Tag Archives: natural pregnancy
Fact of the day!
For those of you that don’t know, Â I’ve applied to the UBC midwifery program 2 years in a row now. Â This year will be my 3rd attempt. Â This year they added a new pre-requisite, which I am completing through Thompson River University. The Anatomy & Physiology course I’m taking is absolutely fascinating! Â It’s making me even MORE excited and hopeful about the possibility of attending the midwifery program in 2012…wish me luck!
My studies this morning are about the skeletal system, I came across a piece of information which explains the science behind our reassurances: ‘everything is working perfectly together for you to have your baby! your body has amazing capabilities, and knows just what to do to birth this baby!’
This simple paragraph will answer:
How will my body accommodate this baby (which is appearing quite large while I look down on my belly!) in childbirth?
Why do my hips and pelvic area feel sore / achy? (aside from the obvious weight you are bearing, your bones are in fact moving)
And later…Â Why am I back to my pre-pregnancy weight, but my clothes still don’t fit?
Here’s the magical answer!
“….Joint flexibility may also be affected by hormones. Â For example, toward the end of pregnancy, a hormone called RELAXIN increases the flexibility of the fibrocartilage of the pubic symphysis and loosens the ligaments between the sacrum and hip bone. Â The changes enlarge the pelvic outlet which assists in delivery of the baby.” (source: Introduction to the Human Body, Gerard J. Tortora & Bryan Derrickson)
That’s right. Â Relaxin is the key! Â So…relax, your body is accommodating your baby perfectly.
Posted in Pregnancy, Uncategorized
Also tagged birth, birth doula, bones, home birth, hospital birth, natural childbirth, relaxin
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Pregnancy Treasury
I’m amazed by the talents of people selling on etsy.
Here’s a little Treasury I made with wonderful pregnant belly items. Click the image to go to the shop.
Posted in Products
Also tagged belly, belly art, etsy, etsy products, new baby, pregnancy, pregnancy art, pregnancy jewlery, pregnancy products
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Aromatherapy During Pregnancy
Aromatherapy is a powerful and wonderful tool we can use to aid in healing physical and emotional ailments at any stage of life. Pregnancy is a very sensitive time: a time when the use of natural remedies such as aromatherapy, is an excellent choice for many people.
While many essential oils are contraindicated for use in pregnancy, there are many that are safe and can help balance physical and emotional difficulties women may experience. Some examples of oils that are safe, and beneficial to use during pregnancy include bergamot, geranium, ginger, eucalyptus, grapefruit, german chamomile, helichrysum, sandalwood, mandarin, tea tree, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, neroli, frankincense, patchouli, petitgrain, and ylang ylang. These essential oils have a myriad of beneficial properties which include antiseptic, antibacterial, balancing, calming, aiding digestion, and regenerative. It is important to use essential oils in lower concentrations during pregnancy; they should be diluted to a concentration no greater than 1.5%.
Many skin care products contain essential oils, and it is important to read ingredient listings on anything you use during this sensitive time. When selecting skin care or even household cleaning products to use while pregnant and when chilren are around, there are a few things to consider: first of all ensure that any essential oils used are safe for you to use in pregnancy, and are also not contraindicated for any medical condition you may suffer from; secondly look to make sure there are no “fragrances” other than pure essential oils; thirdly avoid products containing mineral oil, parabens, SLS, and synthetic colours.
If you have any uncertainty about a particular essential oil, consult a registered aromatherapist to get a clear answer.