The notion of love at first sight enchants many; it’s a concept often romanticized in stories, films, and even casual conversations. The allure draws us in, promising a spark of connection that can ignite instant devotion. But what if that initial encounter fails to deliver? What if, instead of sweeping you off your feet, it
giving birth
The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria that plays a crucial role in our overall health. Contrary to popular belief, this community of microorganisms isn’t fully developed at birth but is instead influenced significantly by our surroundings—especially during delivery. For infants born via Cesarean section, as of 2020, nearly one in three
In 2013, Mimi Evans faced a life-altering decision as she prepared for the birth of her third child. Unwilling to endure the same exhausting hospital experience she had previously faced in Texas, Evans took matters into her own hands, embarking on a remarkable 1,300-mile journey in an RV to access a more supportive birthing environment.
Childbirth is a monumental event in the lives of families, often characterized by a symphony of emotions, challenges, and profound transformations. While the focus predominantly gravitates towards the birthing mother, it is imperative to recognize the often-overlooked contributions of fathers during this time. Their role, though frequently shrouded in the background, is one of unwavering
When I first contemplated my impending journey into motherhood, I was filled with excitement but also apprehension. The question posed by my midwife about how I wanted to deliver my first child was met with an instinctive response: I wanted to forgo an epidural. Why did I feel that way? A mix of needle phobia
The decision by Covis Pharma to withdraw Makena, their injectable progesterone drug intended to prevent preterm birth, marks a critical turning point in maternal healthcare. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel’s conclusion that Makena is ineffective highlights significant flaws in the drug’s approval process. Originally greenlit in 2011 through the FDA’s accelerated drug
Having a child is often painted as the most beautiful experience in life. However, for many mothers, the journey is fraught with unexpected challenges and hitting emotional roadblocks. My experience delivering my son was a moment that would forever change me, highlighted by an uninvited C-section scar. This journey is not merely about coping with
Pregnancy is often painted as a joyous journey filled with expectation and excitement, yet for some, it can morph into an unpredictable saga of waiting and uncertainty. I vividly recall the moment that marked the pinnacle of my experience—standing in line at Whole Foods, where the cashier innocently queried, “When are you due?” The stark
Recent studies, including a stark 2023 report by the CDC, reveal a troubling reality: 20% of women report experiences of mistreatment during labor. These reported incidents range from outright negligence to psychological undermining in the form of verbal attacks and emotional dismissiveness. Such experiences highlight a pervasive issue within maternity care that must be addressed
The anticipation that comes with nearing the end of a pregnancy often leads expectant mothers to seek various methods to induce labor naturally. As the weeks progress, particularly as the due date approaches, many women find themselves willing to try anything that might help bring their little one into the world. Among the plethora of