Spinning a baby.

Breech.  Not what I wanted to hear from my midwife at 34-weeks pregnant.  But that is what I heard when I was pregnant with my first, Bodhi.  My husband has a terrible sense of direction, so, we blamed it on him for  passing that trait. 

At 37 weeks, I opted for an external cephalic version.  A technique typically done by an experienced OB in a monitored hospital setting.  Fortunately, it was successful.  I was able to birth him naturally.  Although, he remained somewhat backwards...he never budged from a posterior presentation and labor lasted 36 hours.  

I must mention that before giving the "version" a try, I tried positioning exercises, moxibustion, and The Webster Technique done by a chiropractor. 

Many women have found success with the Spinning Babies  techniques.  Articles, essays, and videos are available on their website.  It is a wonderful resource and is worth trying if you find yourself with a breech or transverse baby in your second trimester/early third trimester.  Honestly, it's worth trying to maintain an optimal baby position throughout your pregnancy! 

Be Well, 

MLC

Bump-Out

It's your prerogative. But, why hide your beautiful bump?  My mom recently told me about how some viewed pregnancy bumps in 1977 (when I was cooking in her uterus).  An individual she respected, loved, and admired showed outright disgust when she showed up in public with a t-shirt on that was form-fitting to her elegant pregnancy curves.  Yikes!  Thank God times and views (well, some) have changed.  Why hide the miracle.  Let go and let it out!  Be proud of what your amazing body is capable of...and your growing baby! 

I'll just go ahead and "embarrass" myself and bump-out.  I hope you do too! 

Be well, 

MLC

Just for fun!

When I was pregnant, I exercised almost every day. My workouts were not difficult, but I was consistently active and it made me feel good. I worried what pregnancy would do to my body, but was advised by several friends that has already been through childbirth that "9 months on, 9 months off". While that may be true for some, others may get in shape faster, some slower. Be patient with yourself and focus on your health and the health of your baby rather than how tight your abs are. I wish I had taken my time and not rushed to get back into my workout program. You are only pregnant for a short time in the grand scheme of things. Enjoy it!

BHW

Pregnancy Brain: Huh?

Based on scientific research and current data...the jury is still out.  However, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist or that it is totally in our heads. 

Sleep deprivation, stress of pregnancy, joy of pregnancy, coping with major life changes, hormonal fluctuations that can cause depression, and the need to now participate in extreme-multitasking all play their part in affecting a pregnant women's cognitive function and short-term memory. 

So, there you go.  Have patience, y'all!  We will eventually adjust and end up being a better version of ourselves!

Be Well,
MLC

Feeling Beautiful In All Your Maternal Glory

By the time you get as far into your pregnancy as my fellow blogger and friend, Marisa,   sometimes it's all you can do just to get a shower in during the day. I had the opportunity to photograph my beautiful friend and unborn child. It really is true what they say; she was absolutely glowing. Sometimes just putting on a pretty dress and having someone do your hair and makeup is just what the Dr ordered. Take time to celebrate yourself and your unborn baby. I wish I would have taken more pictures of myself while pregnant. Feeling Beautiful, even for a moment, is so worth it.

Be beautiful and be well! 

BHW

Let freedom ring...

Happy 4th of July!  I laugh as I think of the words freedom and motherhood used in the same sentence.  When a person becomes a parent, freedom is no longer ;).  However, we live in a country that offers freedom, choices, and female empowerment.  How wonderful!  Privacy and freedom might be a thing of our single days and even our partnered lives withou children.  But rejoice in our other freedoms and the unconditional love we feel as parents!

Be well,

MLC

Diastasis Recti: Kinesio Taping

Looks weird, feels weird, and anyone who does might possibly be weird.  But, you'd be a fool to not try it if it is recommended.  

A month or so ago I wrote about diastasis recti, which is a separation of the rectus abdominis.  It is a fairly common occurrence among women that become pregnant.  Unfortunately, many women never recognize the extent of their separation and suffer its negative side effects without realizing it can be remedied and even "fixed" in the postpartum period.  

I recently worked with an impressive team of two women in the physical therapy department at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston Salem, NC.    After a thorough evaluation and discussion regarding a treatment plan, they suggested that using kinesio tape might provide much needed support during pregnancy and for a short period of time postpartum until I am able to work the muscles to regain strength without creating further separation.  In addition to providing abdominal support, I noticed that my back, neck, hips, and legs felt lighter and as if they had to work less to keep me standing up straight.  WINNING!  

I have since learned how to tape myself and can find it in local sports stores or of course, on Amazon.com.  If you have more questions regarding kinesiotherapy taping techniques or diastasis recti, please send me a message and I'd be happy to go into further detail.  

The weird looking tape on my right leg is a technique used to help with lymphatic flow.  (Due to a weakened pelvic floor, my right leg seems to swells and ache more than I'd like to admit.)

One more quick note, this taping technique is NOT similar to pregnancy support belts that can be bought at most baby stores.  Belts support weight.  Taping supports and aids muscles so that they can do what they do best: stay strong and functional.

Be well,

MLC

Connecting with your fetus.

“Pregnancy is a process that invites you to surrender to the unseen force behind all life.”
– Judy Ford

What a wonderful thought?!  Unfortunately, my life has been lived hurriedly, over-tasked, and lacking a sense of presence during this pregnancy.  My two young kiddos keep me on the move and my husband's work schedule, not to mention my own, continues to be rewarding yet grueling.  In addition, I am back in school and constantly feeling behind.  Nonetheless, I try to make my children and husband feel loved and whatever is leftover, I give to other family members and friends.  But what about baby 3 that is in my uterus?  Oopsie whoopsie. 

Whether you are pregnant, adopting, or using a surrogate, you can and should take time to connect with your baby.  I'd bet money on the fact that life isn't just full of coincidences and matter.  Consider using your heart to connect with your baby.  Give love.  Give excitement and acceptance.  And then let your heart fill up.  EMBRACE THE UNKNOWN.

Be well and be present in your journey,
MLC

Healthy gains during pregnancy.

"Gains during pregnancy aren't just those lb's you see climbing when you step on the scale.  Women gain a sense of strength, love, andpatience during those nine months.  However, our increasing weight seems to be the only thing people talk about or want to talk about.  And well, I just fell into that trap when I read the following: 

"Blac Chyna isn’t worried about pregnancy weight gain.
In a video posted to her Snapchat account, the 28-year-old model and fiancée of Rob Kardashian takes viewers through her entire process of cooking a delicious meal, then gets candid about her extra maternity pounds.
           “Like no lie, my goal is to gain 100 lbs. this pregnancy,” she admits while munching on a    chip. “I’mma tear it up, and then I’mma snap back.”

I'm really trying to keep my mouth shut.  But, I can't.  Gain what you want, Girl.  Be confident and beautiful.  We need more women like you!  So many women are fearful of looking "undesirable".  Body image issues can spiral into depression, eating disorders, and in some case suicide.  However, since I am a passionate advocate promoting optimal health and wellness; but, more importantly, I hope to empower individuals to take responsibility for their own health and wellness, I gotta say, "Be proud at any size but please know that by gaining too much weight during pregnancy you are potentially harming yourself and your fetus."  Done.  I said it.  And If needed, I can share various links to the research that supports this statement. 
Just one possible negative effect of gaining too much weight during pregnancy would be gestational diabetes.  Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of developing pre-eclampsia and cause your fetus to have high levels of blood glucose.  At birth your baby could then experience low blood sugar levels, respiratory distress syndrome, and sadly, have a higher chance of dying after birth. 
For more info on gestational diabetes and weight gain, please refer to these links for reliable and credible info:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/Diabetes/gestational-diabetes/Pages/index.aspx
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072759/

There is such a special sweetness in being able to participate in creation."
– Pamela S. Nadav

Enjoy co-creating.  Please take care of yourselves.  Be proud of who you are because who you are has nothing to do with what you look like.  And please take care of your health and your baby.  We care. 

Be well on your journey,
MLC

Feeding choices

Here I sit pumping….and dumping. Yes, you read that right. Dumping. It sucks. I have recently had to start on an antibiotic that I was not happy about Liza getting any of. So I made the decision to stop breastfeeding for this week and possibly for the foreseeable future. I am so torn though. We have all heard the phrase “breast is best”. And it is true. There is nothing that compares to the way our body makes milk that is specifically tailored to our babies' needs at whatever gestation they are born. Breast milk truly is liquid gold. And right now all my gold is being poured down a sink. It is heartbreaking. But yet I know this is what is best for my baby right now. Exposing her to potential harmful side effects of a medicine that does not need to be in her little system would not be fair. And so here I am.

While I am doing this I am giving Liza formula. She takes a bottle from us all so well and she is happy and healthy. I am in no means promoting formula over breast milk; but,I take heart in the fact that she is surviving this transition. I want all you moms out there to know that any way we choose to feed our baby is going to be ok. If you end up not being able to breastfeed or you try it and it's not successful, that is okay. Do not beat yourself up. Your baby will get her needs met. And for all you mothers to be out there, breastfeeding truly is a wonderful experience. Sure there are tough times and it is not always easy but the bond you get providing the sole source of nutrition for your baby through the first months of her life is unreal. It is so special.

But as a nurse, I have been at the bedside with many patients who have tried valiantly to make breastfeeding work and have not been able to. Whatever the circumstances may be, there are certain situations that make breastfeeding difficult and women feel guilt and sadness when it doesn't work out. There are also people like me that breastfed successfully but then encountered their own health issues or some other reasons that have forced them to stop. No matter when, it is difficult to make the decision to quit. It doesn't matter if it has been two days or two years. I have seen the heartache it brings and I guess what I'm doing here is reassuring myself while I also reassure every other woman out there who chooses to formula feed their baby. I just want every mom to feel loved and supported and not judged because of the way they have chosen to feed their baby. We are all in this together only trying to do what is best for our children at the time. And even now while I feed Liza bottles of formula she reaches up and touches my face just like she did when she breast fed and I feel reassured that she knows I am her mom and I am doing the best I can. She loves me because I am giving her my love and my all. That is all any baby really needs.

Too much?

Yikes!  Looking at this stresses me out.  I'm grateful for ultrasounds and dopplers and all the things that make it possible to know how things are coming along with our precious little miracles.  However, at what point does it all become too much?  At what point is pregnancy treated as an illness?  What do YOU think?  WE WANNA HEAR FROM YOU!

Be Well,
MLC

Maternal stress may be a positive thing for the fetus...

Huh?  Haven't we always heard that distress during pregnancy is bad?  I'm certain its been passed down from one generation to the next for thousands of years.  In addition, highly respected and published research suggests that stress is all but positive and should be avoided.  In 2016, is it truly possible to go through pregnancy without multiple bouts of stress not just monthly but daily?  Perhaps, it's all about a mindset?

I've been living with a pretty big dose of stressors over the past year and thought I'd do a quick search on the topic.  Yup, lots of bad stuff found but in the midst of it all I found this study: Prenatal stress could enhance protective mechanisms of babies.

It's definitely worth reading over.  And it makes me wonder if we should keep this in mind and recognize its potential or just wait for more studies.  I'm laughing because "studies" are constantly being published and what one says is "true" the next disputes it with more "truth".  Remember Thalidomide?

Too much of anything is bad.  Not enough of others is bad.  I guess the bottom line is we all need to do what is right for ourselves and to without a doubt LISTEN to our bodies.  Sometimes our minds choose to ignore our bodies whether hints are subtle, unnoticed, or screaming.  STOP and LISTEN.  You might hear some of your own wisdom.  Don't let yourself reach a point of no return when it comes to how stress is affecting you.  Sure, it is ok in small does...it keeps us motivated!  But keep it in small does and be well on your pregnancy journey.

MLC

Migraines and headaches during pregnancy

You've all heard it. 

• "Lie in a dark room and if tolerated, take acetaminophen." 
• "Many women see an improvement in migraine occurrence during pregnancy.  But some suffer from a worsening." 
• "Prevention of an attack is the best medicine."

Unfortunately, Lauren and I know all too well the disabling pain, inconvenience, and anxiety that comes along with migraine and tension headaches.  And let's face it, Tylenol is like candy when it comes to migraines, which happens to be one of only a few medications a woman can take during pregnancy.  In addition, unless you have your sitter set up with a pager or family that lives nearby, I'm not quite sure how young children are to fend for themselves while you lie in a dark room with an ice pack on your head in complete silence or what your boss at work or co-workers might think of you if you tell them you need silence, darkness, and sleep.

One of the most frustrating things about migraines is that they can come completely unannounced and therefore benching you from your life at random moments.  By far, knowing what causes your head pain means power towards preventing them.  However, we can't always control the variables and the randomness that happens during the day as a parent.  Sleep isn't guaranteed with young children or a busy work-life and kids don't have volume control buttons. 

During pregnancy, migraine frequency and intensity is in most cases caused by changing hormone levels.  Other causes or aggravaters can be: stress, poor sleep cycles, muscular tension, noise, food triggers, and bright light glares and flashes. 

We are not giving medical advice.  This post is meant to empathize and sympathize with those women out there and their partners that suffer from migraines or tension headaches.  We hope to perhaps initiate a discussion regarding things to try and share with your healthcare provider.  Everyone responds differently.  Talk to your healthcare provider to be sure that what is being used to treat and prevent these painful occurrences is safe and advised.

If you pick up a best-selling pregnancy book or do an online search, you will most likely be disappointed.  Dark room, ice pack, massage, silence...that's what you will read in terms of treating a migraine during pregnancy.  What an insult...  Other treatments mentioned:

• Acupuncture
• Biofeedback
• Contrasting ice and heat on neck or ice on head and feet in hot water
• Ginger drinks
• Magnesium
• Pregnancy-safe medication
• More sleep
• Less stress
• Mediation
• Yoga
• Exercise
• More water intake
• Regular Epsom salt baths

Some of these can work.  And probably worth trying.

Louise Hay, author of "Heal Your Body" discusses potential life events and emotions/attitudes that can cause physical pain and illnesses and offers affirmations and ways to help heal your body.  I'm not saying this is the way to go but perhaps, something to think about as you explore your migraine causes.

Keep a journal and do what works for YOU.  For me, meditation has helped.  I begin to be more aware of my life and choices and do things that support my health.  In addition, I stay in constant contact with my midwife and we work together regarding treating migraine pain and occurrence. 

You are certainly not alone.  Aske for help!  Please!  Find a friend that will massage your neck or feet or offer help with your kiddos.  But stay in control by knowing your triggers and making your health and wellness a priority.

Be well on your journey,

MLC

Just a funny for you all today...

Decisions, decisions, decisions...

The first time I was pregnant, I was determined NOT to get an epidural or use any pain-relieving drugs. I suppose I thought it would be better for the baby and for myself. However, when those contractions started, the back labor was the most excruciating pain I'd ever felt and I couldn't get the epidural fast enough.  The relief was marvelous, but it definitely had it's disadvantages. I couldn't really feel what I was trying to push exactly, my baby's heart rate dropped dramatically, and I couldn't walk around for a while after she was born. The second time I gave birth, I was at home, with my amazing friend, who happened to be a massage therapist (lucky me!), two midwives, and my awesome husband, who made sure we had relaxing tunes playing in the background. There were no drugs, no epidural, and it was AWESOME! Yes, it hurt! The ring of fire is for realz, but it was SOOOO amazing to be able to be so present during those few minutes. (Yes, my labors are super intense, but super fast, as well). It was so nice to be able to stand up just a short while after delivering, and to be able to feel everything. I recovered in my own home, on my couch, without anyone coming in poking and prodding me, waking me up in the middle of the night. It was the most incredible experience of my life and if I could do it again, I would. All that being said, there are probably hundreds of things that COULD go wrong giving birth at home, but I was very blessed and everything went incredibly well. For any of you who are currently pregnant or planning on having more children, I hope you put some thought into your birth plan. Think about it and discuss it with your partner, Dr's, midwives, and doula's. There is no wrong way, or right way to have a baby. They will make their appearance into this world no matter how we choose to deliver them. But it is nice for you and your family to have a special experience. Research your options and do what you feel is best for you and your baby. Drugs, no drugs, V-backs or C-section, Dr. or doula... There are so many decisions to make, but there is no "right" one. 

Be well,

BHW

Really?

There really are many wonderful things about being pregnant.  Interestingly, while in public, strangers give you the right away when crossing a street, open random doors for you, and even give you a random smile.  However, on the flip side, strangers almost always ask you multiple times during pregnancy if you know what you are having.  I can understand the fascination but I cannot understand why a stranger would want to know or even ask such a question.  To break the ice?  To be nosy?  To be weird?  In my personal life I am very much a smart ass, sassed better than any other as a teenager, and am often accused by my husband for being way to sarcastic.  Ha, why be boring?  But to a stranger I am polite for the most part and respond with a shoulder shrug.  But I like this little cartoon and perhaps, I should joke a bit more and have some fun this time around...  I encourage you all to do the same!  Stay lighthearted!  The world already has enough serious problems, make a person laugh :-) 

The scoop

I recently read a celebrity comment on her first experience with breastfeeding.  She was appalled by how painful breastfeeding has been and that her nipples will bleed.  Her outrage was not necessarily that her nipples were bleeding but that no one ever informed her that could happen.  I find that hard to believe...but that is just one gal's opinion.  So, without further ado, just in case you have not been informed of some nasty things during and after pregnancy, I'll come clean with the details.  No filter. 

True, breastfeeding can be painful at times and nipples can get chapped and bleed.  Some women can develop mastitis (an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth and redness.  Fever can also occur.)  Breasts will never be the same, naturally that is.  While pregnant, the areolas and nipples will darken and most likely enlarge.  You will look in the mirror at some point while naked and be utterly shocked.  Oh well.  It is what is is and who cares?  You are helping grow another human being and might then provide its nourishment with those appalling breasts.  For the most part, the darkness fades but that shape...well, the shape evolution is different for everyone.  Before you leave the care of the OB/GYN or midwife that delivers your baby, be sure to ask about how you can get help with breastfeeding.  There is a specific way to do it and lactation consultants are more than happy to help and may provide guidance that a relative or friend cannot.

Your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor may never be the same.  Not everyone experiences diastasis but it can linger postpartum and worsen if not given the proper attention and rehabilitation.  We all hear about the importance of Kegel's; however, ask your care provider for a referral to a pelvic health therapist to get you back on track postpartum.  Carry extra underwear.  Empty bladder before working out.  And just laugh when you pee yourself.  Again, who cares?

Last but certainly not least, you will lose your identity.  Books, friends, and counselors will tell you not to let it happen.  But good friends and counselors will tell you that it will probably happen and be there to help you find yourself again.  You will have to reinvent yourself when you become a parent.  Nonetheless, fight to hold on to those things you are passionate about and that made you your best before you became a partner or parent.  You might think you don't have time for yourself or you may live in a culture that rewards sacrifices but think again.  If you lose yourself completely, you cannot and most likely will not be able to be there for your baby, other children, partner, job, friends, and extended family members. 

We would love to hear from you!  What are your secrets and surprises?  No filter!

Be well on your journey,
MLC
 

The second time around

When my first daughter was 2 months old, I found out I was pregnant with my second baby! I must have taken the home pregnancy test at least 6 times, just to make sure I wasn't getting a false positive. I finally accepted the reality that I would have two babies. As I sat there and cried, my husband laughed hysterically.

After 6 1/2 years of marriage our first daughter came to us by way of adoption. She fit into our family perfectly, despite how quickly our lives were turned upside down. We really had no preparation for her coming. We finished our paperwork and the adoption agency told us we could expect about a two year wait before we would have a baby. She was born 3 months later. Then came the news of another baby. After the initial shock, I started to experience all that came with being pregnant while caring for a newborn. I felt I handled things fairly well, but I never had that incredible in utero bonding experience so many women talk about. I was honestly so wrapped up in taking care of the baby I had and didn't give too much thought to the one on the way. In fact, I loved our first child so much, I looked at the new baby like she would be sort of an intruder...I actually wondered if I would love her as much.

When I think about that now, I laugh and think how silly I was. When the baby was born and placed in my arms, I experienced an incredible feeling of love surging through me and instantly I felt a connection to my sweet new daughter.

If you are pregnant now and don't feel the way you think you should, don't worry. Not everyone has the same emotions and experiences, and you can't compare yourself to another. We are all so different and every pregnancy is so different. I do hope you enjoy that time that you get to house that little human in your body and nurture it and nourish it. It is such a sweet miracle to be able to be pregnant... It can be tough, at times, but it can also be so thrilling and beautiful. I wish you well on your pregnancy journey...

Be well! 

BHW

Another SpeedBump Belly Bump

It is true.  I am knocked up for the third time.  My husband hates when I say "knocked-up".  But that is just my dry, quirky sense of humor.  I am after all 38 years old and married.  I suppose he cares a bit more about what people think than I do, which is probably a good thing since he is a prominent and well-respected individual within his professional community.  But as with the prior two pregnancies, I again lack any sort of filter.  I mean no harm, anger, irritation, agitation, or disrespect...I simply lack a filter when I become pregnant and say just about anything that comes to mind.  Perhaps, all pregnant women go through this and the rest of the world can't handle it.  So, we get blamed for being moody and bitchy. 

Anyway...hurray!  We are having another baby!  I am 13-weeks into a 40-week fast from all my favorite craft IPA's and cold Sauvignon Blancs I so enjoy sipping on in the summer.  (Please...have a sense of humor, here!)   Weeks 7-12 were honestly quite miserable: lots of nausea; random vomiting; repulsed by all smells (even the prettiest of lotions); Fatigue with a capital F; and headaches on a regular basis.  Doesn't that make you all wanna go out and reproduce!  LOL!  But I hit the breezy point this weekend.  I'm back to eating with more variety, feeling energized, and ready to show off my belly that resembles a beer gut. 

In truth, I enjoy being pregnant once I get past the first trimester.  It is an honor, a privilege, and a blessing.  And I look forward to sharing all the ups and downs with you.  No filter. 

Be well,
MLC

Diastasis

I thought every woman experienced it.  But apparently, not all of us are so "lucky". 

Diastatis recti:  separation of the outermost abdominal muscles, the rectus abdominis and the weakening of the linea alba.  Abnormal separation is considered 2 or more fingers widths wide.  Why should you care?  Because separated muscles are weakened muscles and do not offer as much support to your back and abdominal organs. 

Those outermost abdominal muscles separate gradually during pregnancy to make room for your baby and your organs.  About three quarters of pregnant women experience a linea nigra which is a dark vertical line that appears straight down the middle of a growing belly.  This separation occurs thanks to relaxin, a hormone produced during pregnancy that relaxes the muscles, tendons, joints, and smooth muscle in the uterus.  All good stuff during pregnancy!  However, if not mindful, the separation can exist long beyond pregnancy.

Do's & Don'ts

• Do NOT strain!  Lifting objects that are way too heavy and with bad form or bearing down due to constipation can cause further separation in addition to pelvic floor instability.
• Crunches and planks are thought to keep the core strong.  However during pregnancy and for six weeks postpartum, the abdominal muscles are compromised.  These exercises can worsen the separation.
• Do consider seeing a physical therapist that specializes in pelvic health.  They can work wonders!  Diastasis recti can be reversed and the pelvic floor can gain back its strength and stability (less urine leakage and bathroom trips to change into those "emergency" sidekick undies.)
• There are a few exercises you can do during pregnancy and shortly thereafter to maintain core stability and even strength: pelvic tilts, pulling belly button to spine, and Kegel exercises. 

Please do not hesitate to find a pelvic health specialist.  You are not doomed.  They can equip you with specific exercises geared towards properly training the core musculature.  And please do NOT continue those crunches during pregnancy.  They have the potential to do more harm than good, including further rectus abdominis separation.

Be well,
MLC