Pregnancy Tips for the First Trimester
It is not entirely uncommon to have some sort of vaginal discharge during the first trimester. In many cases this vaginal discharge takes the form of bleeding or spotting. It is estimated that somewhere around a third of pregnant women will have some degree or another of bleeding/spotting during the first trimester. Generally speaking, bleeding or spotting during the first trimester is not something to be too concerned about. Still, it is important that you follow some specific guidelines in this regard. If you have bleeding or spotting during the first trimester, or at any time during pregnancy that lasts longer than 24 hours, is severe, or is accompanied by abdominal pain or by cramping, you should contact your health care provider.
During the first couple of weeks of pregnancy, even before a woman typically knows that she is pregnant, there can be a light bleeding or spotting. This is known as implantation bleeding, and occurs when the fertilized egg implants into the wall of the uterus.
Another common cause of bleeding/spotting during the first trimester is something called decidual bleeding. Decidual bleeding occurs in early pregnancy, before the lining of the uterus has completely attached to the placenta. During this time, a part of the lining of the uterus can be shed, causing decidual bleeding. This sort of bleeding/spotting during the first trimester is thought to be caused by an imbalance of hormones. Decidual bleeding is not thought to be in any way dangerous or harmful to you or to your growing baby. Still, because you cannot be certain on your own that your bleeding or spotting during the first trimester is decidual bleeding, you should always contact your health care provider if you have any severe bleeding during the first trimester, or really at any time during pregnancy.
If you have spotting or bleeding during the first trimester, you can use panty liners. You should never use tampons during pregnancy, because they can introduce bacteria and germs into the vaginal region. You also should not douche during pregnancy, because douching upsets the rather delicate balance of bacteria in the vagina, and can also lead to infection.
During the first couple of weeks of pregnancy, even before a woman typically knows that she is pregnant, there can be a light bleeding or spotting. This is known as implantation bleeding, and occurs when the fertilized egg implants into the wall of the uterus.
Another common cause of bleeding/spotting during the first trimester is something called decidual bleeding. Decidual bleeding occurs in early pregnancy, before the lining of the uterus has completely attached to the placenta. During this time, a part of the lining of the uterus can be shed, causing decidual bleeding. This sort of bleeding/spotting during the first trimester is thought to be caused by an imbalance of hormones. Decidual bleeding is not thought to be in any way dangerous or harmful to you or to your growing baby. Still, because you cannot be certain on your own that your bleeding or spotting during the first trimester is decidual bleeding, you should always contact your health care provider if you have any severe bleeding during the first trimester, or really at any time during pregnancy.
If you have spotting or bleeding during the first trimester, you can use panty liners. You should never use tampons during pregnancy, because they can introduce bacteria and germs into the vaginal region. You also should not douche during pregnancy, because douching upsets the rather delicate balance of bacteria in the vagina, and can also lead to infection.
From: thelaboroflove.com
Second Trimester Pregnancy
You're not so tired, the nausea is gone, and you almost feel like having a sex again! Yay! The second trimester is here. Learn more about the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy.
Essentials
You didn’t expect to squeeze in those size five jeans until your due date, did you? As dreaded and feared as they may be, maternity clothes are a necessity. Fortunately, they’ve come along way over the past several years, leaving behind the days of frump and ushering in a bit of class. Here’s a rundown of what you absolutely must have, what we think would be nice to have, and what’s the icing on the cake when it comes to maternity wear.
| Maternity underwear | It may go without saying, but comfortable underwear is a must-have for all expecting moms. However, maternity does not mean dowdy. You can still wear bikini-cut, sexy undergarments. Maternity only means that they are made to accommodate your changing body. | |||
| Maternity/nursing bras | A good maternity or nursing bra is also a necessity. Your breasts can grow up to a full cup size larger during pregnancy. That’s a lot of added weight. You’ll need a great bra to support your newly filled-out breasts and your strained back. | |||
| Lower-heeled shoes | If you work in an office, dressy attire may be a requirement. But that’s no reason to put yourself and your baby at risk. Replace your old high heels with lower-heeled shoes. They don’t have to be flats, but try to stay away from anything that could test your balance. | |||
| The little black dress | It’s always been the symbol of style and sophistication. Why not carry the class over into your pregnancy days? A little black dress should be comfortable and light, yet stylish. Plus, black is slimming and fitting for all occasions. | |||
| A great pair of jeans | It is doubtful that you’ll be able to squeeze yourself into your pre-pregnancy pants after the fourth month. Why torture yourself? Purchase a quality pair of maternity jeans. They can sit either above your belly or below and can even be found with a stretchy middle for your expanding tummy. | |||
| Flattering slacks | Comfortable and stylish pants are a definite necessity for any expecting woman. They should be stretchy so they hug your new curves, but not restricting. Go for dark colors like black, charcoal, or navy. A pair of slacks can go with any outfit and won’t knock a hole in your budget. | |||
| Stretchy white button-down shirt | It’s simple, it’s comfortable, and it’s downright sexy. I mean, what husband would not want to see his wife in one of his dress shirts? Besides, a classy white shirt goes with anything, it will stretch to accommodate your belly, and it can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and the occasion. | |||
Second Trimester: How Big Is Your Baby?
Welcome to your second trimester! By now your morning sickness is likely to have subsided, plus you're feeling more energy and starting to really settle in to this thing called pregnancy.
by Heather K. Scott
Week 13: Floppy What?
Welcome to the second trimester! Your little one is the same size as the good, old-fasioned floppy disk! How's that compute? She measures 3 1/2 inches from crown to rump (8.89 cm) and now weighs in at 1 1/2 ounces (42.52 gm).
Editor's Note: Don't worry if you're past 24 weeks and not yet feeling fetal movement. Every pregnancy is different, and as long as your doctor is hearing normal heart sounds at your regular appointments, you shouldn't worry. If you are nervous or concerned, be sure to speak with your doctor about how to best track your baby's fetal movements.
What Are Fetal Kick Counts?
Your baby's movements are changing and evolving. Those little flutters you once felt are getting stronger and more organized. Pretty soon little tickles turn into sharp, even uncomfortable, kicks and jabs!If you're feeling movement with some regular patterns, it is a good idea to begin counting kicks. Your doctor may ask you about fetal movement during your seventh month of pregnancy, and if you're experience a high-risk pregnancy, chances are your doctor will ask you to begin tracking fetal movement around week 28.
Once you notice those robust jabs and kicks, try to decipher when you most feel the movement: Is it after you first get up in the morning? After you've eaten a meal? In the late morning or late afternoon, when your blood sugar dips? Or is it after you've done some physical activity and finally sat down to rest?
Maternity Fashion: Dressing Your Bump on a Budget
Build an affordable and fashionable maternity wardrobe
by Inger Hustrulid, RD LDN
Clothes Make the Mom
Ah, pregnancy. A time for joy. A time for new life. And time for a new wardrobe? Even the most enthusiastic shopper may fret at the thought of spending a fortune on clothes worn for such a short time. Before you break the bank on loads of new maternity outfits, get tips for smart shopping; with luck, your new little bundle of joy will still have a chance at that college education!
Your first visit to a maternity store can be a bit overwhelming. It seems like you need everything from sweatpants to pantyhose. Liz Lange, president and founder of Liz Lange Maternity and author of the new book, Liz Lange's Maternity Style: How to Look Fabulous During the Most Fashion-Challenged Time, suggests waiting until the second trimester to begin shopping for maternity clothes. At that time, if you are shopping on a budget, Lange recommends spending more on basics rather than trendier, less crucial pieces. Her list of basics includes a little black dress, a stretchy men's-style white button down, a great pair of jeans, two pairs of flattering pants (one under-belly, one over-belly), and a skinny little T-shirt. "These items will allow you the freedom to mix and match, and to add some chic accessories for different looks," said Lange.
When buying the basics and beyond, most women want to save as much money as possible. In addition to obvious money-saving strategies such as shopping sales and outlet stores, here are some more creative ways to fill all your maternity needs on a budget.
Your first visit to a maternity store can be a bit overwhelming. It seems like you need everything from sweatpants to pantyhose. Liz Lange, president and founder of Liz Lange Maternity and author of the new book, Liz Lange's Maternity Style: How to Look Fabulous During the Most Fashion-Challenged Time, suggests waiting until the second trimester to begin shopping for maternity clothes. At that time, if you are shopping on a budget, Lange recommends spending more on basics rather than trendier, less crucial pieces. Her list of basics includes a little black dress, a stretchy men's-style white button down, a great pair of jeans, two pairs of flattering pants (one under-belly, one over-belly), and a skinny little T-shirt. "These items will allow you the freedom to mix and match, and to add some chic accessories for different looks," said Lange.
When buying the basics and beyond, most women want to save as much money as possible. In addition to obvious money-saving strategies such as shopping sales and outlet stores, here are some more creative ways to fill all your maternity needs on a budget.
Borrow
Perhaps the cheapest and easiest route to dress your expanding belly is to borrow from friends and family who have had babies. If you know someone similar in size who had a baby recently, why not take advantage of this connection? If you can't think of anyone to borrow from, send out an email letting people know your quest, and someone is bound to be able to help. Oh, and don't forget your husband on your list of people to borrow from. Although his "bump" may be the result of years of beer and hot wings, some of his shirts just might make a cute, casual look for you.
Third trimester
• Heartburn: Many women complain of this uncomfortable burning sensation at the tail end of their pregnancy. This is often due to a combination of elevated hormone levels and the pressure applied by the weight of the baby.
• Swelling: Although a moderate amount of swelling is normal, especially in the ankles, fingers, and face, you should contact your doctor immediately if you notice excessive or sudden bloating or weight gain, as this could be an indication of preeclampsia.
• Restless sleeping: Many pregnant women complain of having trouble sleeping as they approach their due date. As the baby -- and your belly -- grow larger, you’ll most likely find it difficult to get into a comfortable position. You may also experience muscle spasms, late-night thirsts, and sudden changes in body temperature, all of which contribute to restlessness.
• Bladder sensitivity: The urge to urinate, usually starting at the end of the first trimester, will ramp up now that the baby’s heavier weight is pressing against your bladder and other organs.
• Shortness of breath: A carry-over from the second trimester, this symptom will intensify in the final weeks of pregnancy, as your uterus grows larger and your respiratory system becomes more taxed.
• Discharge: It’s normal to see thick, white discharge during the final weeks of pregnancy. To prepare for delivery, your cervix will begin to thin out and grow softer, which causes the mucous-like secretion. Your doctor will check your cervix regularly to monitor the effacing process as you approach your due date.
• Weight gain: During the third trimester, the rate of weight gain will be approximately 3-4 pounds per month. An overall gain of 25-30 pounds throughout the entire pregnancy is considered a healthy range for both mom and baby.
Understanding How to Time Contractions
By Jessica BIn those final weeks of labor, nothing is more anticipated than those first few twinges of contractions. Understanding how to time the contractions is invaluable, especially when your doctor is telling you that the contractions need to be four or five minutes apart before coming to the hospital.
The easiest way to time the contractions is by using a stopwatch or digital watch. You will need to record two pieces of information.
1) How frequently the contractions are coming
2) How long the contractions are lasting
When you feel a contraction beginning, have someone write down the start time, while you walk or breath through the contraction. When the contraction tapers off, let your timer know and have them write down the time. When the next contraction starts, repeat the previous steps without stopping the watch. After about ten contractions, have your timer start doing the math. Calculate how long the contractions are lasting. The time between the contractions is calculated by determining the time from the start of one to the start of the next. Don't time every contraction, after timing a few, take a break. The times will not always be the same, but as labor progresses they should become more regular.
From lifetips.com
Some excellent pregnancy websites:
babyzone.com (Courtesy of Disney)
healthywomen.org
parents.com
lifetips.com
thelaboroflove.com
Did you know what of the newest most popular trends is having your birth photographed? It's true. Why wouldn't you want to preserve those precious moments? Many of our local photographers will come and photograph your child's birth at a moment's notice. (Of course, you should make the arrangements ahead of time, don't just call them out of the blue and ask them to come.) :)
Photographers:
Stephanie Krupicka Photography
About
Natural light photographer specializing in newborn and infant photography. Also offering workshops and 1:1 mentoring.
Description
If you wish to book a session with Stephanie Krupicka Photography please contact info@stephaniekrupickaphotography.com.Business hours are Mon-Thur from 9am to 3pm. Please allow 24-48 hours for a response.
Sessions are by appointment only, and are typically booked two months in advance. Newborn sessions should be scheduled at least 8 weeks before your EDD.
General Information
Founded in 2010 Stephanie Krupicka specializes in newborn and infant photography in her studio serving the Lewis/Clark valley and surrounding areas. Please visit www.stephaniekrupickaphotography.com to see a full list of services, and pricing details.If you are considering booking a newborn session, please book while pregnant. Stephanie currently books out about two months in advance.
| Phone | Currently changing phone number |
| info@stephaniekrupickaphotography.com | |
| Website | http://www.stephaniekrupickaphotography.com |
Tami Davis Photography
| (509) 552-9669 | |
| info@tamidavisphotography.com | |
| Website | http://www.tamidavisphotography.com |
About
Portrait and Wedding photographer serving the LC Valley and surrounding areas.
Description
Tami Davis is a professional wedding and portrait photographer serving the Lewis-Clark Valley and surrounding areas.
ICAN of LC Valley is the local chapter of the
International Cesarean Awareness Network serving Asotin, Nez Perce, and
surrounding counties. Our goal is to provide support and evidence based
information regarding pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. We
support and provide evidence based information for those who wish to avoid a
cesarean that is not medically necessary, recovering from a cesarean, facing a
medically necessary cesarean, and VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean).
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