PLAY AND CHILDCARE

Helping Your Toddler Make Eye Contact

Teaching Your Toddler To Share

Finding A Great Babysitter

Natural Toys

Non-Toxic Plastic Toys

Creating A Green Play Space

Eco-Friendly Party Favors For Toddlers

Handling Toddler Tantrums

HYGEINE AND SLEEP

Potty Training In Public

Potty Training While Traveling

Making Bath Time Fun

Brushing Your Toddler's Teeth

Keeping Children In Their Own Beds At Night

Moving Your Toddler Into A Big Bed

HEALTHY EATING

Healthy Snacks: Happy Trails Mix

Eating Healthy Away From Home

Developing Healthy Eating Routines

Tips For Dealing With A Picky Eater

Toddler Table Manners

It wasn’t until college, when good friends of mine taking a swimming class dragged me to the pool for a freestyle tutorial, that I began swimming laps. I loved it. Ten years later, I married a former college swimmer and we bonded by swimming laps together.

RELATED: How I Learned to Love Exercise

Each time we swam, I worked on one thing – breathing, holding my head at the correct angle, reaching far enough forward – until I began to feel like a skilled swimmer. I challenged myself and joined a master’s team.  I loved the camaraderie and coaching expertise. I got up at 5 a.m. three days a week for it, even during the winter, when it was so cold outside my hair froze on the walk home.

During my first pregnancy, I knew I’d feel better if I swam, so I kept going to the master’s workouts. Morning sickness forced me to start a little later, and my times weren't as fast as everyone else's, but it felt great to be in the pool.

RELATED: Monthly Guide to Pregnancy 

I loved the physical benefits. I felt strong and flexible. I gained just the right amount of baby weight, and my blood pressure and glucose were right on track. As the months went on, I stopped running but kept swimming.

It was in my second trimester that I read a British study indicating babies born to mothers who had exercised throughout pregnancy had higher muscle tone at birth. Another study suggested that women who exercised during pregnancy had faster, easier labor than those who did not. All of that sounded good to me!

During my third trimester, when even walking was a pain because I had to pee every three blocks, I kept swimming. I didn’t quit until the last month of pregnancy, when even putting my swimsuit on in the locker room felt exhausting.

At that point, I focused on prenatal yoga and short walks. I was incredibly fortunate to have an easy, quick labor and delivery. I certainly think swimming played a part in that.

RELATED: Prenatal Yoga

Three years later and pregnant with my second child, I was still an avid swimmer. I wasn’t any faster, but my technique had improved. I swam almost every day throughout my third trimester.

This time around, I had no leg cramps and the swimming really kept that fun third trimester swelling down. In the pool, I didn’t even feel pregnant. Labor was once again speedy and relatively easy.

I credit swimming with keeping me fit, relaxed, positive and strong throughout pregnancy, and it's no surprise to me that both my children love the water.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katie Ginder-Vogel is a freelance writer and editor based in Madison, Wis. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English from Stanford University. An avid runner, hiker, and swimmer, Katie writes regularly about health and wellness. She has two children and a dog, who keep her company on the trail, on the road, and in the pool.

RELATED: Monthly Guide to Pregnancy

Just as we can hear things when we’re under water, bones in the fetus’ head conduct sound, allowing it to hear noises from outside the womb.

Obviously, the sounds inside the uterus are the loudest—the mother’s voice, heartbeat, and digestion—but research indicates that fetuses respond to male voices, too.

According to scientists, playing music often results in faster, stronger fetal movement.

Research also shows that newborns can recognize specific songs they heard in utero. So if you want your baby to love your favorite band as much as you do, or at least be familiar with their latest album, play it often while you’re pregnant. The same goes for reading stories and talking with your family members and friends.

You Might Also Enjoy: Prenatal Vitamins

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katie Ginder-Vogel is a freelance writer and editor based in Madison, WI. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English from Stanford University. An avid runner, hiker, and swimmer, Katie writes regularly about health and wellness. She has two children and a dog, who keep her company on the trail, on the road, and in the pool.

Postpartum depression is a more serious, longer-lasting type of depression. If those baby blues seem to be lasting for months, or you find yourself perpetually unhappy and losing interest in the things that used to give you a boost, like reading or exercising or gardening, you may want to seek help.

RELATED: How Long After Giving Birth Can I Still Suffer From Postpartum Depression?

Symptoms of postpartum depression include a loss of appetite, extreme irritability or anger, withdrawal from family or friends, difficulty bonding with your baby, and feelings of harming yourself or your baby.

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but even more serious condition that usually develops within the first several weeks after giving birth and can include hallucinations and paranoia.

RELATED: Helping Baby Sleep

It is critical that new parents realize that there is nothing they have done wrong if they experience postpartum depression. Many factors, both biological and environmental, contribute to this type of depression. Even more important is seeking help from a doctor. Most OB/GYNs, midwives, hospital personnel and pediatricians are trained to recognize the signs of postpartum depression and are eager to help women suffering from it.

You Might Also Enjoy: Parenting QA: What’s the Best Way to Help My Baby Sleep?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katie Ginder-Vogel is a freelance writer and editor based in Madison, WI. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English from Stanford University. An avid runner, hiker, and swimmer, Katie writes regularly about health and wellness. She has two children and a dog, who keep her company on the trail, on the road, and in the pool.

BEFORE BABY ARRIVES

Must-Have Items for Baby's Arrival

BATHING AND DIAPERING

Giving Baby A Bath

Ingredients To Look For In Baby Soap

Best Baby Soaps And Shampoos

Best Creams For Diaper Rash

Natural Treatments For Yeast And Fungal Infections

FEEDING

Signs of Hunger and Fullness in Babies

Foods To Avoid While Breastfeeding

Formula Recommendations For Moms Who Can't Breastfeed

Best Baby Formulas

How Concerned Should I Be About BPA?

Tips for Buying Baby Food

Baby Food Options

Should I Avoid Feeding Baby Fruits?

How To Get Baby To Try New Foods

Drinking From A Cup

Natural Clean-up For Sticky Messes

SLEEPING

Helping Baby Sleep

Should I Sleep Train My Baby?

Teething And Sleep

Keeping Children In Their Own Beds At Night

PLAY AND CHILDCARE

When Do Babies Benefit From Group Play?

Finding A Great Babysitter

Natural Toys For Babies And Kids

Non-Toxic Plastic Toys

Disinfecting Children's Toys

Creating A Green Play Space

OTHER TOPICS

Sunscreen For Babies

Doula The term “doula” comes from Ancient Greek and means “a woman who serves.” A doula can provide you and your family with information and physical/emotional support before, during, and after labor and delivery. Many different organizations offer certification and training to doulas.

WATCH: Labor of Love

Midwife A midwife is a trained professional who can help with uncomplicated births. Many midwives are certified nurses or RN’s, and many women’s health care practices now include midwives.

RELATED: Monthly Guide to Pregnancy

Birth Coach A birth coach can help you plan for and experience natural childbirth. Birth coaches are certified through a range of organizations.

RELATED: Prenatal Yoga

With this many options from which to choose, you’ll have no trouble finding the right labor assistant. Good luck with your birth!

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VIDEO: Pregnancy Do's and Don'ts
VIDEO: Why You Should Do Prenatal Yoga

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katie Ginder-Vogel is a freelance writer and editor based in Madison, WI. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English from Stanford University. An avid runner, hiker, and swimmer, Katie writes regularly about health and wellness. She has two children and a dog, who keep her company on the trail, on the road, and in the pool.

Nancy Massotto

Q:

I'm pregnant and want to have a natural birth. What are my options?

A:

The most essential keys to creating the birth experience that you desire are education and support. Start by reading books about childbirth, and take advantage of the many resources available on the Internet and even movies about birth. Decide what your ideal personal birth plan looks like and write it down. There is a huge list of choices to be made, from where you would like to give birth (home, birthing center, hospital) to the type of practitioner you would like to attend your birth (such as your midwife or OB/GYN). Whatever you choose, be sure that the location and practitioners support your plan and are in agreement with your wishes. Consider taking a natural childbirth class to help you weigh your options in advance and to become aware of the choices you will need to be prepared for. You might look into hiring a doula, a birth assistant, to focus on you and to be an advocate for you during childbirth. Extend your support network to your family and friends as well. Find like-minded people who respect your choices and who can share their own birth experiences with you and keep you on track with your desired plan.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Parenting QA: What's A Good Alternative To Baby Food?
Top 10 Holistic Tips for Expecting Moms
Parenting Q&A Library
Sports Dads: some parents just need the right coach.
Labor of Love: incredible & inspiring stories of natural childbirth.

Q:

A:

by Nancy Massotto

Healthy Living is a Journey

When I was in graduate school my idea of breakfast was a Diet Coke® and a cigarette.  Today, it’s local organic eggs and a fair trade latte.  Talk about change! 

Moving into a healthy lifestyle is not often a sudden transformation.  Rather, it is a journey we take throughout our life as we discover new information, new resources, and embrace more healthful goals.  For me, my personal journey was bounded by two opposing perspectives: a traditional, back-to-basics perspective and a modern, convenience lifestyle.  I grew up in a multi-generational household and my Italian-American grandmother had a passion for cooking everything from scratch.  She spent hours in the kitchen making pasta, cleaning fresh fish, and embracing a lifestyle that honored the bounty of the earth.  She also distrusted doctors and often shunned modern medicine for simple home remedies.  My mother, however, was urban and hip – always embracing the latest trends, including fast foods and quick fixes.  I generally followed my mother’s ways for many years, but honored the traditions of my grandmother and adopted her passion for food and cooking.

Start a Natural Lifestyle As Early As Possible

Fast forward into my 20s as a graduate student when I began to seriously pay attention to my health and wellness.  My love for food and cooking led me to books and resources about the connection between what we eat and how we feel, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  I became passionate about a healthy, plant-based diet and the world of wellness began to unfold.  I discovered homeopathy, chiropractic clinics, and farmers’ markets.  By the time I married and was ready to start a family, I was already on the path to a holistic lifestyle.

Starting a family is a time of excitement and wonder – and anxiety.  First, the fun part begins.  Spreading the news, picking baby names, and planning a nursery.  But the journey of motherhood also brings many questions.  For many parents, it is the first time we really start to pay attention to the things we put in and on our bodies.  We start reading labels, researching ingredients, and wondering how they will impact our future family.  We start worrying about toxins in our homes and the impact of chemicals in our environment for future generations.  Or maybe we reach that threshold as a parent after the fifth ear infection, the never-ending allergies, or a concern about junk food in our children’s school lunch programs.  Whether your holistic living journey started before children, as mine did, or it follows your entrance into parenthood, it is an ongoing evolution for all of us. 

A holistic approach to parenting begins with an awareness of how our choices and actions are interconnected.  It may start with a realization that the quality of the food we eat during pregnancy will impact the health of our future child.  It may begin as we plan a nursery and discover the dangers of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in paints.  Or it may be a radical awakening to global warming and what we can do to preservethe future for our children.

The Essence of Holistic Parenting

Being a holistic parent means that we are aware of how our actions, choices, and behaviors impact our health and the health of our planet.  We embrace the concept of “holism” and begin to treat symptoms as larger issues – both individually and with regard to the environment.  We recognize that a fever is the body’s way of fighting disease and is part of a larger healing process, just as we understand that the disposable diapers we are tossing in the garbage are connected to unusual weather patterns and global warming.

But crossing that threshold does not mean we suddenly jump to the finish line.  Often, we straddle two worlds.  When I was young, I would spend hours in the gym and then indulge in a meal of processed foods to satisfy my hunger.  We all rationalize our unhealthy behaviors along the way and live with our many contradictions.  However, reconciling these contradictions becomes harder and harder as we learn and grow.  New conditions and information are constantly arising that ask us to make choices and changes.  We acknowledge that the clutter of plastic bags in our homes is indeed polluting the planet and one day we make the switch and purchase reusable bags.  We become aware that High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is pervasive in many of the food items that we buy and we commit to reading labels and finding alternative products to keep our children healthy.  As holistic parents, we strive for balance: balance that includes reducing our anxiety about the future and finding support.  We seek out information as well as community to enrich our journey and discover acceptance.  When we look for information to make the healthiest choices for our families and the planet, consider the implications of our actions, and understand how our choices or actions have repercussions for our health and wellness, then we have embraced the journey.  This is the essence of holistic parenting. 

Holistic Parenting Is Not About Sacrifice

Making changes to embrace holistic living and parenting means taking those first steps into living with health and sustainability in mind.  But being a holistic parent is not a race or a contest.  It’s not about living the “perfect” green lifestyle or abandoning all of our traditions and practices.  It is the effort we make to become informed and to make the best choices for ourselves, our families, and our planet.  It means that we are engaged – personally and politically – in the choices that we make and the impact that they have.  I may be an organic food enthusiast who drives a hybrid, but my personal journey as a holistic parent still includes lattes and chocolate!  Even though we have an eye on wellness, we may not choose to give up our caffeine habit today, but we might choose to purchase only organically grown, fair trade coffee.  We might avoid processed sugars to improve our children’s health but opt to sweeten treats with local honey instead.

I look forward to exploring the many facets of holistic parenting with you and hope you will join me on this journey so that we can learn together!

A leading voice in the natural parenting movement, Nancy Massotto, Ph.D, is  the Founder and Executive Director of the Holistic Moms Network, and mother to two boys.  An articulate and knowledgeable writer and speaker on holistic living, natural parenting, and eco-conscious lifestyles, she shares her passion with a wide variety of audiences as a presenter and author.  She is passionate about empowering women, supporting mothers, and raising her children as naturally and sustainably as she can.

If you are a nursing mother, you do not only eat for the sake of your own health but also for the health of the breastfeeding baby. Good nutrition is therefore just as important for your baby as it is for you. While there are educational materials everywhere, the best possible diets for new breastfeeding moms are those that advocate a balanced nutritional eating plan. While breastfeeding, your body will automatically put the baby first. If the nursing mother lacks sufficient nourishment, her body will make milk production its first priority and her own needs may go unmet.

Breast Feeding Diet: An Overview

The importance of breast-feeding kick starting a baby’s immune system is well-known. But did you know that it could help your immune system too? Scientists suggest that higher levels of blood prolactin stimulated by breastfeeding was related to more positive mood, greater immunity to infection, and decreased stress.

A common nutrient in breastfeeding diets is B12. B12 is extremely important in nursing mothers for the formation of red blood cells, among other things. Foods that contain B12 are fish-- both shellfish and other seafood; liver; fortified breakfast cereal and yogurt.

Breastfeeding diets should contain iron. Iron stores are depleted during pregnancy, so it is important that you rebuild your iron stores with iron-rich foods. Breastfeeding diets should also contain lots of calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral for protection of bone strength. A nursing mother will need about four servings of calcium rich foods per day. Part of a well-planned breastfeeding diet is to keep you well hydrated. Breastfeeding mothers release a hormone called oxytocin, which causes milk to be 'let down' and available for the baby. This hormone makes you thirsty, so keep a drink of water nearby when you breastfeed. When it comes to alcohol in your breastfeeding diet, the safest option is to avoid alcohol altogether, as alcohol does pass on to your baby through the breast milk. But if you do want to drink alcohol while breastfeeding baby, do not have more than one or two standard drinks once per week. Also, try to time your drinking accordingly, allowing time for your body to metabolize and clear the alcohol before breastfeeding baby.

Breast Feeding Diet: Basic Principles

In a breastfeeding diet, you really can eat anything in moderation. The following are some guidelines when thinking about a breastfeeding diet:

• More calories. You’ll need an extra 500 calories per day as a breastfeeding mother: you can even eat more if you are planning to continue breast-feeding for more than three months. But again, be careful: avoid processed foods, simple carbohydrates, fats, especially trans and saturated fats. Sunflower, corn, rapeseed, and olive oil provide the fatty acids that are essential for building the baby's nervous system.
• Light frequent meals. Spread your caloric intake over five "meals," breakfast, lunch, after- noon snack, dinner, and an extra snack during the evening. Each snack time is also an opportunity to drink water, eat a low-fat dairy or soy product, and a piece of fruit. As your body is continually producing milk, it needs your caloric intake to be consistent.
• No Smoking. Nicotine passes directly through breast milk to the baby. Babies of smokers are prone to colic and respiratory infections and smoking can increase the risk of SIDS in newborns. If you cannot control yourself, build in a gap of at least an hour between your last cigarette and your next feeding session, so that the nicotine in your system has a chance to decompose at least partially.
• No or limited alcohol. Alcohol passes through milk in less than an hour and if the baby consumes it in large quantities, it can retard his growth. If you must drink an occasional glass of wine or beer, save it for after a feeding session.
• Be careful of prescription medication. Take no medication without first consulting a doctor. Most antibiotics, sulfa drugs, chemical laxatives, and all products containing large amounts of iodine are contraindicated while you are breast-feeding. Other medications, taken over a long period, can also be dangerous.
• Beware of pollutants. Like nicotine, pesticide residue easily passes through mother's milk. If you are nursing, stay away from insecticides (especially in airborne forms such as aerosols or coils). Try to use natural insect repellents such as citronella.
• Eat more Folic Acid. Eat food that contains vitamin B 9 (folic acid). During pregnancy, folic acid is vital to the development of the baby's nervous system. Folic acid also can be found abundantly in asparagus, cabbage, corn, chick- peas, and spinach. Many other foods, such as wheat and orange juice, have been enriched with folic acid. Check the package labels.

Breast Feeding Diet: Complications

• Wind/Restlessness: some food may cause wind or restlessness of your baby. While these symptoms are sometimes inevitable with a young baby, if it is becoming difficult, try taking note of what you are eating and how the baby responds. Every baby is different, and some foods may cause a reaction in one but have no effect on another. Spicy foods, dairy products, cabbage, onion, garlic, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and turnips are some of the more common foods that cause wind or restlessness.

• Rash/Hives/Sniffles/Diarrhea/Vomiting: If your baby is having any of these symptoms, he or she may be allergic to what you are eating. Make a note of what you are eating, the time eaten and the baby’s symptoms. Try cutting the offending food from his or her diet. If unsuccessful, try approaching an allergist or nutritionalist.

Breast Feeding Diet: Herbal Supplements

• More Milk. Dill, ground fenugreek, borage, raspberry leaves, garlic, nettles, fennel seeds, anise, vervain, and cinnamon are all safe for your baby, and can be used to boost the milk supply.
• Less Milk. Sage, mint and parsley. Some mothers find that these herbs less or dry up their milk supply. Eat in moderation, unless you have too much milk or if you are trying to wean your baby.

Breast Feeding Diet: Conclusion

A balanced healthy diet, and light frequent meals are the most important principles of a breast-feeding diet. Remember that each baby reacts differently to the foods his mother consumes so if your baby is having gas/restlessness, or an allergic reaction, make a note of the foods that you are eating and try to eliminate them. Herbs and herbal supplements may increase or decrease the amount of milk you produce. While your body will automatically screen what you ingest to prevent toxins from entering your baby’s body, a nutritious diet will keep you and your baby strong and healthy.

Get Answers At Our Parenting Q&A Library

Monthly Guide To Pregnancy

Now that you found out you are carrying a baby, is it safe to fly? Yes – for most women, flying while pregnant is completely safe. As long as you follow some simple rules and your obstetrician agrees there is no problem, in most cases, you can travel without having to worry, as long as you are not close to your due date.

Flying When Pregnant: Is it safe for you?

Air traveling is safe for most pregnant women until up to 36 weeks of gestation, especially if the trip is short and there are no situations in which it is contraindicated to fly. In cases of medical or obstetric complications it is quite dangerous for your body to be exposed to flight conditions. Flying may harm you or your baby with conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness), hypertension induced by pregnancy, hard to control blood sugar level in diabetes.  If you are carrying twins or you have placenta previa (when the placenta is positioned incorrectly and it covers your cortex), you should consult your doctor before flying as you could put the baby at risk.

General issues

• Nausea - The almost continuous changes in altitude during a flight can prove to be uncomfortable for you causing nausea or dizziness. So, do not expect to be as active as usual. If you are eating before and during the flight, make sure you avoid hard digestible foods or the ones that make you feel bloated. Especially if you are in the first trimester of pregnancy and you likely experience morning sickness on a regular basis, try to stay hydrated even if this means you will go to the toilet more often.
• Thrombosis - During the flight the greatest risk for you as a pregnant woman is the occurrence of thrombosis. Thrombosis means that a blood clot is forming in a vein from your legs. This is rare, although serious when it occurs. The risk of getting thrombosis increases during a flight because you sit too long in the same position and the blood is not circulating normally. You can reduce the risk of thrombosis by booking a seat next to the aisle. In this way, you will have more space to stretch your legs and stay hydrated without having to worry you will disturb the other passengers if you go too often to the toilet. Wearing support stockings or socks (not tights, which increase your risk of developing thrush) when you fly will help keep your circulation flowing and relieve swollen veins.
• Radiation - The in-flight radiation coming from the sun and the solar flares are able to penetrate the aircraft’s fuselage. However, most doctors agree that while those who fly hundreds of times per year may have a health risk from increased radiation, the occasional flight by a pregnant woman will not increase the risks of miscarriage or birth defects.
• Premature birth - The possibilities of labor during a flight are highly unlikely but just in case, you must know that air steward training includes how to deliver a baby. So, if you feel sick and you have regular contractions, do not hesitate to tell one of the flight attendants about your situation. It is always better to let everyone who can help know what’s going on.

Airlines regulations

If you have a healthy pregnancy without complications, you should be able to fly until the eight and sometimes the ninth month of gestation. However, some airlines do not allow pregnant women to fly beyond the seventh month because of the risk of premature birth. Although you won’t be asked your due date when you reservation your ticket, you may be stopped at the gate, when presenting the ticket. Sometimes, if the operators are worried about you having a too advanced pregnancy with a high risk of delivery they can prohibit you from getting on the plane. To avoid these kinds of situations, it is advisable to get a certificate from your obstetrician, doctor or midwife confirming your due date and that you are unlikely to give birth in the next 72 hours. These restrictions vary from an airline to another, so ask when you book the trip. Remember to take the same precautions for your return flight – you’ll be further along so you’ll need your obstetrician to approve both flying dates. Whenever possible, try to avoid flying in small planes as they don’t have pressurized cabins.  At high altitudes, there is less oxygen, and your body has to work much harder to give your baby the same amount of oxygen.

3 Tips for an enjoyable trip

1. Comfort. Wear clothes that make you feel good, preferably those that are easy to remove when going to the bathroom. Opt for clothing in layers because the temperature from the plane will be adjusted, as the temperature in planes can vary significantly. In case your feet will swell, choose comfortable shoes. If you prepare for longer trips, then take with you a pair of thick socks or slippers so you can change during the flight. Some women choose support stockings when they fly, as they will help protect the blood vessels. Or there are over the knee socks especially designed for flying.
2. The seat. Book a seat that facilitates your accommodation. Choose seats located in the middle section of the plane, to avoid feeling the turbulence. Also occupying a seat near the corridor will ensure more space for your feet and quick access to the bathroom. Every 20 to 30 minutes, try to move a little your ankles, legs, neck and arms, either by stretching or rotating. A few minutes of exercise can help you avoid thrombosis or numbness.
3. Food and water. Wherever you go or regardless of which transportation you choose, it is always good to have a snack at hand. Prepare a few sandwiches and other healthy snacks and put them in your purse. You never know when you will get hungry. Always consider the possibility of getting stuck in traffic or at the airport. Also, you should always carry a bottle of water or other liquids to keep you hydrated. Remember that thirst is not always the first sign of dehydration. In the plane, the humidity from the air is below normal, so the body tends to dehydrate.

Except in special circumstances, Flying When Pregnant is completely safe. It does not harm you or your baby, so if you have a normal pregnancy, you can peacefully book a flight rather waste hours on the road. If you are late in your pregnancy, check with your obstetrician or midwife and the airline. You don’t want to the airline to refuse your return and be stuck!

Get Answers at Our Parenting Q&A Library

Monthly Guide To Pregnancy

Do's: Things To Do When Trying To Get Pregnant

1. Timing is Everything

You will have little chance of getting pregnant if you had sex on the wrong days and missed the most fertile ones. Figure out your ovulation days with our ovulation calendar to increase your chances of conception.

Check for signs of ovulation. Look for changes in your cervical fluid to help you predict when you’ll be ovulating. When cervical mucus is produced in greater quantities and when it is stretchy in texture, it means you are ovulating and therefore are most fertile. But if cervical mucus is thick and there isn’t much of it, you are in a less fertile time of your cycle. Some women also experience mittelschmertz, a mild pain in the abdominal area that is indicative of ovulation.
 

2. Increase the Odds

Make your vaginal environment as sperm-friendly as possible. Avoid vaginal sprays and scented tampons, and artificial lubricants.  Not only can they cause infections, they may wash away cervical mucus or create a hostile environment for the sperm.

If you find that your cervical mucus is not as conducive to getting pregnant as it should be, you may want to try a specific type of lubricant. Pre-Seed lubricant is the sperm friendly choice of many people trying to get pregnant.
 

3. Buy Something Sexy

6. Go For A Check-Up

Testing your overall health can also improve your fertility because it can help to identify fertility problems and conditions that may secretly be affecting your ability to get pregnant. Both you and your partner should get checked for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), both of which can negatively affect both male and female fertility.
 

7. Fuel Up On Folic Acid

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that can help reduce the risk of serious birth defects that affect the brain and spinal cord. For this reason, the FDA recommends that all women attempting pregnancy take folic acid supplements for decreasing chances of birth defects.

8. Get Your Weight Checked

Healthy weight women have an easier time getting pregnant than overweight or underweight women. Studies show that women whose body mass index (BMI) is below 20 or above 30 have a harder time getting pregnant, so it’s a good idea to try to get yourself into the 20 to 30 range before you start trying.

Don'ts: Things To Avoid When Trying To Get Pregnant

1. Stop Taking Birth Control Pills

You’re through the first trimester! How does it feel? There are still pregnancy symptoms that might be challenging, but you’re over the morning sickness, pregnancy headaches and the emotional roller coaster of the first three months. On the one hand, its time to relax, but on the other, you need to be really vigilant about germs. You’re more susceptible to colds and viruses now, since your body’s immune system is naturally suppressed to prevent your body from rejecting your baby. Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap, and make sure to wash the cuticles and fingernails too. Avoid sick people, don’t share food or utensils, and be careful with food preparation.

15 Weeks Pregnant - Your baby's growth

Body size

Your baby measures between 4 and 4.5 inches (105 to 115 millimeters) this week. His or her weight is also increasing and it can reach 0.22 pounds (100 grams), or about the size of a large apple.

Head characteristics

Your baby’s face features become so realistic, as the eyes, nose and lips take shape. His or her eyebrows and head hair begin to grow this week. A sense of hearing develops too.

Body appearance

Your baby’s skin develops but remains extremely thin. By the end of this week, she might be able to wiggle her fingers and toes, make a fist, or even suck her thumb.

Internal organs

This week the pulmonary alveoli – membranes in the lungs, but the lungs are not functional yet, as they are filled with the amniotic fluid. If you could see inside your uterus, you’d see a little wriggler, dancing about, and lifting and lowering her chest, in order to inhale and exhale the amniotic liquid.

15 Weeks Pregnant - What happens inside your body?

Your uterus continues to increase and because of this you can feel sharp pain on both sides of your lower abdomen. As mentioned, the pain is caused by the ligaments attached to your uterus stretching, so no need to worry. Pain may occur suddenly, while walking or changing position. The heartburn of previous weeks may continue, as stomach acid can seep into your esophagus. This week, you may start to feel the Braxton Hicks contractions. These painless and random contractions are your body’s way of preparing for the birth. If you have more than five per hour, if they come at a steady pace, or if they're accompanied by intense cramps or backaches, you should call the doctor.

Insomnia

About 8 out of 10 women suffer from insomnia during pregnancy. It can be caused by all sorts of issues, such as leg cramps, headaches, anxiety, excitement, frequent urination or just difficulty getting comfortable. The best position is on the left hand side. Since the inferior vena cava is on the right side, lying on your left side relieves the vein of the weight of the womb, thus lowering pressure on the veins in your legs and feet. You can try wedging a pillow behind you to tilt your body up in the right position.

15 Weeks Pregnant - How different will you look?

You’ve gained about 4.5 to 5.5 pounds (2 to 2.5 kilograms) since conception, and are now thinking about buying (or have already bought) stretchy pants and leggings. Also, now is about the time that the ‘mask of pregnancy’ can appear. These are dark spots on your abdomen, face and arms and the darkening of freckles or moles. To avoid them getting darker, try to keep out of the sun, or wear long sleeved clothes or a hat in the sunlight, especially during the summer.

15 Weeks Pregnant for fathers - How can you care for both of your loved ones?

If your partner is having trouble with insomnia, there are several things you can do to help out. Try running her a warm, bubble bath – good sleep begins with relaxation. A foot massage, leg or back massage might help with the leg cramps and other pregnancy aches and pains. You can try helping her find a comfortable sleeping position, perhaps by helping her reposition herself with pillows. Just taking an interest and showing your support can go a long way to demonstrating that you are there for her and in this together.

15 Weeks Pregnant for mothers - Tips to help you go through trimester

1. Talk to your baby. Although your baby’s hearing isn’t fully developed, speaking to your baby or playing music will have a bonding effect between you two.
2. Prenatal tests: You have the option of taking several prenatal tests in the coming weeks. Have you discussed your options with your doctor? The three that might be offered at your next checkup are the amniocentesis (15 to 20 Weeks Pregnant), the AFP test (15 to 21 Weeks Pregnant) and the triple test (15-20 Weeks Pregnant) Amniocentesis, or the amnio, is a minor surgical diagnostic test that tests the amniotic fluid for birth defects or lung maturity. It is offered to all women over 35, those with a family history of birth defects or those with other pregnancy abnormalities. The AFP test screens for Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, a more severe and less common birth defect, and other birth defects. In it, a blood sample is drawn from the mother to check the levels of AFP, a protein secreted by the baby’s liver and excreted in the mother's blood. It is also called the MSAFP or maternal serum AFP. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend this test, although it has a small risk of miscarriage and can only tell you whether you are at risk and does not provide a positive confirmation. A test that is becoming better known is the triple test. This test is most accurate when completed between the 16th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. It checks for chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome, and spinal abnormalities, such as spina bifida, and neural defects. It measures AFP, the hormone HCG and Estriol (the estrogen produced by your baby and your placenta). Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of all three tests. 

You’ve gotten through the worst stage and are in the calmest period of the pregnancy, the gestation period. Your baby’s face is increasingly well defined, and you may notice parts of you or your partner in your baby’s features. You body may start to get ready for birth with the Braxton Hicks contractions. Enjoy the calm while it lasts, you deserve it!

What's Happened So Far:
14 Weeks Pregnant

What's Happening Next:
16 Weeks Pregnant

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Q:

How do I keep my children in their own beds at night?  They wake up every evening and come into our rooms and bed.

A:

Keeping your children in their own beds can depend upon many factors, including their ages, whether or not you shared sleep with them at younger ages, and their individual levels of emotional maturity.  There are some simple things you might try if their bed sharing is disruptive for you or your partner. You could set up a special place - a small mattress, sleeping bag, or futon - where they are welcome to join you when the need arises.  Or if their joining you during the night is keeping you awake, you might establish a rule that they cannot join you until daylight or perhaps only on weekends.  You might see if having siblings share a room is more conducive to staying put or setting aside special toys or activities that can only be used early in the morning in their own room.  Ironically, as they get older it will be getting them out of bed at all that will be the concern!

Q:

How can I keep my toddler from eating junk food at other people's houses?

A:

If you work hard to keep your kids away from junk food, there is nothing more frustrating than others offering them unhealthy treats when they are visiting.  What can you do?  Part of the challenge is how well you know the people you are visiting and whether you can have an open and honest conversation with them about your children's diets.  Many people are offended by the suggestion that what they are feeding their own kids is junk or will decide you are overly strict if you do not allow "treats" (particularly common among grandparents).  The best strategy, especially with young children, is to bring your own food for all occasions.  Pack up healthy treats or healthier versions of treats that may be served (for example, organic alternatives for cookies or snacks without artificial colorings or flavorings) to offer instead.  If you are able, try simple conversations about how sugar or artificial colorings affect your child's behavior and educate your children about the benefits of healthy food.  Kids can learn to make wise choices early on.  And for those stubborn grandparents: realize that a mostly healthy diet at home is going to do your kids a world of good even if you can't stop all junk from entering their environment!

Q:

My 8 and 9 year olds have been asking to get onto Facebook.  Their friends have accounts.  But I am not sure about this. What do you think?

A:

Technically, Facebook does not allow children under the age of 13 to have accounts, and perhaps with good reason.  While "stranger danger" is always a worry for parents, cyberbullying is increasingly becoming the primary cause for concern.  Young children may not be savvy about online privacy, nor able to handle cruel or inappropriate comments from their peers.  Although a growing number of children under the age of 13 seem to have Facebook accounts, setting up an account under false pretenses may not be the best example to teach our children either.  If you are uncertain or wary of creating an account, I would trust that instinct. 

Q:

Between school homework, games, and just "looking things up" my child is on the computer a lot.  How much is too much?  What is the appropriate length of time for my children to play computer games?

A:

According to a recent study, children who spend more than 2 hours a day in front of a screen (TV or computer-based), were at least 59 percent more likely "to have emotional, social and concentration problems".  Prolonged screen time has also been linked to vision problems and headaches, particularly among children.  I think what is also important is what kids are NOT doing when they are in front of a screen.  Screen time is generally passive.  Kids who spends hours each day in front of a digital screen are not getting fresh air, exercise, or engaging in their environment or with nature.  They are also spending fewer hours in imaginative and creative play.  All of these are important considerations for deciding how much screen time your children should engage in.

Q:

How do I stop my toddler from playing with his food?

A:

My personal approach is that play is creative and explorative for young children, including when it comes to food.  Food comes in a fascinating range of colors and textures, shapes and smells.  Playing with food is one way children learn about it and have fun with it.  Making mealtime fun is a great way to encourage healthy eating. If your child wants to make mountains out of mashed sweet potatoes to make eating fun, then celebrate it!  Let them mash it and eat it - and remember how great and fun the food was!  Of course, if they are throwing food or creating a disruption for others at the table that's another issue but a little play can help ease the stress of the day and just might inspire some creativity!

Q:

When do babies benefit from group play (if at all)?

A:

All children learn from social play and communication.  From little babies to older children, social play helps them to develop communication skills and to learn how to interact with others.  Social play helps children to learn to share, to develop cooperation skills, and to begin to resolve conflict. But interactive play between children does not generally start until about age 2. Toddlers may be stimulated by the presence of other toddlers in their environment but there are often challenges with sharing and cooperative play at this early age.  Don't let that deter you, though.  Playgroups are not just for kids!  Moms need social interaction and support.  Even with newborns, moms should gather for playgroups to share in the challenges of motherhood and strengthen their own social bonds!

Q:

 How can I help my toddler to look people in the eye when speaking to them?

A:

Many young children have a difficult time making eye contact, especially with strangers.  Direct eye contact often develops closer to age 3 but you can help to cultivate this skill with practice and imitation.  When you speak to your child, get on his or her level.  Kneel down and make eye contact, even for short periods, during your conversation.  Model positive communication with others in front of your children as well and they will start to copy your behavior.  Although lack of eye contact may be an indicator of other issues, such as autism, this alone is not a red flag.  Children with special needs will exhibit a variety of behaviors that may demonstrate problems with social interaction but lack of eye contact, by itself, is not likely a sign of a serious problem.

Q:

What age can a kid start going to school alone? What age can they start going out with their friends alone to play? To see a movie? To go to the mall?

A:

Perhaps the better question is "At what age is your child responsible, assertive, and able to ask for help?".  That, of course, depends upon the child.  Even though your child may know the way to school, going by him or herself means being able to handle a variety of potential situations - from unfriendly bullies to ill-meaning strangers.  If your child is assertive and understands ways to manage such situations, then that is the appropriate age.  Pairing children up with neighbors and friends may also help reduce risks, as well as taking into account your neighborhood and environment.

Q:

I felt fine for the first three months of my pregnancy, but now am feeling pretty depressed. How long after giving birth can I still suffer from post-partum depression?

A:

Although some postpartum depression begins right after delivery, at least 20% of postpartum depression cases are diagnosed through the first 6 months of motherhood.  Postpartum depression should certainly be addressed with your healthcare provider but there are some simple but important actions that might help.  Support is essential.  Family, friends, a local mom's group, or support group are all wonderful places to find support and get connected.  Enroll your partner or spouse in helping with some of your biggest and most important challenges, such as sleep and nutrition, both of which can impact your state of being.  Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and sweets are important during this time and supplements such as St John's Wort, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Folic Acid may also be helpful for you.  Finally, be gentle with yourself and know that becoming a parent is never easy.

Q:

How do I raise a gracious loser?

A:

Children learn so much by imitation!  Modeling appropriate behavior is definitely the key.  It can be very hard to teach a young child how to be gracious when they lose.  In fact, most adults I know do not handle losing with grace.  But you can show your child how to take a loss in stride and how not to make it into a huge drama by behaving that way yourself.  Play games with your child regularly and don't always let him or her win.  Lose graciously (and win graciously) and then allow them a turn to do the same.  Emphasize the fun in the experience of the game, instead of winning versus losing, and in how to think about ways to improve after a loss or failure. 

Q:

Breastfeeding is no longer an option for me.  What type of formula is best for my baby?  What ingredients should I watch out for, both good and bad?

A:

Breastfeeding is best for baby and for mom.  If you are returning to work, you may consider investing in a good breast pump and seeking out the support and advice of other nursing moms or even a lactation consultant before you make a change.  If breastfeeding is not an option, take some time to familiarize yourself with the ingredients in conventional formulas.  Unfortunately, many available formulas contain a wide array of artificial ingredients, including sweeteners such as maltodextrose or even high fructose corn syrup; formula packaging may contain Bisphenol-A (BPA); and soy-based formulas may trigger an allergic reaction.  Certified organic baby formulas (look for the USDA Organic Seal) will give you the highest standard of quality and reduce your baby's likelihood of toxin exposure.  Also be sure to use filtered water when mixing dry/powdered formula to reduce contaminants.

Q:

How can I handle my teenage girl's constant requests for expensive things?

A:

We certainly live in a commercial culture and teenagers are some of our population's biggest consumers.  Teen spending in the US amounts to more than $200 billion dollars, with more than 25.6 million teen-age consumers.  But materialism isn't necessarily about greed.  According to researchers, materialism among teens if often linked to self-esteem.  Studies have shown that teens who have strong social and emotional support, especially from parents, and who are happier are less materialistic.  Building and maintaining a good relationship and communication with your teen will go a long way not only to reducing materialism but to improving your overall interactions!

Q:

How can I avoid the inevitable toy tug-of-war duing playdates?

A:

Toddlers are particularly prone to playdate struggles over toys, as their world is very self-centric and they do not quite grasp the idea of sharing.  Keep in mind that this is completely normal and does not mean that you have a selfish child.  Before the playdate you might ask your child if there are any special toys that she/he does not want to share with friends and then put them out of sight for the duration.  You can model sharing with your children by asking if they would like a turn with a particular item or toy, and demonstrating how to ask for a chance to play with a particular item.  Should a struggle arise, be sure to correct the behavior and not the child, to keep a positive sense of self-esteem and to acknowledge the action.  Also make an extra effort to point out when sharing happens naturally and reinforce positive actions.

Q:

Say it ain't so! A friend told me that there are really toxic ingredients in Johnson & Johnson's No More Tears. Is that true? I've been using it over a year with my baby. And how bad can it be if it's what my mom used for me? Also, what alternatives for bath soap do you suggest?

A:

It's true that the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics released a report a few years back showing that Johnson & Johnson's baby shampoo contained toxic ingredients such as formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane, which are known carcinogens.  J&J did pledge to clean up their act, although I am not sure what the status of that effort is.  There is no sense in worrying about past use of a product, but instead to put your attention on using your new awareness to make healthy choices for your family and yourself moving forward.  The good news: there are many organic, non-toxic baby products out there that are safe for your child.  A handy online resource for reviewing toxicity of personal care products, including baby shampoos, is the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Database.  You can search a variety of products, read their ratings and reviews, and then make a choice that works best for your family.

Q:

How do I keep my thirteen year old from eating junk food at friend's houses?

A:

Education and communication seem to be the key to getting kids to make healthy food choices.  If you teach your children about why nutrition matters, how health and diet are connected, and how to make wholesome food choices you are empowering your child to live a healthy lifestyle for now and the future.  That doesn't mean he or she will always choose wisely.  But if you're eating healthy at home and your teen understands the pros and cons, giving some wiggle room might be more productive than trying to ban or forbid the occasional junk food splurge.  You might also see if you can engage your child in smart nutritional choices through some of the new phone apps out there.  After all, all our teens seem to be tied to their digital devices (phones, iPods, etc.) these days, so bringing the information into a format they can relate to may also help.  Here is a link to a few healthy food apps for kids and teens that might be helpful.

Q:

When will I know my child is old enough to bring to see a movie in a movie theatre? (And what age is too young?)

A:

Children under the age of 4 may lack the attention span for a full length movie, plus the movie house experience of a big screen and loud volume may be daunting.  You will have to judge your child's concentration, interest, and sensitivity to decide what is right.  Be sure to read not only ratings but reviews of movies to ensure that the content is appropriate for your child.  And pack your own snacks!  Movie theaters generally do not have healthy food options, so bring along finger foods and snacks for the trip!

Q:

What's the best way to help my kid appreciate receiving gifts?

A:

Teaching gratitude to children is essential, not just for graciously receiving gifts but because children who are grateful are also more optimistic, do better in school, and are more socially integrated.  Modeling gracious gift receiving is a key for teaching your children how to accept presents with gratitude and respect.  I love this idea by a mom called "The Present Game" to teach young kids how to give and receive well.  Practice and making the process fun can go a long way to improving behavior and manners!

Q:

How do I encourage my baby to try new foods?

A:

Babies are so unique - some readily dive into new flavors and textures, others balk at the smallest changes.  First, be patient and persistent.  Babies need variety in their diets just like adults.  The first time you try a new food may not be a success but don't give up.  Sometimes baby will take to a new food after the third or fourth try.  You might try mixing flavors together - a favorite food with a small amount of a new one - to introduce foods gradually.  Try to do one new food at a time, though, so that you can watch for any food allergies or sensitivities.

Q:

At home my newly potty trained daughter uses a potty seat on the toilet. What do we do when we're out at public places like parks and museums?

A:

Negotiating potty training on the go can be a challenge.  But a wide range of helpful options for parents are out there.  The internet makes it easy to find portable and even folding potty seats that you can carry in a diaper bag for your little one.  Look for one that is BPA free and convenient for your needs.  Another great potty training tool are non-toxic disinfectant wipes, such as those by Clean Well or those made with essential oils, that you can use to wipe down a public toilet seat without the harsh chemicals and toxins.

Can you have a period while pregnant?

In short, no. However, you may still bleed while you are pregnant, which isn’t rare, although it could suggest that something is wrong with the pregnancy so doctors take it very seriously. You should call the doctor if you have more than a dime-sized drop of blood. Spotting could be normal or it the sign of a serious complication.

1. Implantation bleeding: This is a term used to describe the bleeding that occurs when the egg is implanted in the uterine lining. As the uterus lining is rich in blood, when the egg tries to dig in it causes bleeding. While common it is different to a period – the blood is dark brown, rather than bright red, and it usually occurs a few days before your menstrual cycle. The flow is also lighter.

2. Hormonal changes: You may find you have light bleeding, called spotting, during the menstrual days which can be confused with a period. This bleeding will end as the pregnancy develops.

3. Miscarriage: Miscarriage could cause bleeding and is most likely during the first trimester of the pregnancy. Aside from bleeding, pregnant women may also feel lower abdominal pain and passing of tissue and clots through the vagina.

4. Ectopic Pregnancy: This medical emergency during pregnancy is one of the common causes of bleeding or having a period while pregnant. Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the implantation occurs outside the uterus. Aside from vaginal bleeding, pregnant women experiencing ectopic pregnancy may also suffer from sharp pain in the lower abdominal area.

5. Molar Pregnancies: In a complete molar pregnancy, the fertilized egg has no chromosomes from the mother and the chromosomes from the father's sperm are duplicated. This means there are two copies of chromosomes from the father. It's not possible for an embryo to grow. Instead, the placenta forms a mass of cysts that looks like a cluster of grapes. In a partial molar pregnancy, the fertilized egg has 23 chromosomes from the mother but a duplicated set from the father. This means there are a total of 69 chromosomes instead of the normal 46. The fetus starts to develop, but it does not have the right genetic make-up to survive. Molar pregnancies are rare – about 1 in 1,500 in the United States.

6. Placental Abruption: This usually happens in the last trimester of pregnancy and can cause vaginal bleeding. This happens when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before the delivery. Pregnant women with placental abruption may also suffer from intense pain in the stomach. Placental abruption is most common in pregnant women who are over the age 35, using recreational drugs, high blood pressure or have sickle-cell anemia.

7. Placenta Previa: A complication of pregnancy in which the placenta grows in the lowest part of the womb (uterus) and covers all or part of the opening to the cervix. The main symptom of placenta previa is sudden bleeding from the vagina. Some women have cramps, too. The bleeding often starts near the end of the second trimester or beginning of the third trimester.

8. Other conditions: Other common causes of bleeding while pregnant are infection, cervical irritation, preterm labor and cervical growth.

While it is impossible to have a period while pregnant, you may bleed during pregnancy. If you see more than a dime-sized drop of blood, call your doctor. Spotting might be normal, or it could be a sign of a serious complication.

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Q:

When is it time to move my toddler into a big bed?

A:

That depends upon where your toddler is moving from.  If your toddler is sleeping in a crib, the general rule is to move her once she is able to climb out by herself.  However, if you are a co-sleeping family and you want to move your child out of your bed and into her own bed, that is a bit of a different issue.  In each case, making the new sleep space fun, safe, and inviting is important.  Young children need bed rails or guards to be safe in bigger beds or should not be sleeping on an elevated mattress.  Bedtime transitions often take time, so be patient and understanding.  When making the move to a new bed, you might want to look into the chemicals used in conventional mattresses and their safety, especially for young children.  You might find an organic mattress to be a great choice!

Q:

My child keeps getting ear infections.  What can I do to prevent it and help him feel better when he does get it?

A:

Recurring ear infections may have a number of causes.  If they arise with or after a cold or flu, they may be viral but they may also be connected to environmental or food allergies.  Keeping your child's immune system strong may be the fundamental issue for preventing ear infections.  Being sure you provide access to healthy organic foods, making sure your child's diet includes essential fatty acids, and avoiding processed foods are the best preventative approach.  A number of ear infection sufferers have had good results with chiropractic care and that may be an option to pursue.  Craniosacral therapy and homeopathy also both offer holistic options for relieving pain and helping the body to heal naturally.

Q:

For moms who can't breastfeed, what brand of formula do you recommend?

A:

First and foremost for any mom who would like to breastfeed or hopes to breastfeed, I would recommend a trained and certified lactation consultant.  Many moms face breastfeeding challenges but with the right guidance and expertise, these difficulties may be overcome.  If breastfeeding is not an option, there are a growing number of breastmilk donors and milk banks around the country and they are worth investigating.  There are some considerable issues with many commercial formulas and it is difficult to recommend any particular brand.  I would investigate homemade formulas, how to enrich a commercial formula, and discuss these options with both a lactation consultant and with your pediatrician to create a plan for the best possible nutrition for your baby.

Knowing When You Ovulate Can Help You Plan Pregnancy

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary and pushed down the fallopian tube. By this time, the lining of the uterus has already thickened to make way for an egg. If the egg is not fertilized, it will be shed in the menstrual cycle. Ovulation takes place about two weeks before a woman gets her period.

When a male ejaculates into a woman’s cervix, his sperm can live inside of the body for up to five days or even longer. In this process the XY or XX chromosomes can fertilize the egg. The XY chromosomes are slightly weaker than the XX chromosomes, so they may only last 1 to 2 days inside of the female body due to the acidic environment, although they are slightly faster, giving them a competitive edge. Conception is established when the egg is fertilized.

The best time to get pregnant is to have intercourse 3 to 4 days before ovulation. This gives the sperm enough time to travel into the cervix where they can meet the egg.

When does ovulation happen

The menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of a woman’s period. Roughly two weeks later, she will ovulate, then 10-16 days after this she will have her next period. The average cycle takes 28 days, but shorter or longer cycles are normal. If you have a regular 28-day cycle, you will be most fertile around the 14^th day.

There are several ways to track your ovulation. If you are trying to monitor your cycles, either to avoid or plan for a pregnancy, try to stay healthy. A healthy lifestyle will mean you are more likely to have regular periods.

• Ovulation Predictor Kit - This monitors a surge of LH hormones which usually peak 48-24 hours before ovulation. Like the pregnancy test, this is an urination test.
• Basal Body Temperature (BBT) - Your BBT changes throughout the day and is lowest while you are asleep, so it’s important that you measure it at the same time each day, normally just after you wake up, and before any physical activity. During ovulation, your BBT will rise one-half to one degree Fahrenheit (one-quarter to one-half degree Celsius) so monitoring it will help you know when you can conceive.  
• Cervical Mucus - This will also change as ovulation comes closer. The mucus is normally thick and glue-like. Start noting the characteristic of your cervical mucus on the first day after your menstrual cycle stops. About five to seven days later, there should be a change in its look and texture – it becomes thin and stretchy. This is a great sign of your coming fertile days – now is the time to have intercourse if you want to become pregnant.

Avoiding pregnancy

There are many forms of contraception if you want to avoid pregnancy. To be on the safe side, some people use several at once. They might use the contraceptive pill to avoid pregnancy and condoms to prevent for sexually transmitted infections. Condoms are the only form of contraception that can protect against STDs.

The most effective methods of contraception are long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods, such as the injection, implant, IUS (intrauterine system) and IUD (intrauterine device).

For example the IUD involves inserting the device into a woman’s uterus. There are two types of IUD: copper IUD, which hinders mobility of sperm cells and thus reduces the chances of fertilization, and the Mirena, which releases the hormone levonorgestrel, which is a form of the hormone progestin. The use of this form of contraceptive is slightly more efficient than the copper IUD (also known as the coil); the pregnancy rate in a 5-year cycle is estimated to be about 0.7%.

There are two types of emergency contraception:

1. Plan B (sometimes called the morning-after pill) - You can take buy Plan B One-Step, Next Choice and Levonorgestrel Tablets from your local pharmacy without a prescription if you are 17 and older. Women aged 16 and younger need a prescription. You can take these up to 13 days after unprotected sex. However, they are most effective the sooner you take them after the act.
2. Ella is sold by prescription only, regardless of age - You can also order ella through an online prescription service for $40, including next-day shipping. With Ella, you can take it up to five days after unprotected sex, giving you an extra two days, however the drawback is that you need a prescription.

If you take Plan B when you are already pregnant, it will not work. However, taking Plan B if you are pregnant will not cause birth defects.

Conclusion

The best time to get pregnant is to have intercourse several times during the 4-day time period, lasting from three days prior and one day after ovulation. If you aren’t sure when you ovulate, you can use a calendar method, by subtracting 18 from the total number of days in your cycle to find out the first day that you are fertile. Or you can use the basal body temperature or an ovulation predictor kit. Sperm can survive in a woman’s body for several days after ejaculation, but you want to make a baby, its best to give them the best chance possible.

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Q:

How can I get my two year old on a more routine eating schedule?

A:

High energy toddlers tend to eat on the run and are hard to contain for sit down meals, which is very normal at this age.  Frequent healthy snacks and meals will help them grow and develop and ensure that they are getting the calories that they need.  Establishing rituals for mealtimes may help bring kids to the table, but mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks will likely be part of your routine for some time.  Young children thrive on routines and setting mealtime traditions can help build your schedule.  Even at an early age, you can involve your child in the cooking process and meal preparation.  Creating time to connect with your family, playing music, or adding a special decoration to the table (placemats for meals, flowers) can help set an important family mealtime routine that will build more than good eating habit, but strong family bonds for everyone!

Q:

What are the best creams for diaper rash?  Is there something I can make myself?

A:

Diaper rash may be caused by a number of factors, so a simple cream may not resolve the issue.  Babies have very sensitive skin and the combination of chemical exposure and moisture may contribute to diaper rash.  Changing diapers frequently and allowing baby's bottom to be dry for regular periods (i.e. diaper free) may be a big help.  You may also need to try different kinds of diapers, consider cloth diapering, or even look at the types of detergents that you are using.  Diaper rash may be connected to allergies or sensitivities, including food allergies, or to a yeast overgrowth, in which case probiotics may be called for.  If you do want to try a cream for relief as well, do be sure to choose one that has natural non-petroleum ingredients that also have healing agents, such as calendula or Vitamin E.  Talk to your healthcare provider if diaper rash persists.

Q:

Should I introduce my baby to vegetables first, so he won't develop a sweet tooth?

A:

Actually, the idea that feeding a baby fruit first will leave him/her with a sweet tooth is generally accepted as a myth.  Many babies easily enjoy both fruits and vegetables early on.  Sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, squash, bananas, peaches, and apples all make wonderful, simple baby foods.  I do believe that feeding the whole, fresh food without added ingredients is best for helping children to develop a taste for the food itself and not added flavorings.  I would also suggest being sure to buy organic whenever possible to limit your baby's exposure to pesticides and genetically modified foods (GMOs).

Q:

Are there any foods I should avoid while breastfeeding?

A:

First and foremost, if you are breastfeeding it's important to eat a healthy, whole foods diet with plenty of protein, calories, and lots of water.  Beyond that, there are a few foods that could cause upset for your baby, although every mom and baby pair is unique so you need to discover food reactions on an individual basis.  Food allergies are on the rise and foods such as peanuts, dairy products, and soy products may affect your baby if he/she is sensitive to these allergens.  Caffeine, spicy foods, and very acidic foods may also be problematic for baby.  Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage may also result in a gassy, unhappy little one.

Q:

All of the sudden my two year old doesn't like taking baths anymore ... unless mommy takes one with her. I don't mind doing it once it a while but would love to find a way to get her back in there by herself. (Sitting naked in three inches of lukewarm water gets old fast.) Do you have any suggestions?

A:

Lots of them!  Baths are much more fun when there are bubbles and toys to play with.  There are some wonderful natural companies making non-toxic bath products and safe toys for tub time!  The Land of Nod has some adorable BPA-, phthalate- and PVC-free rubber duckies, among other bath toys, that can be set aside as special bath-time playthings for your little one.  Plus, a handful of companies, such as Little Twig make natural, safe bubble bath products that are sulfate and paraben free and have no synthetic ingredients, so they are safe for your child and for the environment!  The best advice?  Have fun with your child!  Make mountains of bubbles, splash to music, or play funny games.  Everything is more fun when mom or dad is paying attention and fully present!

Overview

Folic acid helps the body produce new cells. When a woman has insufficient folic acid in her body before and during a pregnancy, it can cause birth defects, including neural tube defects. Experts recommend taking 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day when you are trying to get pregnant through the first 3 months of pregnancy. If you are thinking about getting pregnant in the near future, you should take a multivitamin that contains 400mcg of folic acid.

However, pregnant women are not the only ones who need folic acid. Folic acid can have other health benefits. It plays an important role in building and fortifying the red blood cells and it may help in preventing certain forms of anemia. An additional benefit of folic acid is that it seems to decrease the level of an amino acid that the body makes after eating meat, called homocysteine, which is associated with increased risk of strokes and heart disease.

Active Reagents

The tetrahydrofolic acid, which is the active form of the folic acid in the body, acts as a coenzyme in many essential metabolic reactions. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of amino acids, the main constituents of proteins. It is essential for the production of the red blood cells by the bone marrow.

The absorption of folic acid is mainly made through the duodenum and the jejunum (part of the small intestine). Folic acid circulates through and is stored in the liver. It is estimated that the liver stores between 10 - 20 milligrams, so if you don’t get enough on one day, your body will be able to tide you over, until your natural stores run out.

Benefits

1. Prevents anemia in pregnant women. During pregnancy the cells multiply faster so the mother needs more folic acid. A pregnancy can drain the mother's folic acid reserves proportional to the fetal growth. This can lead to maternal anemia and can cause problems in childbirth.
2. Prevents birth defects. Lack of folic acid during pregnancy can cause spina bifida, anencephaly, neural tube and some heart defects. As the brain develops it creates an opening in the spinal cord that forms into the neural tube. During the third week of pregnancy, the neural tube should close. If this doesn’t occur, it causes neural tube defects.
3. Ensures the correct replication of cells. Antioxidants are necessary for the continuous and error-free reproduction of DNA. They can neutralize the free radicals, which are the enemies of DNA. Free radicals help bring about the onset of aging. However, recent research shows that folic acid is at least as important in ensuring the proper DNA replication. Therefore it is not surprising that the lack of folic acid is associated with a wide range of diseases, from Alzheimer's disease to atherosclerosis, heart attack, osteoporosis, cervical cancer and colon cancer, depression, dementia, and hearing loss.
4. Assimilation of other vitamins. If the body does not receive enough folic acid the number of white blood cells decreases. A folic acid deficiency can also cause a lack of iron and vitamin B12 too. Symptomatic inflammation of the tongue may occur, or different stomach and bowel irregularities.
5. Treatment or prevention of cervical cancer. Folic acid may help prevent cervical cancer (cervix uterine cancer). The cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells on the surface appearance of the cervix) can evolve into cervical cancer if untreated. Fortunately, it is easily detected by Pap test and can be effectively treated with folic acid or other treatments.
6. May help prevent depression Researchers studied young patients and adults with depression from moderate to severe. It was found that a third of them had low levels of folic acid. Whether this effect was causal or an after-effect of the depression requires further research.

Potential Side Effects

1. Lack of zinc. In the case of women who take folic acid supplements, especially if using oral contraceptives, the risk of low serum zinc concentrations is high. Additional zinc supplements are recommended in order to prevent the low levels.
2. Weight Gain, digestive problems, insomnia or skin irritations. These are all linked to excess folic acid.
3. Cancer development. A 2011 study published in the journal Cancer Research found that high doses of folic acid, when given to rats doubled the rates of breast cancer than in the control group. Other studies have linked excess B9 to intestinal or prostate cancer.

Folic acid is recommended for pregnant women, as it prevents birth defects, especially spina bifida. If you are planning on getting pregnant, you should begin taking a folic acid supplement or a prenatal vitamin that includes folic acid (most do). If you are not pregnant or not planning to get pregnant, stick to the recommended dose of 400 mcg total per day from all sources, including vitamins and food. Because studies have linked excess folic acids to higher levels of certain forms of cancer, including intestinal, prostate and breast, high doses of the vitamin are not recommended if you are not pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. It should be noted that folic acid is absorbed better by the body as a supplement than from food sources.

Q:

My godmom has five grown up children and often reminds me that ALL of them were drinking out of glasses (real glasses -- not even plastic ones) by the time they were one years old. My kid is still doing bottles and some sippy cup action. What's the best way to teach a child to drink out of a cup and are sippy cups a bad long term idea?

A:

There is some controversy about sippy cups and whether or not they are connected to speech impairments and jaw development.  Drinking from a regular cup is advocated by those who take this perspective and long-term sippy cup use is not generally recommended.  Transitioning can take time, but you can start with lightweight, unbreakable cups to get started (make sure your cups are non-toxic and BPA free).  As there are likely to be more than a few mishaps along the way, water is probably your best choice during the transition period.  Assist your child and also model cup-drinking for him or her.  Kids love to mimic what we do and they will get the hang of it before too long.  Just be consistent so that they have lots of practice! 

Q:

What's the best way to get my toddler to start brushing her teeth and let me help her brush her teeth?

A:

Like many parenting challenges, you might have the greatest success in getting your toddler to brush her/his teeth by making it fun.  Some ideas?  Try brushing together.  Toddlers love to imitate.  Show your toddler what to do in a fun way - brush left, brush right, make a funny face.  Stick out your tongue and brush again.  Try singing a special song when you brush or searching for funny animals in your child's mouth (with appropriate animal sounds) each time you brush.  Let your child pick out a special toothbrush - or several - that they can use each time or choose on different days.  Before you know it, your child will be looking forward to brushing instead of fighting it!   Also be sure to choose a safe, non-toxic toothpaste for your child.  Many contain potentially dangerous chemicals such as SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) and parabens, among others.

Q:

What are your favorite healthy after-school snacks?

A:

For us, the key to all snacks and meals is whole foods. We try to avoid most processed foods and ingredients and to look for foods without any artificial additives. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great snacks, but not always what the kids want to reach for. Our family has many food allergies, so we tend to focus on gluten- and dairy-free foods. My kids love bananas or apple slices with nut butters; gluten free crackers; muffins made with almond flour; fresh fruit smoothies; rice cakes; and gluten-free graham crackers and animal crackers. We also snack on raw and roasted nuts regularly, including almonds and pistachios.

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Q:

What's the best way to handle potty training when taking a long car trip? And have you ever used travel potttys? Title: How Can I Potty Train My Daughter While On The Go? Meta-description:  Portable potty training tips for the family on the go.

A:

The best advice: be prepared!   If you are just starting potty training and long car trip is in your future, remember that it's natural to have accidents along the way.  Pack your patience along with several changes of clothing for the ride, natural wipes, and perhaps a towel or waterproof cover for your car seat.  Or you might opt for training pants or another option just for the ride, as long as you explain the exception and discuss it with your child.  Portable potties are a great option!  I know many moms who have used them with great success and they make a very handy option, although I have not used them myself.

Folic Acid – An Overview

Folic acid helps the body produce new cells. When a woman has insufficient folic acid in her body before and during a pregnancy, it can cause birth defects, including neural tube defects. Experts recommend taking 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day when you are trying to get pregnant through the first 3 months of pregnancy. If you are thinking about getting pregnant in the near future, you should take a multivitamin that contains 400mcg of folic acid.

However, pregnant women are not the only ones who need folic acid. Folic acid can have other health benefits. It plays an important role in building and fortifying the red blood cells and it may help in preventing certain forms of anemia. An additional benefit of folic acid is that it seems to decrease the level of an amino acid that the body makes after eating meat, called homocysteine, which is associated with increased risk of strokes and heart disease.

Active Reagents

The tetrahydrofolic acid, which is the active form of the folic acid in the body, acts as a coenzyme in many essential metabolic reactions. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of amino acids, the main constituents of proteins. It is essential for the production of the red blood cells by the bone marrow.

The absorption of folic acid is mainly made through the duodenum and the jejunum (part of the small intestine). Folic acid circulates through and is stored in the liver. It is estimated that the liver stores between 10 - 20 milligrams, so if you don’t get enough on one day, your body will be able to tide you over, until your natural stores run out.

Benefits

• Prevents anemia in pregnant women. During pregnancy the cells multiply faster so the mother needs more folic acid. A pregnancy can drain the mother's folic acid reserves proportional to the fetal growth. This can lead to maternal anemia and can cause problems in childbirth.
• Prevents birth defects. Lack of folic acid during pregnancy can cause spina bifida, anencephaly, neural tube and some heart defects. As the brain develops it creates an opening in the spinal cord that forms into the neural tube. During the third week of pregnancy, the neural tube should close. If this doesn’t occur, it causes neural tube defects.
• Ensures the correct replication of cells. Antioxidants are necessary for the continuous and error-free reproduction of DNA. They can neutralize the free radicals, which are the enemies of DNA. Free radicals help bring about the onset of aging. However, recent research shows that folic acid is at least as important in ensuring the proper DNA replication. Therefore it is not surprising that the lack of folic acid is associated with a wide range of diseases, from Alzheimer's disease to atherosclerosis, heart attack, osteoporosis, cervical cancer and colon cancer, depression, dementia, and hearing loss.
• Assimilation of other vitamins. If the body does not receive enough folic acid the number of white blood cells decreases. A folic acid deficiency can also cause a lack of iron and vitamin B12 too. Symptomatic inflammation of the tongue may occur, or different stomach and bowel irregularities.
• Treatment or prevention of cervical cancer. Folic acid may help prevent cervical cancer (cervix uterine cancer). The cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells on the surface appearance of the cervix) can evolve into cervical cancer if untreated. Fortunately, it is easily detected by Pap test and can be effectively treated with folic acid or other treatments.
• May help prevent depression Researchers studied young patients and adults with depression from moderate to severe. It was found that a third of them had low levels of folic acid. Whether this effect was causal or an after-effect of the depression requires further research.

Potential Side Effects

• Lack of zinc. In the case of women who take folic acid supplements, especially if using oral contraceptives, the risk of low serum zinc concentrations is high. Additional zinc supplements are recommended in order to prevent the low levels.
• Weight Gain, digestive problems, insomnia or skin irritations. These are all linked to excess folic acid.
• Cancer development. A 2011 study published in the journal Cancer Research found that high doses of folic acid, when given to rats doubled the rates of breast cancer than in the control group. Other studies have linked excess B9 to intestinal or prostate cancer.

Folic acid is recommended for pregnant women, as it prevents birth defects, especially spina bifida. If you are planning on getting pregnant, you should begin taking a folic acid supplement or a prenatal vitamin that includes folic acid (most do). If you are not pregnant or not planning to get pregnant, stick to the recommended dose of 400 mcg total per day from all sources, including vitamins and food. Because studies have linked excess folic acids to higher levels of certain forms of cancer, including intestinal, prostate and breast, high doses of the vitamin are not recommended if you are not pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. It should be noted that folic acid is absorbed better by the body as a supplement than from food sources.

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Q:

Can a daycare center or school really prevent my kids from attending if they haven't had vaccines?

A:

That depends upon where you are located.  Most US States have laws that provide for vaccination exemption on the basis of medical, religious, or philosophical reasons.  To learn more about the laws in your State, I would visit the website at the National Vaccine Information Center. 

Q:

What kinds of soaps and shampoos are best for my baby.  Can you recommend specific brands?

A:

Personal care products and cosmetics, even those designed for babies, are often loaded with a variety of chemicals and toxins that could be detrimental to your child.  The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics released an alarming study in 2009 showing that many conventional brands of baby products contained toxins such as formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane.  As with so many things, you need to shop consciously and read labels.  Brands may cite "natural" or "gentle" on their labels but since these terms are not regulated by federal agencies, they do not provide accurate information on the toxicity of a product.  Familiarize yourself with the ingredients, make use of information resources such as the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Database to review product toxicity levels, and seek out certified organic products that are verified by a third party.

Q:

How would you treat ADD in one of your kids and would you ever use Ritalin?

A:

Ritalin is a very powerful drug and I would not use any medication without consulting with a healthcare provider and weighing the risks and benefits in your specific situation.  Many conditions, including ADD, are influenced by a number of factors including diet and environment and, as a holistic mom, I would pursue changes in these areas first.  The Feingold Association [link: http://www.feingold.org/overview.php] would be a great place to start.  A variety of food products and ingredients can cause behavioral issues and removing  these from your child's diet may have a powerful impact.

Q:

What's the best way to help my baby sleep through the night?  Should I get a sound machine?

A:

First, sleeping through the night is not the norm for most babies.  In fact, most babies, children, and adults wake at least once during the night although babies have not yet developed the self-soothing skills to easily go back to sleep.  It is normal for babies to wake between 2 and 4 times each night, more for some babes, less for others, and these may vary with age, health, teething, hunger, growth spurts, and stress.  Sleep deprivation is indeed the greatest challenge for new parents.  A sound machine may help a child who is a light sleeper and for whom noise is an issue, but many other factors come into play.  Elizabeth Pantley, author of the "No-Cry Sleep Solution" suggests maintaining a regular sleep routine and keeping your child's sleep environment comfortable as keys to achieving better sleep.  For some more tips, visit: Elizabth Pantley Advice.

Q:

Do you believe in anti-depressants for kids?

A:

Anti-depressants, such as Ritalin, are powerful narcotics and is something I personally do not think I would use without exhausting other options first.  There are many dietary changes, including the Feingold Diet, which parents have had success with.  The Feingold plan helps parents to identify ingredients, such as flavorings and colorings, which may trigger a behavioral response in children.  Many quick-tempered children with attention disorders seem to respond well to the Feingold Program and to other dietary changes.  For more information, visit http://www.feingold.org.

Q:

I swear it seems like every month my son picks some new comfort item he INSISTS on having in the crib with him. There's his luvie, of course. Then there was his empty milk bottle. Now it's one of his books. What makes him fixate on this kind of stuff, why does it keep changing, and how long do I keep indulging these kinds of whims?

A:

Many children need comfort in their big world - a world where they have little control and often feel powerless. Having a special item nearby is soothing and may last for many years.  Many children fixate on just one item, but changing items could be positive or negative, depending upon your perspective.  Positive in the sense that he is not stuck on a particular thing and may be more likely to abandon his special item or perhaps negative if he is looking for a sense of comfort anywhere he can find it.  If your child accepts your comfort but likes to keep a special item nearby, chances are it is a simple habit that he will surely outgrow.

Q:

What's a safe age to start putting sunscreen on my baby and which sunscreens are safe?

A:

The general advice is not to apply sunscreen to babies under 6 months of age, but at any age the chemicals used in many commercial sunscreens may be toxic.  It's important to do some research first and to find sun protection that is safe and effective.  Keep in mind that some early morning/late afternoon sun exposure is actually healthy for our bodies to produce Vitamin D.  Beyond that, the best sun protection is to cover up with clothing and hats when you are out and about.  The Environmental Working Group (EWG) just released their 2012 Sunscreen Guide and offers a searchable database for a variety of brands and evaluates the toxicity of their ingredients.  The guide has good information all parents should read and the database is a very useful tool for learning about particular brands and deciding on which one first your personal criteria for safety. 

Understanding the signs and symptoms of pregnancy is important because each symptom may be related to something other than pregnancy. Some women experience signs or symptoms of pregnancy within a week of conception. For other women, pregnancy symptoms may develop over a few weeks or may not be present at all.

In this article we will look at some of the most common pregnancy symptoms, warning signs and how to deal with them.

Common signs of being pregnant

If you have been sexually active without using protection, and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may consider taking a pregnancy test.

• Absent or delayed menstruation: One of the first obvious signs of being pregnant is missing your monthly cycle. Often, this is the first sign that alerts a woman for other signs of being pregnant. If you miss your period, and are sexually active, you should strongly consider taking a home pregnancy test. Remember that no form of contraception is 100 % fail-proof. 
• Changes in your breasts: You may feel a tingling sensation in the nipples within a week or so of conception. Pregnancy hormones increase the blood supply to your breasts, particularly around the nipples. Once your body gets used to the hormone surge, the sensation will subside.
• Your breasts may become increasingly tender to the touch. This tenderness is similar to how they feel before your period, only more so. You may notice that your breasts are larger and swollen, with blue veins visible just below the skin. Tenderness tends to be most common in the first trimester, easing as pregnancy progresses. 
• Fatigue and frequent urination: You may experience frequent trips to the bathroom. Throughout your pregnancy, your swelling uterus puts great pressure on the bladder which often makes you urinate more frequently than normal.
• Increased vaginal discharge: In early pregnancy you will notice that there is an increase in vaginal discharge that is usually without any pain or irritation. It is called leucorrhea and it is a mild smelling milky fluid.
• Nausea and morning sickness: Most women start to feel sick specifically in the morning, but in reality, nausea can strike at any time of day. This symptom is most likely in the first trimester.
• Sensitivity to odors and "stopping" certain things:  During pregnancy familiar odors become extremely unbearable and even some of your favorite foods may become less attractive. The smell of coffee, tea, smoke or fatty foods are easily off-putting. These cravings and aversions can be unpredictable, but up to 80 percent of pregnant women report cravings and up to 85 percent say they're repelled by certain foods.
• Constipation and headaches: Due to increased hormone levels, the digestion process slows and the colon begins to absorb water which can result in constipation. Because of the intense hormonal activity that occurs in early pregnancy, some women also suffer from frequent headaches in early pregnancy.

Warning signs of being pregnant

Pregnancy can be uncomfortable in many ways throughout the nine month period. But while some symptoms are indications of a healthy pregnancy, others could be a sign of pregnancy complications. Only your physician can provide you with definitive answers, but knowing some of the common risks and their symptoms can help mothers decide whether to seek professional advice. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution.

• Persistent nausea: Nausea and vomiting are two of the more common symptoms of pregnancy, affecting about half of all women. In about 1 % of cases, the vomiting and nausea is so severe that it can cause malnutrition or dehydration. If you’re worried that you might be one of the 1 %, make a note of how often you vomit or have a stomachache, the severity of the pain, and its duration and tell your doctor at your next appointment. As the old adage goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain that goes beyond what might accompany a normal gastrointestinal upset in the early months of pregnancy may be a sign of a tubal pregnancy. A tubal pregnancy is a condition in which the fertilized ovum attaches to the fallopian tube rather than further down, in the uterus. Later on, it may signal that the placenta has separated from the uterus.
• High fever: If fever rises above 100F (37.8C) seek immediate medical attention. Infection or viral illness can cause premature labor and a high fever can put your baby at risk. Don't panic, just get yourself on the phone and discuss the situation with your physician.
• Reduced or lack of fetal movement: After six months of pregnancy, your baby should be kicking up a storm. Any substantial reduction in frequency or persistent lack of movement of your baby should be discussed with your doctor. Fetal distress is one possibility, but a correct diagnosis can only be supplied by a professional.
• Vaginal bleeding: Have this checked right away, especially if it occurs more than two weeks prior to the due date. Any sign of bleeding could be an indication that the amniotic sac has separated from the uterus. This should be dealt with immediately.

Strange signs of being pregnant

Here are some unexpected pregnancy symptoms that you may experience during pregnancy:

• Spider Veins: The appearance of the veins surrounding the chest and upper arms is one of the more unusual early pregnancy symptoms. This symptom can be distressing, especially if the veins are prominent. However, doctors suggest there is no reason to worry about the spider veins as they simply result from an increased blood flow to the body and will disappear post-birth.
• Nasal Congestion: Up to 30 percent of pregnant women have congestion during pregnancy. Often, it is worse during the night. This condition even has a name: rhinitis of pregnancy.
• Metallic Taste: You may feel a metallic taste during pregnancy. Metallic tastes are considered one of the unusual early pregnancy symptoms and are caused due to hormonal changes in your body.
• Flatulence: Flatulence may be one of the more embarrassing signs of being pregnant. To avoid this symptom, exercise regularly, avoid gassy foods, drink lots of water, and it does not subside, consider going to a nutritionalist.
• Production of Excessive Saliva: Many expecting mothers feel excess of saliva in their mouth.
• Cramping in legs:  Leg pain at night is a common symptom of pregnancy. It is most common during the second half of pregnancy. Some women find that a magnesium supplement and their pre-natal vitamins ease this symptom.
• Facial Hair and Pigmentation: Hail and nail growth can increase during pregnancy, including facial hair. Don’t be alarmed – it is highly likely that it will disappear post-birth. Increased facial pigmentation is also a common symptom that should disappear once Junior is born. It is known as the “mask of pregnancy.”

Conclusion

If you are sexually active, and have not used adequate protection, you should consider taking a home pregnancy test, especially if you miss your period or you notice other pregnancy symptoms.  Most women notice at least one sign or symptom during pregnancy. While they can be a challenge or an inconvenience, the good news is that most are merely indications of a healthy body and pregnancy. If any of your symptoms indicate pregnancy complications, seek medical help immediately.

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Q:

Got any suggestions for quelling a 3 year old's tantrum when they're in the thick of it. (Crying at the top of their lungs, and nothing seems to comfort her.)

A:

Tantrums are one of the great challenges of parenthood.  Children get frustrated and need an opportunity to express that and, unfortunately, sometimes with a great deal of noise and upset.  What's a parent to do?  Stay calm and stay close, for starters.  Don't try to discipline, yell, or restrain your child.  Let your child release pent up frustration, but stay nearby to keep them safe and to be there for comfort.  Give your child attention.  It may be that some of the frustration stems from not being heard or responded to.  Reassuring words like "It's okay" will do a world of good compared to efforts to get your child to be quiet.  Try not to take it personally or to be embarrassed if you are in a public place.  Every parent has to deal with tantrums.  Draw on your patience and empathy and try to figure out what your child's triggers are.  Look for signs of hunger and frustration early on, find your balance between helping and letting your child do things independently, and remember that as they get older, coping skills for managing frustration will be the key to calmer behavior.

Q:

When I should I start giving my baby a bath?

A:

Babies can start baths once their umbilical cord stump is healed.  Simple sponge baths are all a baby needs, although many enjoy the warm water.  Be sure not to overdo it though, as baby's skin can dry out quickly - once or twice a week is plenty for most newborns.  As for the bath itself, there are a number of safe bathing options for baby - from small-sized tubs to baby slings.  Be sure to learn about the materials used in producing the tubs so that you can reduce your baby's exposure to BPA and Phthalates, among other potentially dangerous chemicals.  The Soft Landing's guide helps provide information and offers some great green and non-toxic alternatives.

Q:

What are the absolute must have items that I need to prepare for my baby's arrival into our home?  What are the things that I need in the nursery?  What should I have in my medicine cabinet?  What items should I get rid of?

A:

Despite what the many industry leaders would have you believe, babies don't actually need much "stuff".  Put the gadgets aside and focus on what is really essential: food, clothing (including diapers), and basic home remedies.  If you are breastfeeding, you may not need much for the baby but mom could use a few good nursing bras, breast pads, and a well-stocked pantry of healthy food and pure water.  Purchasing a quality breast pump is also essential for nursing moms who are returning to work.  How you diaper and clothe your babe may vary, but what you don't want is to expose your child to a wide array of toxins.  Seek out natural or organic diapers (cloth or disposable), non-toxic baby wipes (or make your own!), and soft, organic baby wear.  For your nursery, you'll want to ensure a safe sleep space for your child - whether co-sleeping or crib-sleeping - and avoid toxins in mattresses, bed coverings, or excessive padding/pillows which may make sleep dangerous.  If you are redoing a room in your home as a nursery, seek out non-toxic paints and furniture and be wary of items that give off electromagnetic charge, including televisions or wireless routers, near baby's sleep space.

Q:

Do you believe in curfews and what is the best way to start implementing one?

A:

There are good arguments on both sides of the curfew debate and I think so much depends upon the responsibility and maturity of the specific child in question.  I believe that open communication is an important way to parent at any age.  As your children matures, it's important to explain why you feel the need for a curfew - for example, for your child's safety - so that it does not appear to be a control issue or a lack of trust.  Young children need to feel as though they can be trusted in order to develop a healthy sense of maturity and responsibility.  You can start with smaller tasks or items that offer them an opportunity to behave responsibly and continue to cultivate that as they grow.  You may designate time limits for computer or video game use, television viewing, or other activities to help develop a child's awareness of time and build that sense of responsibility.

Q:

My husband and I disagree on how to discipline our toddler.  What do you think about spanking?

A:

As a holistic parent who follows an attachment parenting philosophy, I am an advocate for positive discipline instead of spanking.  Dr. Sears, one of attachment parenting's greatest advocates, sums up 10 reasons not to spank your child that are very compelling, including the fact that it can create self-esteem issues and is largely ineffective as a disciplinary tool.  Positive discipline is about creating strong communication and trust with your child instead of creating a power struggle.  For some great ideas to get you started, you might check out this helpful page: http://www.positivediscipline.com/articles/power.html.

Q:

I'm all for fashion and encourage my child to be creative.  However, I just can't agree with what my daughter wants to wear and it is getting harder to dress her without us having a battle. How should I handle the morning dressing ritual?

A:

There is definitely a struggle that we face as parents between allowing our children to express their independence and our desire to have them reflect our family values.  I think it's important to pick your battles and decide what is really important to you.  If you are concerned about modesty, for example, you may want to draw your boundaries early as many girls as young as 8-10 are starting to dress "sexier" than is age appropriate.  But once you and your daughter have agreed upon the boundaries you have set, find a range of options that are acceptable and let her explore.  What may not appear fashionable to you - or even seem to "match" - is part of the learning and creative process.  But if she is choosing from the pool of acceptable options, a little flexibility can go a long way!

Q:

How Do You Find A Great Babysitter?

A:

Finding the perfect babysitter is every mom's dream!  And certainly many factors need to be considered, including the child's age.  In every case, some of your best resources are your friends, family members, and neighbors.  A personal referral is a great way to find a successful sitter, although the sitter your neighbor loves might not work for your family.  Basic first aid and CPR training are a standard for good babysitters and you want to take the time to interview each candidate and see how they interact with your family, your children, and your household.  No matter how old your children are, a test drive for their first visit is a great opportunity to ease into a new sitter.  Have your sitter come while you tackle a home project you've been meaning to get to, so that you can develop a comfort level for everyone involved.  There are also a good number of professional agencies - locally and online - who screen sitters on a variety of factors that may be useful.

Q:

Is buying an eco-friendly sneaker for kids an oxymoron? What about a vegan sneaker?

A:

I love the idea of eco-friendly sneakers!  Anything that can be produced even more sustainably is better for us and the planet.  There are eco-friendly shoes and sneakers that are also biodegradable.  Both eco-friendly and vegan shoe options are generally better for the environment and are great choices for those concerned about conservation!  Gently used sneakers can also be passed down to younger children to reuse them and reduce new purchases.  I would check out Goodwill for some great used finds or look at some OAT shoes for biodegradable options that will sprout flowers when you're done with them!  http://www.oatshoes.com/

Q:

How can I tell if my baby is hungry? How do I know if she is getting enough to eat?

A:

Learning your baby's cues is one of the first - and hardest - challenges of early parenthood.  Babies cry for many reasons, sometimes due to hunger, others for a variety of important needs. Babies may cry, suck, root or otherwise seek to nurse when they are hungry.  If you are breastfeeding, keep in mind that newborns feed often (at least every two hours) and that nursing on your baby's demand will help establish a healthy milk supply.  Babies will also nurse more often during growth spurts or illnesses.  Talk with your healthcare provider about appropriate weight gain and what is considered a normal range of wet and dirty diapers for a baby that is getting adequate nutrition.

Q:

My son apparently eats like a truck driver at daycare but at home he is so picky. What gives and what can I do to get him to eat more variety?

A:

Building healthy habits starts at the very beginning.  Even though kids may be picky eaters, offering a wide variety of healthy options is a great way to introduce them to new foods - especially if you make eating fun.  Kids can learn many simple nutrition facts at surprisingly young ages, which will help empower them to make wise choices as they get older and eat away from home more and more often.  If your child is eating healthy foods at daycare, that's fabulous.  But if he is packing in junk food when away from home, that's a different issue.  What are the differences in the food being offered or the setting in which he is eating?  Is it calm, focused time for eating?  Does he do better eating with friends and socializing?  There are so many factors at play.  My older son hardly eats at school - he's too busy talking with his friends.  So in order for him to eat at school he needs quiet time to eat and then separate time for socializing.  At home, he eats fabulously with fewer distractions.  Try to identify the factors at play first.  And, of course, provide healthy options at all meals!

Q:

Can I get a divorce and still be a holistic parent?

A:

Absolutely!  Single, married, separated, or divorced, if you are passionate about creating a healthy and sustainable future for your family, you can be a holistic parent.  Connecting with other parents is even more vital so that you can find support and create balance in your life, leaving time for you as well!  Be sure to welcome help from family members and friends, so that you have time for yourself, and identify a local support group for your holistic interests.

Q:

How did you potty train your kids?

A:

This is definitely one of those areas with huge variation based upon the individual child!  I have two boys, one with special needs, and in both cases our children trained on the late side (and beyond) of the potty training age profiles.  When your child is both physically and mentally ready, the transition can be relatively quick and painless for all involved.  Pushing too early can make potty training for parents and children alike, so take your time!

Q:

I'm In My First Trimester And Having Awful Headaches. Do you have any suggestions?

A:

Headaches can result from many different causes and taking steps to resolve the root of the problem should be the top priority.  Fatigue, stress, eye strain from the computer, or allergies are among the possible triggers.  Keeping properly hydrated (you need to increase your water intake significantly during pregnancy) and resting are great for prevention and for when a headache strikes.  I am also a big fan of chiropractic care and homeopathy, both of which I use regularly and which help tremendously in all phases of your life, including during pregnancy!

Q:

My pediatrician told me my daughter should be off her binky by 3 years-old and  I am dreading this. Do you have any suggestions on how to make this process as painless as possible for both of us?

A:

As with many parenting issues, we tend to follow the child's lead.  Each child is a unique individual and setting age limits for soothing behaviors may not be appropriate for that particular child.  A pacifier will be given up when the child is ready and forcing the issue may create more stress and upset than giving your child the space to decide when she has had enough.  Do be sure you are using a BPA-free pacifier as well!

Q:

My husband thinks it's okay for our kids to watch tv as long as it's educational. But even wiht a show like Sesame Street, isn't there such a thing as too much tv?

A:

There certainly is a thing as too much television, especially for very young children.  The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend any television viewing for children under the age of two for a variety of developmental and health reasons.  Even for children older than 2 years of age, television viewing tends to reduce their time in physical activity, as well as in creative and imaginative play, both fundamental for all children.  The battle certainly gets harder as they get older, but the more you can engage your children in ways that do not involve screen time, the better!

Q:

What age should toddlers stop using bottles?

A:

Bottles are not simply about drinking, but are often a security and soothing tool for young children.  As with pacifiers or thumb-sucking, the age at which a child no longer relies on these soothing methods varies considerably and is very different from one child to the next.  As such, I do not think you can have one blanket answer to this question.  If you are trying to transition your child to a sippy cup or to self-soothing with other methods, try offering alternatives and options, but remember that we all have our routines and sometimes change takes time!

Tips For Trying to Get Pregnant Faster: Know Your Fertility Days 

The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. But every woman is different and it’s normal for cycles to vary from 21 to 35 days. Ovulation varies too, lasting anywhere from occurs 13 to 20 days. After ovulation, every woman (unless she has a health problem that affects her periods or becomes pregnant) will have a period within 14 to 16 days.

Knowing when you're most fertile will help you plan pregnancy. There are three ways you can keep track of your fertile times. They are:

1. Basal body temperature method - (BBT):  Basal body temperature is your temperature at rest as soon as you awake in the morning. A woman's basal body temperature rises with her menstrual cycle. During ovulation, your BBT will rise one-half to one degree Fahrenheit (one-quarter to one-half degree Celsius) so monitoring it will help you know when you can conceive. You are most fertile and most likely to get pregnant two to three days before your temperature hits its highest point and 12 to 24 hours after ovulation. A man's sperm can live for three days or even longer in a woman's body, depending on the acidity and other conditions. The sperm can fertilize an egg at any point during that time. So if you have unprotected sex a few days before ovulation, you could get pregnant.

2. Calendar method: This involves recording your menstrual cycle to find out when you are the most fertile. The length of your cycle may vary from month to month. So write down the total number of days it lasts each time. Then Circle Day 1 on the calendar on your first day of your period. 

   a)    To find out the first day when you are fertile, subtract 18 from the total number of days in your shortest cycle. Count this number of days forward from the date of your first period and draw an X through this date on your calendar. The X marks the first day you're likely to be fertile.

   b)    To find out the last day when you are fertile, subtract 11 from the total number of days in your longest cycle. Count this number of days forward from the date of your first period and draw an X through this date on your calendar. Take this new number and count ahead that many days from the first day of your next period. Draw an X through this date on your calendar. The time between the two Xs is your fertility window. 

3. Cervical mucus method: The hormones that control the menstrual cycle also change the kind and amount of cervical mucus you have before and during ovulation. Right after your period, there are usually a few days when there is no mucus present or "dry days." As the egg starts to mature, mucus increases in the vagina. The greatest amount of mucus appears just before ovulation. During these "wet days" it becomes clear and slippery, like raw egg whites. Sometimes it can be stretched apart. This is when you are most fertile. 

For Men 

For men, you can increase your chance of getting her pregnant by quitting smoking, which reduces your fertility, cutting down on heavy drinking and caffeine, which can affect sperm quality, and keep cool – don’t spend too long in hot baths and wear boxers to keep the little ones cool. A fit and healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and nutritional well-balanced meals will also help improve your sperm count. 

For Women

Are you over or underweight? Either can affect your fertility. Being underweight can make you less fertile, while being overweight puts you at greater risk of complications such as high blood pressure and diabetes during pregnancy. Smoking and drinking too can affect fertility so if you are trying to conceive you should quit smoking and cut your drinks down to one or two per week. It’s also a good idea to take a folic acid supplement, which is also called folate. This important B vitamin can help prevent neural birth defects such as spina bifida. It’s a good idea to start taking these while you are trying to conceive as you probably won’t know the first couple of weeks that you are pregnant and birth defects can occur very early in the pregnancy. The recommended dose is 400mcg a day.

Have Regular Sex

It might seem like a no-brainer that you need to have sex when trying to get pregnant, but the more the better, especially during the times that you are fertile. After a woman has sex, she should lay down for at least five minutes so the sperm can travel up the vagina and start to make their way towards the egg.Keep in mind that baby-making is a numbers game. Even if you do everything "right," you still have only a 25% to 30% chance of conceiving in any given cycle. Sex toys, anyone? 

Use an Ovulation Prediction Kit

An ovulation predictor kit, often called an OPK, can take the guesswork out of trying to get pregnant and also to help pinpoint the day when you ovulate. An OPK works by detecting hormones in your urine that surge just prior to ovulation or releasing an egg.

Infertility: Causes and Treatment

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for six months or longer, you should probably make an appointment with your gynecologist or medical provider. Infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant after one year without birth control. It affects both partners equally -- about one-third of the time, it is a female problem; the other third, it is the man’s fertility problem. For the remaining one-third, both partners have fertility challenges or no cause is found.

Causes of Infertility

Some common reasons for infertility in women include:. 

Age:  Women generally have some decrease in fertility starting in their early 30s. And while many women in their 30s and 40s have no problems getting pregnant, fertility especially declines after age 35. As a woman ages, normal changes that occur in her ovaries and eggs make it harder to become pregnant. 

Health Problems: There are many diseases that affect fertility. Some, such as polycystic ovary syndrome are hormonal. Others include congenital diseases such as cystic fibrosis. Scarring in the uterus can also cause infertility. Some of the conditions cause the fallopian tubes to be blocked, so the egg can't travel through the tubes into the uterus.

Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors also can have a negative effect on a woman's fertility. Examples include smoking, alcohol use, being over or underweight, lot of strenuous exercise, and having an eating disorder. Stress also can affect fertility. 

Getting pregnant is a numbers game -- even if you do everything "right," you still have only a 25% to 30% chance of conceiving in any given cycle. So understanding when you are fertile and how you can change your lifestyle to increase your fertility are important first steps. If you haven’t had any success after six months – one year, you should probably see your doctor. Infertility is best tackled head on!

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Q:

What's your opinion of sleep training and how did you get your babies to sleep through the night?

A:

Expecting a newborn to sleep through the night is an unrealistic goal.  Babies need to feed frequently and have many reasons for night waking.  Each child is different and he or she may have different sleep requirements.  Following the child's lead - as tiring as that may be for a parent - is a philosophy we have followed in many of our parenting situations.  A gentle sleep approach, such as solutions offered by author Elizabeth Pantley in her "No Cry Sleep" books offer positive strategies for encouraging sleep without upset or trauma.  My two boys are very different.  My first was never a sleeper, gave up his short 20 minutes naps by 18 months old and rarely sleeps as many hours as his peers.  My second loves to sleep, will sleep in on weekends and didn't stop napping until he was 5 years old!  Our sleep strategies are very different with each child, as each is unique.

1.  Plan Ahead.  Summer seems to inspire spontaneity, but when you are traveling with kids being prepared is what will keep you calm – and sane!  Get your directions and travel plans in order, organize any identification or documentation you need, plan your rest stops or layovers, and determine the best travel time for your kids.  If your children travel well with games, books, and other toys to keep them going, pack up favorites as well as some new surprises for your trip.  If they don’t travel well, consider hitting the road at naptime or bedtime and let them sleep through a portion of the trip.  Be sure to bring along extra diapers or a change of clothes – funny things happen along the way and a clean set of clothes may just come in handy. 
2. Keep it Healthy. Whether on the road or in the air, travel food is notorious for being unhealthy.  Caffeine and alcohol are dehydrating, junk food is ever present, and convenience foods may lead to behavioral reactions among kids, for example irritability after too much sugar.  Pack a variety of finger foods and snacks that give your kids healthy options.  Granola bars, nuts, fruit roll ups, fresh fruit, and whole grain snacks will keep the little ones busy and satiated.  If you need to stop, check out resources such as Healthy Highways for a print guide to healthy travel options or phone apps including VegOut, for vegetarian diners, Locavore to see what’s fresh and in season where you are, or GlutenLess Dining for those with gluten intolerance.  Also be sure to bring plenty of fresh water for the trip to keep hydrated.
3. Pack Your Remedies. Holistic and integrative medicine embraces a wide range of healing modalities.  Whatever your holistic passion, pack your go-to health aids for your trip.  Homeopathic remedies such as Coccolus Indicus and Tabacum are great for motion sickness, as are the essential oils of peppermint and ginger.  Bring along natural treatments for allergies, bug bites, and nausea, including the bioflavonoid Quercetin to help with seasonal allergens, lavender oil for bites, and cloves or activated charcoal for stomach ailments. Bach’s Rescue Remedy, a flower essence remedy, is another great tool for the anxiety and stress of travel, including for pets!  You might also consider packing your own non-toxic soaps and shampoos for the road to keep your travel time healthy.
4. Rest. You’re on vacation, so rest should be a natural part of your trip.  But for so many families, we over plan activities and excursions and wind up more tired than when we started.  Build downtime into your trip and be sure to get plenty of sleep before you head out.  Traveling with children can be especially stressful and making sure that you – and the kids – are well rested will make for a much calmer and more pleasant trip!  If you have problems sleeping away from home, pack your comforts and sleep aids.  Bring a white noise machine to block out unfamiliar sounds, get black out curtains, and even pack your favorite pillow for a more restful trip
5. Bring the Right Attitude.  Trips are an opportunity to get away, reconnect with your loved ones, and enjoy a new environment.  Pack your patience and be positive. Your camping trip may meet some rain, your favorite ride might be closed for repair, and the kids may not love the park or show you surprised them with.  Take the stresses and mishaps in stride and enjoy the moments together.  Be flexible and try to stay in the moment.  Put away your phones and electronic devices, connect with nature, and enjoy the ride! 

A leading voice in the natural parenting movement, Nancy Massotto, Ph.D, is the Founder and Executive Director of the Holistic Moms Network, and mother to two boys.  An articulate and knowledgeable writer and speaker on holistic living, natural parenting, and eco-conscious lifestyles, she shares her passion with a wide variety of audiences as a presenter and author.  She is passionate about empowering women, supporting mothers, and raising her children as naturally and sustainably as she can..  She is passionate about empowering women, supporting mothers, and raising her children as naturally and sustainably as she can.

Q:

What are your top 5 great gluten-free products for kids?

A:

There are so many brands and products today in the gluten-free industry, it's hard to keep track!  It's wonderful for those of us dealing with food allergies, but keep in mind that many gluten-free products contain artificial ingredients or are just as highly-processed as their gluten-containing counterparts.  I try to stick with as many whole foods as possible with my family, even in our gluten-free choices.  Just because you may need to avoid gluten, you can enjoy many delicious whole foods from proteins (meats, poultry, fish) to fruits and vegetables, as well as gluten-free grains including rice, quinoa, and buckwheat.  You can make delicious risotto, a summer quinoa salad with grilled vegetables, or banana buckwheat pancakes - or some tasty hash brown potatoes - that are gluten free and nutritious!

Q:

What should I look for when buying baby food?

A:

Without a doubt, starting your baby off with good nutrition can have a long-term impact on her/his health and wellness. Children are even more at risk when it comes to the dangers or pesticides and chemicals in our food, not to mention GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Go organic - whether you make your own baby food or buy one of the many brands available. A simple puree of local organic vegetables or fruits is a great way to get started. If you buying baby food, check the ingredients. I personally love Sprout baby food [http://www.sproutbabyfood.com/] because not only is it organic, they don't add fruit purees to vegetables and help your baby to develop a true taste for the fresh flavors of healthy foods.

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Q:

How concerned should I be about BPA and what are my choices to avoid it?

A:

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a legitimate concern as it has been linked to breast cancer and early puberty in young girls. BPA is very prevalent in our society, appearing not only in the lining of most cans but also in cash register receipts, pizza boxes, and many plastics. Unfortunately, many of the products made from new synthetic materials that are labeled as BPA-free also do not have a long-term safety record that can assure us that these are good alternatives. Personally, I prefer to avoid canned foods altogether and to pack leftovers in glass or stainless steel containers that I believe are safer for my family.

Q:

Do you have any suggestions for buying or making eco-friendly party favors for toddlers and pre-schoolers? I hate using throw away party favors at my 4 and 8 year-olds' birthdays parties but feel like it's expected by the kids and their parents.

A:

Cheap plastic party favors are not only a waste of money, but don't help our overflowing landfills. However, there are so many great ideas that you can incorporate into your party instead. One project I love is to bring a craft into the party setting that will serve as a take-away for the kids. Whether it's painting a flower pot or making a holiday ornament, you can provide an activity that the kids can do during the party and bring back home with them. If a craft doesn't fit into your setting or schedule, you can send the kids home with a bag of seeds and a small pot, crayons and paper, or a set of fun cookie cutters to bake with instead. These will not only provide much more enjoyment for all but will be easier on the environment!

Q:

 I don't want my kids growing up drinking sugary sodas. Is not having it in the house enough to prevent this bad habit?

A:

I do think that if you don't expose your children to particular foods or drinks they are less likely to develop a taste for them but, at some point, you'll need to be prepared to have an alternative. My kids did not grow up with sodas or juices available to them. They drink water and tea. Neither of them has a taste for anything carbonated but that could change as they become teens, of course! Not having had sugary drinks growing up they tend not to like overly sweet beverages or even desserts. However, if your kids already have a taste for sodas, you can try switching to one of the natural or organic brands out there and start with reducing their exposure to high fructose corn syrup. You can also mix things like iced tea with fruit juice to reduce the sugar and to help develop their palettes for less sugary products. Or, if you are really fans of carbonation, there are some do-it-yourself soda makers for home use that allow you to control the ingredients and use natural sweeteners instead.

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Q:

What's an all-natural household solution I can make for cleaning up after my kids' sticky messes?

A:

Honestly, vinegar wins again, hands down! It has been shown time and again to disinfect and clean easily and effectively. And let's not forget affordably! Many people assume that living a non-toxic or organic lifestyle has to be expensive. But, in fact, making your own simple household cleaners from basics such as vinegar will not only save you money but will be better for the planet. Here's a great list of the amazing things that you can do with vinegar to inspire you: Vinegar Tips

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Q:

Do you have any tips or advice for dealing with a hormonal teenager?

A:

The teen years are indeed a test - for both parents and kids. Teenagers are looking to bridge childhood and adulthood by exploring their independence but still needing boundaries and connection. Negotiating this ground is no easy task. Communication is essential, albeit not the easiest task once the teens set in. Create time and opportunities to talk openly with your teenager while finding a balance between rules and responsibilities. Hormonal changes can indeed complicate things. But many mood swings are connected to diet, so understanding how the foods your teenager eats play a role in behavior is an important consideration. Avoiding sugar and processed foods can help level out moods. In addition, you might seek the aid of an herbalist like chamomile tea, chaste berry, and dong quai which may be helpful in hormonal balance and stress. Finally, homeopathy offers a number of remedies and cell salts for creating balance that are also worth a look.

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Q:

What steps should I take to prepare my other kids for the arrival of their baby sister?

A:

Involving your other kids in the anticipation and arrival of a new baby can be a wonderful way to develop the future sibling relationships, and help your other children to feel connected. You might include your children in a regular visit or checkup, have them help select clothes or items for the baby, and help create a space for your new child. There are wonderful books on welcoming a new baby available that you can read with your children to open up communication and address any concerns or questions that they may have. Once the baby arrives, involve your children as helpers. Give them an opportunity to lend a hand during bath time or feeding, to help you care for the baby and for yourself. And carve out time just for the other kids as much as possible. Whether it's a special movie night or trip to the park, balancing out time and attention will help to alleviate some of the jealousy issues that can arise.

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Labor of Love: incredible & inspiring stories of natural childbirth.

It is important to know that signs of labor, like the rest of the period of pregnancy is an individual and unique experience and can differ for each woman. Thus, while the following symptoms are the usual signs experienced, don’t be surprised if it doesn’t fit yours. The important thing is to have a close relationship with your doctor and report anything abnormal, especially any vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain.

Common Signs of Labor

Since a normal gestation is 40 weeks, signs of pre-labor may be apparent at 38 or 39 weeks' gestation. In most cases, labor begins between 37 and 42 weeks after the last menstrual period. Sometimes, you may have Braxton Hicks Contractions or false labor, so it might be a confusing time. The following are signs that labor is coming or starting soon. 

1. Breathing More Easily: This is the sign that your baby has dropped down and is settling into the pelvis releasing pressure from your diaphragm. On the flip side, you might feel increased pressure on your bladder and you might find yourself running to the bathroom. 

2. Discharge of viscous mucus: During pregnancy, the cervical opening is plugged by mucus to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. When your cervix begins to relax, this mucus plug is expelled. Many women believe that the plug will be solid. In fact, it is in the form of a thick discharge of viscous mucus. It is either clear in color, pink or tinged with blood. The mucus plug can be expelled minutes, hours or days before labor begins.

3. Water Breaking: Just 1 in 10 women experience a gush of amniotic fluid when the membranes rupture. Most often, the amniotic fluid will just leak in the form of small trickle. However, many women are unsure whether it is amniotic fluid or urine because many pregnant women leak urine during the later stages of pregnancy. If your water breaks and you don’t have contractions, you should go to the hospital. As time passes the risk for infection can grow, and your doctor will want to limit this way ahead of time. A doctor may want to induce your labor in as little as six hours, although anywhere from 6 to 24 hours is typical.  

4. Sudden spurt of energy: Just before you go into labor, you may have a sudden spurt of energy. You will realize that you can do things like cleaning, buying groceries or cooking without feeling tired. This is called nesting. While you may have the urge to run around, you are about to go into a particularly stressful time so probably best if you conserve your energy.  

5. Effacement of cervix: Effacement of the cervix starts in the last month of pregnancy. Your cervix will become thin and it will start to stretch to make it easy for the cervix to dilate when you deliver your baby. Your doctor will start checking for effacement in the last 2 months of pregnancy and he or she will tell about the progress. 

6. Dilation of the cervix opening: Means your body is preparing for labor. Dilation is usually measured in centimeters and at times during internal examination, the doctor might measure it in fingers. If you are fully dilated, your dilation measures 10 centimeters and you are ready to give birth. Doctors start checking for dilation in the last 2 months of pregnancy and will keep you informed about this.

7. Contractions: The difference between false and real contractions is their strength, intensity and whether they continue when you move about. Many women experience false labor before true labor starts. So how to know which is which? The best way is to take note of your contractions. False labor consists of contractions can be painful and may come every 10 or 20 minutes. With false labor, your cervix will not have started to dilate yet. Your mid-wife or doctor will be able to tell by carrying out an examination.

Do not just ignore any single sign. Whether or not you are in labor, by noting each sign and their duration, you will be able to give your doctor a better picture of exactly what is happening to your body. 

Premature Signs of Labor

1. Contractions that occur at more than 4 per hour
2. Bleeding from the vagina
3. Back pain, especially if its dull and rhythmic
4. Flow of sudden clear, watery fluid from the vagina
5. Pelvic pressure that feels like the baby is pushing down 
6. Abdominal pain, and menstrual like cramping
7. Loose stools. These can be caused by the release of prostaglandins in early which causes cervical effacement, softening, etc. Prostaglandins also can cause soft stools or diarrhea. Time until labor? Usually only a matter of a day or hours.

Q:

What are some good non-plastic (non-toxic) toys for my kids?

A:

As parents we've all laughed at how our children have found more fun with the big cardboard box a toy came in than the toy itself. Some of the very best toys are the ones that are simple and can become anything a child's imagination can dream up. Toys that do too much already - sounds, lights, buttons - not only cut off any opportunity for creative thinking but are usually made of plastic, require batteries, and are not sustainable. The toys my kids go back to again and again are simple - wooden or foam blocks for building; crayons, colored pencils, paper, and scissors for drawing and cutting; natural dough and clay; and all things natural - sand, dirt, water, and rocks! Take a child to the beach or park and just watch how the simplest things become their "toys". You can even collect these objects and create a "nature table" for observation, play, and learning indoors.

Cod liver oil is a good source of Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which plays an important role in brain development. Numerous studies have found omega 3 effective in improving memory and combating depression, and ADHD. The polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic (EPA) contained in cod liver oil has been shown to play an important role in improving heart disease. Cod liver oil also contains Vitamin A and D.

Benefits

1. Cod liver oil can be the foundation of your child’s brain: In the last trimester of pregnancy, the formation of child’s brain, retina and nervous system are completed. All of them are composed of 60 % Omega 3 fatty acids. The formation process of the brain is based on the mother’s reserves of Omega 3 fatty acids. Limited omega 3 can lead to brain and sight defects.
2. Cod liver oil helps your child grow: The effects of cod liver oil, rich in vitamins A and D, ensures the normal growth of teeth (eases teething and reduces the risk of tooth decay development), bone and the development of eyesight.
3. Cod liver oil prevents postpartum depression: Insufficient Omega 3 fatty acid reserves during pregnancy can lead to postpartum depression for new mothers. Therefore, it is important for new mothers to have an additional intake of Omega 3, before and after delivering the baby.
4. Cod liver oil is a great source of Vitamin D: Vitamin D is synthetized by the human body when out in the sun. Otherwise we can get it from skim milk, fish oil, sardines, mackerel, salmon, eggs, cheese, liver, beef, but the main disadvantage is that when cooked, most of the vitamin disappears. That is why cod liver oil is an ideal form of vitamin D supplementation. 

Remedies

1. Arthritis: Daily administration of two teaspoons of cod liver oil can lower the amount of analgesics required by the treatment of patients with arthritis. Several studies, including a 2004 one from the University of Cardiff show that the oil has three effects: it acts as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and it slows down the cartilage degeneration inherent in osteoarthritis.
2. Depression: Several studies have found that that a tablespoon of cod liver oil taken daily can significantly ease depression. This is because of the DHA content in cod liver oil. DHA is thought to act as an anti-depressant by increasing gray matter in three areas that tend to be smaller in people who have serious depression. A 2007 University of Pittsburgh Medical School study found that the more DHA a person consumed, the more gray matter there was in three areas of the brain linked to mood: the amygdala, the hippocampus and the cingulate.
3. Rickets: Babies born prematurely are most prone to rickets, but also mothers with nutritional deficiencies, or problems with the intestinal absorption and assimilation of Vitamin D and calcium. After birth, whether breast feeding or using formula, doctors recommend vitamin D and calcium supplements. Cod liver oil is an excellent source of vitamin D and an ideal supplementation to prevent rickets. 
4. ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder): Cod liver oil is an ideal source of Vitamin D, Vitamin A and Omega 3 fatty acids that provide the perfect setting for the development of cognitive functions such as increased attention, reduced agitation and stabilized mood.
5. Osteoporosis: It was found that a sufficient amount of Vitamin D ensures normal metabolism of calcium even when calcium intake is low. Vitamin D is essential to the absorption of calcium. Cod liver oil also contains omega-3 eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA), all of which help improve bone health.

Possible Side Effects

1. Nausea: Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, belching are all common side effects with cod liver oil. If these symptoms do not subside, talk to your doctor or discontinue the oil. 
2. Anti blood clotting: The Omega 3 fatty acids have a long list of benefits but they can also act as blood thinners, especially at high doses, i.e. more than 3 g per day. Persons taking drug-thinning medication should talk to their doctor before consuming cod liver oil.
3. Low blood pressure: Cod liver oil can lower the blood pressure. People taking high blood pressure medication should talk to their doctor before consuming cod liver oil.
4. High levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin D: Cod liver oil is frequently supplemented with high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. Don’t take extra supplementation of these vitamins if consuming cod liver oil.

Cod liver oil is an essential oil with one of the highest levels of omega 3 fatty acids. This long-chain fatty acid is known as a brain builder, and studies have linked it to reduced levels of depression, ADHD, arthritis, osteoporosis, and improved memory, attention span, and cognitive performance. Because of its fishy taste, it is often combined with other flavors or taken in a tasteless capsule form. Cod liver oil has long been given to infants for general health. A growing number of studies have found its range of health benefits, both mental and physical wellbeing.

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Q:

What should I use to disinfect my children's toys?

A:

One of the very best - and safest - disinfectants is simply distilled white vinegar. You can mix vinegar, water, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lemon or lavender, into a spray bottle and use it to clean your children's toys and your entire home! We have some natural cleaning recipes in our member-compiled cookbook, Growing Healthy Families available through the Holistic Moms Network.

Q:

How do I get my 12-year-old more interested in recycling?

A:

Raising awareness is a great start. You might begin with some statistics on how much garbage we each produce or even track it yourself for a week and see what that looks like, in real life. Or try watching "The Story of Stuff" online together for a fun but powerful introduction to sustainability. And consider what resonates with your child. Does he/she love animals? Look at how litter and pollution impact their habitats or put their safety at risk for some inspiration.

Conception occurs when two cells fuse together to begin a new life. To understand how it starts, we need to begin with ovulation. Each month, in one of woman's ovaries, a group of immature eggs start to develop in small fluid-filled cysts called follicles. One of the follicles is selected to complete development which is called maturation. This "dominant follicle" suppresses the growth of all of the other follicles, which cease growing. The mature follicle ruptures and releases the egg from the ovary. This is a process called ovulation, and it happens about two weeks before a woman gets her period.

Conception And The Cervical Mucus

The cervix is located at the top of the vagina. It begins to secrete a type of mucus when the ovulation period is getting close. For conception to be possible, the sperm needs to go through the cervical mucus, so it can meet the ovule. Here are five important roles the cervical mucos plays:

Roles of Cervical Mucus

1. The cervical mucus plays an important role in the conception process: During the menstrual cycle, the cervical mucus changes its viscosity. For several days around the time of ovulation, "fertile" types of mucus are produced.
2. The cervical mucus gives clues about a woman’s fertility: During a woman’s fertile days, cervical mucus has a higher water content, and is less acidic and higher in electrolytes.
3. The cervical mucus protects the sperm from the acidity of the vagina: The vaginal environment is biologically very hostile to sperm. After ejaculation, the sperm is transferred in the cervical mucus where it is protected from the acidity of the vagina. When the mucus has a low water content it acts as a barrier to the uterus. When it has a high water content, it acts as a transport medium for the spermatozoa to enter the uterus and fertilize an ovule.
4. The cervical mucus is an environment that mobilizes the sperm: When the ovulation occurs, a single mature egg is released into the uterus. This ovule can be fertilized about 12 hours after its release. If it does not happen, it will begin to disintegrate. During the ovulation, the cervical mucus gets thinner, becomes clearer and more abundant. For some women, the cervical mucus becomes thinner two days before ovulation so that after intercourse, the sperm are carried through the uterus, and are already near the uterus or fallopian tube when she ovulates.
5. The cervical mucus is a barrier to abnormal sperm: Abnormally shaped sperm swim more slowly in cervical mucus. This process of natural selection that occurs in the cervical mucus is an effective way to facilitate fecundation. 

Fertilization

A mature egg is ready for conception, but this will only occur only if a spermatozoon penetrates it. This process is called fertilization or fecundation. The mother provides only X chromosomes (she's XX). If a Y sperm fertilizes the egg, your baby will be a boy (XY); if an X sperm fertilizes the egg, your baby will be a girl (XX). After the fertilization of an ovule by the spermatozoon, the new entity is called a zygote.

Main Fertilization Stages

1. The coupling reaction: The semen contact with the ovule is done by the nearest spermatozoon, which will penetrate the ovule. The coupling reaction is done by the ovule receptors but there is also a chemical attraction. 
2. The attachment of the spermatozoon: After about 3 hours from ejaculation, there are many spermatozoon near the ovule (an average human ejaculate contains about 180 million sperm) but only one will come to penetrate the ovule.
3. The release of enzymes: For the spermatozoon to be able to penetrate the ovule, special enzymes are released in order to facilitate its entrance inside the ovule.
4. The penetration phases: Once the attachment is completed and the penetration of the ovule’s membrane begins, the spermatozoon will move forward until it is incorporated into the ovule.
5. The cortical reaction: After the spermatozoon is completely incorporated into the ovule, it will not allow another penetration.
6. The actual conception: The cell membrane that surrounds the egg will fuse with the sperm and the two cells will become one. The chromosomal chain, consisting of 23 chromosomes, which are located in the egg, will unite with those of sperm. They will grow and move toward one another, until they meet in the center of the egg. The two membranes that surround them will unite and the two groups of 23 chromosomes will fuse in pairs. The two #1 chromosomes--one from the paternal set and one from the maternal set--wrap tightly about each other in a process called synapsis. A single perfectly defined cell will be formed. The cell contains all the genetic information necessary for future development of the baby.
7. Cellular division: Now that conception is complete, the growth process begins. The cells start to multiply.

The Implantation

The implantation stage refers to the adhesion of the egg to the uterus. Before it reaches the uterus, the egg is continuously dividing. After 3 days, it becomes a morula (Latin, morus: mulberry) and has between 8 -16 cells, and it resembles a mulberry plant though not in size. Further it goes through the fallopian tubes and then it enters the uterus. Once there, the egg is not implanted immediately. After 6 to 7 days, it becomes a blastocyst.

Main Implantation Stages

1. The penetration: At one week after conception, the blastocyst is ready for implantation in the endometrium which is the inner layer of the uterus’s lining and it will remain there to feed during the 9 months of pregnancy. The exact mechanism for implantation is still not completely scientifically understood. The blastocyst adheres to the uterine wall and it makes vascular connections which build the placenta.
2. The implantation: After implantation, the blastocyst becomes an embryo, a more advanced stage of egg development. The process is complete when the amniotic sac and placenta are formed. The baby will develop inside the amniotic sac, floating in the amniotic fluid. The placenta is attached to the uterine wall and its functions are to feed and oxygenate the newly conceived fetus until birth. 

Conception is the root of all human life. It is one of the most scientifically complex processes, and yet streamlined and simple – egg meets sperm. Within three weeks, the blastocyst cells begin to grow as clumps of cells within that little ball, and the baby's first nerve cells have already formed. Your developing baby is called an embryo from the moment of conception to the eighth week of pregnancy. After the eighth week and until the moment of birth, your developing baby is called a fetus. Thus a new baby develops from humble beginnings – when two cells fuse to form new life.

Check Out Our Related Content:
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Q:

What are some ways to teach my kids to be less wasteful?

A:

As a parent, I love visual examples for kids. If you want to teach your children about waste, show them! For example, want to teach the kids to turn off the water while brushing their teeth? Put a large bowl or bucket under the faucet and let them see how much water goes down the drain when the faucet runs. Want to reduce paper towel use? Set up a specific disposal just for paper towels for a week and see how full it gets. Then draw a line to mark your goal for the next week. Or, better yet, explain how that one pile goes into a landfill and how using reusable towels (such as those from PeopleTowels) can help reduce waste. The more they can see it and touch it, the more real it is for them (and for all of us!).

Early Signs of Pregnancy

Some women know they are pregnant right away. Call it a mother’s hunch, or a sixth sense, but some seem to know it well before the test results come in. Others may pass for several weeks or months without being aware, for any number of reasons, such as irregular periods. Either way, if you familiarize yourself with the early signs of pregnancy, you will be better prepared. Each symptom can reveal a healthy pregnancy or be a sign of a possible complication. If you know your body and you have a high sense of observation, you may be able to recognize a pregnancy only after one week after conception. 

10 of The Most Common Early Signs of Pregnancy

1. Amenorrhea: is defined as the lack of menstruation and it is considered the most obvious sign of pregnancy. Although it is a very common sign it can also be deceiving. Some of us might be tricked by other vaginal secretions which can be easily mistaken for menstrual bleeding, as far as the third month of pregnancy. They occur when the fertilized ovule penetrates your uterus, a process that may be accompanied by abdominal cramps. The only difference between menstruation and this secretion is that it lasts less than a normal menstruation. That is why it’s a good idea to pay attention to other symptoms as well. Your menstruation might be delayed because of loss or sudden increase in weight, fatigue, hormonal problems, tension, medication, certain illnesses and stress too.
2. Morning sickness: is one of the more common symptoms of pregnancy. Although most common first thing, morning sickness can also occur throughout the day. It can appear as early as the second week after conception. Some women do not have morning sickness at all but some have it for many months. However, this is another uncertain sign that can predict a pregnancy. The nausea can also appear because of food poisoning, digestive problems, stress, intense fatigue or poor diet. 
3. Aversions: Foods odors are not the only odors that might cause you nausea. It is not at all uncommon to be overwhelmed by certain smells that you used to find appealing. You might be drawn to those some that you used to find disgusting. Such unexpected changes can be caused by your rising pregnancy hormones. 
4. Breast Sensitivity: Your breasts may experience a range of symptoms such as increased size, uncomfortable mild to severe pain and sensitivity to touch. The skin surrounding your nipples, called areola may become darker and your nipples become softer and more withdrawn. These symptoms appear about a week or two after conception. Usually, sore and sensitive breasts can be a sign that your period is imminent, but if the pain is amplified and they are visibly bigger and tender it might be a possible pregnancy. Besides PMS and pregnancy, your breasts can change with hormonal imbalances, side effects caused by birth control pills, extreme stress and even by wearing an inadequate, tight bra. 
5. Fatigue and Sleepiness: After conception, levels of the hormone progesterone increase, and continue to do so throughout the pregnancy, which can cause fatigue. This is ones of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Your body is going through a number of important changes and rest is how it recovers. 
6. Frequent Urination: Being pregnant causes your blood levels to increase. To create the proper environment for your baby’s development, the body must make sure that your uterus and other important organs benefit from correct blood flow and are hydrated accordingly. So, your kidneys will filter more liquid. And your growing uterus can put pressure on your bladder also causing frequent urination. This sign of pregnancy is present usually after four to six weeks from conception. 
7. Headaches: High levels of pregnancy hormones can cause you headaches. And they might have multiple reasons such as stress, too much caffeine, dehydration, bad posture. Try and get lots of rest and relaxation, exercise, and eat nutritious meals to remove the other causes. 
8. High Basal Body Temperature: Your body temperature is lowest during rest and rises as you get up and start moving. The basal body temperature is usually measured immediately after awakening and before any physical activity has been taken. When you are ovulating, your body temperature increases one-half to one degree Fahrenheit (one-quarter to one-half degree Celsius) in basal body temperature (BBT). If you are pregnant, your basal body temperature will stay high for longer -- about three weeks. 
9. Constipation and Bloating: Bloating and constipation can be clues for pregnancy and are common symptoms of pregnancy. Why does your body produce all that gas causing the ungodly trio of burping, farting and bloating (BBR)? Blame the pregnancy hormone progesterone. It causes the smooth muscle tissue in your body to relax, including the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract. BBR is one of the more common symptoms throughout pregnancy. If the gassy trinity is still causing you problems, try adding a tablespoon of fiber to each meal. 
10. Decreased Libido: Low sex drive is a common pregnancy symptom, and can be the result of any number of causes – morning sickness, increasing pregnancy hormones, etc. Some women find that their libido goes up during pregnancy. Whichever your drive, your libido will probably increase during the second trimester. 

If you have missed your period or have some of the other pregnancy symptoms, you might consider taking a home-pregnancy test. A pregnancy test measures HCG, a pregnancy hormone; when it reaches a particular level then the pregnancy results are positive. The best time to take a home pregnancy test is to wait until your period is due. If you have negative result, but are worried about false negatives, then wait another three days and retake the test. And if it’s positive, congratulations! Your body is getting ready to bring new life into the world. 

Q:

What's the best natural remedy for preventing and treating head lice?

A:

The concern with many commercial head lice shampoos and products is that they contain a number of chemicals and are potentially quite toxic. Fortunately, there are a growing number of companies making safe, natural solutions for lice treatment that do not contain these dangerous chemicals. Many natural products use essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender, to treat head lice with good success. Keep in mind that the home and other family members may also need treatment to eradicate the problem completely.

Knowing When You Ovulate Can Help You Plan Pregnancy 

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary and pushed down the fallopian tube. By this time, the lining of the uterus has already thickened to make way for an egg. If the egg is not fertilized, it will be shed in the menstrual cycle. Ovulation takes place about two weeks before a woman gets her period. 

When a male ejaculates into a woman’s cervix, his sperm can live inside of the body for up to five days or even longer. In this process the XY or XX chromosomes can fertilize the egg. The XY chromosomes are slightly weaker than the XX chromosomes, so they may only last 1 to 2 days inside of the female body due to the acidic environment, although they are slightly faster, giving them a competitive edge. Conception is established when the egg is fertilized.

The best time to get pregnant is to have intercourse 3 to 4 days before ovulation. This gives the sperm enough time to travel into the cervix where they can meet the egg. 

When Does Ovulation Happen? 

1. Ovulation Predictor Kit: This monitors a surge of LH hormones which usually peak 48-24 hours before ovulation. Like the pregnancy test, this is an urination test. 
2. Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Your BBT changes throughout the day and is lowest while you are asleep, so it’s important that you measure it at the same time each day, normally just after you wake up, and before any physical activity. During ovulation, your BBT will rise one-half to one degree Fahrenheit (one-quarter to one-half degree Celsius) so monitoring it will help you know when you can conceive.  
3. Cervical Mucus: This will also change as ovulation comes closer. The mucus is normally thick and glue-like. Start noting the characteristic of your cervical mucus on the first day after your menstrual cycle stops. About five to seven days later, there should be a change in its look and texture – it becomes thin and stretchy. This is a great sign of your coming fertile days – now is the time to have intercourse if you want to become pregnant.   

Avoiding Pregnancy 

There are many forms of contraception if you want to avoid pregnancy. To be on the safe side, some people use several at once. They might use the contraceptive pill to avoid pregnancy and condoms to prevent for sexually transmitted infections. Condoms are the only form of contraception that can protect against STDs.

The most effective methods of contraception are long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods, such as the injection, implant, IUS (intrauterine system) and IUD (intrauterine device).

For example the IUD involves inserting the device into a woman’s uterus. There are two types of IUD: copper IUD, which hinders mobility of sperm cells and thus reduces the chances of fertilization, and the Mirena, which releases the hormone levonorgestrel, which is a form of the hormone progestin. The use of this form of contraceptive is slightly more efficient than the copper IUD (also known as the coil); the pregnancy rate in a 5-year cycle is estimated to be about 0.7%.

1. Plan B: Plan B (sometimes called the morning-after pill). You can take buy Plan B One-Step, Next Choice and Levonorgestrel Tablets from your local pharmacy without a prescription if you are 17 and older. Women aged 16 and younger need a prescription. You can take these up to 13 days after unprotected sex. However, they are most effective the sooner you take them after the act. If you take Plan B when you are already pregnant, it will not work. However, taking Plan B if you are pregnant will not cause birth defects. 
2. Ella: Ella is sold by prescription only, regardless of age. You can also order ella through an online prescription service for $40, including next-day shipping. With Ella, you can take it up to five days after unprotected sex, giving you an extra two days, however the drawback is that you need a prescription. 

The best time to get pregnant is to have intercourse several times during the 4-day time period, lasting from three days prior and one day after ovulation. If you aren’t sure when you ovulate, you can use a calendar method, by subtracting 18 from the total number of days in your cycle to find out the first day that you are fertile. Or you can use the basal body temperature or an ovulation predictor kit. Sperm can survive in a woman’s body for several days after ejaculation, but you want to make a baby, its best to give them the best chance possible. 

1. Did you miss a period? This is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. However, it’s not 100 % -- some women skip their period because of stress, irregular periods etc., while others continue to have slight vaginal bleeding even after getting pregnant.

2. Did you bleed mid-cycle? This can occur during pregnancy when the fertilized ovule penetrates the uterus, causing a small amount of blood to leak. Unexpected vaginal bleeding occurs in 50-80% of pregnant woman. However, it can happen during a normal menstrual cycle too. 

3. Do you suddenly feel nauseated? Nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy, part of morning sickness. It is caused by increasing pregnancy hormones such as progesterone.

4. Is the nausea accompanied by vomiting? Vomiting can also occur with morning sickness. Morning sickness tends to occur during the first trimester, and fades or disappears in the second.

5. Do you breasts feel sensitive? Breast sensitivity can occur as part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but it may be intensified during pregnancy.

6. Are your breasts sore and painful to touch? This may be from the hormonal changes generated by the conception. As the milk-producing cells develop channels, your breasts may become more sensitive to touch. The blood flow to your breasts also increases, and you may notice your breasts seem more veiny.

7. Do your breasts appear to be swollen and bigger? This may be because your body is adapting to pregnancy and breastfeeding. If your breasts are too small – don’t worry -- breast tissue starts to grow at the beginning of gestation.
   

8. Do your nipples feel softer and look more withdrawn? Softer breasts will help with breast-feeding.

9. Is the skin around your nipples getting darker?  If yes, blame those pesky pregnancy hormones for increased pigmentation.

10. Do you have to urinate more frequently? As the size of your uterus increases, there is more pressure on your bladder. Combined with the extra fluid in your body, you may find yourself running to the bathroom more than ideal.  

11. Do you feel thirstier? This may be because your kidneys are filtering more liquids. The placenta, the amniotic sac and the amniotic liquid are starting to form inside your uterus in the early stages of pregnancy, which requires more flood flow.  

12. Do you feel hungry more? This is because your body has different nutritional needs – you need more energy and fuel to sustain a new pregnancy. Expect to eat about 300 calories a day more during the first trimester.

13. Do you constantly feel tired and sleepy even after you rest? Your body is adjusting to a number of changes and needs rest. And increasing levels of the hormone progesterone can cause fatigue.

14. Do you feel bloated and constipated? Why does your body produce all that gas causing the ungodly trio of burping, farting and bloating (BBR)? Blame the pregnancy hormone progesterone. It causes the smooth muscle tissue in your body to relax, including the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract.

15. Did you start to enjoy the smell of gas or shoe polish overnight? If not gas or shoe polish, perhaps another strange and previously disgusting smell is exciting your taste buds.  Pregnancy cravings are a common sign of pregnancy.

16. Do you have aversions for foods or odors you used to love? Blame those pesky pregnancy hormones. Up to 85 percent of pregnant women say they're being repelled by certain foods.

17. Did a vertical dark line appear between your belly button and your pubic area? Increased pigmentation, including the linea negra -- the line between your belly button and pubic area -- is a common pregnancy sign. 

18. Is your basal body temperature higher than before? If the basal body temperature in higher than usual (between ½ - 1 degree F higher) for three consecutive weeks, it is a strong sign of pregnancy. The basal body temperature can be measured by putting the thermometer in the mouth or under the armpit and it should be measured in the morning, first thing, before any physical activity.

19. Do you have a decreased libido? Decreased libido is common during pregnancy although some women report a higher sex drive, while others report no change at all. If your sex drives drops during the first trimester, don’t worry – it will probably return during the second.

20. Does your skin have an unusual glow? The mask of pregnancy or a pregnancy glow is because your body becomes more vascularized during pregnancy. The blood flow will change, so your skin will become pinker as well. 

21. Do you have sudden changes of mood? Mood swings, caused by rising hormonal levels, are common during pregnancy. Try not to overreact, and warn your partner! 

22. Do you experience decreased endurance?  If you are pregnant, your body will go through some important changes, and you may have reduced endurance and energy.

23. Do you have back pain? This is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. Somewhere between half and three quarters of women have it at some stage.

24. Do you sometimes feel you need more air? The newly conceived baby needs oxygen as he or she grows, leaving less for you. You may feel breathless or winded, especially on the stairs. This symptom is characteristic of the entire pregnancy, but it appears quite early. 

25. Do you have a metallic taste in your mouth? A strange, metallic taste is one of the more bizarre pregnancy symptoms. Doctors suspect it is caused by increasing hormones although they aren’t really sure why.  

Congratulations! You completed Veria’s Pregnancy Test. If the answer is yes to more than a third of these questions, it’s probably time to take a home pregnancy test.

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Q:

How do I encourage my kids to exercise and play outside versus choosing to sit in front of the computer or on their phones?

A:

Getting kids outdoors may be challenge if they are used to indoor play, but it's well worth it when you consider the physical, mental, and emotional benefits! Connecting with nature can help calm children and build a strong appreciation for living more sustainably. To get the ball rolling, you may need to make it fun and show how being outside is not "boring", as video games and electronics offer a fast-paced, high-stimulus environment in contrast. What do your kids like? Do they like to build? Try creating a sand box, building a fort with natural materials, or show them how to make a snowman. If they love games, try creating one outside - from old-fashioned hopscotch to a find-and-seek, where you create a list of items for them to locate around them, you can help them enjoy their surroundings. Trips to the beach, animal sanctuaries and preserves, local farms, or even a picnic in the park can also show them how to have fun with nature and help build their appreciation for their environment..

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Q:

My question is on teething and sleeping through the night? My niece is 4m and is teething and my 15m twins (still breast feeding) are not sleeping through the night what should I do?

A:

Sleep deprivation is probably the hardest part of being a parent! But I think the idea that our babies and toddlers will sleep through the night without waking is often unrealistic, especially while breastfeeding or teething. I would seek some comfort in knowing that there are many, many moms with children of the same age who do not sleep through the night. I also have found Elizabeth Pantley’s books “The No-Cry Sleep Solution” (one for infants, one for toddlers) to be very helpful and reassuring. As for teething, there are some safe and effective homeopathic teething products (gels and tablets) to help ease discomfort and help everyone to get more sleep!

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Weekly Guide to Pregnancy

If you’re reading this and you’re pregnant, congratulations! This can be a very exciting time in your life and the life of your child. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything that’s going on, relax! Your body knows what it’s doing and will prepare the ideal environment for your baby to grow and develop. It will take care of everything for you. That said, it’s helpful to know what’s happening inside your body. Here’s a quick overview.

1 Week Pregnant: The Egg's Winding Journey & Fertilization

Starting with the first week of pregnancy, we will go step by step through each week of pregnancy, offering detailed explanations about everything that will change in your body, hormones and life in general, especially in the first trimester when your body is going through some of the most extreme changes of the pregnancy. Remember that growth rates differ from person to person  -- this is completely normal – and so try to read the weeks prior and following your estimated pregnancy stage for a better understanding of where you are and what you to expect. Being aware of what’s happening inside your body and your baby’s development will help you understand your own needs and that of your unborn child so that you can help take the best care of yourself and your unborn baby. This is a crucial time for you, your partner and your unborn child, and careful, detailed information will hopefully lead to a less stressful, happier pregnancy. (read full article)

2 Weeks Pregnant: A Great Occasion for Ovulation

At two weeks pregnant, you are still preconception. You may experience a few symptoms of ovulation. Common signs of ovulation include menstrual pain in your lower abdomen, lower back pain, and leg pain radiating down your legs, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness. Many women also experience increasing volumes of fertile cervical mucous. Some women notice heightened sexual desire. (read full article)

3 Weeks Pregnant: Feeling That Hunch

Congratulations! Your ovule and the spermatozoon have united and fertilized and you are now have an embryo growing inside of you. How does it feel? Probably not much different, since most women don’t initially realize they are pregnant. Nevertheless, there are some important changes happening inside of you. When the egg implants some women have a tiny bit of spotting called implantation bleeding, where the egg burrows into the uterine lining, leaking slightly. This is perfectly normal and no reason to worry. Your body also releases a protein called Early Pregnancy Factor (EPF). This immunosuppressant is one of the first signs of pregnancy and prevents your body from seeing the baby as an invader. (read full article)

4 Weeks Pregnant: Ready, Set, Grow!

Although it’s only been two weeks since conception, your baby cells are multiplying rapidly. Right now, the embryo is the size of a poppy seed and consists of two layers the epiblast and the hypoblast, from which all of his or her organs and body parts will develop. By the end of this week, you should be able to find out whether or not you are pregnant by taking a home pregnancy test. If positive, call your doctor’s office and schedule your first prenatal appointment. Most health practitioners won’t see you until you are eight weeks pregnant, unless you have symptoms that need further investigation, you have medical condition, or have had problems with a pregnancy in the past. (read full article)

5 Weeks Pregnant: Baby’s First Heartbeats

This is the week when many women notice the first changes to their bodies. You may have breast tenderness, morning sickness or the increased need for urination. You won’t yet show, and your total weight gain is probably around 1 lb. Your embryo is going through some rapid changes – your baby’s heart and blood system is beginning to develop and he or she will have their first heartbeats. If last week you were still overwhelmed by the news and you didn’t manage to find a good obstetrician, now would be a good moment to do so. Once you set an appointment with the obstetrician, make a list of questions in case you forget something while face-to-face. (read full article)

6 Weeks Pregnant: Mood Swings and Morning Sickness

If you find your moods altering greatly, no need to worry, this is a normal part of this time of the pregnancy. And if you have already started morning sickness, it may become more intense. Stress can make morning sickness worse, as well as increase fatigue, indigestion and the chances of developing back and neck pain and headaches. So make sure that you schedule time to relax - it will help you and the baby. (read full article)

7 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Growing Super Fast

In theory your baby is still an embryo because it has the remains of a small tail, which will disappear in the next few weeks. Everything else is getting quickly bigger. Your baby is growing rapidly and will double in size compared to the previous week. The heart and brain are becoming more complicated, the eyelids start to form and your baby gains the beginnings of a nose. This is an exciting time for you and your partner. (read full article)

8 Weeks Pregnant: Time To See The Doctor

You’re halfway through the first trimester of your pregnancy. Congratulations! Your baby is the size of a large raspberry and growing at an amazing rate. Your baby’s nose, ears, lips, nose, eyelids, legs, and back begin to take place. This rapid growth and associated hormones means that many of the classic pregnancy symptoms – bloating, gassiness, nausea, constipation, headaches, are in full swing this week. Don’t worry, but make time to schedule your first obstetrician appointment. Make a list of all the possible questions to ask so as not to forget face-to-face. (read full article)

9 Weeks Pregnant: Fatigue and More Mood Swings

Your baby now has all the major organs, muscles and nerves. He or she has a heart with four chambers and a rapidly beating heart. Although moving often, you can’t feel these movements yet. While you probably won’t look much different, you may be overly familiar with at least some of the symptoms of the first trimester by now, the fatigue, morning sickness, mood swings, headaches, bloating and constipation. If its any consolation, many of these will ease up in a few weeks as you head into the second trimester. (read full article)

10 Weeks Pregnant: Fast-Growing Tummy

Week 10 marks a milestone in your baby’s development. Though she's barely the size of a kumquat and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce, your baby has now completed the most critical portion of his development. All the baby’s cells are in place, and the major organs and brain are growing rapidly. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in his body rapidly grow and mature. For you, the same pregnancy signs – headaches, fatigue, morning sickness, bloating, constipation and gas will probably continue this week. Not to worry – most will ease up as you enter the beginning of your second trimester. (read full article)

11 Weeks Pregnant: End Of The First Trimester

This is the last week of the first trimester. Congratulations! Your baby has gone from being a fertilized egg, blastocyst, an embryo and is now a fetus. Although you haven’t gained much weight yet – between 3-5 pounds, that will soon change as you hit the second trimester. According the American Pregnancy Association (APA), you'll add 3 to 5 pounds in your first trimester and 1 to 2 pounds every week until your baby arrives. Towards the end of this week, you may find you start to regain some of your energy. The beginning of the second trimester marks a time when many of the most difficult aspects of the pregnancy – morning sickness, fatigue, aversions – start to ease, and you begin the most restful time of the pregnancy. (read full article)

12 Weeks Pregnant: Woo-hoo! Less Trips to the Bathroom

You are in the twelfth week of your pregnancy and things are looking up! Your baby is the size of a kiwi and has developed his or her own reflexes. The placenta takes over some of the most important functions, like the hormone production. And as the uterus moves into the abdominal cavity, you find you need to urinate less too. As you approach the second trimester, this will be the first of several changes that will likely make your life a lot easier. (read full article)

13 Weeks Pregnant: Baby and Mama Turn a Huge Corner

You are almost into the second trimester. Your body is going through a number of important changes from the stabilization of pregnancy hormones to the shifting of your uterus into the abdominal cavity. Your baby looks more human – you may be able to see some of yourself or your partner in his or her features. She is still small – about the size of a small egg, but her growth rate is about to accelerate. (read full article)

14 Weeks Pregnant: Goodbye, Morning Sickness!

Your baby is about the size of a clenched fist and is covered in a protective fluff called lanugo. Your morning sickness has subsided, and you’re not running to the toilet after few minutes. You’re starting the second trimester (weeks 13-27). Congratulations! This is known as the gestation period and it’s considered the most relaxing and easiest time of the pregnancy. (read full article)

15 Weeks Pregnant: Avoid Sick People

You’re through the first trimester! How does it feel? There are still pregnancy symptoms that might be challenging, but you’re over the morning sickness, pregnancy headaches and the emotional roller coaster of the first three months. On the one hand, its time to relax, but on the other, you need to be really vigilant about germs. You’re more susceptible to colds and viruses now, since your body’s immune system is naturally suppressed to prevent your body from rejecting your baby. Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap, and make sure to wash the cuticles and fingernails too. Avoid sick people, don’t share food or utensils, and be careful with food preparation. (read full article)

16 Weeks Pregnant: Life In Stereo and First Kicks

At 16 Weeks Pregnant you are almost half way through this amazing journey and have made it through a number of challenges, including mood swings, morning sickness and others. And you have an important decision ahead. Weeks 16-18 are the first where the presence or absence of a penis and testicles can be detected, although sometimes its not visible until week 26. Do you want to know the sex or do you yearn for a surprise? (read full article)

17 Weeks Pregnant: Stay Happy, Stay Hydrated

If you thought 9 months was an eternity, you might reconsider that you’re almost mid-way through. Meanwhile, your baby is bulking up, adding extra fat (a brown layer), muscle and brains to survive and thrive outside the womb. (read full article)

18 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby Is About The Size of a Large Tomato

You should be able to feel your baby moving, a fluttering feeling, known as quickening. Your baby’s bones continue to ossify and her intestines are jump started with the production of a digestive substance called meconium. Your low blood pressure may cause a sense of dizziness and feeling clumsy so be careful wearing heals and on the stairs. (read full article)

19 Weeks Pregnant: Sex During Pregnancy Is Healthy

Your belly is getting rounder by the day, as your baby is about the length of a summer squash. You may find that you need to rest more to keep your energy throughout the day. And your abdomen and back, especially the lower lumbar muscles, may be achy with the added weight. The nineteenth week is one where some of the more uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn continue, but others fade for a peaceful period of the pregnancy. (read full article)

20 Weeks Pregnant: Girl or Boy? The First Big Ultrasound

This is the week of a big ultrasound – the one where you get to find out your baby’s sex. Ultrasounds use high frequency sound waves to image your growing little one. The technician applies a topical gel – usually clear and cold, to your belly so that the sound waves travel easy into the belly. Then the technician uses as a transducer, a handheld device, to sonically image the fetus. Ultrasound genetic testing is correct about 80-90 percent of the time. The technician examines the unborn baby’s body parts to figure out the sex. For girls, the labia shows up as three small lines between her legs. For boys, the penis and testicles give good indication. Some places offer a digital recording of the ultrasound, while others provide pictures. Both are mementos of a wonderful moment in the pregnancy. (read full article)

21 Weeks Pregnant: Comfortable Underwear, Supportive Bra and Flat Shoes

By now you should feel your baby moving inside you pretty often, and you might discover that he’s not keeping the same hours as you! You may find yourself waking up with a nudge to the stomach or the feeling of fluttering inside of you. Don’t worry – it’s just a sign that he’s healthy and everything is right on schedule. (read full article)

22 Weeks Pregnant: Rejuvenate Before The Final Trimester

Being 22 Weeks Pregnant is a time of consolidation. Your baby is developing senses like hearing and taste and your body is learning to adjust to the extra weight. It’s worth taking the time to eat healthily and eat right - at the end of this article are some recommended guidelines that have been adapted from the USDA Choose My Plate Guide for pregnancy. (read full article)

23 Weeks Pregnant: Storing The Stem Cells

You’re right in the middle of the second trimester and your baby is about the size of an ear of corn. Your baby is continuously growing and you are adding about 1 lb per week. From now on you will need more rest and relaxation. You are more susceptible to urinary tract infections at this stage in the pregnancy, so talk to your doctor with the first signs. (read full article)

24 Weeks Pregnant: An Excellent Time to Create a Birth Plan

This is the age of viability, the age when your baby has a good chance of surviving outside the womb. In many hospitals, 24 weeks is the cutoff point for when doctors are prepared to use intensive medical intervention to attempt to save the premature baby’s life, although some use 23 or even 22 weeks. Of course, if your baby is born this early, she will generally require much medical intervention, followed by a lengthy stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). But if you’re feeling you’re not ready – not to worry - the chances are that you still have a number of months to go. (read full article)

25 Weeks Pregnant: Choosing a Birth Method

The 25^th week of your pregnancy is a time of vivid dreams, romantic getaways and birth plans. Your body is adjusting well to the pregnancy although you may still have heartburn, edema, constipation, gas, snoring, leg cramps, frequent urination and leaky breasts. Oh the joys of pregnancy! Your baby has an 85 percent survival chance if she was born this week, a statistic that will increase with every extra week of the pregnancy. (read full article)

26 Weeks Pregnant: Time For a Babymoon

Your baby is about to the size of a small pineapple, and has passed the age of viability. With every passing week, she gains strength. Your progesterone levels continue to rise (they increase throughout the pregnancy), leading to edema, headaches, heartburn, constipation, to name a few. Your uterus expands by 0.4 inches (1 cm) per week and you may have started to feel the Braxton-Hicks contractions. The 26^th week is a time to take stock, and perhaps take a babymoon vacation. (read full article)

27 Weeks Pregnant: Lie Down and Get Some Rest

This is the last week of the second trimester of your pregnancy. Congratulations! You’re gaining weight rapidly now, adding about two inches to your uterus every week. And while many of the pregnancy symptoms are still there – the constipation, gas, back pain, edema – you may also find a new one too– extreme fatigue. (read full article)

28 Weeks Pregnant: Rockin’ the Third Trimester

Welcome to the third trimester of your pregnancy! You are gaining weight quickly now - the fetus will grow the most rapidly during this stage, gaining up to 0.06 lbs (28 g) per day. Your belly will change in shape as the belly drops due to the fetus turning in a downward position ready for birth. During the second trimester, your belly would have felt tight and higher, whereas in this trimester it will drop down quite low, and you can lift your belly up and down. Your baby will start to nap regularly for 20- to 30-minutes, finding her own routine. (read full article)

29 Weeks Pregnant: Ballooning Belly

Your baby is the length of a large cucumber and quickly gaining weight. Meanwhile, you are gaining about 1 lb per week, and your belly is rapidly ballooning. You may feel heavier and sluggish, and your legs and feet ache all the time. All these are signs that everything is going according to plan, and in just a few weeks, you will give birth to a beautiful, healthy baby. (read full article)

30 Weeks Pregnant: Try a Candlelit Bath – If It Relaxes You

You’re baby is about the length of a bunch of celery – she’s getting tall! You are half way through the 7^th month of your pregnancy, and you’re putting on weight quickly – your baby will probably double in weight by the time she is born. Expect more of the same in terms of pregnancy symptoms – the edema, pregnancy glow, constipation, passing gas, varicose veins, stretch marks, dizzy and clumsy feelings, leg and feet cramps, and back pain. You might seem extra tired now as the verve and energy of the second trimester has dissipated. But on the bright side, you’re only ten weeks away from holding your baby in your arms, when all this will seem like a distant memory. (read full article)

31 Weeks Pregnant: Welcome to the Waddle and Hemorrhoid Help

Your baby is the length of a bok choy cabbage, and you are piling on the pounds at about 1 lb per week. Many of the familiar pregnancy symptoms are still with you – the edema, constipation, frequent urination, heartburn, fatigue, pregnancy brain and hemorrhoids. You may notice you have wrist pain and a pregnancy waddle too this week. On the bright side, you’ve only got a few weeks left, and your baby gains strength and weight every week. (read full article)

32 Weeks Pregnant: Making Friends With Your Braxton Hicks

Congratulations! You’re just over four weeks into your third trimester! You’re probably still coping with many of the common pregnancy symptoms, and you may find that the Braxton-Hicks contractions have started to intensify. If you’re not sure, below are a few easy tips on distinguishing these contractions from those of labor.  You’re probably still gaining about one pound every week. While it might seem like most of this is going to your thighs and ass, about half goes to your baby – she’ll gain a third to one half of her birth weight over the next few weeks, fattening up for life outside the womb. (read full article)

33 Weeks Pregnant: Hearing Mama Loud and Clear

You are five weeks into your third trimester and your baby is about the length of an average pumpkin. This is the week when the amount of amniotic fluid has maxed out and it begins to decrease to give more room for the baby to grow. From now on, her kicks and punches might feel pretty sharp as there is less fluid to soften the blows. Your baby is getting pretty cramped in there, and all her senses are sharpening. She can hear many sounds, including your stomach growling, your breath and your heart beating. (read full article)

34 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Starts to Practice For The Big Day

Did you know that if your baby is born this week, she would have the almost the same chance of survival as a full term baby? At this stage of the pregnancy, your baby is preparing herself for the birth. She is practicing breathing with the amniotic fluid, and sucking her fingers in preparation for the early days of breast milk. (read full article)

35 Weeks Pregnant: Understanding the Stages of Labor

Your baby isn’t moving as much anymore because it’s getting pretty crowded in there. He’s still gaining weight, putting on extra fat especially in the face, arms and legs. At about 20 weeks, your baby’s fat made up 2 % of his total weight, but now it’s close to 15 %. If you go to term, it will be about 30 % of the total – the fat will help him regulate his body temperature in the outside world. (read full article)

36 Weeks Pregnant: Baby is No Longer Classified as a Premie

By the end of this week (heading into week 37) your baby will be considered full term!  Your baby is about the length of a loaf of bread and fattening up, to help him regulate his temperature outside the womb. Her internal systems, from musculoskeletal to central nervous are fully developed. Her digestive system will take its first run when she feeds outside of the womb. If you’re worried about everything that can go wrong, remember that women have been doing this for thousands of years, and in a bind, your maternal instincts will take over, and you’ll find surprizing confidence. (read full article)

37 Weeks Pregnant: False or Real Labor

Preterm birth (Latin: partus praetemporaneus or partus praematurus) refers to the birth of a baby of less than 37 weeks gestational age. So beginning this week, you are now full term. Congratulations! This can be a strange time in the pregnancy, as your weight may go up or down, and your baby may move lower into the pelvis or not move at all. All are normal, so just try to relax and wait. (read full article)

38 Weeks Pregnant: Keep Your Cell Phone Charged!

The 38^th week is a time to prepare mentally for the big day, although no doubt you’ve been preparing for a long time already. Studies show that only 5 % of women give birth on their due date, so try to stay flexible and make sure that you have your cell phone on and charged. The Braxton-Hicks contractions have probably ramped up by now. It may feel like labor, until you’ve actually started labor, and you realize the real thing is far more intense. (read full article)

39 Weeks Pregnant: Pulling Into the Home Stretch

You could go into labor as you read this sentence. Or you might have to wait another three weeks, after which your doctor will try and induce birth or you will have a C-section. Whichever, you are in the home stretch, and are about to be a mom. Your body weight has stabilized, the baby has moved into your pelvis, and is not moving as much – the quiet before the storm. (read full article)

40 Weeks Pregnant: Possible Post-Term Popping

This is a time of hurry-up-and wait, or ideally, of enjoying the last few days of calm before the storm. Your baby is ready to rock and roll, or at least wriggle and squirm on the outside. She has likely stopped gaining weight, and you have too. Now that the long-awaited moment is actually within reach, it’s important to be as calm and mentally prepared as possible. (read full article)

Conclusion:

During the 40 weeks of pregnancy, your body goes through remarkable changes as your baby grows and develops. Morning sickness, fatigue, swollen ankles, breast tenderness, vaginal and breast secretions, and joint pain are all common and perfectly normal. Luckily for every symptom there is, if not a cure, a way of alleviating the inconvenience. And some women find that pregnancy is one of the most special times of their lives as they prepare to bring new life into the world.

Related Content:
Monthly Guide To Pregnancy

Q:

Do you have recommendations for treating a yeast infection for my baby girl other than using the typically prescribed anti-yeast and anti-fungal creams like nystatin or miconazol?

A:

If this is thrush, I would consider acidophilus for the baby and also look into gentian violet, which I have seen many moms use with great success. Keep in mind that with thrush, both mom and baby need treatment if you are breastfeeding. Other considerations would be dietary. Reducing the foods that feed yeast, such as simple sugars and carbohydrates, would also be advisable. Check with a holistic nutritionist or other provider for some additional guidance.

Q:

My question is about calming children who are struggling socially in school. My six year old grandson has just moved into a new school where the children are in a 50/50 program of Spanish and English. He is fine with the language challenge but the children in the program have been together since kindergarten so he is having trouble making friends. The issue is causing very defiant behavior at home (he has never exhibited this behavior before). What cognitive, nutritional, herbal or aromatherapy treatments would you suggest to help him deal with this emotional upheaval?

A:

I think the first cornerstone to helping your grandson manage stress and anxiety in school is communication. Transitioning to a new school is enormously stressful and having open, honest communication with him about these challenges can help him work through them. Perhaps inviting one child over for a playdate or organizing a group event after or outside of school to provide an opportunity for him to interact more socially with the new children would be helpful. As far as nutritional support, assuming he does not have any food allergies or sensitivities, which can manifest in behavioral issues, making sure the diet is filled with whole, natural foods and avoiding too much sugar and artificial ingredients can be important. Be sure he is not eating differently in his new school or consuming processed foods which may be linked to acting out. There are a number of homeopathic remedies and essential oils that might come in handy, as well as the Bach flower essence, Rescue Remedy, which can do wonders for naturally reducing stress and anxiety.