If you are in late pregnancy, it's hard to know when it is "go" time. You may feel many different sensations as your body prepares to deliver your baby. It can be difficult to tell true labor from false labor. Your doctor or midwife may have explained the 5-1-1 rule, but you may wonder how...
When you are pregnant, your doctor will offer tests to ensure that you and your baby get the best care possible. Some of these tests will be blood tests. Beside the standard tests, your doctor may suggest others. Parents may also request a particular type of test, perhaps based on their family history. Tests will...
Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy? A common concern among pregnant women is whether or not it’s safe to have sex during pregnancy. You might be worried about your baby’s health, your own pleasure, or wonder if having sex will induce labor. You should talk to a healthcare provider if you feel like...
Stages of labor and giving birth One of the scariest parts of giving birth is not knowing what to expect when it comes time to deliver your baby. Everyone's experience is unique, so your childbirth story will probably be different from that of your friends. Even though there's no way to know exactly how your...
What are inverted nipples? Some inverted nipples can create issues including problems achieving a deep latch, difficulties finding a comfortable breastfeeding position, and sore nipples, skin chapping, cracks, or blisters. Breastfeeding offers many health benefits for a mother and her child. Research shows that breast milk lowers a baby’s risk of developing asthma, obesity, type...
What are belly bands? Belly bands are stretchy garments designed to support the lower back, hips, pelvis, and abdomen during pregnancy. While there are many benefits to belly bands, there are risks. Belly bands can cause muscle weakness and overdependence due to overuse, changes to your baby's heart rate, increased pain, and skin irritation. During...
Cramping during pregnancy Cramping is a common early pregnancy symptom and usually nothing to worry about. Aches, twinges, and pulling or stretching muscle pain are typical and differ in length and intensity between people. However, some cramps accompanied by bleeding, fever, or discharge should prompt you to contact your doctor. Many people experience cramps in...
What is preeclampsia? Women with preeclampsia develop high blood pressure and high levels of protein in their urine. Some women develop preeclampsia during the second half of their pregnancy, usually around the 20-week mark. In some cases, preeclampsia begins in the first week after the baby is born. Women with preeclampsia develop high blood pressure...
The time taken to recover after childbirth can vary with each woman. It can take longer for a first-time mother to recover. A woman may usually take longer to recover after cesarean delivery compared to vaginal delivery. The first six weeks after giving birth is called the postpartum period. During the postpartum period, the mother...
Facts you should know about Braxton Hicks contractions Readers Comments 1 Share Your Story Braxton Hicks contractions feel like true labor only typically less painful. Braxton Hicks contractions have been referred to as "false labor" and are contractions of the uterus that occur predominantly in the third trimester of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions are typically...