Pregnancy Podcast

Administering erythromycin eye ointment to newborns is a standard procedure in the United States to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum. Ophthalmia neonatorum is a newborn eye infection that affects 1-2% of newborns in the United States. This infection can be caused by sexually transmitted infections, viruses, and bacteria. As with any intervention, there are pros and cons to consider. This episode examines the evidence on the efficacy and safety of erythromycin eye ointment so you can make an informed choice for your baby.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In April 2024 you can save 20% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD20. Plus email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US! Plus, save an additional 10% with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Pregnancy Survival Kit includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.   40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Hungryroot is the easiest way to eat healthy. They send you fresh, high-quality groceries and simple recipes. Each order is fully customizable so you can take their suggestions or choose anything you want. They’ve got fresh produce, high-quality meat & seafood, healthy snacks, smoothies, sweets, ready-to-eat meals, kids' snacks and meals, and much more. Everything from Hungryroot follows a simple standard: it’s gotta taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Newborns naturally have low levels of vitamin K at birth. The danger of low vitamin K levels is the risk of vitamin K deficiency bleeding. This is a rare but severe complication. You can decrease the risk of vitamin K deficiency bleeding by giving your baby a vitamin K shot shortly after birth. Administering vitamin K to newborns is standard in the United States and many other countries. As with any intervention, there are pros and cons to consider. This episode examines the evidence on the efficacy and safety of the vitamin K shot so you can make an informed choice for your baby.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In April 2024 you can save 20% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD20. Plus email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

In the United States, one in three babies is born via cesarean. Every expecting mother should be knowledgeable about cesarean birth, even if that is not your primary birth plan. As cesarean births have become more common, options have expanded to make the procedure more mom- and baby-friendly. In recent years, the idea of a gentle cesarean has emerged. This is also called a family-centered cesarean, family-centered birth, or natural cesarean. A gentle cesarean involves adjustments that make the surgical procedure more mom- and baby-friendly and has many evidence-backed benefits.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In April 2024 you can save 20% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD20. Plus email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

A cesarean section, also known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. You and your doctor may plan a cesarean birth if you have a complication that would make a vaginal delivery difficult. Every expecting mother should be knowledgeable about cesarean birth, even if that is not your primary birth plan. In the United States, one in three babies is born via cesarean. Often, unplanned circumstances in labor lead to a cesarean birth. Labor is an intense experience, and a lot can happen that puts you in a position where you or your care provider has to make quick decisions and may not have time to explain your options at length. Knowing what to expect in a cesarean birth will better prepare you for labor and give you confidence to navigate any scenario.     Thank you to our sponsors   40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

For most of human history, a mother in labor was free to move around and change positions at will, with the most common positions being upright. In the mid-1600s, obstetricians started putting mothers on their backs. Thankfully, in recent years, more evidence has supported allowing a mother to choose the positions in which she labors. How your body is positioned during labor can significantly impact the discomfort of contractions, your baby’s ability to descend, the likelihood of some interventions, and even the length of your labor. Learn what positions are most helpful in specific labor stages, tools to make positions easier, and how to modify positions when birth interventions affect your mobility.      Thank you to our sponsors   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The third stage of labor starts after your baby is born and ends with birthing the placenta. Even after your beautiful baby is born your uterus will continue to contract. These contractions are generally more mild than the contractions you experience during birth. As your uterus begins to contract and shrink, your placenta will detach from your uterine wall. The blood vessels are closed off, and the placenta is pushed out. You have many options for what interventions are employed during this stage and whether your care provider uses active or expectant management. This includes the timing of clamping the umbilical cord, medications, and physically pulling on the umbilical cord. This episode explains your choices during the third stage of labor and examines the research to give you the information you need to make an informed decision.     Thank you to our sponsors   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Dates are the fruit of the date palm tree. While dates are high in sugar, they also contain nutrients like fiber, potassium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B6. There are many claims about the health benefits of eating dates. Among the many claims is that dates can naturally induce labor and make labor shorter. Sounds pretty great, right? Thankfully, several studies are available to examine these claims. Learn about the research on eating dates and labor, the proposed mechanism of action, and the recommendations for including these in your pregnancy diet.  Thank you to our sponsors The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon. 20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size. 40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Many studies demonstrate the benefits of yoga during pregnancy, from reducing time in labor to improving newborn outcomes. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that modified yoga is one of the safest exercises for pregnant women. ACOG also cautions against specific poses and hot yoga. As with examining any activity, there is nuance to determining what activities are safe. Research is available on particular poses and practicing yoga in a heated environment. This episode examines the evidence on prenatal yoga, physical changes that can affect your yoga practice and precautions, and tips to modify yoga during pregnancy. Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Research has firmly established that strength and resistance training benefits physical and mental health. Lifting weights may be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about strength training. This can include resistance bands, kettlebells, and body-weight exercises like pushups, pull-ups, or squats. Even activities like plyometrics and yoga can be considered strength training. Although there is a lot of research on exercise during pregnancy, there are limited studies on strength training. ACOG attributes the lack of literature to resistance training not being considered a safe activity in early guidelines for exercise during pregnancy. This was due to potential injury and possible fetal heart decelerations. This episode examines the evidence on strength training, physical changes that can affect strength training, and precautions and tips to make your workouts safe during pregnancy.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In February 2024 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. Plus email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Cardio is any workout in which you elevate your heart rate. Many exercises fall under the umbrella of cardio. This includes walking, hiking, running, biking, rowing or elliptical machines, dancing, playing sports, or HIIT (high-intensity interval training). Activities like jumping jacks, burpees, and jumping rope are also cardio workouts. A large body of evidence supports cardiovascular exercise for nearly all aspects of your health. Cardio allows you to improve the health of your cardiovascular and respiratory systems while building muscle and burning calories. As with any exercise during pregnancy, physical changes can require you to modify your cardio to ensure your workouts are safe for you and your baby.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In February 2024 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. Plus email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Each serving of AG1 delivers your daily dose of vitamins, minerals, pre- and probiotics, and more. It’s a powerful, healthy habit that’s also powerfully simple.  (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Regular exercise during pregnancy can decrease your risk of complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean birth and promote a healthy weight gain. Working out can also ease common pregnancy symptoms like constipation and back pain. In addition, living an active lifestyle will improve your physical and mental health in the short and long term. This episode overviews exercise in pregnancy, including recommendations and what activities you should avoid.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In February 2024 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. Plus email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.    The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.      Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The most significant adjustment period is the first three months after your baby is born. In reality, recovering from birth takes longer for many new parents. You are healing and navigating how to care for yourself and a tiny human. This is a big transition from pregnancy and an even more significant transition from pre-pregnancy. Your baby is transitioning from being inside your belly to being out in the world, which is a huge adjustment. Planning will be key in setting you up for an ideal postpartum period. Learn how to plan for your postpartum period to be as comfortable as possible and tips to promote healing and make life easier as you navigate caring for a new baby.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In February 2024 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. Plus, email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   Dental.com’s AI Smart Scan is absolutely free, super easy to use, and provides essential information about oral health during pregnancy. Did you know your oral health also plays a vital role in your baby’s well-being? Maintaining good oral health can prevent you from passing the harmful bacteria that cause cavities to your newborn. That’s right, it could mean the difference between your child having a lifetime of battling decay vs. no decay at all. Your baby deserves the best, and so do you. Visit dental.com and try the Smart Scan today. It’s a little effort with a whole lot of reward.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

During pregnancy, you focus on your health, baby, and planning for birth. Many expecting moms often overlook what happens after birth and what they may experience postpartum. Your body needs time to recover after nine months of pregnancy, giving birth, and establishing breastfeeding. Many things happen after you have your baby that no one talks to you about beforehand. Let’s normalize talking about the regular changes you go through after birth. Rather than wondering if what you are experiencing is normal, I want you to know what to expect. Plus, know the warning signs you can keep an eye out for to make sure you are recovering well after birth.     Thank you to our sponsors   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Week 28 until your baby’s birth, around 40 weeks, is the last stretch until you meet your baby. This episode covers everything you need to know to navigate the third trimester. Your baby undergoes many changes this trimester to prepare for life outside your womb. This trimester can be challenging as your belly keeps growing, and you have some new symptoms resulting from carrying more weight. You may also find yourself anxious to have your baby and ready to be done being pregnant. You are almost at the finish line. Learn what to expect at your prenatal appointments this trimester. Find out what to-do items you should work on. Plus, get tips on your partner’s role and how they can support you.     Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Weeks 13 to 27 of your pregnancy tend to be the favorite period for many expecting moms. This episode covers everything you need to know to navigate the second trimester. Your belly will start showing, and you can feel your baby kicking. By this point, morning sickness should be subsiding. You have adjusted to many lifestyle changes to have a healthy pregnancy. Your moods and emotions should be evening out; overall, you should feel like you have more energy. After all of the last trimester's internal changes, the second trimester brings many physical changes. Learn what to expect at your second-trimester prenatal appointments. Find out what to-do items you should work on this trimester. Plus, get tips on your partner’s role and how they can support you.     Thank you to our sponsors   Dental.com’s AI Smart Scan is absolutely free, super easy to use, and provides essential information about oral health during pregnancy. Did you know your oral health also plays a vital role in your baby’s well-being? Maintaining good oral health can prevent you from passing the harmful bacteria that cause cavities to your newborn. That’s right, it could mean the difference between your child having a lifetime of battling decay vs. no decay at all. Your baby deserves the best, and so do you. Visit dental.com and try the Smart Scan today. It’s a little effort with a whole lot of reward.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The first 12 weeks of your pregnancy are the most significant adjustment period. This episode covers everything you need to know to navigate the first trimester. Your baby is building organs and structures. You will experience some physical and emotional symptoms of pregnancy. Understanding common first-trimester symptoms can help you cope with some of the uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy. Learn what to expect at your first few prenatal appointments. Find out what to-do items you should work on this trimester. Plus, get tips on your partner’s role and how they can support you.     Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   40% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Pregnancy affects every system in your body, including your immune system. It is so important to take care of your health when you are expecting. Even when you take precautions to avoid getting sick, you can get a cold, flu, or COVID-19 at some point over the nine months of your pregnancy. Being sick is never fun and can be especially challenging when pregnant. Learn how to treat symptoms safely to return to feeling healthy faster. This episode examines the evidence of non-pharmacological treatments for cold or flu symptoms and the safety of over-the-counter medications during pregnancy.     This podcast is not intended as medical advice. You should discuss any symptoms with your doctor or midwife and talk to them about taking any medications, including over-the-counter medicines.     Thank you to our sponsors   The FamilyAlbum app: Keep family in the loop + get 8 free photo prints delivered each month CLICK HERE. The FamilyAlbum is a free app that gives parents a private and easy way to share photos and videos of their little ones with family. With FamilyAlbum, you'll get an easy interface to use with the whole family, unlimited photo storage, automatic organization by month with child’s age, no third-party ads, and 8 photo prints every month--all for free! Click here to download the app and get 1 free month of premium subscription with additional features.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement that supports your body’s universal needs like gut optimization, stress management and immune support. Since 2010, AG1 has led the future of Foundational Nutrition — continuously refining their formula to create a smarter, better way to elevate your baseline health. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

A fever is part of your body’s immune response as a natural defense against infection. The risks and benefits of fever during pregnancy differ from those of someone who is not pregnant. Running a fever during your pregnancy can be scary. Studies have linked maternal fevers to complications like autism, neural tube defects, oral clefts, and congenital heart defects. The best way to alleviate any fears or unknowns is to educate yourself about what temperature constitutes a fever, when to call your doctor or midwife, and what to do if you get a fever during your pregnancy. Over the years, attitudes towards the use of medications like acetaminophen have evolved. While doctors have long considered this safe, more recent research raises questions about taking this over-the-counter medication during pregnancy.    Thank you to our sponsors   10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. There are actually ingredients that are clinically proven to work to prevent stretch marks. The True Belly Serum by 8 Sheep Organics is the best product for pregnant moms. This serum contains clinically proven ingredients and is specially formulated with pregnancy-safe ingredients to help prevent stretch marks. You can try the True Belly Serum risk-free for 100 days with the 8 Sheep 100-day happiness guarantee.    VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   Dreamland Baby makes the most amazing weighted sleep sacks and swaddles to help your baby sleep better. Dreamland Baby’s gently weighted sleep products give babies the sensation of being hugged. When your baby wears the sleep sack, they can calm down, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer. Go to DreamlandBabyCo.com and enter my code PREGNANCYPODCAST at checkout to receive 20% off sitewide + free shipping. This offer is for new and existing customers!   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The immune system is complex, and there is a lot of research on how different nutrients impact it. Before you buy any supplements, please make sure you are already prioritizing covering the basics, including eating healthy, sleep, hydration, and exercise. No amount of immune-boosting supplements or superfoods will make up for the basics you need to keep your immune system running effectively. If you have these basics in place, you may want to consider additional supplements to boost your immune system.   This episode is an overview of the risks, benefits, safety, and evidence available on the ability of many vitamins, herbs, and supplements to boost your immune system during pregnancy. I could easily do an entire episode on each of the immune-boosting supplements covered here, including folate and folic acid, vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, selenium, antioxidants, glutathione, PQQ, herbal immune support, echinacea, elderberry, probiotics, mushrooms, and choline. As always, please talk to your doctor or midwife about any supplements you consider. That includes any herbs or over-the-counter vitamins or supplements.   Thank you to our sponsors   Dental.com’s AI Smart Scan is absolutely free, super easy to use, and provides essential information about oral health during pregnancy. Did you know your oral health also plays a vital role in your baby’s well-being? Maintaining good oral health can prevent you from passing the harmful bacteria that cause cavities to your newborn. That’s right, it could mean the difference between your child having a lifetime of battling decay vs. no decay at all. Your baby deserves the best, and so do you. Visit dental.com and try the Smart Scan today. It’s a little effort with a whole lot of reward.   Skylight allows you to instantly get all of the amazing baby pictures off your phone and display them in a beautiful frame in your home. A Skylight Frame is the best thing to give yourself or a family member to bring constant joy. Skylight has over a million happy customers and thousands of 5-star reviews. They are confident you will love this frame and offer free 120-day returns. As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $15 off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/PREGNANCYPOD.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website. https://pregnancypodcast.com 

Your immune system keeps you healthy and helps fight off infection. The classic perspective is that pregnancy suppresses your immune system. Advancements in our understanding of the immune system during pregnancy paint a more colorful picture. We now see the placenta as an immune regulatory organ. An intricate symphony is going on in your immune system to protect you and your baby during pregnancy. A more accurate way to describe it would be that pregnancy suppresses some aspects of your immune system and enhances others. Listen to this episode to learn how to support your immune system during pregnancy.     Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   Dreamland Baby makes the most amazing weighted sleep sacks and swaddles to help your baby sleep better. Dreamland Baby’s gently weighted sleep products give babies the sensation of being hugged. When your baby wears the sleep sack, they can calm down, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer. Go to DreamlandBabyCo.com and enter my code PREGNANCYPODCAST at checkout to receive 20% off sitewide + free shipping. This offer is for new and existing customers!     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Your body will undergo a more significant transformation during pregnancy than in any other period. Although building and growing a human is an amazing feat, not everyone is thrilled about the physical changes. There is evidence that women commonly experience body dissatisfaction during and after pregnancy. This can range from having negative thoughts to struggling with body dysmorphia or an eating disorder. Many external factors influence your thoughts, feelings, and perception of your body. The body image you internalize plays a significant role in your mental health. This episode focuses on the forces that influence body image and how you can reframe how you view your body during pregnancy and after you have your baby. Thank you to our sponsors   The Glow Body Oil from 8 Sheep is specially made to support and strengthen your skin as it stretches throughout pregnancy. It Leaves your skin feeling soft and silky smooth and provides long-lasting relief from dry, itchy skin. Like all of the products from 8 Sheep, the Glow Body Oil is made only with the highest quality ingredients and contains botanical oils, which are rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.    Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The thought of eating your placenta might gross you out at first, but once you hear about some of the fantastic benefits women claim it has, you might be willing to consider it. This is not another podcast solely focused on all the wonderful things placenta encapsulation does. This episode dives into this practice’s possible benefits, examines the scientific evidence to support the claims, and explores the risks. After listening to this episode, you will understand placenta encapsulation and all the pros, cons, evidence, and options to decide whether you want to encapsulate your placenta. Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Mommy Steps insoles combine optimal arch support with a comfortable cradle for your foot. Changes during pregnancy like rapid weight gain and increased levels of Relaxin can create lifelong changes to the structure of your feet. Keeping your feet properly supported during pregnancy can help alleviate common pregnancy-related foot problems.   Dreamland Baby makes the most amazing weighted sleep sacks and swaddles to help your baby sleep better. Dreamland Baby’s gently weighted sleep products give babies the sensation of being hugged. When your baby wears the sleep sack, they can calm down, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer. Dreamland is having its biggest sale of the year. Go to DreamlandBabyCo.com and enter code PREGNANCYBOGO23 at checkout to BUY ONE and GET ONE FREE on all the weighted products through 11/19/23. If you hear this episode after that go to dreamlandbabyco.com and enter my code PREGNANCYPODCAST at checkout to receive 20% off sitewide + free shipping. This offer is for new and existing customers! Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The growing body of research on sleep demonstrates the absolute necessity of sleep for every biological function. Your body changes significantly during pregnancy and while recovering from birth and breastfeeding. One of the best interventions for your health, recovery, and your baby's health is to get good sleep. Unfortunately, these life stages also come with challenges to your sleep. Those challenges can be in the form of common pregnancy symptoms or a newborn who needs you at all hours of the night. The good news is that there are evidence-based tools and tips to overcome these challenges and improve your sleep.      Thank you to our sponsors   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and replacing every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is exclusively available at Walmart.   Dreamland Baby makes the most amazing weighted sleep sacks and swaddles to help your baby sleep better. Dreamland Baby’s gently weighted sleep products give babies the sensation of being hugged. When your baby wears the sleep sack, they can calm down, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer. Now through November 19, 2023 Dreamland is having its biggest sale of the year. Go to DreamlandBabyCo.com and enter code PREGNANCYBOGO23 at checkout to BUY ONE and GET ONE FREE on all the weighted products. This is a fantastic opportunity to stock up on Dreamland Baby products or to give them as a holiday gift.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the PregnancyPodcast website.

The growing body of research on sleep demonstrates the absolute necessity of sleep for every biological function. This includes learning, memory, brain function, mental health, appetite regulation, immune system function, metabolic function, gut microbiome health, and even cardiovascular health. It is well-established in the scientific literature that sleep is critical for all aspects of health, especially during pregnancy. Humans are the only species who will deliberately deprive themselves of sleep. The good news is you can take many evidence-based and straightforward steps to improve the quantity and quality of your sleep.   Thank you to our sponsors   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Pregnancy Podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/pregnancy today to get 10% off your first month. You are going through a significant life transition during pregnancy and preparing for a baby. Your brain is probably racing trying to process everything that comes along with having a baby and becoming a mother.  BetterHelp is convenient and flexible and all online. To get started, complete a short questionnaire to get matched up with a licensed therapist. You can always switch therapists at any time for no additional charge. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Your body must go through a lot of work to birth a baby. During labor, nerves send messages to your spinal cord and brain, and your brain interprets those signals into the feeling of pain. The good news is that you can access many pain relief options during labor as long as you know what those options are. The more tools you have available in your labor toolbox, the better you can manage contractions and confidently navigate your labor. Explore all of your pain management options for labor, from interventions like an epidural to non-pharmacological techniques.      Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2023 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US! Plus, save an additional 10% with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Pregnancy Survival Kit includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is exclusively available at Walmart.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

An intervention is any action taken to alter the course of your labor or birth. Modern medicine is amazing, and there is no doubt that interventions have saved the lives of both mothers and babies. Although many interventions are routine, there is no one-size-fits-all. Your job is to make informed decisions based on what is best for you and your baby. Just because something is routine or suggested does not mean it is mandatory or the right choice for you. You always have options as long as you are informed and you know what those options are. This episode gives you a 10,000-foot view of the interventions that can take place during your labor and birth and tools you can use to navigate your options.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2023 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   VTech is North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand and the most trusted choice for baby monitors. The VTech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is everything you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and ensure they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Staying hydrated is crucial to help your overall health. Water makes up around 60% of your total body weight, and every cell needs water to function. Staying hydrated enables you to regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. These processes are also crucial during pregnancy for your baby, and you have increased water requirements when pregnant. Plus, if you are not drinking enough water, you can exacerbate many common pregnancy symptoms.      Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2023 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Pregnancy Podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/pregnancy today to get 10% off your first month. You are going through a significant life transition during pregnancy and preparing for a baby. Your brain is probably racing trying to process everything that comes along with having a baby and becoming a mother.  BetterHelp is convenient and flexible and all online. To get started, complete a short questionnaire to get matched up with a licensed therapist. You can always switch therapists at any time for no additional charge. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

This episode examines your care team during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Your primary care provider is the cornerstone of your prenatal care and birth experience. In addition to your doctor or midwife, many other practitioners can play a role in your care. This article will help you understand each professional's role in your care, differentiate between professional certifications, and navigate working with these specialists.     Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2023 you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby, so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is exclusively available at Walmart.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Your pregnancy journey starts with a positive pregnancy test. That is the first of many tests offered throughout your prenatal care. Some tests diagnose conditions you may have during pregnancy, and others look for genetic abnormalities in your baby. Results from some tests may even impact your birth. Tests are valuable tools but can also create anxiety and stress during pregnancy. This episode is a guide to your prenatal testing options with tips to understand and navigate tests for you and your baby during pregnancy.     Thank you to our sponsors     10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. There are actually ingredients that are clinically proven to work to prevent stretch marks. The True Belly Serum by 8 Sheep Organics is the best product for pregnant moms. This serum contains clinically proven ingredients and is specially formulated with pregnancy-safe ingredients to help prevent stretch marks. You can try the True Belly Serum risk-free for 100 days with the 8 Sheep 100-day happiness guarantee.                                         FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Think about everything you put on your skin and hair, from when you step in the shower to when you step out your front door. We use a ton of products every single day: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, shaving cream, lotions, face wash, toner, moisturizer, deodorant, sunscreen, makeup, and hair products. All those products you use add up to a very long list of chemicals you introduce to your body. Pregnancy is a period during which you want to be cautious about the chemicals you expose yourself to because some substances can cross the placenta and reach your baby. The idea that you could potentially expose your baby to something toxic is scary, and there is a lot of fear around using safe skincare and personal products when pregnant. You should avoid a few ingredients and be aware of other controversial ingredients with less clear evidence of the risks. This episode breaks down the evidence on what ingredients have risks you should be mindful of, how to find safe skin and body care products, and how to understand marketing claims like “non-toxic.”   Thank you to our sponsors   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

A doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother and her birth partner during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They do not have any formal medical training and do not perform any medical procedures. There are doulas that specialize in every type of birth, from home birth to a planned cesarean at a hospital. There is substantial growing evidence on how doulas positively impact births. But do you need a doula? With the benefits are downsides, like the additional cost. This episode examines the evidence of having a doula, how they advocate for you and work with your OB/GYN or midwife, and how they support your partner in being your primary support during labor. Plus, get tips on how to find a doula that is the right fit for your family.   Thank you to our sponsors FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.) Pregnancy Podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/pregnancy today to get 10% off your first month. You are going through a significant life transition during pregnancy and preparing for a baby. Plus, many changes during and after pregnancy put you at risk for baby blues and postpartum depression. You can be proactive in taking care of your mental health now. BetterHelp is convenient and flexible and all online. To get started, complete a short questionnaire to get matched up with a licensed therapist. You can always switch therapists at any time for no additional charge. Get a break from your thoughts with BetterHelp. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

If you have a dog, you may be wondering what you should be doing during pregnancy to get your dog ready for your baby on the way. The good news is there are simple steps you can take to prepare your dog for a harmonious transition when your baby arrives. Learn how to focus on positive attention and avoid negative reinforcement to modify your dog’s behavior, not just suppress it. This episode/article covers everything from dog behaviors to work on while pregnant to introducing your dog to your baby and having a seamless transition in your postpartum period. Plus, learn how to plan for your dog for when you go to the hospital or birth center and what to do with your dog if you plan a home birth.   Thank you to John and Jaime Caponetta of Pawsome University for sharing their expertise for this episode. Jaime has her certification as a K9 trainer from the Animal Behavior College in California and earned the title of Associate Certified K9 Behavior Consultant by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. John Caponetta is a former humane law enforcement officer and is a certified instructor in pet first aid & CPR. Both John and Jaime are on boards or support multiple non-profit organizations that provide dog training to families facing financial hardship or support fostering dogs and keeping them out of shelters or euthanized due to a lack of services. Together, these two run Pawsome University, which offers one on one in-home professional dog training using only positive and fear-free training methods. Plus, they have a podcast called the Podcast for Dog People. John and Jaime are experts in dog behavior. They are the perfect resource to help guide you on how to get your dog ready for your new baby and ensure that everything goes smoothly after your baby arrives.   Save 15% the Dogs & Babies Course from Pawsome University. Say goodbye to stress and hello to harmony. This is a complete course for new and expecting parents that teaches you everything you need to know for a seamless transition with your dog as your family grows.   Thank you to our sponsors   Pregnancy Podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.  Visit BetterHelp.com/pregnancy today to get 10% off your first month. You are going through a significant life transition during pregnancy and preparing for a baby. Many changes during and after pregnancy put you at risk for baby blues and postpartum depression. You can be proactive in taking care of your mental health now. BetterHelp is convenient and flexible and all online. To get started, complete a short questionnaire to get matched up with a licensed therapist. You can always switch therapists at any time for no additional charge. Let therapy be your map with BetterHelp.   FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Even if you plan to breastfeed exclusively, there is value in learning about bottles and formula if you decide or need to incorporate them to feed your baby at some point. You will use a bottle to feed your baby if you pump breast milk. If you stop breastfeeding before your baby’s first birthday, you must supplement with formula. You have many options for bottles and formula, and choosing the best fit for you and your baby can be challenging. This episode is your comprehensive guide to bottle feeding your baby, from introducing a bottle to choosing the right formula. Thank you to our sponsors Aeroflow Breastpumps aims to improve health outcomes for new and expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding journey by making it easy to receive the very best medical equipment and supplies through insurance for each unique stage of motherhood. You can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, pregnancy support & postpartum recovery items, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. And they make it easy for you with their quick eligibility form. 30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place. The Glow Body Oil from 8 Sheep is specially made to support and strengthen your skin as it stretches throughout pregnancy. It Leaves your skin feeling soft and silky smooth and provides long-lasting relief from dry, itchy skin. Like all of the products from 8 Sheep, the Glow Body Oil is made only with the highest quality ingredients and contains botanical oils, which are rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Breast milk is liquid gold. It is so valuable and amazing that scientists cannot reproduce it in a lab, and only you can make it. Your body perfectly formulates your milk for your baby, and pumping allows you to provide milk even when you are not there. This episode covers the fundamentals of pumping breastmilk to meet your goals, whether an occasional pumping session or building a serious freezer stash. If you plan to return to work after maternity leave, this episode walks through navigating pumping at work. Plus, everything from cleaning and sterilizing your pump and accessories to safely storing your milk.    Thank you to our sponsors   Aeroflow Breastpumps aims to improve health outcomes for new and expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding journey by making it easy to receive the very best medical equipment and supplies through insurance for each unique stage of motherhood. You can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, pregnancy support & postpartum recovery items, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. And they make it easy for you with their quick eligibility form.   FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Your newborn is hard-wired to breastfeed and is born with instincts to help them latch right after birth. Despite these instincts, breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally or go perfectly right from the start. In reality, breastfeeding can take practice and patience as you and your baby navigate your nursing relationship. Many issues can come up during breastfeeding in the first few days and even months down the road. The more you know about the small speed bumps you could run into, the more likely you are to be able to get over those and correct minor issues before they become significant problems. Issues can include symptoms in your breasts like leaking, sore nipples, nipple shields, pain during breastfeeding or pumping, vasospasms, blebs, plugged ducts, mastitis, and engorgement. Or issues that affect your baby like jaundice, tongue-tie, yeast infection, thrush, food allergies or sensitivities, nursing strikes, sleepy babies, cluster feeding, growth spurts, and spitting up. This episode will help you identify common breastfeeding issues and understand how to correct them so you and your baby can enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding.   Thank you to our sponsors   Aeroflow Breastpumps aims to improve health outcomes for new and expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding journey by making it easy to receive the very best medical equipment and supplies through insurance for each unique stage of motherhood. You can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, pregnancy support & postpartum recovery items, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. And they make it easy for you with their quick eligibility form.   FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

A lot of moms expect breastfeeding to come naturally, and that is not the case for many new mothers. Despite all the evidence supporting breastfeeding, most parents supplement or switch to infant formula within the first year. Educating yourself about the basics of breastfeeding is a fantastic way to prepare to reach your breastfeeding goals. This episode covers the basics you should know about breastfeeding and the knowledge and tools to make breastfeeding easier and more enjoyable. Thank you to our sponsors   For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US! Plus, save an additional 10% with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Pregnancy Survival Kit includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement clinically shown to improve visible thickness and strength. Nutrafol Postpartum is OBGYN-formulated for postpartum women in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding. It improves hair growth for visibly thicker, fuller hair and less overall shedding. It is breastfeeding-friendly, reduces feelings of stress, and improves sleep. 91% of women saw less hair shedding after two months. 98% of women saw improvement in their hairline after four months. 100% of women had visibly thicker hair after six months. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month’s subscription and free shipping with the promo code PREGNANCYPOD. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

You will have many opportunities to opt in or out of interventions in your pregnancy, birth, or with your newborn. You always have options when it comes to your prenatal care and birth as long as you know what your options are. In a perfect world, every procedure comes with informed consent, and you have all the information you need to make an informed decision confidently. In the real world, constraints like limited appointment time make proper informed consent a challenge. There are five simple questions you can ask. When used together, these are one of the most versatile tools you can apply to any decision, whether navigating prenatal care, choosing interventions to employ during labor and birth, or making critical choices for your newborn.     Thank you to our sponsors     Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. Save 35% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD35. Email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Your doctor or midwife is your trusted partner and has the education and experience to guide you through all the intricacies of pregnancy and birth. You can expect to have somewhere around 14 appointments throughout your entire pregnancy. The limited time you spend with your doctor or midwife will shape the tests you take, the procedures your care provider performs, and your preparation for birth. It is essential to know that you are in complete control over what happens and what procedures your doctor or midwife performs throughout your prenatal care. Learn what to expect throughout your care and at each appointment and many options to navigate your prenatal care confidently.     Thank you to our sponsors     Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. Save 35% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD35. Email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.     30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.     For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Vitamin D is sometimes referred to as a hormone because the activated forms are hormones. You utilize this essential vitamin in nearly all parts of your body. Vitamin D is crucial for absorbing other nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc. Vitamin D also regulates immune function, cell growth, neuromuscular function and affects thousands of genes. Your baby relies on you to supply adequate vitamin D to support their growth and development during pregnancy. Despite the importance of vitamin D, data shows that most pregnant mothers do not get enough vitamin D. Deficiency is associated with elevated risks for preeclampsia, adverse health outcomes for your child later in life, and even a cesarean section. Most prenatal vitamins contain far less vitamin D than the evidence suggests during pregnancy. Find out what the current evidence says about vitamin D during pregnancy and how to ensure you have optimal vitamin D levels to support you and your baby.       Thank you to our sponsors     Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. Save 35% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD35. Email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement clinically shown to improve visible thickness and strength. Nutrafol Postpartum is OBGYN-formulated for postpartum women in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding. It improves hair growth for visibly thicker, fuller hair and less overall shedding. It is breastfeeding-friendly, reduces feelings of stress, and improves sleep. 91% of women saw less hair shedding after two months. 98% of women saw improvement in their hairline after four months. 100% of women had visibly thicker hair after six months. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month’s subscription and free shipping with the promo code PREGNANCYPOD.     Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.     Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

If you enjoy the water, you don’t have to give it up when you are pregnant. Enjoying the water can be a great workout, relaxing, and even therapeutic. Along with the benefits, there are also risks you need to be mindful of to keep you and your baby safe. This episode examines the evidence on the benefits and risks of enjoying the water during pregnancy including swimming, pools, hot tubs, baths, and float spas.   Thank you to our sponsors   Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. Save 35% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD35. Email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com to get a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.   The all-in-one Hatch Rest is a smart sleep device with a sound machine and night light that grows with your kids. Babies love the continuous sounds of white noise and lullabies for a soothing and comfortable sleep environment. The Rest has helped over 3 million babies and parents get restful sleep. Right now, Hatch is offering Pregnancy Podcast listeners up to 15% off your purchase of a Hatch Rest and free shipping.   10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. There are actually ingredients that are clinically proven to work to prevent stretch marks. The True Belly Serum by 8 Sheep Organics is the best product for pregnant moms. This serum contains clinically proven ingredients and is specially formulated with pregnancy-safe ingredients to help prevent stretch marks. You can try the True Belly Serum risk-free for 100 days with the 8 Sheep 100-day happiness guarantee.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

When you have made it through most of your pregnancy and are in the final stretch, you enter the waiting game of waiting to go into labor. This can be nerve-racking for two reasons. First, you do not know when you will go into labor. Second, you may not know how to tell that you genuinely have started labor and that it isn’t just a false alarm. There is a typical path that all labor follows, but the signs of labor, when they happen, and how you experience them will be unique. This episode/article covers labor signs to look out for as you get closer to your due date, what to do in early labor, and when to contact your doctor or midwife. Thank you to our sponsors 30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. AG1 is a Foundational Nutrition supplement with a science-driven formulation of 75 high-quality vitamins, probiotics, and whole-food sourced nutrients. It is a simple and easy solution to fill nutrient gaps, promote gut health, support immunity, and boost energy. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.     Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Finding out that you will be a parent is super exciting but can also be intimidating, especially for dads and partners. Most of what people know about having a baby is from movies or what they have heard from friends. That will not adequately prepare you for what is ahead. Understanding pregnancy, birth, and birth recovery basics will significantly impact your ability to support mom. Most importantly, you will be better equipped to navigate pregnancy, labor, and being a new parent. This episode is a crash course on everything dads and partners need to know, from finding out you will be a parent through pregnancy and bringing your baby home.   Thank you to our sponsors   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement clinically shown to improve visible thickness and strength. Nutrafol Postpartum is OBGYN-formulated for postpartum women in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding. It improves hair growth for visibly thicker, fuller hair and less overall shedding. 91% of women saw less hair shedding after two months. 98% of women saw improvement in their hairline after four months. 100% of women had visibly thicker hair after six months. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month’s subscription and free shipping with the promo code PREGNANCYPOD.   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Whatever your long-term goals for weight or health, you have one priority when you are pregnant – to ensure you and your baby are healthy. What you eat plays a significant role in this. While a lot of research is available, there is no definitive evidence to support one ideal diet for everyone. There are many varying opinions on diet, and nutrition is very individualized. This episode overviews popular diets and considerations for continuing or starting these diets during pregnancy. Learn about the risks and benefits of diets like caloric restriction, low glycemic, keto, plant-based, carnivore, paleo, low fat, the Louwen diet for pregnancy and birth, and intermittent fasting.   Thank you to our sponsors   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US! Plus, save an additional 10% with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Pregnancy Survival Kit includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.   The all-in-one Hatch Rest is a smart sleep device with a sound machine and night light that grows with your kids. Babies love the continuous sounds of white noise and lullabies for a soothing and comfortable sleep environment. The Rest has helped over 3 million babies and parents get restful sleep. Right now, Hatch is offering Pregnancy Podcast listeners up to 15% off your purchase of a Hatch Rest and free shipping.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Try Pregnancy Podcast Premium for FREE for 7 Days and get a copy of the Your Birth Plan book. Over 200 episodes are exclusively available to Premium members in the Private Podcast Feed. You can listen to episodes in your favorite podcast app or the website, and all Premium content is ad-free.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

As soon as most expecting mothers hear the words postpartum depression, they tune out and skip over this topic. If you have never experienced depression, it is the last thing you think you need to know about, especially at a time in your life when you expect to be the happiest. Baby blues and postpartum depression are a complication of birth. The baby blues are estimated to occur in about 50% or more of women. Some studies show an even higher prevalence at nearly 80%. One in seven mothers will experience postpartum depression, and 40% of those mothers will have onset after birth. Over the last few decades, research shows that the number of new moms experiencing postpartum depression is increasing. This episode/article covers the symptoms of the baby blues and postpartum depression, how to get help, and how to protect your mental health postpartum.   Thank you to our sponsors   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Studies show pregnancy can make your feet grow. In one study, 61% of participants had a measurable increase in foot length, and 22% reported going up a shoe size. The thought of going up a shoe size and having to replace every pair of shoes you own might freak you out. The good news is that wearing insoles can protect your feet from going up in size.   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

The sun emits UV radiation which comes with both evidence-based benefits and risks. On a positive note, UVB light allows your body to make vitamin D. The downside of UV light exposure is that it damages the DNA in your skin cells, increasing your risks for skin cancers and accelerating the effects of aging. During pregnancy, some changes to your skin create additional considerations for sun exposure. This episode/article has tips for sun safety so you can maximize the benefits of sunshine while minimizing the damaging effects of the sun. Plus, information on choosing a pregnancy-safe sunscreen, tanning beds, sunless tanners, and sun exposure for your baby.   Thank you to our sponsors   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. There are actually ingredients that are clinically proven to work to prevent stretch marks. The True Belly Serum by 8 Sheep Organics is the best product for pregnant moms. This serum contains clinically proven ingredients and is specially formulated with pregnancy-safe ingredients to help prevent stretch marks. You can try the True Belly Serum risk-free for 100 days with the 8 Sheep 100-day happiness guarantee.   15% off DockATot with the code PREGNANCYPODCAST. DockAtot is a lifestyle brand made for the modern parent and creates functional solutions for feeding, playing, resting, sleeping, lounging, and beyond. DockATot’s Kind Bassinet is Your 4th-trimester solution for keeping your baby safe while sleeping or resting. DockATot is the best brand you can buy for the precious baby and mom you love most.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

We all deal with some level of stress daily. Pregnancy can be a time of additional stress as you are experiencing many physical changes and preparing for birth and a new baby. In a sense, everything you expose yourself to during pregnancy also can affect your baby, and stress is not an exception. Stress during pregnancy can affect your baby in many ways. Physiological changes can impact your developing baby. Stress that puts you at a higher risk for some complications can affect the health and development of your baby. How you and your baby are affected by stress, both in the short and long term, is a function of your stress response and your ability to turn it off. The good news is that understanding your stress response and learning about evidence-based tools to manage stress will minimize your and your baby's adverse effects and positively impact your mental health.    Thank you to our sponsors   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   15% off DockATot with the code PREGNANCYPODCAST. DockAtot is a lifestyle brand made for the modern parent and creates functional solutions for feeding, playing, resting, sleeping, lounging, and beyond. DockATot’s Kind Bassinet is Your 4th-trimester solution for keeping your baby safe while sleeping or resting. DockATot is the best brand you can buy for the precious baby and mom you love most.   15% off your purchase of a Hatch Rest and free shipping. The all-in-one Hatch Rest is a smart sleep device with a sound machine and night light that grows with your kids. Babies love the continuous sounds of white noise and lullabies for a soothing and comfortable sleep environment. As your child grows you can use the Hatch Rest to build sleep independence with color and sound cues. The Rest has helped over 3 million babies and parents get restful sleep.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.    Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

There are tremendous physical demands during pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and breastfeeding. Motherhood is also incredibly mentally and emotionally demanding. You can do so much to prepare for being a parent. You can stock up on supplies for your baby, plan for maternity leave and your return to work, and learn about breastfeeding. These tasks are all necessary, but none will mentally prepare you to be a mother. A significant component of mentally preparing for motherhood is knowing what to expect and setting your expectations. This episode covers ten ways to shift your mindset to mentally prepare for motherhood.   Happy Mother’s Day! Right now, you can get a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book and try Pregnancy Podcast Premium for free for 7 days. Over 200 episodes are exclusively available to Premium members in the Private Podcast Feed. You can listen to all episodes ad-free in your favorite podcast app or on the website. Premium members get instant access to a digital copy of the Your Birth Plan book. This book walks you step-by-step, showing you exactly how to create a birth plan to lay the foundation for the birth experience you want. The book has sample plans for everything from home birth to a planned cesarean. Plus, a master template you can download and customize to fit your preferences.   Thank you to our sponsors   30% off your first Hungryroot delivery and free veggies for life. Pregnancy is the perfect time to clean up your diet. Eating healthy whole foods can take a lot of planning, shopping, and preparation, and Hungryroot makes this so easy. Everything that Hungryroot offers follows a simple standard: it has to taste good, be quick to make, and contain whole, trusted ingredients. Hungryroot is the easiest way to get fresh, high-quality food delivered to your door. They’ve got healthy groceries and simple recipes, all in one place.   10% off Epic Will with the code PREGNANCYPODCAST. Epic Will is an inexpensive and easy way to ensure your family is protected. Get the building blocks of an early estate plan, including a last will and testament, healthcare power of attorney, an advance directive, and a financial power of attorney. In as little as five minutes you can have peace of mind that your family's future is safe with legally binding documents built by an attorney.   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Finding out you are pregnant is one of the most exciting times of your life but can also be overwhelming. There are endless choices, and every decision seems critical when you are responsible for growing, birthing, and caring for a baby. Many decisions require additional inputs like information, research, or expert opinions. Even the most minor decisions can seem significant given the high stakes of growing, birthing, and raising a human. Getting caught up in constant decision-making is easy, ultimately leaving you mentally drained and overwhelmed. This episode/article guides you to focusing on what matters most and avoiding overwhelm.   Thank you to our sponsors   Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.   10% off Epic Will with the code PREGNANCYPODCAST. Epic Will is an inexpensive and easy way to ensure your family is protected. Get the building blocks of an early estate plan, including a last will and testament, healthcare power of attorney, an advance directive, and a financial power of attorney. I know we don't want to think about not being there for our kids. Secure your future in as little as five minutes and have peace of mind that your family's future is safe with legally binding documents built by an attorney.   FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase of AG1. With one delicious scoop of AG1, you’re absorbing 75 high-quality vitamins, minerals, whole-food sourced superfoods, probiotics, and adaptogens to help you start your day right. This special blend of ingredients supports your gut health, nervous system, immune system, energy, recovery, focus, and aging. As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

In this short episode you get a quick rundown of everything you can expect from Vanessa Merten and the Pregnancy Podcast. The Pregnancy Podcast is a resource to support expecting moms (and partners, too!) with evidence-based information to navigate the awesome adventure of pregnancy, birth, and being a new parent.   Important Links Pregnancy Podcast Website Become a Premium Member Your Birth Plan Book 40 Weeks Podcast