by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
So the adventures have begun, you are going to have a baby! You’re alone time with your significant other is about to become limited, interrupted and loud lol Take advantage of the moments alone while you still can and make the most of them!
1. There is nothing that says romance like a romantic picnic. Find a spot in a secluded park after work or under the stars at the end of the day. Pack up a cozy blanket, a portable speaker and some of your favourite snacks and cuddle up with the one you love.
2. Get out and enjoy some fresh air. Find a local walking trail and share some quiet time holding hands and talking with the one you love. You will feel amazing after a leisurely stroll and some intimate conversation. It’s not only good for both of you but it’s wonderful for your baby as well.
3. Plan a night at home with no TV or cellphones. Light some candles, put on some of your favourite romantic music and cozy up with your honey in bed or on the couch. Talk about baby names, activities you would like to do as a family, decorating the nursery or even starting the baby book. It’s a great way to share your dreams for your future together as partners and parents, without distractions.
4. Spend some time relaxing together by having a couple’s massage or a day at a spa. Book a private massage therapist to come to your home. Get changed in to something comfortable and enjoy being pampered together.
5. You may not get out of the house as much as you do now once the baby arrives so book a night out on the town! Get a great reservation for dinner tickets to a show. Book a hotel room for the night, put on a cozy robe and order room service!
6. Get out of town. You will be spending a lot more time at home once your bundle of joy arrives. Hop in to the car and head out on the road. Go somewhere outside of your regular day to day journey. Take an afternoon to explore another town a farmers market or a remote hideaway for lunch.
7. Sometimes it’s great to stay home and get in your coziest pyjamas and relax. Make a list of some movies you have both been wanting to see but just haven’t had the time. Go ahead and order in your favourite take out meal. Get comfortable together on the couch and have a movie marathon night.
8. Think about taking a class together. Something you haven’t had time for and won’t have time for once the baby comes. Talk about something you would both like to do and spend some quality time together learning something new while expanding your horizons.
9. Play hooky and schedule a morning off together. No work, appointments or activities. Sleep in, cuddle and share a romantic breakfast in bed. Soon enough it will be more than just the two of you sharing the bed in the morning!
10. There is nothing more memorable than pictures of the two of you before your baby arrives. Find a photographer and book a pregnancy photo shoot for the two of you. There is something so beautiful about an expectant mother and even more so when she is captured in a photo being held by the father of her child. Hold on to these moments and cherish them always.
Pregnancy is the time in your life when you thrive on unending love and support from your partner. It is important to make time for the two of you “before” and “after” your baby arrives. Schedule some moments and build on the bond you already have by spending quality romantic time now, when it’s just the two of you.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
14 Misconceptions of Pregnancy
There are so many misconceptions floating around about pregnancy these days. From what you should eat to what you shouldn’t, the opinions vary based on whatever the concern of the day is. Here are some common misconceptions, however, always check with your doctor before changing anything.
#1 -When pregnant, mommy-to-be should be eating for two!
One of the greatest myths of pregnancy is that now you should be eating for two. It is true that an increase in calories are needed, but not what you think.
First trimester: there is no increase needed in the amount of calories. But you should eat a healthy balanced diet high in nutrients to help keep up and maintain your energy.
Second trimester: you need to increase your calories by approximately 300 calories/day. This works out to be about 2 glasses of milk and a bowl of oatmeal.
Third trimester: you need to increase your daily calories by approx. 450 calories
If you are carrying multiplies, then you need to increase calories by approx. 300 calories per baby
#2 -While pregnant, you cannot eat cheese!
Thankfully this is a myth. For the most part all hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Mozzarella and Swiss are considered safe to eat. But you should be cautious with soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert and mold ripened cheeses. Soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk can be infected with a bacteria called listeria. Listeria bacteria causes an illness called listeriosis, a flu-like illness that can be very harmful to your unborn baby. This infection can cause serious health problems, miscarriage or even death of the baby during birth. So make sure it says made with pasteurized milk ingredients to be on the safe side.
#3 – It is not safe to have sex during pregnancy!
False false false! As long as you have a normal pregnancy and your doctor says it is safe for you to have sex while you are pregnant, then go ahead. First make sure to talk to your doctor that you are having a normal pregnancy and there is no risk to continue to have sex during your pregnancy.
#4-Spicy foods cause labor!
There is no scientific evidence that spicy foods can cause you to go into labor. There is speculation that eating spicy foods can cause your digestion system to become irritated and cause your uterus to contract, but it is just speculation. Many women eat spicy foods every day and have full term pregnancies.
#5-Eating soft ice cream is completely safe!
This misconception is both true and false. Eating soft ice cream is safe as long as is it made with pasteurized milk. The concern comes from the dispensing machines where the soft ice cream is stored and dispensed. If they are not properly cleaned, listeria bacteria can grow in the machine being transferred to your ice cream. Listeria bacteria can be very harmful to your baby, even causing death. Be on the safe side and avoid soft ice cream until after your pregnancy.
#6-Absolutely no caffeine during pregnancy!
This misconception is false. You can still enjoy your coffee, tea, chocolate and so on, but you need to watch the amount of caffeine you are consuming. It is recommended not to consume more than 200mg of caffeine per day. Studies have shown consuming more than 200mg per day increases your chances of miscarriage.
#7-Having a hot bath or shower is a relaxing idea!
It is fine to have a warm shower or bath, but you want to avoid anything that will raise your body temperature above 102 degrees. This includes hot tubs, saunas, or anything that increases your body temperature. Increasing your body temperature above 102 degrees also increases the fluid that surrounds your baby causing damage to cells and can increase the chances of birth defects.
#8-You can’t fly while you are pregnant!
This is false. You are able to fly during your first and second trimester of pregnancy. You are also able to fly during your third trimester but many airlines will not allow a pregnant woman to fly in their third trimester in case you go into labor on the plane. This avoids unnecessary emergency landing or ruining the airline seats.
#9-It’s not safe to color your hair during pregnancy!
It is completely safe to color your hair while you are pregnant. No one has to know that you are not a true blonde. It is suggested that the fumes from the chemicals in the hair dye can cause nausea, so it is recommended that you be in a well-ventilated room while getting your hair coloured. In addition, chemicals found in hair dye are not highly toxic and only small amounts would be absorbed into the skin reaching your baby. Feel free to color your hair.
#10 -Can you tell the sex of your baby If you carry high or low?
They say carrying low is a sign that you are pregnant with a boy, or if you get acne you are pregnant with a girl. Its been said “a baby girl steals mothers beauty”. These are urban myths. How a pregnant woman carries depends on her body structure. A taller, thinner woman usually carries higher, as a shorter, fuller woman usually will carry lower. How you carry has no bearing on the sex of your baby. As well, acne is caused by hormonal chances in the body, not that your baby is a girl stealing your beauty.
#11-It is ok for a pregnant woman to change cat litter!
It is best not to change cat litter while you are pregnant because cat feces can contain a virus called toxoplasmosis. The virus can be transmitted to the fetus threw the placenta. This virus can cause birth defects, learning disabilities, visual disabilities and hearing disabilities later on in life. As don’t forget, the cat steps in the litter box transmitting the virus everywhere he/she walks.
#12-Using a home Doppler is not safe for the baby
It is completely safe to use a home Doppler to hear your baby’s heart beat at home, as long as you follow the guidelines. Experts suggest waiting till at least 14 weeks pregnant so it is easier to find the babies heartbeat. The only concern with using home Doppler’s is the unnecessary stress it may cause if you are not able to find the heartbeat, when everything is fine and normal.
#13-Having heartburn means your baby will be hairy when born!
This is one of the most talked about and widespread misconceptions of all times. Having heartburn does not mean that your baby will have a full head of hair when they are born. The amount of hair depends of genetic factors of both parents. Heartburn during pregnancy is caused by the hormone progesterone. This hormone causes the relaxation of the muscles, including the esophagus. When the baby grows, it starts to crowd the stomach causing acid to come up to the esophagus causing heartburn. Take some tums and you’ll be fine.
#14-Heart rate can determine the sex of the baby!
It is suggested that a heart rate above 140bpm that you will have a girl, and if it is under 140bpm you will have a boy. The truth of the matter is that a normal range for a baby’s heart beat is anywhere between 120 and 160bpm. The heart beat rate does not have any barring on the sex of the baby.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Holistic pregnancy has many benefits for you and your baby. A holistic approach focuses on the whole person and considers not only the mother’s physical health, but her mental, emotional, and spiritual health as well.
Here we present the ultimate go-to guide to help you navigate through your holistic pregnancy, incorporating all the key elements needed for a safe, healthy, natural experience.
1. Eat to Nourish
In order to properly nourish your baby and replenish your lost nutrients it’s important to eat mostly whole foods. You need plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially dark, leafy greens, along with protein and fats including meat, eggs, legumes, olive oil, and dairy. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and eat fiber to prevent constipation. A good prenatal vitamin can supplement important nutrients that you cannot fully obtain from a healthy diet – including folate, which prevents neural tube defects.
2. Exercise to Prepare Your Body
Pregnancy has been compared to training for a marathon, and it’s true! You need strength and endurance for what lies ahead. Walking, yoga, swimming, nature hikes, dancing…exercise can be fun! Avoid exercises that strain your abdomen and be sure to check with your doctor or midwife to make sure your regimen is safe.
Pregnant Pauses is an excellent scientifically proven way to reduce pain and prepare your body for the immense changes that are coming.
3. Know the Process
Knowledge is power! Learning about your body’s changes and your baby’s development will help reduce anxiety about the process. Prenatal classes are a useful resource and can teach you helpful breathing techniques for both pregnancy and labour. Research your options for childbirth including labouring methods, types of pain relief, and potential interventions so you can feel empowered and better equipped to make your own choices. Trust that your body was built to do this.
4. Use Natural Remedies and Alternative Therapies
Lower the baby’s exposure to unnecessary chemicals and help soothe aches and pains using natural, alternative remedies and therapies. Regular massages by a licensed therapist can relieve backaches and tense muscles, and acupuncture can reduce swelling, sciatica, nausea, heartburn, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Fight colds and flu with chamomile tea, and combat nausea with ginger, crackers, seasickness bands, or essential oils. You might also consider visiting an osteopath who can help you maintain proper pelvic alignment.
5. Avoid Environmental Toxins
You can limit your exposure to dangerous toxins to protect your baby. Avoid alcohol and high mercury fish, and limit caffeine intake. Avoid soft cheeses and processed meats to prevent listeria infection, and use gloves while gardening and give someone else litter box duty to protect against toxoplasmosis. Gloves, good ventilation when cleaning, and switching your cleaners to natural alternatives when possible will also help.
6. Practice Mindfulness and Lower Your Stress
Being mindful means living in the moment, being aware of yourself and your surroundings and how you interact with the world. Pregnancy can be stressful, and it’s important to devote time each day to center yourself and connect spiritually with your growing baby. Meditation can help you relax and calm your inner core, lowering anxiety and blood pressure and promoting a sense of well-being.
7. Build a Support Network
Having a child is a huge transition and can be overwhelming at times – that’s why it is so important to build a good support network to help you sort through the emotional aspects of pregnancy. Share your feelings of anxiety and doubt with your significant other, family and friends so they can reassure you. Accept assistance when it’s offered – people want to help and be there for you and your baby.
Enjoying a holistic pregnancy means connecting the mind, body, and spirit together for the optimal health of mother and baby. Use holistic care to embrace a calm, natural pregnancy, and begin the life-changing journey of motherhood knowing you’ve made the best decisions for you and your baby.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
The Health Benefits of Breastfeeding (for Mommy and Baby)
The way you choose to nourish your newborn is a personal preference. But, if you’ve chosen to breastfeed your baby, you have made a great decision. There are numerous health benefits for not only babies, but moms as well. Read on to learn all about how you can get off to a smart start from the very moment you bring your baby into the world!
Health Benefits for Baby
Most pediatricians recommend nursing your baby for about a full year. But, even if that’s not on your agenda, they feel that breastfeeding for even a short amount of time can be beneficial. How? The health benefits for your baby include:
Long Term Protection from Illness-A baby who is breastfed tends to be healthier overall. This is because your breastmilk is designed primarily for them, and it’s filled with everything your baby can possibly need. The milk’s enzymes and proteins help protect babies from respiratory infections, ear infections, and other illnesses a baby can develop later in life like Type 1 Diabetes, Celiac’s Disease, and even Crohn’s Disease.
Higher IQ-A controversial topic; many studies actually do show that babies who were breastfed have a higher intelligence level compared to babies who were formula fed. Studies also have shown that breastfed babies are more verbally proficient.
Promotes a Healthy Weight-Breastfed babies tend to be of a healthier weight, and are less likely to become obese throughout their life, but especially during toddlerhood and childhood.
SIDS Prevention-Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a concern of all parents. But, breastfeeding protects against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). This virus has been known to cause the lungs to inflame and contribute to SIDS, especially during the first few months of your baby’s life. Nursing combats this concern.
Helps Nourish Preemies-Since your breastmilk is specifically made and designed for your child, it can aid a premature baby in areas that they need to get stronger or more stable in. The milk adapts to your baby’s needs, making it richer and higher in necessary nutrients. Formula cannot do this!
Health Benefits for Moms
Moms can reap benefits from breastfeeding too! Among the most vital and valuable are:
Post-Partum Relief-When you breastfeed, your body releases special hormones (Oxytocin) that are known to aid in the process of shrinking the uterus. The uterus shrinks much quicker than a mom who formula feeds. In addition, moms who nurse also experience significantly less post-partum bleeding.
Rapid Weight Loss-Breastfeeding burns up a lot of calories. While your body is constantly working so hard to produce milk, nursing tends to speed up your metabolism; helping you get back to a healthy, pre-pregnancy weight. Contrary to popular belief, you are more likely to lose weight quicker, despite the fact that you are consuming extra calories to nurse.
Combats Cancer-In the long run, moms that choose to breastfeed are less likely to get pre-menopausal ovarian cancer, or even breast cancer. While you may not be thinking that far down the road, it is never too late to start!
Stronger Bones-Also relating to later in life; some studies report that women who nursed have a lower risk of post-menopausal osteoporosis. Nursing helps your bones absorb calcium more effectively, thus making them much denser.
Mentally Satisfying-Post-partum depression is real, and it affects many moms. Nursing helps combat the baby blues, thanks to all of the hormones your body releases. Some of them make your body feel euphoric, giving off a natural high. Breastfeeding makes you feel confident, powerful, and happier overall.
You have to make many choices as a parent. But, one choice you should consider is breastfeeding. It has a wide variety of health benefits for both you and your baby, and it is a true, bonding experience.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
When you first find out you are carrying an itty-bitty baby inside of you, you become very protective. One way to really make sure you nourish your fetus is by feeding it the healthiest foods that contain the proper vitamins and nutrients it needs in order to flourish! If you’ve just gotten a positive pregnancy test, read on to learn the best foods for both of you to eat during each trimester.First TrimesterThe first trimester is week 1 through week 12 of your pregnancy (or approximately the first three months). You should be loading your plate up with leafy greens like kale, broccoli, and spinach, which contain a huge amount of nutrients. Not only will you have more energy, but your baby will be getting lots of folic acid, which is great for brain and spinal cord development. Can’t stomach chewing any greens right now? Blend them into a smoothie and drink them instead. Also, be sure to consume at least 3 servings of fruit (strawberries, blueberries, oranges, bananas) and 3 servings of dairy products each day. Most doctors suggest consuming at least 400 mg of Vitamin D, at least 100 mg of Vitamin C, and 200 mg or so of Calcium. Your prenatal vitamin will help cover areas you are deficient in, but any doctor will tell you that they prefer to eat your vitamins rather than rely on a supplement!Second TrimesterWhen it comes to eating, just remember that slow and steady wins the race. You may be completely starving, but you only realistically need to consume an extra 300 calories a day (think 2 glasses of milk or a bowl of oatmeal). Chips, chocolate, and French fries certainly are tempting (especially if you’ve regained your appetite from morning sickness), but you have to make health conscious choices. In the second trimester, consider focusing on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help your baby’s brain development. You can munch of avocado, carrots, green beans, and peanut butter; to name a few. It is also important at this stage in the game to have a lot of variety on your plate at meal time. So, if you are having eggs for breakfast, consider mixing in spinach and some pasteurized cheese with a handful of cherry tomatoes. Skip the friend potatoes and opt for a slice of whole wheat bread with some almond butter. Meal planning should be a big part of your day, and you should also be drinking at least 10 glasses of water or more!Third TrimesterYou’re finally in the homestretch! Continue taking those supplements, drinking lots of water, and balancing out your plate with all colors of the rainbow. In the third trimester, you may be getting your taste for meat back. Add some chicken to your salads, indulge in a well-cooked steak (from time to time), and even enjoy a slice of salmon. Your body needs iron and lots of protein to stay strong and give you enough energy for the birthing process. You may even notice you are starting to crave some spicy flavors, which is fine; as long as it doesn’t cause heartburn (and even in some cases, spicy foods tend to jump-start labor toward the very end!). You may also be getting sick of the same healthy foods you’ve been preparing for every meal, so it’s time to get creative so you aren’t bored at mealtime and will be more likely to follow through on your healthy eating routing after your baby is born. Experiment with spaghetti squash recipes, oatmeal bowls, and even veggie-filled soups.Foods to AvoidMany doctors recommend avoiding some foods during any stage in your pregnancy. They include:Sushi (or other raw fish)Hot DogsProcessed Lunch MeatUnpasteurized cheese (Brie, Feta)Fish High in Mercury (Swordfish, Mackerel)These foods are more susceptible to harness harmful bacteria or high mercury levels, which can be a real threat to your fetus.Be sure to nourish your bump and feed your baby and your body only the best, from one trimester to the next. After all, you’re now eating for two!
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Your second pregnancy may start out being similar to your previous one – the excitement of finding out the joyous news, the early nausea, that familiar fullness in your womb. But as your pregnancy progresses, you may be surprised at just how much has changed this time around. Here are 6 ways your second pregnancy is different from your first.
Your body is different this time
During your first pregnancy, your body changed in a myriad of ways, some permanent like lingering stretch marks or widened hips, and some not so permanent like a heightened sense of smell or extra body hair (thankfully). Your body remembers that it has been through this before, so you may find that you notice certain pregnancy markers earlier. As first-timers, most women start showing in the fifth month or so; in subsequent pregnancies women generally start showing much earlier, being unable to fit into their pants pretty much as soon as the stick turns blue. You are also more in tune with your body this time, so you may feel the flutters and baby kicks earlier and can easily distinguish between movement and Braxton Hicks contractions. Morning sickness may not be the same – you may feel less nauseous or even sicker than before. Aches and pains may be worse since this baby rests lower in your abdomen, and your body releases a hormone to relax your joints earlier this time. Each pregnancy changes your body in different ways, so your next one could be nothing like the first two.
Less fanfare
When you were pregnant the first time, everyone fawned over you, asked how you were feeling, held doors open for you and showered you with gifts and attention. Everyone was so excited for you and your upcoming bundle – you were treated like a princess! Cue the second pregnancy, and the reactions are much more muted. There isn’t as much interest in your condition and how you’re feeling. No one offers to carry anything heavy for you now that you’re hard-core into mommyhood, toting a toddler on your hip and a bursting diaper bag on your shoulder. You having a baby is old news. While you may be slightly disappointed that Baby #2 isn’t as celebrated as the first, it might be a relief to have a quieter pregnancy without strangers touching your belly all the time.
Tired…so tired
You thought you were tired during your first pregnancy. Ha! This version of you, the experienced one, the one who has been through sleep deprivation hell with a newborn and chasing a toddler around all day, laughs at how naïve you once were. When you were tired or had aches and pains during your first pregnancy, you could sleep in on the weekends, go out to dinner, or stay in bed and watch movies all day if you needed a time out. Fast forward to Pregnancy #2 – you are way too busy raising your first child to take much time to rest. You are constantly on the go, shuttling your eldest to activities, making snacks, potty training or helping with homework – taking a break is rarely an option. Exhaustion reaches a new level.
Less research and less planning
During your first pregnancy you researched everything. The best stroller, safest car seat, the most educational toys for your little one. You created an iron-clad birth plan that you insisted had to be followed down to the last detail and were packed for the hospital weeks in advance. This time, you’re not up on the latest dos and don’ts and baby must-haves – if it was good enough last time, then why change it? Your birth plan, if you have one, is much shorter because you now know childbirth never goes according to plan. In parenthood, flexibility is a necessity; you’ve realized you can’t plan everything and have learned the ability to go with the flow and take life as it comes.
You might be scared – but for different reasons
When you were expecting your first baby, you had a lot of fears about becoming a mom, about what childbirth was going to be like – there were a lot of unknown variables. Now, as a second-time mother you have been through this before, and although you know what to expect, you may have different fears of your own. You may be worried that you have forgotten what to do with a newborn or how you’re going to handle the sleep deprivation this time around. You may worry about how to handle two children instead of one and how your older one is going to adjust. You may be afraid that you’re going to develop post-partum depression again. And if your first childbirth experience was traumatic, you might be afraid of a repeat this time. These are all common and legitimate fears – but fortunately you can do something to help alleviate them. Speak to your doctor, midwife, or doula about your concerns so they will be able to address them and find solutions. Arrange help for the first few weeks as you recover and adjust to your new bigger family – people will be happy to pitch in and help out.
You actually forget you’re pregnant sometimes
First pregnancy: You know how far along you are to the day and practically to the minute. You know what fruit you can compare your baby’s size to every week and what organ is developing at each stage. Second pregnancy: At your appointment, the nurse asks how far along you are and you have to rack your brain to remember. Your growing baby is safe and sound in your belly, so your focus is on the well-being of your first child. Since you’re so busy taking care of someone else’s needs, you just don’t spend a lot of time thinking about it until – ouch – something hurts.
Being a mommy-to-be for the second time is a lot different than it was the first go-round, in many ways for the better! This time you have experience under your belt and the knowledge that you are a tough mama who can get through anything. You can have faith and confidence that you can handle any changes that come your way, and enjoy this exciting new chapter as you focus on bringing another new little life into the world.
