Preggie Pals: Your Pregnancy, Your Way

You're mid-pregnancy and you need to change your medical care provider. Eeek! There are a million reasons why. Perhaps your insurance changed, you moved or you're simply unhappy with your current OB/GYN or Midwife. So, what happens next? How do you tactfully "break-up" with your current provider and how do you (quickly) find someone new who can help you? What about transferring medical records and billing? Our heads are spinning just thinking about it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The temperatures outside are rising- right along with your growing belly. And keeping your body cool is essential for both you and your baby. How does a pregnant woman's body temperature impact her pregnancy? What do you need to know about the sun, perspiration and exposure to air conditioning? Plus, our facebook fans share what helped them stay cool during the warm summer months. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your first baby was born via c-section and with this time you're hoping to have a vaginal birth, or VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). You may have heard about some of the risks, but what does it all actually mean? Are VBACs riskier than having a repeat c-section? What factors should you consider before making this big decision for both you and your baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In addition to caring for an amazing newborn baby, your postpartum period will almost certainly bring more stress and challenges than you anticipated. Preparing a postpartum plan can help make this transition into parenthood a bit smoother. So, what should you consider when creating your postpartum plan? When should you create it, and who should be part of the process? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sex during pregnancy is different for every woman. You may have a huge sex drive... or the thought of your partner giving you the entire bed while he sleeps on the couch may sound more appealing. If you do want to have sex, you may be concerned about your overall comfort. Is sex during pregnancy different than "regular sex"? What changes can you expect? What positions work best for a growing bump, and what should you avoid altogether? Yep, this one's explicit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know sleep is important during pregnancy. Not getting enough can cause drastic changes both mentally and emotionally. What are some signs of sleep deprivation? How can you overcome sleep disorders while pregnant? Plus, simple tips to help you and baby get the restful sleep you deserve.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us dream of one day having a family of our own, but for some prospective parents, giving birth to their own biological child just isn’t a possibility. Every day surrogate mothers are helping these families turn their dreams into reality. So, what does it take to become a surrogate mom, and is it right for you?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many reasons you may need to have a fetal non-stress test, or NST, during your pregnancy. Perhaps your baby isn't moving as much as before or perhaps you have a high-risk pregnancy. So, how are these tests performed, and are there any risks to mom and baby? Also, what typically happens if the results are abnormal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Blessingway ceremony is growing in popularity. This alternative to a baby shower is an opportunity for experienced moms to celebrate their pregnancy and the birth experience they plan to have with the people who love and support them the most. So, what are some of the benefits and what options do you have when planning this important event? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're pregnant and you're planning to breastfeed your baby. But, if you've never breastfed before, how will you know what to do? Should you take a breastfeeding class? How about visiting a breastfeeding support group? What can you expect to happen during those first few days after your baby is born? And what can you do in advance to prepare for any unexpected breastfeeding challenges? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you choose to birth in a hospital, birth center or home, there are small things you can do to help make your birth experience as calm and comfortable as possible. How can we tame our five senses so we can relax more easily? Can aromatherapy and essential oils help your labor progress faster? Does special lighting help with pain management? And can your favorite music playlist re-energize you for those last few pushes when your baby is crowning? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've just peed on the stick and it's positive. Now what? Most care providers will schedule your first prenatal appointment at the eight-week mark. So, what are you supposed to do in the meantime? We're answering some of the main questions you'll have during this time, especially if this is your first baby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most women have been told not to eat anything while in labor, but why? What are the risks to both you and your baby. How do current guidelines vary for vaginal versus cesarean births? Today we'll discuss why most medical providers restrict what you can eat and drink prior to the birth of your baby, and you'll learn more about a new study indicating a light meal during labor can actually be helpful for low-risk pregnancies.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's always a good idea to tour your hospital before you deliver your baby. Who typically gives these tours and what important information can you learn to improve your overall childbirth experience? Plus, learn how touring a hospital can benefit you if you're planning to deliver at home or at a birth center. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're planning to breastfeed your baby once he arrives. But what happens if your breastfeeding experience doesn't happen as perfectly as you planned? How can a board-certified lactation consultant help you on your journey? What services does a lactation consultant typically provide? What are some of the benefits in adding one to your team of health care providers? Plus, how to find a lactation consultant who best fits you and your breastfeeding needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices