Pregnancy Body-Shaming
We’ve all heard of body-shaming, especially when we’re referring to woman-to-woman criticism. You know who are particularly vulnerable to off-the-cuff body comments? Pregnant women. You may not even know that you’re doing it, but it happens all of the time. I’ll admit, I’ve accidentally said some embarrassing things to pregnant women in the past as well. Since this is my third go-around, I’ve become immune to all types of comments about my body and it barely phases me anymore. I usually laugh it off or find some witty retort to make them feel equally as uncomfortable, and I’m sure there are other moms that take it all with a grain…
Family/Maternity Photoshoot for Baby #3
Since we had a maternity photoshoot for my first two sons, there’s no doubt that #3 would receive the same treatment. In between the snow and cold, we ended up with one sunny Saturday that made it perfect for our family photoshoot. We headed down to our neighborhood park, a place we frequently visit at least once a week. Thanks to PinkBlush Maternity for sponsoring this post and sending this absolutely stunning gown for me to wear. I’ve always been partial to light pink styles, no matter how many boys I have 😉 I’ll include more details about the dress and links down below. All photos taken by Derek from…
Protecting Your Core and Preventing Diastasis Recti In Pregnancy
As women get into the second half of pregnancy, their bumps are growing at a rapid rate. It can get a little more difficult to move around with a watermelon as a belly. The abdominal muscles are stretching significantly and can sometimes separate at the midline, known as Diastasis Recti Abdominis. This condition affects approximately 66% of women in their third trimester and 55% of women in the postpartum period. At times it will resolve itself with natural healing after delivery, but often requires training to regain optimal functioning. Here are techniques and tips to protect your core during pregnancy and decrease the risk of diastasis recti. Protecting your core…
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy
One of the secondary conditions that may develop during pregnancy is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Some may think this condition only occurs in old people, or those who use their hands a lot during the day. Well, add preggo women to that list as well. As an occupational therapist, I’ve seen this presented in clinic numerous times with patients. As a mom in her third pregnancy, I’ve had it three times. Therefore, I’ve decided to breakdown the facts about CTS, why you can get it while your pregnant, and what you can do about it to alleviate the symptoms. What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? First of all, carpal tunnel is an…
The Truth About Stretch Marks and Pregnancy
Let’s talk about stretch (marks) baby! One of the possible effects of pregnancy and a growing belly is the development of stretch marks. Essentially, stretch marks are scars that develop under the skin due to rapid growth. Over the past three pregnancies, I’ve gotten questions about stretch marks: how do you prevent them, what causes them, and if/how you can treat them if they appear. Since I’m an OT, and not a dermatologist, this is not my area of expertise. I did some research online and also consulted with my good friend and dermatologist, Dr. Sarika Snell, about this topic. Since she’s the expert, I let her field the questions…
