Preggie Pals: Your Pregnancy, Your Way

Couples typically hire a professional photographer to preserve life's special moments, such your wedding today. So, why not hire a professional birth photographer to capture your little one's arrival? What exactly do birth photographers do, and how can they help make your labor and delivery experience more enjoyable? Plus, how do you go about finding a photographer that's right for you? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even if you've never had diabetes, you could be among the 18% of women who develop a form of it about halfway through their pregnancy. While gestational diabetes is not a permanent condition, it does impact both mother and baby. How is gestational diabetes diagnosed? What are your treatment options? And how can it impact your labor and delivery? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Determining your due date is one of the first things that happens at your initial prenatal appointment. What are the common methods used when figuring out this date? What happens if your exact due date can't be determined and how can it impact future treatment? Plus, what happens if your due date comes and goes and your baby still hasn't arrived? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a holistic approach to childbirth that helps mothers reclaim and celebrate the spiritual, emotional, and psychological aspects of birth as a right of passage. How can this method, called "Birthing From Within", help you throughout your labor and delivery experience? How does it differ from other childbirth preparation methods? And what can you expect should you decide to take a class? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pregnancy is supposed to be a happy time, but that joy can easily be overshadowed by prenatal anxiety and depression. How do you know if you're developing these conditions during your pregnancy? What are the main risk factors or warning signs? And how can you get the support you need to overcome it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you picture labor and delivery, do you imagine a natural and more relaxed experience? Do you picture yourself soaring through surges by releasing fear and pain and just focusing on what your body was created to do? Hypnobirthing might be the perfect fit! What are the principles behind this childbirth preparation method, and what's needed to be successful? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the moment we find out we’re pregnant… we’re told we need to take these- prenatal vitamins. And it makes sense. We know our bodies are working overtime to make a tiny human. But what are these vitamins actually doing for us? What should we be looking for in a prenatal vitamin? And perhaps more importantly, what should we try to avoid? Today we’re learning all about the ingredients inside prenatal vitamins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your body goes through many changes during pregnancy. While these changes may be necessary for the growth and development of your baby, it's sometimes hard to feel good about yourself during the process. What exactly does it mean to have a healthy body image? Why is this important- especially during pregnancy? Plus, our mamas weigh in on aspects of their own bodies that bothered them the most during pregnancy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a bundle of joy on the way, which means it's time to plan for your baby shower! But with so many choices to make, it's easy for the planning process to become more frustrating than fun. What are the baby shower basics? Plus, what type of baby shower is best for you? We'll explore some tips and tricks for celebrating your special day with family and friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your due date is quickly approaching and you're still trying to figure out what to pack in your hospital bag? So, what are the essentials, and what can you essentially leave at home? We've asked some experienced moms to help us create a checklist of what belongs in your hospital bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With more babies being born by Cesarean section, a new movement is campaigning to create a more natural experience for both mom and baby. It's known as the "Natural Cesarean" or "Family-Centered Cesarean". So, what exactly happens during this procedure? How can it improve the bonding between you and your newborn? And why are some medical providers against it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us dream of one day having a family of our own, but for some prospective parents, giving birth to their own biological child just isn’t a possibility. Every day surrogate mothers are helping these families turn their dreams into reality. So, what does it take to become a surrogate mom, and is it right for you? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are tons of pregnancy forums online. Finding these forums isn't the hard part, but trying to understand what people are trying to say can be quite a challenge. Why are these forums full of acronyms? What are the most common acronyms used during pregnancy and what do they actually mean? We're decoding this secret language so you can be better prepared when seeking help online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having a miscarriage or an early infant loss can be isolating and emotionally difficult for a family. How can you reach out and get the support you need? How do pregnant women and their partners process these experiences differently? If this happens to someone you love, what are some helpful ways to show your support and demonstrate that you care? Moms who have experienced this loss firsthand share their advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've all seen the images on television and in the movies. A woman in labor screams her head off as she's pushing her baby through the birth canal. We've been trained to think this experience is going to be painful. So, what are your pain management options? What are epidurals and spinals and when are they used? What additional medications can help take the edge off while allowing you to stay mobile throughout labor and delivery? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each pregnancy is different, so how are we supposed to know if the symptoms we are currently feeling are "normal"? How can you tell if there's something really wrong? Today we'll expose the top 10 reasons when you'll want to pick up the phone and call your doctor or midwife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most pregnancies result in healthy babies. However, moms-to-be are offered prenatal testing as a way to determine if there are any known abnormalities in the growth and development of their unborn child. What are the benefits and risks of prenatal testing? What tests are you offered and when? And how can genetic counseling help you through the process? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've reached the end of your pregnancy. Your due date has passed and still no baby. Fortunately, there are some safe non-invasive ways to give your baby a gentle nudge down the birth canal. When should you consider self-induction and what methods work best? Today we're separating fact from fiction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your baby is on the way, so making your baby registry is a top priority. What should you consider when selecting the best breast pump for you and your baby? What are the benefits of a manual hand pump versus an electric pump? What other features should you be looking for? Plus, additional accessories to help make your pumping experience as pleasant as possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As an expectant parent, there are so many terms to learn and new “feelings” to identify in pregnancy. What does the term “the baby has dropped” really mean? What does it feel like? How do you know what’s going on? And what does this mean for your labor and delivery? Learn more about the signs your baby has dropped in pregnancy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think you're pregnant? Nausea is one of the first pregnancy symptoms you may notice, and it could stay with you for a while. So, what actually causes morning sickness? What types of foods and vitamins help make you feel better? Plus, our panelists share how they coped with morning sickness during their pregnancies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're in the process of picking out your dream team when it comes to pregnancy and birthing your baby. But what about picking a pediatrician to help care for your baby? That's right! Choosing your pediatrician is highly recommended prior to your baby's birth! How do you find a pediatrician that's right for your family? What important questions should you ask them? And what type of care can you expect shortly after delivering your baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You were planning for a vaginal birth, but then you learn your baby is breech. Fetal position is often overlooked until late in the pregnancy, so what are your options? Should you try and get your baby to turn? Can you deliver a breech baby vaginally? What are the concerns for both mom and baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sudden bursts of energy have led you to clean out the fridge, sweep out the garage and reorganize your sock drawer. The good news is, you're not alone. What exactly is the nesting instinct during pregnancy? Who gets it? And how can we effectively use it without driving our partners (and other people around us) completely crazy? Plus, one of our listeners from Maine joins us as a special guest! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're mid-pregnancy and you need to change your medical care provider. Eeek! There are a million reasons why. Perhaps your insurance changed, you moved or you're simply unhappy with your current OB/GYN or Midwife. So, what happens next? How do you tactfully "break up" with your current provider and how do you (quickly) find someone new who can help you? What about transferring medical records and billing? Our heads are spinning just thinking about it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In addition to caring for an amazing newborn baby, your postpartum period will almost certainly bring more stress and challenges than you anticipated. Preparing a postpartum plan can help make this transition into parenthood a bit smoother. So, what should you consider when creating your postpartum plan? When should you create it, and who should be part of the process? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your first baby was born via c-section and with this time you're hoping to have a vaginal birth, or VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). You may have heard about some of the risks, but what does it all actually mean? Are VBACs riskier than having a repeat c-section? What factors should you consider before making this big decision for both you and your baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sex during pregnancy is different for every woman. You may have a huge sex drive... or the thought of your partner giving you the entire bed while he sleeps on the couch may sound more appealing. If you do want to have sex, you may be concerned about your overall comfort. Is sex during pregnancy different than "regular sex"? What changes can you expect? What positions work best for a growing bump, and what should you avoid altogether? Yep, this one's explicit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've already had a baby and you're pregnant again, you may be looking for a great way to celebrate your pregnancy and prepare for the emotional journey in front of you. Sacred Pregnancy is a new movement focused on the bonds of sisterhood during pregnancy. What typically happens during these classes? Plus, the benefits of incorporating artwork and journaling to enhance your overall experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've experienced miscarriage or stillbirth, you may have concerns about becoming pregnant again. But there is hope. How do you know when you're ready to start trying again? What type of emotions may you experience with a subsequent pregnancy? And how do you process it all? Today we're talking with three women who have experienced loss but have also experienced successful pregnancies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're planning to breastfeed your baby once he arrives. But what happens if your breastfeeding experience doesn't happen as perfectly as you planned? How can a board-certified lactation consultant help you on your journey? What services does a lactation consultant typically provide? What are some of the benefits in adding one to your team of health care providers? Plus, how to find a lactation consultant who best fits you and your breastfeeding needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know sleep is important during pregnancy. Not getting enough can cause drastic changes both mentally and emotionally. What are some signs of sleep deprivation? How can you overcome sleep disorders while pregnant? Plus, simple tips to help you and your baby get the restful sleep you deserve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pregnancy is an amazing time in your life- filled with lots of new changes. What exactly is happening to you and your body during your second trimester? How long is this trimester and what stages of growth and development is your new baby experiencing? When will morning sickness subside? At what point can you learn your baby's gender? Plus, the flutter of your baby's first kick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Losing a baby- no matter how early in pregnancy- is very real and so is the grief that comes with it. Today we'll hear three women discuss their personal experiences when it comes to miscarriage and stillbirth. How were they able to cope with this loss? What was the reaction from family and friends? And what type of resources did they find most helpful? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having more than one child can make pregnancy a bit more challenging. When and how do you tell your other children that you're pregnant? How involved should they be in your pregnancy? And how do you have enough energy to physically take care of your kids while growing another one? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you're pregnant, your body is working overtime and you may feel more sleepy or tired than usual. However, the larger your belly gets, the more uncomfortable you may be when you lay down to rest? What are the best positions for sleeping while pregnant? What modifications can you make to your environment so you can get the sleep you need? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many decisions to make when it comes to the birth of your baby, including whether to cut the umbilical cord right away or to delay cord clamping. What are the benefits as well as concerns of delaying the clamping and cutting of your baby's umbilical cord? Is it an option for childbirth options such as waterbirths? And why are we hearing so much about it nowadays? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes the journey to motherhood isn’t exactly how we planned. We all hope for an uneventful pregnancy, and it’s important to know there are steps we can take to minimize potential risks, such as the risk of birth defects. And that’s why Preggie Pals is proud to partner with the March of Dimes for this very special episode. Today, you’re going to meet Dani. Dani and her husband, Will, have had quite the parenting journey. There were lows and there were highs… and she’s here to share her story with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Running while pregnant is a controversial topic for many non-runners. But running while pregnant can actually be quite beneficial to both mom and baby. What should you expect if you choose to run throughout your pregnancy? Can you run during all three trimesters? And what are some great ways to monitor your body to ensure you and baby are safe? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're planning a vaginal birth, you'll want to minimize the amount of injury caused by the birth of your baby. Episiotomies, tearing and perineal massage are all options that can create more room for your baby to pass through the birth canal. When is each option typically used and how effective are they? What is the recovery process like for episiotomies versus tearing? And why are episiotomies considered taboo these days? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For nine months, our bodies are doing everything possible to protect our babies… and then they’re born. And as parents, we still do everything we can to keep them safe. Including preserving their stem cells at birth through cord blood and cord tissue. But, what is this process actually like? How can it help? And are families really seeing results? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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