Mindfulness for pregnancy and new parents
Congratulations on your pregnancy and parenthood journey! As you embark on this transformative time, practicing mindfulness can greatly enhance your experience. Here are five valuable tips from Miranda, yoga teacher and birth doula, on mindfulness tailored to pregnancy and new parents… 1. Embrace the Present Moment: Pregnancy and early parenthood can be overwhelming, with thoughts constantly focused on the past or future. Mindfulness encourages you to fully embrace the present moment. Take time each day to tune into your body, …
Breech Baby? Now what? Ways to help turn a breech baby!
As your due date approaches, you may find yourself in a position where your baby is in a breech presentation, meaning their head is not pointing downward toward the birth canal. While many breech babies eventually turn on their own, there are some techniques you can try to encourage the baby to assume the optimal head-down position. Forward-Leaning Inversion: The forward-leaning inversion technique involves positioning your upper body lower than your pelvis to encourage the baby to shift. You can …
Group B Strep in Pregnancy | What does it mean?
One aspect of prenatal care is the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test—a routine screening performed in the later stages of pregnancy. While it may sound intimidating, understanding GBS and its implications can empower you to make informed decisions for a safe and healthy delivery. What is the GBS Test and Why is it Important? The GBS test is a simple swab test performed around weeks 35 to 37 of pregnancy to check for the presence of Group B Streptococcus bacteria. …
Spinning Babies… What is it and how does it help?
While our bodies intuitively know how to birth, sometimes our babies need a little help finding their way into the optimal position for a smoother and more efficient birth. That’s where the concept of “Spinning Babies” comes in—an approach that encourages optimal fetal positioning through simple techniques and exercises. Understanding Optimal Fetal Positioning: Optimal fetal positioning refers to the ideal alignment of your baby’s head and body within your pelvis, promoting a more straightforward passage through the birth canal. It …
What are Braxton Hicks and How to Alleviate Them
As you approach the later stages of your pregnancy, you might encounter Braxton Hicks contractions. These practice contractions can catch you off guard, leaving you wondering if labor is around the corner. First, if you ever think you are in labor and are concerned please reach out to your healthcare provider. Here we will look at some practical tips to help you alleviate discomfort and embrace these “practice waves” with confidence. Relaxation Techniques: Imagine Braxton Hicks contractions as gentle waves …
Navigating Hair Loss During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are a transformative phases in life. While you may be prepared for physical changes such as weight gain and stretch marks, one unexpected side effect that can catch you off guard is hair loss. Losing hair during and after pregnancy is a common occurrence, and although it may be unsettling, it’s essential to understand that it’s usually temporary. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can result in thick, luscious hair due to increased estrogen levels, as the …
Protein Rich Snacks for Pregnancy
When hunger strikes while pregnant, it’s essential to have delicious and protein-packed snacks on hand to keep you energized and satisfied. Here are two easy and protein-rich snack recipes that are quick to prepare and guaranteed to keep your cravings at bay and your body and baby growing. Peanut Butter Banana Protein Bites Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, mashed 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (or your preferred nut butter) 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup 1/4 cup …
Explaining the Bishop Score For Labor Preparation
As expectant parents approach their due dates, healthcare providers often assess their readiness for labor. One tool commonly used for this assessment is the Bishop Score. Developed by Dr. Edward Bishop in the 1960s, the Bishop Score helps determine the likelihood of a successful induction of labor or the progress of spontaneous labor. What is the Bishop Score? The Bishop Score is a numerical system used to evaluate the cervix in terms of its readiness for labor. It takes into …
Jewish Contributions to Childbirth and Medicine
As we celebrate Jewish heritage and the legacy of healing, let us recognize and honor the countless Jewish physicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals who have played a pivotal role in shaping the field of medicine. Their contributions continue to inspire future generations and remind us of the profound impact one individual can make in the pursuit of healing and well-being. These remarkable individuals represent just a fraction of the Jewish contributions to childbirth and medicine. Throughout history, countless Jewish physicians, …