal fitness goals simply by wearing your baby or pushing a stroller. What exercises are the most effective? What precautions should you take to keep both you and baby safe? And what are the benefits to working out with other moms? Lea...

Being pregnant while serving in the military can be challenging, but there are also some great resources to help support you and your growing family. What policies do you need to be aware of before, during and after your pregnancy? What can you expect regarding prenatal care? And what options do you have for delivering your baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your labor and delivery is three hours or less, it's called precipitous labor. And while the thought of having a short labor may sound appealing, there are also concerns. What triggers precipitous labor within the body? Can you slow it down? And what are the potential risks for both mom and baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prenatal Yoga classes are growing in popularity, but is it right for you? What can you expect should you decide to take a prenatal yoga class? How can it better prepare you for labor and delivery? Plus, the benefits of meeting other mamas-to-be!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life gets more busy when your little one finally makes her grand debut. Why not celebrate your pending arrival with a little rest and relaxation? They’re called babymoons and they’re growing in popularity. So, where should you go on your pregnancy vacation? What are some great activities to try- even when you’re in your third trimester? And how can you save a few bucks in the process? Learn more a...

You've heard of contractions during labor and delivery, but what about back labor? What exactly is back labor, what does it feel like and what causes it to happen? Plus, we've got tips on how to prevent it and methods to naturally manage it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More and more women are opting to have their babies as natural as possible, and for some, that includes having an unassisted childbirth. But what exactly happens when there's no medical help nearby? How can you better prepare yourself for this childbirth experience? We'll hear from two women who had their babies without any assistance- one planned and one was a surprise. Learn more about your ad c...

Many traditional medications aren't safe during pregnancy, so what options do you have for relief? Today we're learning all about homeopathy and how it can naturally help treat common ailments many women experience while pregnant. How is homeopathy different than other types of treatments? How do you know which remedy to take? And how do you consume them? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me...

An ultrasound is your first opportunity to see your baby face-to-face. It can also provide important information about the growth and development of your child. But, are ultrasounds really safe? What types of ultrasounds can you expect throughout your pregnancy? Plus, the difference between 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasounds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every day we take our prenatal vitamins to ensure our babies are getting all the nutrients they need. However, more than 80% of pregnant women are still deficient in Vitamin D, which benefits the body in many ways including disease prevention and proper growth. Who's at risk for this deficiency? How do you know if you're deficient and what can you do to boost your levels? Learn more about your ad...