Pregnancy can feel like an emotional juggernaut, where every day brings new challenges and experiences. For many expectant mothers, the anticipation of meeting their little one intertwines with the fatigue of prolonged waits and physical discomforts. I recall a moment at a local grocery store when a cashier innocently asked me, “When are you due?”
Pregnancy
For centuries, various cultures have recognized and revered the postpartum period as a crucial time for new mothers. Known commonly as the confinement period, this ritual emphasizes rest, healing, and nourishment for birthing individuals after childbirth. Many Asian cultures, particularly in countries like China, Malaysia, and India, maintain a strong adherence to these practices, traditionally
As childbirth approaches, expectant mothers often find themselves grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and expectations. In recent years, studies have highlighted a concerning trend: many women report facing mistreatment in labor, with a 2023 CDC report indicating that 1 in 5 women feel they were not treated with respect during this crucial time. These
Dear new mama, as you step into the whirlwind of motherhood, it is easy to overlook the beauty of the incredible transformation that you are undergoing. You may find yourself gazing into the mirror, confronted by a figure that feels all too foreign. I vividly remember these feelings—those first glimpses of myself as a mother
Breastfeeding is often simplistically viewed as a natural process, where the baby latches onto the breast without much guidance. While this notion may resonate with some, the reality is that each mother and baby duo navigates their unique breastfeeding journey. Many factors influence this interaction, including physical conditions, emotional states, and support systems. For expectant
The journey of pregnancy is fraught with numerous health considerations, one of which is the presence of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in expectant mothers. As perplexing as it is common, GBS can be found in 15-30% of pregnant women, raising critical concerns about its implications for neonatal health. Understanding GBS is essential, not just for
Navigating the pathway of self-acceptance is a winding road that often requires patience, introspection, and a fair share of emotional labor. My experiences with my body throughout my teenage years were like a tumultuous rollercoaster, filled with awkward moments of self-discovery. Initially, I struggled with labels that others placed on me, from ‘big-boned’ to ‘not
Upon embarking on the journey of motherhood, many new parents find themselves focused primarily on their newborns, often giving little thought to the placenta. Historically regarded as medical waste in many Western cultures, this unique organ connected to the mother during pregnancy is now being re-evaluated for its potential diagnostic and health-related value. A recent
Pregnancy is often romanticized as a magical journey filled with radiant moments and overwhelming joy. Glossy magazine covers, influencer posts, and baby announcements reinforce the belief that expectant mothers glimmer with health and happiness from the moment of conception. However, what many women experience—myself included—during the early stages of pregnancy starkly contrasts with this idealized
It’s amazing how quickly the body can transition from feeling like a machine malfunctioning to one that operates smoothly again. At 13 weeks into my latest pregnancy, the morning sickness that had dominated my life began to dissipate. It felt as though a heavy fog lifted. Suddenly, I could breathe deeply again, smile genuinely, and