Pregnancy is a whirlwind event and something most women really enjoy. I know I did and I wish that happiness for every pregnant mama.
One thing we don’t like to think about is something going wrong. It’s the silent thing we worry about. All the ‘ What ifs ‘.
One of the most common issues that can occur is Preeclampsia. It can be very serious and devastating.
The best thing you can do to prevent this is seeing your doc and getting great Prenatal Care.
They monitor your symptoms and health at every appointment for a variety of reasons, but very specifically for this.
You should know the symptoms yourself because sometimes it shows up out of know where suddenly.
Taking your blood pressure daily will go a long way in keeping you aware if something shows up. You can get a blood pressure cup here.
Read the list of symptoms below so you can keep an eye on your health in between appointments. You want to catch this as soon as it starts happening if it occurs.
****Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
By the way, this post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Serious Signs Of Preeclampsia
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High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, especially during pregnancy, can be a warning sign of bigger issues; such as Preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy, in the last trimester, and often presents as a sudden increase in blood pressure.
One of the major problems that occur with high blood pressure in pregnancy is a decrease in blood flow to the placenta. It’s very bad news.
When the placenta doesn’t get enough blood, the baby doesn’t get enough oxygen or the essential nutrients it needs to thrive.
High blood pressure is dangerous for both you and your baby and should be taken seriously.
When you have high blood pressure you have a greater risk of infection, and can lead to prematurity and the potential for future breathing problems.
Vision changes during pregnancy can be another serious sign of preeclampsia.
The most common visual changes are blurred vision, flashing lights, light sensitivity, auras, and spots.
Vision changes can be an indication of cerebral edema (or swelling of the brain) and should be taken very seriously.
**Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Don’t have time? Here’s the best Premium online birthing course and the first part of it’s totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best. Here’s a free Birth Planner Too!
If you are experiencing vision changes during pregnancy I recommend you seek medical attention right away; DON’T WAIT.
Swelling
It’s not uncommon during pregnancy to experience swelling, especially in the feet during the last trimester.
However, severe swelling of any kind or swelling that occurs in the hands, face or around the eyes could be a sign of preeclampsia edema or a warning of other complications.
If you experience a rapid onset of fluid-retention, pitting or discoloration of the skin, it’s important to contact your provider right away.
Because of the complications associated with preeclampsia it’s important that you know the signs and symptoms and seek out care as early as possible.
Shortness of Breath
Experiencing shortness of breath can be a sign of elevated blood pressure or fluid collecting in the lungs, a rare but serious condition known as pulmonary edema.
Both of these can be a symptom of preeclampsia and should be discussed with your provider.
Combined with mental confusion, heightened anxiety, and a racing pulse, shortness of breath can be a sure sign of something going on.
Abdominal Pain
Mild stomach pain, cramps or discomfort is common during pregnancy especially during the first 12 weeks while your body is adjusting.
Most of the time mild pain is nothing to worry about. However, persistent abdominal pain or a sudden increase in pain should be checked out.
Preeclampsia can present as abdominal or stomach pain that usually occurs on the right side.
Vomiting combined with abdominal pain can be another serious sign of preeclampsia.
If you are experiencing any pain that is severe or outside the norm talk to your healthcare provider right away.
Other signs of preeclampsia include sudden weight gain, low back pain, protein in the urine, increased reflexes, and nausea or vomiting.
Delivery is not the cure. Preeclampsia can occur after delivery too and puts Mom at risk.
Postpartum preeclampsia can lead to seizures, stroke, organ damage and even death.
Even after delivery, if you are experiencing high blood pressure or other symptoms, please get care right away.
You should take your health very seriously while pregnant and prenatal ( and postnatal ) care are an absolute must.
If you are at greater risk of preeclampsia having a blood pressure cup at home is a good idea. You can find one right here on Amazon.
I wish you all the best mama!
If you enjoyed this post please share it on Pinterest so that other women will know the signs of this serious health issue during pregnancy. It could help save a mama and a baby!
Labor is so exciting! You’ve finally made it and you’re about to meet your baby!
I remember it well ( I’ve had three ) and there’s nothing like that feeling. I miss it so much.
But it is also pretty terrifying and even when you feel prepared it can seem very overwhelming.
So below I have created a list of things for you to do and keep in mind right after your labor starts. There’s also a list of resource posts about labor somewhere down there too. I suggest you read all of them.
This will help you feel like you have it all under control ( and you do mama, you do..)
Keep scrolling to learn more!
****This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you that help us keep our blog up and running. Thanks.
Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
Labor just started: What You Need To Do Now
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Stay Calm:
I know it’s easier said than done but it’s important that you stay calm and don’t panic. Labor isn’t going to stop no matter what you do so it’s important to stay focused and conserve your energy.
Before you go into labor practice deep breathing exercises that will help you when the big day comes.
It’s the first thing you can do to center yourself when you realize what’s happening.
If you’re really worried about labor, take a look at the post ” How to take the fear out of Childbirth “. It will really help you get perspective on labor and what it’s like.
Monitor Your Contractions:
During labor your contractions will come regularly and get closer together, they will also get stronger and more intense.
It’s important to monitor it so that you know it’s real labor. If the contractions are irregular it could be Braxton Hicks. Learn more about that here.
Monitoring your contractions can help you, and your doctor, determine if it’s time for you to head to the hospital.
You’ll want to know how far apart they are and how long they last.
***Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Don’t have time? Here’s the best Premium online birthing course and the first part of it’s totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best. Here’s a free Birth Planner Too!
Every woman is different and there is no way to predict how long labor will last or how quickly the baby will come.
It’s important to listen to your body during this time.
Call Your Partner:
You may want to hold off calling everyone you know but call your spouse or birth partner right away.
Call them early on so they can be there in case labor escalates quickly.
Remember, not only will you need their support during this time, they’ll want to be there.
This is going to be a memorable moment for your relationship.
Other important Labor Resources you should definitely read:
When contractions become regular, contact your doctor and let them know you are in labor.
Your Doc will want to know how far apart and how long your contractions are.
Once they decide how close you are they’ll let you know when the best time to head to the hospital is.
However, if you are leaking amniotic fluid, have vaginal bleeding or decreased fetal movement it’s important to head to the hospital right away and contact the doctor’s office in route.
If at any time you are uncertain or sense something is wrong, call your doctor.
Get Ready To Go:
Check to make sure you have everything you need. Your bag should be packed but you’ll also want to make sure you have car keys, money for parking, your phone charger, and your doctor and insurance information.
Remember That You Are In Control:
Take a few minutes on the way to the hospital to enjoy the silence, collect your thoughts and get into a good headspace.
Once you arrive at the hospital things can get noisy and sometimes happen very quickly.
It can be overwhelming especially if it’s your first time giving birth.
Make sure that your doctor knows your expectations ahead of time. This can be done by providing a birthing plan. You can find a free one right here.
The doctor and nurse are there to help you but you are the one in control. Communicate your needs clearly with your nurse but always be kind and respectful.
It’s important to develop a good rapport with the hospital staff. Respect ensures that your voice gets heard when it matters the most.
I hope this helps you feel more prepared for your labor and I wish you all the best!
Make sure you read the labor resources I listed above. They will make you a labor expert and you’ll definitely be ready for what’s to come!
One more thing… Don’t get caught unprepared for Postpartum. A lot of women forget to prep for this part of their journey and it causes unnecessary pain and struggles during a time when they should be enjoying their new baby. I know because It happened to me.
For some reason, postpartum preparation is left out of most education and conversation.
Check out the two posts below so you’ll be completely ready for what’s to come!
Times are strange right now with everyone quarantined inside due to the Corona Virus Outbreak.
You may be running out of things to do with your kids.
You may fall back on television and tablets and that’s certainly fine to an extent.
It helps you get a break and your kids love it.
But make time for constructive activities that will help strengthen the bond between you and your child too.
Below are some screen-free activities that are fun and wholesome that allow plenty of learning and creativity.
No-Screen Activities for Your Child During The Corona Virus Pandemic
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Start a Garden:
Gardening is a wonderful way to bond with your child, and it’s the perfect activity for children of any age.
Letting them grow and care for fruits and vegetables encourages healthy eating and introduces them to science.
Gardening teaches patience, responsibility and how to care for the environment.
For them, it may seem like they are just playing in the dirt but Mom knows better.
Host a Sleepover:
Sleepovers are a fun way for your child to spend time with friends, and most kids love having them.
Even at a young age, sleepovers can help your child build relationships and improve communication.
Socializing is a critical part of your child’s development and sleepovers give them an opportunity to do that in the comfort of their own home.
Spending time with other children teaches your child how to share and take turns, but also how to navigate situations on their own.
My favorite activities for sleepovers are building a fort, arts, and crafts, having a dance party and playing games.
Let the children lead the way and you’ll find they enjoy doing much more than turning on the screen.
The Cardboard Box:
Let them keep the large cardboard box from your latest package.
Children very often enjoy a large box more than some of their favorite toys.
To a child, this cardboard box is full of possibilities.
Your child will use their imagination to decorate, put stuff in, take stuff out, and maybe even fall asleep there.
A cardboard box is a car, a house, a wagon, a castle and more. Keep the crayons and markers nearby, you’ll both be glad you did.
Huge boxes are especially fun, like the ones large appliances come in. You can help them make a clubhouse or a rocket ship with it!
Arts and Crafts:
Arts and crafts allow your child to experiment with things in a calm and accepting environment.
They’ll discover new colors, shapes, and textures.
They’ll improve their fine motor skills and have an outlet for expressing themselves.
Children who participate in arts and crafts at a young age are typically more creative and productive throughout their school years.
The Plastic Pool:
Just like a cardboard box, a small pool has a lot of potential and they are cheap.
There’s always splashing around in the summer to stay cool but it’s actually useful all year round.
You can easily move it indoors for a swim or turn it into a play center for your child; dolls, balls, and cars
are popular toys for playing in the pool.
Bringing the outdoor pool they know and love indoors is a great way to demonstrate thinking outside of the box and trying new things.
It’ll also win you some brownie points because they’re going to have a lot of fun with it.
Field Trips:
The more your toddler is exposed to, the more they learn.
Field trips are an excellent way to share with them the big world outside.
Field Trips feed a child’s curiosity, enhance their vocabulary and getting outdoors ensures they get much-needed exercise.
The zoo, science center and a picnic in the park are all great choices for a toddler’s day out.
There are so many other fun activities to do during The Corona Virus Pandemic or any time you’re stuck inside for extended periods of time.
Screen time is totally ok, but make sure you spark creativity and imagination.
If you loved this post please share it with your friends on Pinterest with the awesome images below!
Being pregnant is so exciting and we all want it to go well.
There are so many fun things that happen to your body each and every day.
But some of the interesting symptoms you have could be warning signs that you should know about.
Educate yourself in case something is going wrong. This could save you and your baby.
Check out the list of symptoms below and become familiar with them.
*** We sometimes add affiliate links at no extra to you. This helps keep our blog up and running.
Alarming Pregnancy Symptoms You Should Know About
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Swelling of Fingers, Face and Legs
When you’re pregnant, you’re gonna swell. It’s all part of the package.
But if you suddenly swell up and especially if you gain a couple pounds overnight, then it could spell trouble.
You may have Preeclampsia which is very serious.
Preeclampsia is a condition that only happens during pregnancy.
It is diagnosed by the elevation of the expectant mother’s blood pressure usually after the 20th week of pregnancy.
This is the most common pregnancy complication and if it remains untreated, it can develop to eclampsia, in which the mother can experience convulsions, coma, and can even die.
Fetal death can occur as well so this is very serious business.
If you notice sudden swelling like this seek medical advice immediately.
**Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Don’t have time? Here’s the best Premium online birthing course and the first part of it’s totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best. Here’s a free Birth Planner Too!
Severe Headaches With Blurred Vision
Your eyes may become itchy and dry during pregnancy and you may also experience blurred vision. Most of the time these are normal parts of being pregnant.
But sometimes it can mean something more serious.
It could possibly mean you’re suffering from gestational diabetes or, like we mentioned above, it could be a sign of Preeclampsia.
If you’re pregnant and your vision becomes excessively blurry then don’t forget to mention it at your next doc appointment so they can do the appropriate tests.
****Want Freebies For You And Your Baby? Get $330 Worth Of Gear! I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
Light bleeding, or spotting, during pregnancy is pretty common, especially during the first trimester.
Usually, this isn’t a big deal so don’t panic.
But if you start bleeding heavily at any point call your doc asap.
It could mean many things and you’ll need to go in and get checked right then.
Convulsions
This is serious. This could be a sign of Eclampsia and it’s a severe complication of uncontrolled preeclampsia.
It happens when your blood pressure gets so out of control that you begin having seizures.
Seek medical help immediately.
Fever And Too Weak To Get Out Of Bed
Fevers can be dangerous during pregnancy. It can effect the developing Fetus in many negative ways
.
Some studies have suggested that fevers during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of congenital irregularities and autism.
However, the research on this is not conclusive.
So if you have a fever above 100 degrees go ahead and seek medical advice.
Severe Abdominal Pain
You may have some abdominal pain while you’re pregnant as your baby grows.
But severe pain could mean many things including Ectopic Pregnancy, UTI, Preeclampsia, Gallstones, or even placental abruption.
Seek advice immediately for the safety of both you and your baby.
Regular Contractions before 37 Weeks
You may have some contractions at the end of your pregnancy, or even in the middle.
They’re called Braxton Hicks and they’re completely normal. You can learn more about Braxton Hicks here.
But if you suddenly get strong contractions any time during your pregnancy ( before you’re due ) you need to call your doctor right away.
Especially if they are coming in a regular pattern.
You may be having preterm labor and you want to stop it immediately so be quick if you have suspicions.
No Fetal movement
If you suddenly feel no fetal movement for any extended amount of time call your doctor immediately and go to the hospital.
Obviously your baby will sleep and sleep often but you’ll learn her patterns and if no movement starts up when you expect it then it’s time to take action as
quickly as possible.
Be safe and in tune with your pregnancy so that you both are healthy and strong throughout.
Good luck to you Mama!
If you loved this post and found it helpful share it with other mamas on Pinterest or Facebook.
20% of the population young and old fall into the category of ‘Highly Sensitive Individuals’ and it occurs equally among males and females.
These types of people have very emotionally rich lives. They are overwhelmed easily and they can get upset easily.
Highly sensitive children will react differently to life and it’s something you need to recognize so you can adjust your parenting techniques.
I have a very sensitive boy and it’s been a real challenge. I wish I had understood more about it sooner so I could have been more helpful when he needed me.
Disciplining the sensitive child can be particularly challenging.
After doing tons of research I have found somethings that have been really helpful and I want to share them with you.
Check out the list below.
6 Positive Ways to Discipline a Sensitive Kid
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Soften your tone:
We’re all human and are capable of reacting to things emotionally, but for the sake of your child take it down a notch.
Sensitive kids can feel your anger more profoundly; they are highly sensitive to your tone of voice and facial expressions, and it can wreak havoc on their physical and emotional well-being.
Before you discipline your child be sure that you are in the right head space to cope with the situation. Take a minute, or two, or three if that’s what it takes.
Fair consequences:
Just because your child feels bad doesn’t mean they don’t need consequences.
Children, of all ages, need to understand there are consequences for their choices and their behavior. Consequence are a necessary part of
parenting, especially if you want to modify behavior.
Shame, judgment and pointing the finger serve no purpose in disciplining your child. As opposed to punishment, consequences move the focus to the behavior instead of your child.
All consequences should be in line with the act; sensitive kids are already hard on themselves, they don’t need you to be incredibly harsh. Be fair.
Reward them:
Rewards are not just for good behavior. You can teach your sensitive kid right from wrong by offering a
reward to stop or change future behaviors.
Kids already feel bad when they do something wrong; instead, use this as a teachable moment and offer them the opportunity to earn a reward.
In order for the reward method to work it must be attainable, and you must deliver on your promise.
Give your undivided attention:
Some behaviors are a result of a child seeking attention, they’re missing a connection.
Spend one-on-one time with them without distractions every single day. When something does happen, deal with the emotion first, then the discipline.
It’s important that your kids know you are readily available for them, especially in the younger years. Make every effort to help them feel loved, important and secure.
Inconsistency in rules, routine, and expectations is the worst environment for a sensitive child.
They take all feedback to heart and when they can’t meet expectations because the rules are ever-changing, they are left in turmoil.
Kids have enough time trying to navigate this world without us making it more complicated for them. Be consistent and give them praise often.
Give them a warning and reminders:
Sensitive kids tend to react strongly to failure, correction and change. They are already hard on themselves.
I love the idea of giving a warning; this gives your child an opportunity to change their behavior and ‘save face’ so to speak.
You can then praise and reinforce the positive behaviors you expect from them, And for those sensitives that seem to struggle with a change of plans, a 5 or 10 minute warning goes a long way.
Living with a sensitive child can be challenging and rewarding. Just be considerate and in tune with their special needs and you’ll have a great relationship.
I’m going to tell you something today about healing your postpartum body, and I want you to listen close.
There’s a lot of advice online but for some reason what I’m going to tell you gets left out a lot. Maybe because some women think it’s old fashion or it doesn’t work.
Or maybe because no one thought to tell you or they just didn’t know, like me.
No one told me and I really wish they had because I can’t go back now without surgery and I’m sad ;(
Quick Note: Make sure to read to the end of the post and watch the super funny video below. It really puts a funny spin on pregnancy.
**This post may contain affiliate links at no extra charge to you;) This helps keep our blog up and running so that we can bring you educational and entertaining information like this. Thanks.
So at this point, you’re probably wondering what the hell I’m talking about.
Well, let me tell you and be sure to hear me out.
You NEED to wear a postpartum girdle or corset thingy, whatever you want to call it. Here’s a good choice.
This will help you heal your Diastasis recti by literally allowing your stomach muscles to grow back together.
So you’re asking, ‘ Toni, What is this Diastasis recti you’re talking about?’
Diastasis recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis, or “six-pack” muscles, which meet at the midline of your stomach.
Diastasis recti is very common during and following pregnancy and it occurs in more than 75% of women to some extent!
That’s huge! So you wonder why women who lose all the pregnancy weight still have a poochy tummy right? This is why!!
They workout and try SO HARD and it just won’t get better.
That’s because those muscles stayed separated and no amount of exercise will help if you leave them separated and unwrapped after birth.
I am one of those women. I have had three babes and I really wish someone had told me to put on a girdle and pull it all back together!
Because they will literally grow back into place if you do this and be consistent.
I discovered this because I met someone who had six beautiful babes over her mothering career and her stomach was as flat as a washboard.
** One more quick note: A postpartum fitness program is a good idea too if you’re very serious about snapping that body back. The Postpartum Cure. The Postpartum Cure is an excellent choice and used by millions of women with great results.
I ask her how the heck she managed that and she told me she wrapped her stomach and wore a girdle every time. She told me her mother taught her how and that her mother also had several children and a flat tummy.
So I’m a pregnancy blogger and I reached out and talked to MANY mothers after hearing this. I did my research and you know what?
Those mamas who had inherited this sound advice from their own mamas had nice flat tummies. Even women with a bigger build were able to go back to their original firmer shape.
And knowing all this now… I can’t believe more women are not talking about it.
I will certainly be letting my daughter know when she gets ready to have her own so she doesn’t have to look four months pregnant for the rest of her life like most of us women who have had babies.
So the moral of this story is….. wrap your stomach so those muscles can grow back together.
Belly Bandit is the best source of professional grade maternity and postpartum garments and I highly recommend them. You will not find the same level of quality and support anywhere else.
Here’s a link so you can check out all the awesome stuff they have to offer.
And while you’re at it you should get a belly support if you’re still pregnant. This will also help your muscles and provide much-needed support. This would be the first step to protecting your belly from becoming a stretched out balloon after birth.
Before you go, be sure to watch the super funny video below. It will crack you up! I love the Belly Bandit company, they are hilarious. I wish you all the best!
Hey, I’m Toni and I’m the mama of 3 Little Birds. I love Writing about all Things Mama. Learn more about me here. Grab a Tea or Coffee and come see what you find.
15 Signs Your Baby Will Be Born In The Next few Days 
5 Things That Happen When You Have An Epidural That Know One Tells You About 
12 Things You Need To Know About Epidurals Before Having One | Epidural Side Effects 
Reasons Why You Should Pick a midwife instead of an ob/gyn 
18 Lifesaving C-Section Recovery Tips 
How To Eliminate Your “Mummy Tummy” After A C-Section 
The 4 Stages Of Labor 
How To Reduce Your Fear Of Childbirth
I wish you all the best!
