As the countdown to childbirth approaches, expectant mothers often find themselves caught up in an elaborate dance of logistics and preparation. Every detail, from the perfect hospital bag to the intricacies of self-care, needs to be meticulously planned. Many women, wanting to maintain a sense of control amidst the chaos of impending motherhood, curate their
Pregnancy
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
Chrissy Teigen, a well-known figure in popular culture, embodies the essence of modern motherhood by fearlessly sharing her experiences on social media. As the host of “Lip Sync Battle” and a mother of two, Teigen frequently updates her followers with real-life insights into her family life and the trials of parenting. She does not shy
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
For centuries, various cultures have recognized the incredibly transformative period following childbirth and have implemented practices that promote rest and recovery for new mothers. The postpartum confinement, often referred to as “sitting the month” in certain traditions, mainly emphasizes the importance of a mother’s healing process. Cultures across the globe—including those in Asia, the Middle
Breastfeeding, while often perceived as a straightforward process, can, in reality, present a range of challenges that require thoughtful preparation. The assumption that breastfeeding is simply a matter of placing your baby at the breast disregards the complexities involved in this natural act. Each mother-baby dyad will have a distinct breastfeeding journey, influenced by a
Dear new mama, your journey into motherhood is both beautiful and daunting, and it is often accompanied by a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences that can leave you feeling lost or unrecognized in your own body. When I think back to my early days as a mother, I remember the confusion and discomfort that characterized
For many expecting mothers, particularly those nearing their third trimester, the term “Group B Streptococcus” (GBS) is not unfamiliar. This bacteria, scientifically known as Streptococcus agalactiae, is a significant concern during pregnancy, as it can potentially threaten the health of newborns. Research estimates indicate that approximately 20% of pregnant women carry this bacteria, and while
Our relationship has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Reflecting on my teenage years, I realize I was merely beginning to explore the complexities of my body. I was guided by external perceptions that often categorized me as “big-boned,” a term that contributed to my awkward self-image during those formative years. I was still
After childbirth, the focus often shifts entirely to the newborn, overshadowing the critical organ that played a monumental role in the pregnancy—the placenta. This organ, often viewed as mere medical waste, holds invaluable insights into the wellbeing of both mother and baby, yet it is frequently disregarded in postnatal care discussions. Recent research published in