Take care of yourself so you can take good care of your baby.

Having a new baby is a joyous life-changing event, true. But life changes often come with difficult transitions as well — childbirth in particular. Becoming a new mother can be overwhelming. Suddenly you have a demanding little person to take care of, you’re exhausted, your body has been battered by delivery, you’re struggling with breast feeding — add to that a few other life matters that need your attention.

Hormones are also still in flux so all these factors contribute to the baby blues that many new mothers experience. What’s the best way to ride it out? How do you know if it’s already post-partum depression?

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It’s an important day, make your plans clear.

Seven months into my pregnancy, after much reading and consulting with my doctor, I had a clear idea of how I wanted my delivery to go. It’s the same for most pregnant women. By this time, some have already decided they want a natural, drug-free birth; others sign up for an epidural vaginal birth; or there are women who just want a c-section.

The choice is yours, but it’s important you make it clear to your hospital and medical team or your midwife how you really hope your delivery will go. This is where a birth plan will come in. Trust me, in the throes of labor and delivery you don’t want to be answering too many questions. Your birth plan should be there for everyone’s reference.

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Doctors are easing up and letting women in labor have a sip or two.

The standard protocol for years in maternity wards has been no food or water for women in labor. The best thing you can get after hours of panting and sweating trying to get your baby out would be a few ice chips or sucking on wet wash cloths. Well, doctors say the practice may be outdated. Read on and make sure you know what this is all about before you write down your birth plan.

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How a certified labor companion help you through child birth.

If you are expecting, there are a few things you want to plan for during your birth. A major consideration for many pregnant women these days is wether or not they will hire a doula to help them through delivery.

I didn’t use one myself, but from what I have read and heard, doulas are a wonderful help especially for first time mothers or those who plan on having a home birth or natural delivery at the hospital. Curious about wether a doula is for you? Read more to find out.

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So what’s to expect – in the bedroom – when you’re expecting?

Even with that growing belly occupying more space, there should be room for romance. Sex during most pregnancies is safe. On top of that, those extra hormones can even give your sex life a boost. Multiple orgasms anyone? It’s a hot topic, and questions about sex and pregnancy abound. We have the answers… uncensored!

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I’m going to be a super big brother!

Mom and dad are usually caught up with preparations for the new baby. Parents may even be overwhelmed. But don’t forget, future big brother or big sister is going to face major changes too. There are a few things we can do to help them along this major transition.

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Another pregnancy Rx… get active!

Doctors should add another prescription for expectant mothers – exercise. Most MDs don’t seem to emphasize it enough, but active moms are healthier and happier, so are their babies. According to a report in this year’s August issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (JAAOS), physicians and mid-wives should be advising their pregnant patients to engage in low to moderate exercise.

Even if the expectant mother has not exercised prior to her pregnancy, now would be a good time to start – just as any. Read on to find out why, and what the best exercises are for moms-to-be.

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labor and delivery