Week 28: Time to think about your relationship with your doctor or midwife. If you're worried that your concerns or values aren't being adressed, let your care provder know. Or, consider switching.
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Consider staying at home to labor until contraction are 4-5 minutes apart.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
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Eating and drinking are important during labor. Think about what you'll pack with you so that you never go hungry in labor and be sure to check your hospital's policies about eating and drinking while in labor.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
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Are you satisfied with your maternity care provider? Do they answer your questions completely? Do they have enough time for your concerns? It's never too late to switch to a doctor or midwife who is a better personality fit for you.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
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If you have round ligament pain, a sharp or pulling sensation on one side of your lower belly when you twist, bend, or reach, get into the habit of moving a little slower and supporting your belly with your hands when you move from sitting or laying down. Moist heat from a heating pad or rice sock can also help relax the ligaments that are causing pain.
BabyCenter.com
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Social support during pregnancy and especially early parenthood is vitally important to your mental health and emotional well-being. During pregnancy, it's a good idea to widen your social network with women who understand what you're going through and what you'll need during the postpartum period.
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While lying on your back, either for sleep or exercise, keep a small folded towel under your right hip to displace the weight of your uterus off the vein that returns blood to your heart. If you ever feel dizzy, light-headed or nauseous while lying on your back, just roll over on your side until the sensation passes.
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Recognizing and responding to the warning signs of pregnancy means you can increase your chances of a good outcome for you and your baby. Always call your care provider right away if you experience: 1) Signs of pregnancy-induced hypertension like blurring vision, spots before your eyes, headache or sudden swelling or weight gain; 2) Decreased fetal movement; 3) Bright red bleeding; 4) Any signs of preterm labor, especially contractions or menstrual like cramps, leaking fluid, persistent, dull backache, pelvic or thigh pressure.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
BirthWatch Recommends:
Yoga for Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond.
This book is a nice augmentation to your regular yoga class and does a good job explaining why certain poses are helpful in promoting comfort during pregnancy and readiness for childbirth.