pregnancy – All Mum Said http://allmumsaid.com.au Telling it like it is... Thu, 03 Mar 2016 22:03:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.4.2 How To Prepare For Baby When You Don’t Know The Gender http://allmumsaid.com.au/how-to-prepare-for-baby-when-you-dont-know-the-gender/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/how-to-prepare-for-baby-when-you-dont-know-the-gender/#comments Fri, 08 Jan 2016 10:18:35 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=8764 How to prepare for baby when you don’t know the gender So you’ve decided you’re going to wait until bubs arrives so you can have that traditional ‘It’s a [insert gender here]!’ moment. Maybe you’re happy about it or maybe you just lost the argument with your partner over the issue. Either way, you have yourself a dilemma – how on earth do you prepare for a baby when you don’t know the gender? A quick scan of any of baby stores awash with pink and blue will tell you that manufacturers are assuming you asked that all-important question at your 20-week ultrasound! Don’t panic, you can still make sure you’re prepared without buying double of everything, just in case. Choose a gender-neutral theme for the nursery There are some really gorgeous gender-neutral prints out there – jungle scenes with impossibly sweet giraffes and monkeys; circus clowns with brightly-coloured beach...

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How to prepare for baby when you don’t know the gender

So you’ve decided you’re going to wait until bubs arrives so you can have that traditional ‘It’s a [insert gender here]!’ moment. Maybe you’re happy about it or maybe you just lost the argument with your partner over the issue. Either way, you have yourself a dilemma – how on earth do you prepare for a baby when you don’t know the gender?

A quick scan of any of baby stores awash with pink and blue will tell you that manufacturers are assuming you asked that all-important question at your 20-week ultrasound!
Don’t panic, you can still make sure you’re prepared without buying double of everything, just in case.

Choose a gender-neutral theme for the nursery

There are some really gorgeous gender-neutral prints out there – jungle scenes with impossibly sweet giraffes and monkeys; circus clowns with brightly-coloured beach balls balancing on the nose of happy seals.
The beauty of this approach is you’ll be able to use the same sheets and sleeping bags for any future little brothers or sisters!

Leave space for pink and blue

It can be as simple as a delaying the purchase of a throw rug to draper over the chair and keep you warm during the midnight feeds; or leaving a space on the wall for a beautiful pink butterfly picture or a montage of dump trucks.
These final touches can easily be added in the days or weeks following the birth of your precious bundle.

Buy gender-neutral coloured baby clothes

Let’s face it, nobody likes lemon. It makes babies look jaundiced even if they’re not. Unless you’ve found a lovely pattern which combines lemon with other colours (crimson or navy make great contrasts), steer clear of pale yellow onesies!
White, green and red are great options, and good for staples like onesies and singlets, but they’re not particularly exciting on their own.
If you’re really looking for something that will really brighten up your baby preparations, consider opting for patterned clothing. The availability of gender-neutral patterned clothing is limited, but you’re certain to find a few lovely items that you can feel proud to bring baby home in.

Delay buying clothes and bedding

Obviously you need to make sure you’ve got something to pop bubs in when he or she is first born, and the last thing you want to be doing is hitting the shops when you get home from hospital!
However, there’s nothing wrong with waiting a little while to buy some really pretty pink or handsome blue outfits. What you may not realise is those first few weeks are often such a blur of highs and lows you probably won’t much care what baby is wearing – as long as they don’t cover them in poo and let you get some sleep!
And remember – there’s always online shopping, which you can do from home… on your phone… during the 3am feed if you like!

Gift-free baby shower

Baby showers are great fun, but if your friends and family don’t know the gender of the baby, you may end up with piles and piles of grey and white clothing and wraps that they didn’t really want to buy. You’ll be miserable and so will they.
Consider gently suggesting to your guests that they spend the baby shower having fun with you and celebrating your pregnancy. Point out to them how much more fun they’ll have shopping for your baby when he or she is born – they’ll be able to happily fling their way through racks of frilly pink dresses or robot-encrusted rompers!

Rebecca Bowyer is a Melbourne mum of two preschool boys. You can find her writing about all things parenting at Seeing the Lighter Side.

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Shaving While Pregnant + ShavEzy Giveaway http://allmumsaid.com.au/shaving-while-pregnant-shavezy-giveaway/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/shaving-while-pregnant-shavezy-giveaway/#comments Fri, 30 Oct 2015 19:30:58 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=8432 Shaving While Pregnant! During the later stages of pregnancy it is increasingly difficult to do the simplest of tasks! I tend to show early on in each of my pregnancies and by the final few weeks, I find even looking at my feet a strenuous mission. As a result of a ridiculous amount of swelling and excess fluid, this is particularly true at the moment with the increasing size of my feet and ankles. Pregnancy Struggles I know most pregnant women struggle with simple things like picking up dropped items off the floor, getting up from sitting, laying, squatting and basically any other position other than standing. Don’t even get me started on the difficulty of shaving! As a result of my baby belly being so rotund, I have been shaving by feel for good few months now and it is becoming progressively more difficult to balance my leg and...

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Shaving While Pregnant!

During the later stages of pregnancy it is increasingly difficult to do the simplest of tasks!

I tend to show early on in each of my pregnancies and by the final few weeks, I find even looking at my feet a strenuous mission. As a result of a ridiculous amount of swelling and excess fluid, this is particularly true at the moment with the increasing size of my feet and ankles.

Pregnancy Struggles

I know most pregnant women struggle with simple things like picking up dropped items off the floor, getting up from sitting, laying, squatting and basically any other position other than standing. Don’t even get me started on the difficulty of shaving!


As a result of my baby belly being so rotund, I have been shaving by feel for good few months now and it is becoming progressively more difficult to balance my leg and weight on the corner part of the shower wall.

ShavEzy Review

As luck would have it; I received an opportunity to try a great new product designed specifically for pregnant women and those who find it hard or awkward to shave their legs. The ShavEzy is a foldable step stool that can used in the shower to assist shaving.

ShavEzy when folded.

ShavEzy Benefits

• It is high enough that it makes a difference to the user but low enough that using the step isn’t a task on its own.

• The base has non-slip grips on the stool legs to prevent slippage on smooth surfaces.

• It folds near flat which allows for easy storage.

• Conveniently holds razor underneath.

• Eliminates balancing on the slippery shower, making it safe and convenient.

• Affordable at only $34.95! You can find out more and purchase from the ShavEzy website.

I am having this baby via C-section and I think that because of the way this shower stool is designed; it will be a great tool for not only during pregnancy but after my baby is born as well.

Pregnant women want to feel feminine, sexy and somewhat like their former self. Being able to shave and have smooth legs without the inconvenience of not being able to reach is exactly what we dream of!

Prize Includes: 1x ShavEzy. RRP $34.95

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions: 
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
6. Email addresses may be added to the ShavEzy mailing list.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

This is an S1 POST.

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FABFOL Pregnancy Review + Giveaway http://allmumsaid.com.au/fabfol-pregnancy-review-giveaway/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/fabfol-pregnancy-review-giveaway/#comments Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:18:35 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=7655 Pregnancy comes with a lot of do’s and don’ts. Do: eat a wide variety of healthy food and drink more water, keep those fluids up. Don’t: smoke or drink alcohol. Do: regular light exercise. Don’t: eat processed meats or soft cheese. In addition to them, one of the most important must do tasks is taking a pregnancy multivitamin. During the first trimester antenatal vitamins are vital for mums-to-be, as they ensure all the required nutrients are being received by both mum and baby. With so many options of preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding vitamins, it is difficult to know which ones to trust and which ones offer the most for you and your developing baby. I am currently pregnant with baby number four (saying that still takes me by surprise!) and for each pregnancy I have used a different brand. However this time, I couldn’t find any of the ones I...

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Pregnancy comes with a lot of do’s and don’ts.

Do: eat a wide variety of healthy food and drink more water, keep those fluids up. Don’t: smoke or drink alcohol. Do: regular light exercise. Don’t: eat processed meats or soft cheese.

In addition to them, one of the most important must do tasks is taking a pregnancy multivitamin. During the first trimester antenatal vitamins are vital for mums-to-be, as they ensure all the required nutrients are being received by both mum and baby.

With so many options of preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding vitamins, it is difficult to know which ones to trust and which ones offer the most for you and your developing baby. I am currently pregnant with baby number four (saying that still takes me by surprise!) and for each pregnancy I have used a different brand. However this time, I couldn’t find any of the ones I had previously used in stores or chemists and had to try yet another one. It was horrible! It didn’t matter if I ate while taking the vitamin or not, it would make me feel sick and repeat a foul taste all day. This lasted a few weeks before I couldn’t do it anymore and sought after something more pleasant.

FABFOL Pregnancy Review

I discovered FABFOL pregnancy vitamins shortly after as I was still in my first trimester and required folic acid at minimum.  I will admit after my previous vitamin disaster, I was sceptical. Thankfully there were no horrible side effects; this included no bad after taste or constipation and I only had to take one vitamin a day!

Click here for more information on why it is so important to take vitamins while pregnant.

I love that FABFOL is gentle on the stomach and is specially formulated to provide me (and other mothers-to-be and breastfeeding mums) the essential nutrients to maintain energy and vitality along with ensuring the best start to life for my baby. Packed with vitamins and minerals – with a focus on folic acid, iodine and vitamin B, you are maintaining your general wellbeing while giving additional benefits to your baby.

PRIZE INCLUDES: 2x month supply of FABFOL Pregnancy multivitamins.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions: 
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above pregnancy multivitamin for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

*I am not a medical professional. Please consult your doctor should you have any questions regarding this product.

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How Breastfeeding Benefits You And Your Baby http://allmumsaid.com.au/how-breastfeeding-benefits-you-and-your-baby/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/how-breastfeeding-benefits-you-and-your-baby/#comments Sun, 14 Jun 2015 14:01:02 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=7438 Before you start your baby on formula, read this, breastfeeding benefits both you and your baby. You are finally holding your precious little baby in your arms after a long 40 weeks of pregnancy. You just want to admire their precious little features but they are hungry. Often mothers have to overcome struggles; maybe you think you aren’t producing enough milk or perhaps your baby won’t attach to your breast properly. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to end there and here is why. How Breastfeeding Benefits You And Your Baby Breastfeeding benefits for mum The benefits of breastfeeding extend further than just ‘breast is best’. Yes it is amazing for your baby but it is also beneficial for you, the mother. These benefits include: Weight loss – Producing milk for breastfeeding burns extra calories which result in pregnancy weight being lost faster. Like that isn’t reason enough! Emotional health – Breastfeeding encourages...

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Before you start your baby on formula, read this, breastfeeding benefits both you and your baby.

You are finally holding your precious little baby in your arms after a long 40 weeks of pregnancy. You just want to admire their precious little features but they are hungry. Often mothers have to overcome struggles; maybe you think you aren’t producing enough milk or perhaps your baby won’t attach to your breast properly. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to end there and here is why.

How Breastfeeding Benefits You And Your Baby

Breastfeeding benefits for mum

The benefits of breastfeeding extend further than just ‘breast is best’. Yes it is amazing for your baby but it is also beneficial for you, the mother. These benefits include:

  • Weight loss – Producing milk for breastfeeding burns extra calories which result in pregnancy weight being lost faster. Like that isn’t reason enough!
  • Emotional health – Breastfeeding encourages bonding and a stronger sense of connection between mother and baby. This results in reducing stress levels and the risk of postpartum depression.
  • Lowers risk of cancers – Breastfeeding has shown to lower the risk of breast, ovarian and uterine cancer.
  • Delayed menstruation – Women who breastfeed will find that as a result of feeding, their periods will be delayed. This is because the production of oestrogen and progesterone hormones are lessened by prolactin. As a result of the low level of fertility hormones breastfeeding mothers produce, it prevents ovulation and menstruation while breastfeeding.
  • Feeling empowered – Having the knowledge and being able to watch you baby thrive and grow on breastmilk alone, will leave you feeling empowered. This is a wonderful way for a new mother to feel!

 

Breastfeeding benefits for baby

We know it is best for babies to have breast milk over formula but often we don’t know exactly why. The benefits of breastfeeding your baby is a list that goes on forever but the main ones you can identify with include:

  • Breastmilk is sterile – This means there is nothing to clean, sanitise or be concerned about when feeding your baby. It is pure, sterile and perfect for your baby exactly how it is.
  • More resistant to disease and infections – Antibodies are passed from the mother through breastfeeding to the baby, which strengthens their immune system.
  • Formulated to suit your baby – Breastmilk has all the nutrients required in perfect dosages to suit your baby and their needs. With thousands of different ingredients, such as proteins, fats, lactose, vitamins, iron, minerals, enzymes, probiotics and stem cells. Breast milk is completely unique.
  • First immunisation –Many of the proteins in breast milk are designed to kill bacteria and pathogens, while others act as immune barriers. Breast milk is technically your baby’s first immunisation.
  • Gentle on tummies – As a result of it being tailored to perfectly meet the needs of your growing child. It is gentle on tummies and easy to digest thanks to the enzymes already packaged within it.
  • Bonding and closeness – While this also benefits the mother, it has beneficial physical effects the baby. It calms the heart rate, increases oxygen levels and regulates breathing in addition to reducing crying.

 

Other breastfeeding benefits

It is great that breastfeeding benefits both mum and baby but the positive results don’t end there.

  • Good for environment – There is no need to recycle tins, clean bottles, sterilise teats, etc.
  • It is 100% natural.
  • Convenient – You don’t need to prepare bottles prior to leaving the house in case your baby gets hungry. You have the convenience of it being ‘on tap’.
  • Eases finances – It is FREE! Because it costs nothing, it eases the financial burden of purchasing formula.

 

Breastfeeding benefits come in many different forms but just because it is natural, does not mean it is always easy. If you are struggling and want to breastfeed, ask for help or visit Australian Breastfeeding Association online for more information. While breastfeeding is best for your baby, it is sometimes not what is best for the mother or family. This is perfectly OK as well; your baby is being fed, loved and looked after. Parents of formula fed babies should not feel inadequate or guilty by their decision.

Did you find breastfeeding easy and natural? Did you struggle? Was it simply not for you?

Share your tips below to help other mums on this journey?

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What Do You Mean I’m Pregnant Again? http://allmumsaid.com.au/unplanned-pregnancy-what-do-you-mean-im-pregnant-again/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/unplanned-pregnancy-what-do-you-mean-im-pregnant-again/#comments Sun, 17 May 2015 04:13:46 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=7264 With our youngest child at almost two years of age and already three children in our family; the last thing we were expecting and if I’m being totally honest, really wanted was another baby. You may remember me blogging about the screaming of ovaries but the head being so much more reasonable, well basically throw that out the window because it doesn’t really matter at this point. Unplanned Pregnancy – Now What? With each of my pregnancies, each time I brushed my teeth in the morning I would get that horrible nauseous feeling that was shortly followed by throwing up (mostly it was just phlegm or vile – too much information – I know) as I had a shower before doing anything else, there wasn’t much else that could come up. Well one morning out of nowhere I got this same feeling but my period wasn’t even due yet! I...

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With our youngest child at almost two years of age and already three children in our family; the last thing we were expecting and if I’m being totally honest, really wanted was another baby. You may remember me blogging about the screaming of ovaries but the head being so much more reasonable, well basically throw that out the window because it doesn’t really matter at this point.

Unplanned Pregnancy – Now What?

With each of my pregnancies, each time I brushed my teeth in the morning I would get that horrible nauseous feeling that was shortly followed by throwing up (mostly it was just phlegm or vile – too much information – I know) as I had a shower before doing anything else, there wasn’t much else that could come up. Well one morning out of nowhere I got this same feeling but my period wasn’t even due yet! I brushed it off, well I tried to, but it was seriously playing on my mind as it has never happened at any time I have not been pregnant. I did what any women would do in the situation and went and bought a pregnancy test. Well wouldn’t you know it, it was positive. We were expecting another baby. A very unplanned baby.

 

The next week would dish out more than its fair share of emotions and hypothetical discussions. We were in shock, we were surprised, we were (while I hate to say it) devastated. It was only for a moment but that feeling was worse than anything I had felt before. We have always been believers in everything happening for a reason and this is no exception. While it did take us a couple of weeks to get our heads around the idea, we are now feeling excited and beyond lucky that we can have the opportunity to grow our family. Far too many people would love to have children and are unable to do so. Knowing this, I would feel so ungrateful for not appreciating the gift of being able to carry a child to term. I think that is why I initially felt so bad when I wasn’t thrilled.

The love when Poppet was born!

 

An unplanned pregnancy can be a life changing event in a couples life. I know because my first baby was also a HUGE surprise. I was 19 and working around the clock. My now husband was exactly the same and our career choice as chefs unfortunately didn’t pay enough that we would be able to afford to live, especially with a baby. Something had to change. We made a huge lifestyle change and my husband took on a completely new career path. We were extremely fortunate that our risk paid off and his new job paid well enough that I was able to stay home with our baby. Again we saw the unplanned pregnancy as ‘everything happens for a reason’. In that case it made us mature and work out what we wanted from life instead of just drifting through it.

So cute when they are sleeping!

 

So back to the original story. We are now expecting baby #4 and our other three children are over the moon excited. Bub is expected to be in our arms in early November.

Have you had an unplanned pregnancy? How did it change your life?

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Can a Cookie Stop Morning Sickness? + Giveaway http://allmumsaid.com.au/pregnancy-cookies-review-giveaway/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/pregnancy-cookies-review-giveaway/#comments Sat, 04 Apr 2015 01:05:17 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=7016 When I was pregnant with my children, the level of morning sickness and other pregnancy side effects varied dramatically. With my first (a boy), I was sick from approx. 8 weeks -16 weeks and off and on all day. I put a lot of this sickness down to being a chef and having to smell raw chicken/steak, seafood, etc. all day everyday. Now I think it may have just been because he was a boy. My second pregnancy, I was also carrying a boy and suffered morning sickness off and on from 8 weeks – 30 weeks all day. It was horrible and nothing I did helped. I hadn’t heard of Pregnancy Cookies back then (or while pregnant with any of my children to be honest) and they may not have even existed at that point in time but I have heard great things and wish that they were an...

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When I was pregnant with my children, the level of morning sickness and other pregnancy side effects varied dramatically. With my first (a boy), I was sick from approx. 8 weeks -16 weeks and off and on all day. I put a lot of this sickness down to being a chef and having to smell raw chicken/steak, seafood, etc. all day everyday. Now I think it may have just been because he was a boy. My second pregnancy, I was also carrying a boy and suffered morning sickness off and on from 8 weeks – 30 weeks all day. It was horrible and nothing I did helped. I hadn’t heard of Pregnancy Cookies back then (or while pregnant with any of my children to be honest) and they may not have even existed at that point in time but I have heard great things and wish that they were an option while pregnant with my boys. They could have been a game changer.

My third pregnancy was a whole lot different and I think it may have been due to the fact I was pregnant with my daughter. I was barely sick at all. I mean it was from 4 weeks – 12 weeks but it was once first thing in the morning and that was it. I couldn’t believe my luck with how little morning sickness I suffered and I was so thankful. Don’t get me wrong, I had my fair share of other pregnancy side effect; painful varicose veins, cramping muscles and the list goes on but the lack of morning sickness was wonderful.

 

I was recently contacted by Yummy Mummy Food in regards to reviewing Totally Devoted Pregnancy Cookies and while I was going to initially turn down the opportunity I thought back to my own pregnancies and felt I owed it to pregnant mums out there to share the product and its review. I had a friend who was suffering severe morning sickness that began the second she sat up in bed in the morning until well after lunch. I passed these onto her with all the hope that they would help. Would you believe these pregnancy cookies worked?! Sally says “I would enjoy a cookie with my cup of tea first thing in the morning and it significantly reduced my nausea. These have been a lifesaver for me this pregnancy!”

The Totally Devoted pregnancy cookies are loaded with benefits and flavour for mums experiencing morning sickness and nausea. Ginger is one of the ingredients they have added to the pregnancy cookies because of its proven role in reducing nausea, heartburn and migraines. Along with chia seeds as they are known for being high in Omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, iron, niacin and zinc.

I tried one of the cookies just so that I could comment on flavour and they remind me of a Christmas cookie, maybe because of the cinnamon but regardless they are quite tasty. They make a great accompaniment to a cup of tea and they are affordable at $14.55 for a box. Yummy Mummy Food also stocks Breastfeeding Cookies designed to increase your milk supply naturally.

3x WINNERS

Each prize includes: 1x Box of Pregnancy Cookies. (RRP $14.55). Total Prize Pool $43.65.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Terms & Conditions: 
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

Disclosure: I received the above products for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own and friend reviewing product.

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Stupid Ovaries – Just Be Quiet! http://allmumsaid.com.au/stupid-ovaries-just-be-quiet/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/stupid-ovaries-just-be-quiet/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2015 20:00:27 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=6316 You know that moment between knowing you are SO done with having more babies and getting rid of the very last pieces of baby furniture you will ever have? And you stop for a second. You think… What’s one more?  I had this feeling when B1 was a baby. I knew I wanted more than just one child but it was when he went from the cot to a bed and starting doing things for himself that I really wanted another one. Two years and one month after B1 was born, B2 entered the world. I thought I wanted three but after trying for a while and talking we decided two was enough. Two was plenty. So of course now that we had planned to move forward and get on with life I fell pregnant. Isn’t that always the way?! We had a few complications at the beginning with a...

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You know that moment between knowing you are SO done with having more babies and getting rid of the very last pieces of baby furniture you will ever have? And you stop for a second. You think… What’s one more? 

I had this feeling when B1 was a baby. I knew I wanted more than just one child but it was when he went from the cot to a bed and starting doing things for himself that I really wanted another one. Two years and one month after B1 was born, B2 entered the world. I thought I wanted three but after trying for a while and talking we decided two was enough. Two was plenty.

So of course now that we had planned to move forward and get on with life I fell pregnant. Isn’t that always the way?! We had a few complications at the beginning with a Subchorionic Hematoma. What is that you ask? It is basically blood clots that form within the layers of the placenta. More often than not, they resolve themselves and I was one of the fortunate ones that it did. Once that cleared up the pregnancy was smooth sailing with the exception of painful varicose veins. You can read about my third pregnancy here and how it isn’t all glamorous.

Now Poppet turns two in June and it has gone so fast. I don’t know whether it is because the ‘fluffy puppy’ period is over and she has turned into a cheeky little shit of a kid (like all kids do) or maybe it is because everyone around me is having brand new tiny bundles that the thought crosses your mind about adding another to the family. I know deep down I don’t want any more. I have had three caesarean sections which has resulted severe scar tissue, making it extremely difficult if I were to have another one. Financially it would be crazy, our cars wouldn’t accommodate another and the list goes on. It wouldn’t be ideal. But… those damn hormonal ovaries keep gooing and gahhing every time I come within a few metres of a baby. Seeing their tiny little fingers and chubby little thighs. Teeny button noses and that smell….that delicious smell of new baby.

I don’t want more babies but I can’t make the ovaries be quiet!

Please tell me I’m not alone!

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Affordable IVF fertility treatment http://allmumsaid.com.au/affordable-ivf-fertility-treatment/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/affordable-ivf-fertility-treatment/#respond Sun, 26 Oct 2014 02:05:30 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=5177 The words IVF are often dreaded and yet welcomed by couples who have been trying to conceive, but have had no success. Plagued with the misconception that it is always a financially draining experience that comes with a lot of uncertainty, it puts a negative outlook on something that should be embraced. Having the option available of this fertility treatment is nothing short of amazing. Of course the financial aspect has to be considered when exploring this avenue to have a baby however there are some clinics that are less expensive than the alternative options available. BUMP IVF realise that there are five major contributing factors taken into account when choosing an IVF clinic; not surprisingly cost is at the top of the list, closely followed by the clinics claimed success rates. Location and doctors running the clinic sit at approximately 50% of the contributing factor, with word of mouth...

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The words IVF are often dreaded and yet welcomed by couples who have been trying to conceive, but have had no success. Plagued with the misconception that it is always a financially draining experience that comes with a lot of uncertainty, it puts a negative outlook on something that should be embraced. Having the option available of this fertility treatment is nothing short of amazing. Of course the financial aspect has to be considered when exploring this avenue to have a baby however there are some clinics that are less expensive than the alternative options available. BUMP IVF realise that there are five major contributing factors taken into account when choosing an IVF clinic; not surprisingly cost is at the top of the list, closely followed by the clinics claimed success rates. Location and doctors running the clinic sit at approximately 50% of the contributing factor, with word of mouth from family and friends taking the fifth position. All of these are very important factors that impact this life altering decision.

It’s no secret that infertility and IVF can take its toll on a relationship and the individuals involved however BUMP IVF want to relieve some of the pressure by giving couples as much control as possible. This is why they endeavour to empower their clients and offer a simplified IVF process while providing women with the highest quality fertility science without discrimination. IVF discussions need to be more open and accepted instead of being accompanied by judgement and to make this happen more awareness is needed for the general public. IVF is not a taboo topic or something women should be made to feel embarrassed or guilty about. It is an incredible treatment that enables couples to enjoy the gift of having a baby; couples that are having a hard time conceiving or are affected by fertility issues that wouldn’t be able to enjoy the experience of parenthood.

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Do you suffer from pregnancy heartburn? http://allmumsaid.com.au/do-you-suffer-from-pregnancy-heartburn/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/do-you-suffer-from-pregnancy-heartburn/#comments Wed, 08 Oct 2014 20:30:23 +0000 http://allmumsaid.com.au/?p=5197 My youngest child may now be one however since finding out that I am going to be an aunty it has bought up a lot of memories from my 3 pregnancies. One of them is the horrible torturous pregnancy heartburn. Until I was pregnant with B2 (my second pregnancy) I had never experienced heartburn, pregnancy or otherwise. Unfortunately the heartburn started early on during my third pregnancy, kicking in at  approximately 8 weeks and it didn’t stop until about two weeks after she born. I will never forget the burning acid feeling in my throat. I ate healthy in an attempt to pin point the cause but it didn’t seem to be anything in particular that triggered it. I found eating chips or chocolate did result in it being worse but not the cause. I tried everything I could to prevent the pregnancy heartburn from striking again however nothing seemed to...

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My youngest child may now be one however since finding out that I am going to be an aunty it has bought up a lot of memories from my 3 pregnancies. One of them is the horrible torturous pregnancy heartburn. Until I was pregnant with B2 (my second pregnancy) I had never experienced heartburn, pregnancy or otherwise. Unfortunately the heartburn started early on during my third pregnancy, kicking in at  approximately 8 weeks and it didn’t stop until about two weeks after she born. I will never forget the burning acid feeling in my throat. I ate healthy in an attempt to pin point the cause but it didn’t seem to be anything in particular that triggered it. I found eating chips or chocolate did result in it being worse but not the cause.

I tried everything I could to prevent the pregnancy heartburn from striking again however nothing seemed to work. I gave everything that was recommended to me a go. I ate smaller meals and ate them slowly, avoided fatty and salty foods, cut out coffee and sugar, didn’t drink fizzy drinks, didn’t eat prior to going to bed, drank plenty of water but nothing helped. There have been a few things I have since heard that may help get relief from heartburn. They include drinking herbal tea, acupressure and standing or sitting up after eating. I used to drink ginger ale to help with morning sickness however it is also supposed to help with pregnancy heartburn. I tried a few antacids but had never heard of Gaviscon which according to their website relieved 9 out of 10 pregnant women, which is pretty impressive. Surprisingly chewing gum is supposed to help relieve heartburn as well which is great if you are out and about, most women have a packet of gum in their handbag.

Studies show that three quarters of pregnant women experience heartburn during their third trimester. I know that what helps relieve pregnancy heartburn for one woman may not work for another but as I was one of the 75% who suffered, I am fully aware of how important it is to share any remedies that have worked.

Did you suffer pregnancy heartburn? What remedy helped you?

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Tips for feeling and eating well during pregnancy http://allmumsaid.com.au/tips-for-feeling-and-eating-well-during-pregnancy/ http://allmumsaid.com.au/tips-for-feeling-and-eating-well-during-pregnancy/#comments Tue, 25 Mar 2014 21:30:48 +0000 http://madmummas.com/?p=2871 Eat well and you’ll feel well, it’s pretty standard advice. But things get a little bit trickier when you’re “eating for two”! Most people know that maintaining a healthy diet and eating well during pregnancy is extremely important, both for your health and wellbeing and that of your baby. While it’s always essential to talk to your doctor about a pregnancy nutritional plan, here are some tips to get you eating well and feeling your best while you wait for your little one to arrive! Tips for feeling and eating well during pregnancy Get the right nutrients One of the most important things you can do to support your diet whilst pregnant is to make sure you’re eating nutrient rich food and taking supplements where necessary. Iron – It is vital to maintain your iron levels during pregnancy as iron helps to carry oxygen from your blood to your baby,...

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Eat well and you’ll feel well, it’s pretty standard advice. But things get a little bit trickier when you’re “eating for two”! Most people know that maintaining a healthy diet and eating well during pregnancy is extremely important, both for your health and wellbeing and that of your baby. While it’s always essential to talk to your doctor about a pregnancy nutritional plan, here are some tips to get you eating well and feeling your best while you wait for your little one to arrive!

eating well during pregnancy

Tips for feeling and eating well during pregnancy

Get the right nutrients

One of the most important things you can do to support your diet whilst pregnant is to make sure you’re eating nutrient rich food and taking supplements where necessary.

Iron – It is vital to maintain your iron levels during pregnancy as iron helps to carry oxygen from your blood to your baby, supporting the development of the cardiovascular system and the brain. Unfortunately, iron deficiency is common amongst pregnant women so be sure to eat plenty of iron-rich foods such as red meat, seafood, dried fruits, legumes and dark green leafy vegetables. Vitamin C is also recommended to help your body absorb the iron present in these foods.

Calcium – We all know that calcium is necessary in the building and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. This is particularly important during pregnancy when extra strain is placed upon a woman’s skeletal system. It is recommended that you consume two servings of dairy per day to support your bones and the development of your baby’s. However, be sure to check all labels on cheese products to ensure the milk ingredients have been pasturised as non-pasturised milk products should be avoided during pregnancy.

Folic acid – This vitamin plays an extremely important role in the development of your baby’s brain and spinal cord during the first trimester. It is recommended that you begin taking a folic acid supplement if you are planning on becoming pregnant or as soon as you find out that you are pregnant and continue doing so until the 12th week of pregnancy. You can also find folic acid (folate) in dark green leafy vegetables, dried legumes, oranges, cereals, bread and pasta.

Take care of yourself

It’s easy to forget to take care of yourself when you’ve got so much else on your mind, but you have to remember that taking care of yourself means taking care of your baby!

Eat well – besides making sure you’re getting the proper supplements, you also need to be wise about what else you’re putting in your body. Make sure you’re eating a variety of good quality goods from each of the main food groups every day, drink plenty of water (you’ll need more than you usually would), reduce the intake of foods that are high in artificial sugar, salt, saturated fats and caffeine, and abstain from alcohol.

Balance rest and exercise – Unfortunately, pregnancy can completely drain your energy stores and leave you fatigued and exhausted. It’s important for you to rest whenever you feel the need and take naps to supplement your nighttime sleep, especially towards the end of your pregnancy. Having said that, light exercise on a regular basis can really help boost your energy levels and support your wellbeing so be sure to consult your doctor on the right type of exercise for you.

Don’t worry; be happy – It’s surprising how many women don’t realise that their mood and stress levels can have a huge effect on their growing child. While you shouldn’t feel guilty for having a ‘down’ day every now and then, try to be proactive in maintaining a positive and stress-free outlook. Take some time to yourself when you’re getting overwhelmed or ask a loved one for help – you’ll be surprised at the difference it can make!

If you’d like more helpful pregnancy tips and advice, visit http://www.maternitysale.com.au/ and make sure to consult your doctor on a regular basis for professional advice on eating habits and other lifestyle changes you can make to support the happy and healthy development of your baby.

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