Nausea and vomiting in the morning (or all day) during the first trimester of pregnancy is a common problem, for which there are many natural remedies. He following natural remedies have no side effects, whereas the allopathic medications, consisting of anti-histamines, have been shown to cause birth defects in animal studies.

Those cute little bundles of joy can vary greatly in appearance; from wrinkles to birthmarks to pointy heads. Have no fear! Below is a list of various normal ways baby might look.

Rubus ideas, commonly known as red raspberry leaf, is one of the best known and most widely used uterine tonic. The leaf contains an alkaloid called fragine, which tonifies and strengthens the uterus muscles and pelvic region. This plant is also extremely nourishing, rich in vitamins and minerals such as ; vitamin C, E, calcium, iron and potassium. By tonifying the uterine muscles it helps the contracting uterus to work more effectively, aiding in a quicker and more efficient labour. It also can reduce the recovery time by helping the uterus to continue clamping down after delivery.  Lastly, due to its high mineral content, red raspberry leaf can assist in healthy breast milk production.

This herb has no contraindications, and is safe to use in pregnancy. Women usually start taking it near the end of the 2nd trimester and begin drinking 1 cup per day. I recommend buying the organic loose leaf herbal tea form and placing 1 heaping tbsp in a mug of boiling hot water. Let it steep for 7-10 minutes and enjoy. By the beginning of the third trimester women increase to 2 cups daily, and as the due date approaches, 3 cups daily.

**please consult with your medical professional; MD, ND, OB or Midwife, before using any herbal product

A Beautiful Water Birth in Tennessee

I loved carrying both my kids! I felt confident, knowing that they were calm and happy. Their needs were being met without needing to cry. Baby wearing is not only functional and versatile, but also a great way to assist baby's transition from womb to the outside world; It helps to regulate their own systems, by hearing their caregiver's heartbeat and being rocked by their movements.

The first few days and weeks following Baby's arrival can be a joyous, yet overwhelming event. Here are ten things to help ease the transition into your new roles as parents.

We're not going to lie to you, labour is hard work and those surges require you to focus to get through the pain. But, I assure you labour is not indefinite, there is an end and it comes with your beautiful and healthy baby in your arms. The key is to have many different ways to manage the contractions and to also remember each surge brings your baby closer to your arms.

When I was pregnant, I was determined not to walk with a waddle. I soon realized it was unavoidable if the gluteals (bum muscles) get short and tight! As baby grows, the uterus will increase in size; this places the pelvis into a forward tilt. Some of the muscles of the hips can become tight and stiff. Here are some of my favourite poses to assist in creating some length.

Our gorgeous models, Ai-Linn and Logan were kind enough to help us demonstrate the art of baby wearing. Ai-Linn is an expert and has been wearing both her children in all kinds of carriers for years. We suggest that you try this over a bed or soft surface the first few times or until it becomes second nature. Also, talk to your health care provider if you have any questions about safe carrier options. The wrap that Ai-Linn is using is called the moby wrap but we also like the Boba and the Mamankangourou.

I was certain that nursing my little ones would happen effortlessly, but it didn't. Even after my second, at which point I was a doula supporting many women through the first hours and days of latching, I still had challenges. There can be many factors that challenge the whole process; assisted or medicated births, postpartum fatigue, etc., but here are a handful of tips that helped me achieve breastfeeding success and I hope they help you too.

As blissful as a new mama glow may be at times, there are some symptoms you may experience that feel downright strange! Here are a few symptoms that are totally normal, but you may not have been aware of.