The Bump Chicago

www.thebump.com/chicago from

baby gear

how to survive

baby’s

first week

celebrate

buying guides

Vol. 7, Edition 2

s!

chicago’s latest baby news & trends

real moms’ stories and advice

delivery

nest

glow

ways to make labor easier

basics $4.95

k

jenette is 5 months

chicago’s favorite baby store

offering the best brands for baby!

mommy deals

Mention The Bump and receive 10% OFF your order (see index)

2 beautiful locations to serve you: Chicago

Western Springs

2163 North Clybourn Ave.

4472 Lawn Ave.

Chicago, IL 60614

Western Springs, IL 60558

773.883.1212

Scan our QR Code with your phone

708.246.1212

www.shopbeautifulbeginnings.com

Bubbles ACADEMY

15% OFF

your first babies or crawlers class session!

see index

mommy deals

“I have such positive things to say about Bubbles Academy. It allowed me to bond with my children while also making some new lifetime friends. I love taking baby classes, toddler classes and classes for me!” Laurie, Lincoln Park

Connect with your child and other new moms in our fun enrichment classes for babies.

Classes now available in Lake Forest, too! www.bubblesacademy.com ● 1504 N. Fremont, Chicago ● 312-944-7677

from the editor

part of

k family

all in this together

see, i’ve had a bump! in fact, i’ve had three!

tweet us @thebump!

Twitter bird illustration by Biz Stone and Phil Pascuzzo

Hey, mama! Congrats on your amazing news.

I’ve been right where you are (three times!), and although exciting, I know how nerve-racking— and sometimes lonely—the whole experience of pregnancy can be. But just because your husband might not know what a snot sucker is yet doesn’t mean he won’t be able to help. Plus, you have a world of support at your fingertips, thanks to message boards, live chats and social media.

Across the country, other moms-to-be are going through the exact same things you are, and you’ll be surprised at how comforting it is to hop online, even if it’s just to bitch about how badly your boobs hurt!

Carley Roney editor in chief PS: Get the conversation started with fellow Bumpies at TheBump.com/community.

editor in chief Carley Roney executive editor Rebecca Dolgin Managing Editor Brooke Alovis editorial Team Kelly Crook, Kristin Koch, Danielle Lipp, Jaclyn LoRaso,

Elena Donovan Mauer, Amelia Mularz, Kathleen Mulpeter, Sarah Newell, Lori Richmond, Alice Stevens, Susan Waits, Sarah Yang Experts in this issue Dr. Fran Walfish, therapist; Elizabeth Stein, certified nurse-midwife; Dr. Robert M. Biter, ob-gyn; Dr. Greg Latchaw, ob-gyn; Dr. Daniel Roshan, ob-gyn; Maria Pari-Keener, RD; Dr. Tracey Marks, sleep expert; Dr. Stuart Jones, ob-gyn; Carrie Contey, PhD, psychologist Vice President, Print and Production Frank Dolphens Production Team Susan Berryman, Lois Brunnert, Emily Edson, Laura Green, Jesse Hardy, Adrian Hardisty, Jacki Harris, Katie Hover, Kasey Kletschke, Kate Richter, Jennifer Weiland, Daryl Wills, Sheryl Ziegler Executive Vice President, Custom publishing and sales Denise Favorule Publisher/Vice President of sales Donna Weatherby Sales Director Kim Qualls-Bryant Sales & Advertising Team Kimberly T. Kutnick (kkutnick@thebump.com, 855-607-9677), Kate Buchanan, Danielle Goldman, Sandy Lemen, Sharon Thomas published by XO Group Inc. 195 Broadway, 25th Floor, NY, NY 10007 Phone (212) 219-8555 Fax (212) 219-1929

our expert panel Dr. Ashley S. Roman, ob-gyn; Dr. Cheryl Wu, pediatrician; Shoshana Bennett, PhD, psychologist; Conner Herman and Kira Ryan, cofounders of Dream Team Baby; Tracey Mallett, fitness and lifestyle expert; Karen Moise, RN; Nicole Meadow, MPN, RD, nutritionist; Jennifer Moss, founder and CEO of BabyNames.com ; Tammy Gold, parent coach; Ali Wing, founder and CEO of Giggle stores; Melissa Moog, founder of Itsabelly; Dawn Davenport, executive director of Creating a Family; Jasmine Z. Ortega, certified nurse-midwife; Dr. Jane A. Morton, pediatrician; Andi Silverman, author of Mama Knows Breast

2

thebump.com

DAVID A. LAND

Please note: The ideas, procedures and suggestions contained in this book are not intended as health care or other professional advice, diagnosis or a substitute for consulting with your health care professional. Every baby is different and circumstances vary, so you should consult your own physician and use your own common sense. The author and publisher offer no warranties or guarantees, expressed or implied, in the completeness or advisability of the information contained in this book for your particular situation, and disclaim any liability arising from its use. All product information was supplied by the designers and manufacturers. The Bump has made every effort to portray the products true to their original colors and styles, but we cannot guarantee 100-percent accuracy. Prices and availability may change based on factors including material, regions and season. Nothing contained in this guide should be construed as an endorsement by The Bump of any designer, manufacturer or product featured herein. The Bump Magazine © 2011 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. TheBump.com and The Bump magazine are trademarks of XO Group Inc. David Liu, Chief Executive Officer; Carley Roney, Chief Content Officer; Carol Koh Evans, Chief Operating Officer; John Mueller, Chief Financial Officer; Nic Di Iorio, Chief Technology Officer; Jeremy Lechtzin, General Counsel.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

3

from

k

contents volume 7, edition 2

52

shower ideas

86

26 what’s hot

celebrate

glow

20 what’s baby up to? weekly development 24 baby name inspiration creative ways to choose 26 new shower ideas a chicago expert’s advice 30 reality check help for each trimester 34 make some memories sweet pregnancy momentos 36 dream babymoons indulgent escapes 38 my pregnancy diary a local mom’s true story 44 i knew i was pregnant when... the very first signs 46 kick count tracker note baby’s moves 48 q +a from pampering to handicapped parking

52 prenatal power foods nutritious choices for you and baby 56 sweet dreams? you wish can’t sleep? read this 58 your little black book the best local stores and services 60 bathing beauties and winter winners super-cute maternity swimsuits and coats 64 fit celeb moms how stars slimmed down postbaby 68 sick of morning sickness? ways to feel better now 72 ”sex during pregnancy was...” candid bedroom tales 74 fashion checklist the must-have pieces 76 q+a from pregnancy orgasms to crazy cravings

4

8 the baby beat baby news from chicago and beyond 10 expect this the latest weird and wild pregnancy trends 12 tech tools cool gadgets and apps you’ll want to try 14 worth the splurge the best beauty tools 16 all about hue the scoop on painting your nursery 18 new-mom confessions hilarious delivery room moments

thebump.com

on the cover

Photography by David A. Land Wardrobe styling by Emma Pritchard for Bernstein & Andriulli Prop styling by Kendra Smoot Hair and makeup by Julie Tomlinson for Bernstein & Andriulli Bold Stripe Rug by Land of Nod

140

nest 80 what’s your nursery style? ideas from playful to retro 86 registry answers ways to make tough baby-gear decisions 92 car seat smarts how to pick a safe, comfy seat and install it 98 go for a stroll(er) what to look for and our favorite models 104 registry cheat sheet what you should put on your wish list 106 nesting: what’s up with that? why pregnant women overhaul their homes 110 get packing

what you need for labor 112 q+a from choosing a high chair to assembling the crib

6

thebump.com

delivery

116 no worries (seriously!) why giving birth isn’t as scary as you think 118 my birth story a chicago mom shares the nitty-gritty 120 q+a from labor pain to doulas

124 the labor party make delivery easier 128 home birth vs. hospital pros and cons of both 130 hospital guide where to have a baby in chicago

basics 134 baby boot camp new-parent survival guide 140 the 411 on breastfeeding need-to-know nursing info 148 say what?! sharpen your toddler’s language skills 150 feeding trackers easy ways to record baby’s input and output 154 q+a from baby sleep tips to easing gas pains

special labor section

on the cover: headboard: classic sofa custom furnishing; sheets: eileen fisher lustrous sateen sheets; throw: jonathan adler

80

She’ ll outgrow her bunny... but not the benefits of cord blood

Cord blood is saving lives today. That’s why banking it is one of the best decisions you can make before your baby is born. Ensure your family has access to today’s lifesaving medicine and potential future treatments by storing with the world’s most experienced newborn stem cell bank. Ask your doctor about CBR.

Call CBR® today for a free information kit

1-888-CORD BLOOD (1-888-267-3256) cordblood.com Cord blood stem cells are not applicable for every situation. Use will be determined by the treating physician. © 2012 Cbr Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. • 0612 • MA02148.01

the

baby beat

What’s new for you in Chicago and beyond.

by Caitlin brody and Elena Donovan Mauer

In a surv e y on T h e Bu m p.com, 85% of m om s they foun said d o ut ba by’s g e n der prebir th .

personal shopper

It would be pretty awesome not to have to schlep to the supermarket with a newborn, right? That’s why you’ll probably want to take advantage of GoPass, a service that gives you unlimited sameday (yep, we said same-day!) home grocery delivery service through mygofer.com.

Boy or girl? Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions found many at-home gender predictor kits aren’t as accurate as they claim.

Sorry, but if you want to know baby’s sex, you’ll have to wait until your 20-week ultrasound. Or check out our gender predictor at thebump.com .

32%

feather the whole nest

Don’t just want a nursery—but a whole home overhaul? The pros at The Stork’s Cradle in Wheaton have now expanded their Design Center to cover every room of the house!

(630-752-1584, TheStorksCradle.com)

8

stress-free feeding

Breast pumps and other lactation supplies are now tax-deductible!

Get more news at TheBump.com/babybeat thebump.com

image source/getty images

of all deliveries are by c-section, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The rate rose by 52% over the last 10 years of data—that’s a lot!

expect

this

The juiciest pregnancy and baby trends. What will totally catch on, and what’s just plain weird?

By Caitlin brody

on public nursing

“My attitude is, if someone sees a little somethin’ somethin’, don’t look if you don’t like it.” kourtney kardashian

million

Number of stay-at-home moms nationwide, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, compared with 158,000 stay-at-home dads

chow down

Over 70 percent of new moms make their own baby food, says a study

by MomSelect.com. It’s easy, healthy and can save you a ton of money.

baby soft celeb kids like sparrow madden and Suri Cruise have been spotted with blankets from Little Giraffe. Find them locally at Madison and Friends. (312-642-6403, MadisonandFriends.com )

Breast pumps can now do everything from mimic baby’s mouth movements to record her cries and play them back to you, so your milk flows more easily. Check out the Double Electric Breastfeeding Companion from Simplisse ($300), or Hygeia’s EnJoye LBI Deluxe Tote Set ($320).

already in training (huh?)

Mini gyms and baby sports DVDs (like the ones from athleticBaby and Baby Goes Pro) are on the rise, so infant athletes (we’re talking six-month-olds!) are now in training before they can even walk.

running in heels (while pregnant!)

Hollywood moms-to-be from Natalie Portman to die-hard Louboutin fan Rachel Zoe have been snapped rocking sky-high heels. “There’s no medical reason not to wear high heels,” says Daniel Roshan, MD, ob-gyn at Rosh Maternal-Fetal Medicine in New York City. “But your center of gravity changes during pregnancy, and you’re more likely to fall in them.” Case in point: Alicia Keys totally wiped out wearing killer heels while pregnant.

10

Dish about baby and mom trends at TheBump.com/chat thebump.com

clockwise from top: veer; courtesy of the manufacturer; thinkstock

pimped-out pumps

The Area’s

Largest Selection

of Youth Furniture

Over 50,000 Square Foot Showroom

Cribs starting at $299 and up.

Over 100 cribs on display.

404 S. Rt. 59

(on the NE Corner of Aurora Ave. & 59)

Naperville | 630-579-4932 www.cribstocollegebedrooms.com Store Hours: Mon - Fri 11am-8:30pm, Sat 10:30am-6pm & Sun 11:30am-5pm

Chicago

•

thebump.com

11

tech tools

Can’t resist techy stuff? Try these easy, at-your-fingertips ways to prep for baby, make mom friends and have a little fun. by caitlin brody

tune up

expand your network

“Like” the Mommyhood app on Facebook and join a community of other pregnant women and new moms (finally, friends who won’t mind morning sickness status updates!).

Create your profile and choose from a slew of adorable little badges to decorate it. Facebook.com/mommyhood

Make some art the Art Bellies Pocket iPhone app lets you transform your pregnancy photos into pretty illustrations and upload them directly to Facebook. (Free at the app store)

join the club

Imagine if all your best friends were pregnant—with the same due date as you!

You’d constantly compare your symptoms and nursery ideas.

That’s what it’s like when you connect using the iPhone Birth Clubs app from The Bump.

Wherever you go, your new momto-be friends are there. (Free at the App Store)

listen in

If you’re dying to know what the heck baby’s doing in there, try out Graco’s Prenatal Listener. The monitor detects baby’s heartbeat, kicks and even his hiccups (really!).

It also comes with a record and email option, so even if your parents are across the country, they can hear too. $25, GracoBaby.com

12

Find a Baby Namer and more at TheBump.com/tools thebump.com

from top: courtesy of apple; veer; courtesy of art bellies; courtesy of graco

We’re not sure you can influence baby’s music taste yet, but she can hear what’s on your iPod with the Ritmo. $130, RitmoPregnancy.com

Reaching new heights in pediatric care

Quality & Access Outstanding medical care Convenient hours & locations

Managing your child’s health has never been easier.

At DuPage Medical Group, we believe great pediatric care starts with access to care.

With 30 pediatric and family medicine locations, many with evening and weekend hours, plus after hours clinics in Glen Ellyn, Lombard and Naperville, you’re sure to get an appointment when your child needs to be seen. In addition, using electronic medical records, our physicians are connected to your child’s medical history. And with MyChart you can be connected too. MyChart lets you securely access your child’s medical records online, communicate with your doctor and request appointments.

It’s healthcare that’s comprehensive, convenient and accessible.

Family Medicine & Pediatric locations Addison Bartlett Bloomingdale Carol Stream Downers Grove Elmhurst Glen Ellyn La Grange Lombard Naperville Plainfield St. Charles Westmont Wheaton Woodridge Follow us on

For appointments, please call 630 469 9200 or visit www.dupagemedicalgroup.com.

DuPage Medical Group We care for you

13

dupagemedicalgroup.com Chicago

•

thebump.com

worth the

splurge

The dream team of pregnancy beauty products.

By Kristin Koch

tress tamer

Detangle thick hair (thank you, hormones!) and add bounce to thinning postnatal locks (sorry!) with the Mason Pearson Handy Bristle ($163, Amazon.com).

skin soother

belly butter

Stretch marks and dry skin have nothing on Kiehl’s Creme de Corps (from $10, Kiehls.com), made with luxe skin-softening ingredients to ultra-moisturize your belly.

Keep dryness at bay and calm irritated skin with Kate Somerville’s Quench Hydrating Mask ($45, KateSomerville.com).

Spa results from home!

super-powered skin scrubber

Get a gorgeous sunkissed glow sans the chemicals of sunless tanner (or damage from the actual sun) with Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronze Rosé ($50, Chanel.com ).

pedi pampering set

Treat those swollen feet to a soothing pedi with Bliss Foot Patrol cream and Bliss Softening Socks ($18–$48, BlissWorld.com). Instant relief—ah!

14

color protector

Avoiding a dye job?

Help your current color go the distance with Kérastase Chroma Sensitive cleansing balm ($42, Kerastase-USA.com ).

More top picks at TheBump.com/beauty thebump.com

courtesy of the manufacturers

The Clarisonic Plus cleansing brush ($225, Sephora.com ) helps treat breakouts and scaly skin from head to toe.

luxe bronzer

Come see why we’re the global leader in classes for babies.

Play & Learn Starting at 0-6 months. Explore the senses and support visual and auditory development. Learn about cause and effect and build strength through play. Includes parent discussion time to help learn about your child’s development.

Music Starting at 6 months. You and your baby will discover melody, pitch and rhythm while building a repertoire of joyful songs.

Family Ideal for ages 0-5 years. Bring all your children to the same class and enjoy fun learning activities created for groups of siblings and friends.

At Gymboree Play & Music, you and your baby will build creativity, confidence and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Locations throughout Chicago and suburbs! To find a location near you, call 1-800-520-PLAY or visit gymboreeclasses.com

mommy deals

FREE trial class & first month only $22! (see index)

all about

hue

pro’s tips

Everything you need to know to get baby’s room properly painted before she arrives.

put down the brush!

It’s okay for the nursery to be painted—but not a great idea for you to paint it. You could get hurt or even just put a serious knot in your back from all the repetitive motion involved in painting. Plus, just being around fresh paint is a no-no for pregnant women because of the toxic fumes. Whoever paints should keep the windows open as the walls dry (about an hour per coat) and should not eat or drink near the room because of airborne chemicals. Take special caution if your house was built or decorated before 1978, when lead paint was banned.

If you suspect your home has lead paint, leave the house while it’s being removed or sanded so there’s no chance of inhaling the dust, which can be harmful to both you and baby.

Michelle Quaranta, of Colori Chicago, suggests using eggshell paint finish. It has a low sheen and is more durable than flat paint. An added bonus?

It’s much easier to wash and more resistant to scuffs and stains.

baby-safe paint

Most manufacturers offer low-VOC or no-VOC options. (VOC stands for volatile organic compounds.) These paints emit little or no fumes, reducing the health risks to you and baby. You can find them at your local hardware or paint store.

Warning: While they’re a much better option than traditional paint (and they’re eco-friendlier), there’s no guarantee that even these are totally safe.

on of One gall ers o paint c v feet— re a u sq 350 hly a g u ro that’s m. o 10'x11' ro

green

Do you know that this is the first color that a baby can see? Plus, green will be a calming sight for you during a sleepless night or two.

blue

Cool colors like blue (and purple) help to soothe babies.

For a fun look in the nursery, pair light blue with its color-wheel opposite, orange. Try contrasting the colors on trim or accessories.

orange

This trendy nursery color is warm and comforting.

It’s also equally appropriate for a girl’s or boy’s room.

yellow

Bright yellow is energizing and can be kind of intense, so opt for a toned-down shade for baby’s room.

More inspiration at TheBump.com/nursery

wendi nordeck

ti p

Hug everywhere.

The ERGObaby carrier keeps your baby close, leaving you free to move throughout your busy day. The ergonomic design is so comfortable, you can wear it longer, because your baby’s weight is evenly distributed between your hips and shoulders. And the carrier cradles your baby just the way you do when you hug.

Hug more. Hug longer. Hug everywhere. visit ergobaby.com

hilarious newmom confessions Chicago-area Bumpies admit what they were really thinking during those first moments with baby.

I thought, ‘Holy moly, I just pushed you out of my vagina!’ I still can’t believe it.

He was pudgy, pink and had tons of blond hair—even on his face— and when they put the little hat on him, my initial reaction was, ‘Wow, I gave birth to a garden gnome.’

mchupie

Kelzinboston

‘Oh my God, he’s so fat!’ He was 9 lbs., 13 oz., and we had no idea he would be that big. patella1129

‘Holy crap.

There really are two of them.’ cinema_goddess

When my son finally came through, I announced to the entire room, ‘Oh my gosh, that feels so much better!’ rochella

All I could think was, ‘What do we do now?’

I said, ‘She looks like me.’

Then I thought, ‘I want a vodka tonic.’ sherina825

Laura_lee

18

Chat with Chicago mommies at TheBump.com/chicago thebump.com

Let’s play music! www.oldtownschool.org

4544 N. Lincoln 909 W. Armitage

773.728.6000

Register now!

Wiggleworms classes start January 9th!

Since 1985, the Old Town School of Folk Music’s celebrated early childhood music program has welcomed young children and their families to the world of music. Children sing, dance, learn finger plays and story songs and explore rhythm instruments especially designed for little hands.

For children newborn through four years, it’s the perfect time for these special experiences with the language of music.

Some classes are ongoing and can be joined at any time. Wiggleworms classes also held in Evanston, Hyde Park, Glencoe, Western Springs, Naperville & at Instituto Cervantes.

Photo by Dan Kasberger

celebrate

baby up to?

what’s

Keep tabs on what’s going on inside your bump (thumb sucking and yawning!) with this week-by-week guide to fetal development. by paula kashtan

week 7

Baby is already at work forming major organs, including the heart, kidneys, liver and stomach, and the circulatory, digestive and nervous systems.

week 6

fetus at 1 week

20

thebump.com

As blood begins to circulate, baby is beginning to develop eyes, ears, a nose, cheeks and a chin.

ALL ILLUSTRATIONs BY MEGAN ROJAS

week 5

With joints starting to appear, baby is developing arms and legs—and growing 100 new brain cells per minute!

week 18 Baby has become

amazingly mobile.

She yawns, hiccups, rolls, twists, kicks, punches, sucks and swallows. >

week 13

week 9

The former embryo is now a fetus, and by this point an ultrasound should pick up a picture of the beating heart.

While the intestines move from the umbilical cord to the fetus’s tummy, baby is developing teeth and vocal cords.

week 16

week 10 week 8

Continuing to straighten in the trunk, baby can move those little arms, legs, and (slightly webbed) fingers and toes.

Arm joints work, bones and cartilage are forming and vital organs are starting to function.

Tiny bones are forming in the ears, and eyebrows, lashes and hair are starting to fill in.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

21

celebrate

week 20

Now baby is gulping down amniotic fluid— not just for nutrition, but also to practice swallowing. And guess what? Those taste buds actually work.

week 24

As fat starts to pack on, skin is becoming more opaque and taking on a pink glow thanks to the formation of some small capillaries.

week 28

Her skin is still pretty wrinkly (one by-product of living in amniotic fluid), but it will smooth out as fat continues to deposit beneath it.

week 22

Settling into sleep cycles, baby is snoozing 12 to 14 hours a day.

week 26

keep up!

Want to get reminders of what your baby is up to every week? Sign up for our newsletters at TheBump.com/ weekly.

22

thebump.com

Baby is getting her immune system ready by soaking up lots of antibodies. Her eyes are forming too.

week 31

Baby is going through major brain and nerve development.

Her irises now react to light, and all five senses work.

week 34

Baby can recognize and react to simple songs and may even remember them after birth. Less-cute news: She now pees about a pint each day.

week 39

Baby’s brain is still developing rapidly, and by now she’s able to flex her limbs. Her nails also might start to extend past her fingertips.

week 37

Your full-term (yay!) baby is gaining about half an ounce a day and is getting her first sticky poop (called meconium) ready.

More baby updates at TheBump.com

fetus at 40 weeks

celebrate

baby name inspiration Pay attention! The perfect name can come from the most meaningful—or random—place.

by Elena donovan mauer

go to the movies

Bumpie who did it “My husband named

our son Luke after Luke Skywalker from Star Wars. Yep, we’re nerds.” steel tiger DIY Twilight names Jacob, Isabella, Jasper and Emmett have gotten popular over the past few years, but really it can be any character you love, whether it’s from a movie, TV show or book. Try: Amélie, Jack (Titanic), Juliet, Juno, Rick (Casablanca).

use a family name

Bumpie who did it “Preston is my

Simple, ru g ge d n a m es for boys and oldfashione d , turn-o f-the century n a me s for girls

overlook last names that can honor an entire branch of your clan. Harrison, Jackson, Parker, Mackenzie, Ryan and Hayden are just a few examples of surnames that make great first names.

start with a nickname

Bumpie who did it “The whole time I was pregnant we called my belly Ally or Chase.

Once we found out it was a girl, we decided to keep Ally as her nickname. So we named her Allyson.” kcfan729 DIY You don’t have to begin with the long version. Instead, think of the cute, short name you’ll want to call your kid and come up with a formal name that fits.

Some ideas: Lexy (Alexis), Ty (Tyler), Jo (Josephine or Jordan), Sam (Samuel or Samantha), Sunny (Sonia), Liv (Olivia).

katherine o’brien photography

husband’s middle name and a family last name on his side.” tracey4228 DIY Take a look at your family tree. There are a ton of names to choose from—and you can pay tribute to someone who’s important to you in the process.

And don’t

what ’s trendy

24

thebump.com

compromise and convert

starts with a vowel, is a certain number of syllables or has a specific origin—and use that feature to come up with the new baby’s name. Examples: Liam and Maeve (both Irish), Lily and Rose, Henry and Hazel.

Bumpie who did it “I liked Delilah from

the radio show Delilah After Dark, but my husband wasn’t into it. So we shortened it to Lilah. Her middle name is Jo, for my grandma Joanne.”

keep track

misskristina21

DIY You know that

name that’s cool but not quite right?

Don’t be afraid to change it, especially if it’s something you and your partner disagree about.

Or name the baby after someone, but give her version a unique twist. Mary can become Molly; Nathan can become Nathaniel; Ashley can become Asher; Jerry can be Jeremy.

match your other kids

Bumpie who did it “I really

wanted a name to go with Abbigail, my first daughter’s name, and we were trying to think of A names. In my head, I was thinking Avalyn, but then it hit me: Evelyn!” queenbee320 DIY It’s not necessary for your kids to have similar names, but some moms like for them to seem to “go together,” so if you’ve already got one baby, think hard about what you like about his name— whether it’s that it

Bumpie who did it “We had a

boy top

names* 1

Aidan / Aiden / Aden

2

Liam

3

Noah

4

Jackson/ Jaxon

5

Ethan

6

Cayden/ Caden/ Kayden/ Kaden

7

Mason

8

Logan

9

Landon/ Landen

10

Oliver

girl top

names* 1

Sophia /Sofia

2

Charlotte

3

Ava

4

Addison/ Addyson

5

Olivia

6

Amelia/ Emilia

7

Lily/Lilly

8

Isabella/ Izabella

9

Chloe/Khloe

10

Bailey/ Baylee

* Most popular boy and girl names according to BabyNames.com

dry-erase board hanging in our kitchen. Whenever I walked by, I would jot down a name I had read, heard or seen, and my husband would do the same. Every so often, we would cross out any names we didn’t both love.

I’d seen Emmalin in a baby book, and after a couple of weeks on the master list, it was still there, so it stuck!” kjohn091 DIY It’s easy to forget those random names you see and hear—on your waiter’s name tag, at a work conference or even on a street sign. So keep a running list. The best names are the ones that stand out to you—and your partner—so if you agree and feel you can both live with it (literally!), that’s a sign you’ve found the perfect one.

The Bump expert: jennifer moss,

founder and CEO of BabyNames.com

See tons of names at TheBump.com/babynames

celebrate

new shower ideas Our friend Joelle Gowryluk-Knapp, from Nest Help in Chicago, shares her best party ideas.

The best time for a baby shower is around the late second trimester to the early third trimester. “You’ll be feeling your best then,” says Gowryluk-Knapp. “But if you’re expecting twins, have it sooner rather than later.” And you’ll know the sex of your baby (if you’re finding out) by then, so that may inspire your theme, not to mention help gift givers zero in on some key colors.

it’s all about theme

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the motif— it’s your day, after all! “Anything goes for mom,” says Gowryluk-Knapp. “I’ve planned an omelet party at 6 p.m. because a mom-to-be craved omelets so much.” Animal themes are always a popular and gender-neutral choice. “I’ve seen a lot of elephant and monkey motifs,” she adds.

“Baby animals are always a big hit.”

instant pick-me-up

Worried you’ll be totally exhausted? Drinking water is a simple way to stay energized throughout the party. “Don’t skimp on the water during the big day,” advises Gowryluk-

Knapp. “It’s important to stay hydrated.” If you don’t want to be stuck with boring water the whole time, you can make things more festive by serving some mocktails. Plus, the sugar in them can give you an instant boost.

games that are actually fun

If you’re tired of the traditional shower games like “How Big Is Mom’s Belly?” or “What’s in the Diaper?” ask each guest to bring a baby photo of herself. During the party, have everyone check out the photos and try to guess who’s who. It’s a great way for guests to get to know each other. “A baby shower is supposed to be a bonding experience,” says Gowryluk-Knapp.

Not really interested in shower games? Plan some fun activities instead. Gowryluk-Knapp suggests having a spa station where guests can enjoy shoulder massages, manis and pedis. Who doesn’t love to be pampered?

More ideas at TheBump.com/shower

serve some sweet treats

courtesy of be inspired pr; photo: gabriel ryan; desserts: sweet & saucy shop; design: joyful weddings & Events

when to throw it

behold | believe | belong | beloved | because

48 FREE BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS OR $100 CREDIT TOWARDS ALBUM see index

mommy deals

tive hy a e r c grap to phofor the g in grow ily fam

www.sobenstudios.com 847.374.9123

PROMOTION

product spotlight Great products for pregnancy and beyond.

wrapped with love

Be prepared for cool and warm environments. The new SwaddleDuo™ includes two breathable cotton swaddle blankets—one flannel and one marquisette. Easy as 123 Swaddle® ~ the only blankets with swaddling instructions sewn to the edge. SwaddleDesigns offers a complete line of stylish and high-quality layette essentials. SwaddleDesigns.com

maternity must-have

Ingrid & Isabel’s BellaBand is the only band designed to hold up your pants! Early on, hold up and hide unbuttoned pre-pregnancy jeans. Later, hold up too-loose maternity wear. Afterwards, transition back into pre-pregnancy styles. Shop now at IngridandIsabel.com.

PROMOTION

support system

BELLY BANDIT® is the leader in maternity products and postpartum compression garments. Their products are specially engineered with innovative technical details and medical-grade, latex-free fabrics to do what no surgery, core class or crash diet can!

Instantly help shrink, tighten and control. Shop now at BellyBandit.com.

“i’m the daddy” gear

DaddyScrubs offers “I’m the Daddy” gear for labor, delivery and beyond. Our scrubs, tees, hoodies and accessories make perfect baby shower gifts to help new dads feel special and appreciated. Check out our Brag Book of real dads sporting their delivery room duds on our Facebook page. Order yours today at DaddyScrubs.com.

got you covered

Bebe au Lait pairs beautiful prints with luxurious fabrics. Through three lines (Bebe au Lait, Hooter Hiders and Lille), their products are designed to meet the needs of modern, active families. Shown: Hooter Hiders nursing cover, Lille Quadruple Bib and BAL burp cloths. Find products at BebeauLait.com.

celebrate

reality check With each trimester comes brand-new experiences that can throw you for a loop. Handle them without turning that pregnant glow into a full-on sweat.

By Elena Donovan Mauer

new reality

you’ve got a colossal secret

How to Handle It Many moms-to-be keep the news of their pregnancy under wraps until the second trimester, when the risk of miscarriage goes way down, but there’s no hard-and-fast rule that you have to. If you’re dying to spill, tell some VIPs who know how to keep it on the DL (like your parents and siblings). As for how to explain why you’re not having the wine or raw oysters, you can always say you’re not feeling well. That’s probably true anyhow.

new reality

you have to give up (awesome) stuff

How to Handle It Okay, so we mentioned the wine and the oysters. Add horseback riding, skiing, spray tanning and a whole lot of other no-nos to the list, and it feels a little depressing. Stay positive by finding ways to enjoy yourself that are completely safe and by focusing on the cool things you can do, especially while you’re still baby-free, like go to a rock concert. And use the pregnancy as an excuse to indulge a little—hello, ice cream sundae! (What? You need calcium!)

new reality

you feel like crap

How to Handle It If your body is screaming

“take me to bed!” take it up on the offer, if you can. If it’s an inopportune time (like in the middle of a workday), have a light snack, go for a short walk or do some stretching to try to energize yourself. Got morning sickness?

Check out our tips for coping on page 68.

30

thebump.com

new reality

you’re worried about baby

How to Handle It Since about 10 to 15 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and most happen in the first trimester, this can be kind of a scary time. But know that if you’ve made it past the eight-week ultrasound and saw a heartbeat, your chance of miscarriage is already down to only 3 percent. Usually miscarriages happen through no fault of the mom’s, but you’ll still help your odds if you follow your doctor’s orders and stay healthy. Cut out caffeine (until trimester two, when you can have a little), smoking and alcohol, and run any meds past your doc first.

new reality

you don’t know if you’ll be a good mom

How to Handle It Talk it out with your

partner—he’s probably wondering how he’ll do as a dad too. Just getting your anxieties out in the open and discussing how you’ll conquer this new territory together may help. Remember: Plenty of moms we know have doubted whether they were parent material, but they all figured it out and now can’t imagine their lives without their kids.

illustrations by lulu*/cwc international inc.

1

st r trimeste

new reality

you have to tell your boss

2

nd trimeste

r

How to Handle It Break the news after you’ve finished a project or made another achievement. Offer ideas for ways to make sure your duties get done while you’re out.

is that baby—or just gas?

Different moms-to-be describe the first time they felt baby move differently.

Some say it’s like a fluttering butterfly wing; others feel like there’s a goldfish swimming around in there.

(Seriously.) So we can’t tell you exactly what it will be like for you. But if you’re feeling something you’ve never felt before, you’re not sure whether it’s gas or baby, and it’s after week 16, we’re betting it’s baby.

new reality

you’re feeling ginormous

How to Handle It Go to your favorite maternity clothing store and splurge on some key pieces to get yourself through pregnancy—stuff you’ll feel confident in.

new reality

you have a load of to-dos

How to Handle It Remember: All you really

need for baby is a car seat, a crib or bassinet, a few newborn outfits, blankets and diapers.

The rest is great, but not worth stressing over.

When it comes to finding a good daycare, nanny or pediatrician, start by asking around. Personal recommendations can give you valuable leads and save research time.

new reality

babies are frickin’ expensive!

How to Handle It Find ways to cut back on spending—it can be small stuff, like knocking down your cable package. Sign up for baby store rewards, accept hand-medowns (in good shape) and read reviews to find affordable gear that’s good quality.

new reality

alone time with your guy will soon be at a premium

How to Handle It This is the perfect time

to go on a babymoon, since you’ve probably got plenty of energy. And plan some date nights. Now. While you still can! >

there’s more in our book!

The Baby Bump, available in bookstores or at TheBump.com, has tons of great advice.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

31

celebrate

new reality

you feel like a walking belly How to Handle It These days, it

3

rd r trimeste

seems like all anyone wants to talk about is your pregnancy, and that probably means comments from everyone from your cubemate to the mailman. Know that it happens to every pregnant woman, and it, too, shall pass. Come up with some key comebacks to the usuals (if someone asks if it’s twins, and it’s not, say, “I hope not!”). And try to laugh!

new reality

you’re hearing horror stories

How to Handle It Next time your cousin

starts telling you about her botched epidural or your coworker mentions her 30-hour labor, stop them before they start. Say, “I’d love to hear that story—after my baby is born.” Most labor and deliveries are complication-free, and hearing about the rough stuff will only scare you. Still worried? Turn to page 116.

new reality

you’re stressed at work

How to Handle It It would be great to start

maternity leave with all your work done, but it’s not good to stress yourself out if that’s not humanly possible. Got a ton of tasks—and not sure you’ll get them done in time? Talk to your boss ASAP. She’ll feel better having advance warning in case she needs to call in some backup, and she can help you separate the must-do projects from the ones that can wait.

new reality

you put off writing a birth plan

How to Handle It If you’re saying, “What

birth plan?” that’s totally okay. Some momsto-be write out a detailed list of what they want on delivery day, but labor can be so unpredictable, chances are not everything will happen exactly as they mapped it out anyhow.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a solid idea of your preferences. Be sure to talk it through with your doctor so you’re both on the same page about how things will go and your preferences (are you open to pain meds, or would you prefer to keep it au naturel?). If you want, take notes, and voilà! Birth plan.

32

what’s the 4th trimester?

Some experts use this term to describe baby’s first three months after birth, since newborns are still getting used to the outside world.

They suggest battling fussiness by making baby as comfy as he was in your belly. Some suggestions: swaddling and rocking him (or using a baby swing), and playing soft white noise while he sleeps.

More advice at TheBump.com/trimesters thebump.com

Occasions are to be shared with friends and relatives and to be remembered with warmth and happiness.

Belvedere is family owned and operated.

We understand the significance of the special events in your life and deliver the outstanding service, elegant setting and well-appointed table that will make your day memorable.

Allow us to host your next special event!

847.534.0600 • 1170 West Devon Ave. • Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 847.534.0966 Fax • info@belvederebanquets.com • www.BelvedereBanquets.com C h ec k u s o u t o n F aceb o o k

celebrate

make some memories New-mom gold-dipped safety pin necklace, $54, Dogeared.com

Sure, there’s a lot to deal with, but these three trimesters will go so fast that, one day, you’ll be psyched to have a sweet pregnancy memento.

Countdown calendar, $40, Uncommon Goods.com

Countdown to Baby pregnancy journal, $16, eHarlequin.com

Keepsake bird ornaments, $24 each, GiftsDefine.com Sonogram frame, $20, BonnieMarcus.com

34

Share memories at TheBump.com/chat thebump.com

all images courtesy of the manufacturers

Belly growth (and memory) tracker, from $15, MommyMeasure.com

$50 off your session when you mention the bump see index

mommy deals

celebrate

dream babymoons Before baby makes three, couldn’t you use an indulgent couple’s escape? Choose from these four perfect pre-diaper destinations.

By nancy rones

Surrounded by spectacular red-rock canyons, this artsy town is full of galleries and restaurants; it’s definitely a hidden gem!

sleep L’Auberge de Sedona is an oasis of European charm with red-rock views and posh rooms (928-282-1661, LAuberge.com). hit the town Take an easy hike along the West Fork of Oak Creek trail (928-282-4119, RedRockCountry.org). Or stroll the Spanishstyle Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village (928-282-4838, Tlaq.com).

riviera maya, mexico

South of Cancún, you’ll find a postcardperfect strip of beach paradise. The best part? You can be as active or as lazy as you’d like. (After all, who knows what mood will strike—are we right?)

sleep Take advantage of your soon-tochange no-baby status and book an adults-only hotel. The huge all-inclusive Aventura Spa Palace has amenities to suit any personality—from a nightclub and pool games to a meditation garden and a gigantic spa. Oh, and bonus: If cravings (and insomnia) hit, there’s 24-hour room service (800-635-1836, PalaceResorts.com). hit the town Sail to the colorful Isla Mujeres and discover the authentic fishing village by golf cart (stop for a churro—yum!).

Or explore native culture and wildlife at Xcaret, a massive eco-archaeological theme park (888-922-7381, Xcaret.com).

relax Melt like butter with a maternity

massage in a creekside cabana at the resort.

relax Shade yourselves under a thatchedroof palapa on the beach. Later, go for a soak in the indoor pool with sound therapy.

get romantic Have the concierge arrange

get romantic Be the team to beat in pool

a private watercolor lesson with a local artist.

At night, enjoy some expert-led stargazing. travel time

3½-hour plane ride (to Phoenix)

36

thebump.com

+

2-hour drive

volleyball. In the evening, enjoy a sweet dinner for two at one of the resort’s restaurants. travel time

3½-hour plane ride (to Cancún)

+

1-hour drive

from top: thinkstock; shutterstock

sedona, arizona

chicago

Craving some urban action? Take your pick of museums, parks, theater, to-die-for dining and sporting events in this happening, but not too overwhelming lakeside city.

sleep At hip spot theWit, you’ll get sweeping city or water views from the trendy rooftop lounge or your luxe room. (Upgrade option: special “spa rooms” with floor-to-ceiling vistas and oversize soaking tubs.) TheWit’s lively downtown location makes it convenient to everything you’ll want to see and do (312467-0200, TheWitHotel.com). hit the town Calm your haywire hormones with a good belly laugh at famed improv club The Second City—it’s where many SNL legends started (312-337-3992, SecondCity.com). If you’re sports lovers, check out a Cubs or White Sox game. relax Head to The Art Institute of Chicago and linger on the sculpture terrace or in a room filled with dreamy Monets (312-4433600, ArtIC.edu). Then take a stroll through Millennium Park’s Lurie Garden (312-7421168, LurieGarden.org ).

from top: courtesy of coyaba beach resort & club; city of chicago

get romantic Cook your own dinner by

flickering candlelight at fondue spot Geja’s Café (773-281-9101, GejasCafe.com), or cozy up on an architectural cruise along the travel time Chicago River— Chi-Town is known for its innovative it’s in your designs (CAF own backyard! .Architecture.org).

montego bay, jamaica

Find white-sand beaches, reggae and a cool island vibe in this tropical locale along the northwestern Jamaican coast.

sleep If you weren’t glowing before, the serenity at the intimate Coyaba Beach Resort & Club is sure to make it happen (the delish banana bread upon arrival won’t hurt either).

And the friendly staff will greet you by name throughout your stay. Don’t miss the poolside steel band on Saturday nights (876-9539150, CoyabaResortJamaica.com). hit the town Check out the shops and restaurants along the “Hip Strip” on Gloucester Avenue. Pop into Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Montego Bay for a virgin colada (876-952-4777, MargaritavilleCaribbean .com). For a glimpse into island lore, tour the Rose Hall Great House (876-579-7973, RoseHall.com). It’s the former home of Annie Palmer, known as “The White Witch of Rose Hall” (spooky!). relax Linger over a laid-back afternoon tea at the hotel. In the evening, view the sunset from the powdery beach or the private dock.

get romantic Anchored in the waters

of the Marine Park Fish Sanctuary, The HouseBoat Grill is a special dining spot (876-979-8845, TheHouseBoatGrill.com).

Or float along the scenic banks of the travel time tranquil Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft for two 5½-hour (876-940-6398, plane ride JamaicaRafting.com).

Get travel tips at TheBump.com/babymoontips Chicago

•

thebump.com

37

celebrate

my pregnancy diary october 1

I’m a preschool teacher, so I told my class, “I have a baby in my belly!” Some of my students understood, although others were confused. They all were very excited, though, and eagerly discussed what the baby could be doing inside my bump. They said that my baby might be playing with trains, watching Dora the Explorer or doing puzzles.

december 20

september 6

When I woke up at 4 a.m. feeling slightly sick, I decided to take a pregnancy test.

I had taken one two days before, but the results had been negative. Regardless, I took the last one in the pack—just to be sure.

When the word “yes” appeared on the test, I screamed to Justin, my sleeping husband, “It says yes!” Later in the morning, I went to Target and bought five more pregnancy tests...all of which were also positive! I was so excited—I was going to be a mom!

baby laine’s ultrasound photo

38

thebump.com

march 19

My baby shower was held in a beautiful tearoom, complete with a menu featuring scones, tea sandwiches and an adorable ladybug-shaped cake. It was so nice to visit with my family, many of whom I hadn’t seen since I’d found out I was pregnant. We got amazing gifts for our little girl; I was overwhelmed by how generous everyone was. It was the perfect day!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE COUPLE

By Kelly Weber icago) (age 26; from Ch

I scheduled an ultrasound the day before Justin and I would be traveling to visit my family for Christmas. We couldn’t wait to find out the baby’s gender so we could tell everyone! Everyone thought we were having a boy, and Justin and I had even been referring to the baby as “him.” But when the technician put the wand on my belly, he said, “Well, it’s a girl!”

proud papa! may 12

Justin and I arrived at the hospital at 10 p.m.

My blood pressure was high, so I had to wait to get an epidural until my blood work results came back. My contractions were 90 seconds apart, and I was so overwhelmed with pain. Justin was super-supportive, constantly encouraging and reassuring me.

Thankfully, once I got the epidural, there was less pain. At 6 a.m., it was time to push.

Everything was going great until my baby’s heart rate dropped—and wouldn’t come back up. I started to panic. How can this be happening? I thought. Luckily, the doctors were able to stabilize her within a few minutes, and Laine Gloria was born at 6:27 a.m. She was 7 pounds, 5 ounces, and 19.75 inches long. Fortunately, Laine was healthy—not to mention so beautiful! During the birth, I’d been terrified not knowing whether she was okay, but the second the nurse handed her to me, I was overcome with pure bliss. How could I possibly love someone this much?

kelly’s local faves Hospital

Prentice Women’s Hospital, Chicago, (312) 926-2000 OB-GYN

Amy E. Williams, MD, Chicago, (312) 751-7515 maternity clothes

Old Navy online, OldNavy.com baby clothes

Carter’s, Chicago, (312) 482-8603 infant gear

Babies “R” Us, Chicago, (773) 525-1690 crave-satisfying restaurant

Red Hen Bread, Chicago, (773) 342-6823

Read more pregnancy stories at TheBump.com/pg Chicago

•

thebump.com

39

special advertising section

from

k

your to-do list

Prep for pregnancy and baby with must-have products and services from our advertising partners.

get the gear

your one-stop-shop for everything baby!

LazarsFurniture.com

BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS

Celebrate your baby with Chicago’s favorite baby store, Beautiful Beginnings. Cribs, bedding, layette, gifts and nursery design services.

Chicago, Western Springs and ShopBeautifulBeginnings.com.

Bedrooms4Kids Outlet

offers solid hardwood baby furniture that grows with your child.

See Bedrooms4Kids.com or call (708) 444-4200 to visit our showroom.

Cradles & All offers cribs, cradles, strollers, car seats and everything you need from bump to birth.

CradlesandAll.com

CRIBS TO COLLEGE BEDROOMS

is the largest showroom in the Midwest offering all that you need to furnish and decorate the nursery of your dreams. CribstoCollege Bedrooms.com

shop for everything from groceries to gliders, prescriptions to playards. We pick, pack and deliver your order that day. mygofer.com

plan ahead The Celebration Stem Cell Centre Choose a cord blood

bank that offers both private banking and public donation to ensure your baby’s stem cells are preserved according to the highest standards. Learn more at CelebrationStemCellCentre.com.

CORD BLOOD REGISTRY is the world’s largest and most experienced cord blood bank and the bank OB/GYNs recommend most. For more information visit CordBlood.com.

COUNTRY® Financial—Michael W. Basile Life insurance is too

ERGOBABY The ERGObaby

valuable to ignore. Don’t wait to protect your family’s future. Contact Michael Basile at (773) 728-2957.

LAZAR’S Get expert advice on

STEMCYTE is the global leader in cord blood banking with the most transplant experience anda processing method resulting in a 99.9% cell recovery rate. StemCyte.com

carrier is the only baby carrier you’ll ever need. Available nationwide and at ERGObaby.com.

how to create a beautiful and functional nursery from Lazar’s. We’re

40

mygofer.com is your one-stop

thebump.com

Because they’re only this little once.

Kristen Oliver

Professional photographer www.facebook.com/LittlePortraits LP_Oct2011.indd 1

www.LittlePortraitsOnline.com a private newborn photography studio in Long Grove, IL

10/4/11 5:10 PM

special advertising section

dress the part MOTHERHOOD® MATERNITY

offers stylish ways for you to be comfortable during your pregnancy with quality fashions at everyday low prices.

Visit Motherhood.com, or call (800) 4MOM2BE today!

Kiddie Academy® Call us today

to schedule your tour, or visit our website at KiddieAcademy.com.

MUSIC TOGETHER offers fun

music and movement classes for babies and the grownups who love them. To find a class near you visit MusicTogether.com/chicago.

make memories BELVEDERE EVENTS & BANQUETS

is a fabulous venue for bridal showers, christenings, baptisms or any special event. For more information visit us at BelvedereBanquets.com or call (847) 534-0600.

SOBEN STUDIOS

Custom photography for your growing family. Specializing in newborns, maternity, babies, children and families.

SobenStudios.com; (847) 374-9123

Old Town School of Folk Music To register for our

Wiggleworms or kids’ classes, please call (773) 728-6000 or visit us online at OldTownSchool.org .

find the right care Children’s Memorial is

becoming Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Opening downtown in June 2012, prepare to be amazed!

connect with others Bubbles Academy is a

world of fun and friends for ages 0-5! Visit BubblesAcademy.com for more on our innovative children’s classes, events and parent resources.

Foss Swim School

Sign up for swimming lessons! Water adjustment is important for baby to learn and fun for parents. Start at 6 months.

Register today at FossSwimSchool.com.

Gymboree Play & Music Enroll

at your local Gymboree Play & Music for “2 for $22” for babies up to 12 months. Find a location near you at GymboreeClasses.com.

42

thebump.com

DuPage Medical Group

Finding the right pediatrician for your child is one of the most important decisions to make. Visit DuPageMedicalGroup.com to select a doctor today.

Galter LifeCenter We support

you every step of the way through excellent prenatal and postnatal care with a variety of fitness courses and services. Visit GalterLifeCenter.org .

Saint Joseph Hospital

offers maternity classes and support groups for before and after childbirth. For information, visit SJH.ResHealth.org/maternity .

2sisters photography …offers boutique style, custom portraiture at the location of your choice. We bring our studio to you to capture your memories where they’re happening. We capture memories from belly bumps to graduation and everything in between! Fun, fresh and guaranteed to make you say,“Aww!”

Life is a story…let us capture yours!

Chicagoland Area (630) 956-2218 2SisPhotos.com

Capturing moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

www.tonyaunderwood.com • 773-697-4447 • tonya@tonyaunderwood.com

celebrate

“i knew i was pregnant when…”

Frosty the Snowman made me cry hysterically... and I had a new affection for dunking French fries in milk shakes.

Yum.

Obviously, a positive pee stick is the true giveaway, but these Bumpies had earlier signs.

I freaked out on my husband for interrupting the last five minutes of When Harry Met Sally. bbromantic33

I practically moved into the bathroom.

Daisy637pots

MF134

I couldn’t stop burping.

Dearflwerpwer

12Sportychica25

I woke up my husband for a latenight run to get Sour Patch Kids! tabbycatxoxo1

44

I found myself craving Cheetos.

I almost started crying standing at the vending machine because it was all out!

I gained 10 pounds for no reason (or so I thought). nhmixbby55

Wunderkind88girl

I became an instant narcoleptic.

vm44bbump

More pregnancy talk at TheBump.com/chat thebump.com

names have been changed

I hadn’t gotten my period, and it was about two weeks after my wedding!

true story

crazy craving

one bumpie’s embarrassing moment

“My husband walked in on me drinking the pickle juice straight from the jar.” t.bird

Through experience, passion, and education, we provide a place of comfort, community, and support for women living with infertility.

847.293.5283 - katie@shinechicago.com

www.shinechicago.com

celebrate

kick count tracker Keep a record of baby’s every move throughout your pregnancy.

I am in the

week of my pregnancy. mon

tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

sun

start time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

stop time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

minutes to reach 10 I am in the

week of my pregnancy. mon

tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

sun

start time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

stop time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

minutes to reach 10 I am in the

week of my pregnancy. mon

tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

sun

start time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

stop time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

minutes to reach 10 I am in the

week of my pregnancy. mon

tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

sun

start time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

stop time

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

minutes to reach 10

46

Download more trackers at TheBump.com/tools thebump.com

Capture t h e m o m e n t, Cherish the Gift™

true story

crazy craving Have you eaten anything this strange?

“Sometimes I put pickles on Oreo cookies. You know those little round pickles for sandwiches?

They’re the perfect size for an Oreo.” blissfully_caffeinated

www.bambinaboutique.com

ready for takeoff

shutterstock

Hopping a flight? Try these tips for a smooth trip. time it right Some airlines won’t let you fly

after week 36. If you’re showing, it’s a good idea to carry a doctor’s note saying how far along you are, just in case you get questioned.

buckle up We know your belly’s big, but you never know when turbulence could hit.

Wear the buckle low on your hip bones, right underneath your belly.

book an aisle seat You don’t need us to tell you that you might have to get up to use the bathroom. It’s also easier to get into an aisle seat than to climb over to a window seat.

take a walk If your flight is over four hours long, get up and walk the aisle to prevent blood clots in your legs—you’re more susceptible to them while you’re pregnant.

make yourself comfortable Wear loose clothing and put your feet up whenever you can to prevent swollen ankles.

drink lots of water Plane air is dry! Plus, staying hydrated can prevent constipation, and that’s worth an extra pit stop!

Trip-safe tips at TheBump.com/pregtraveltips

celebrate Spreading the word, handicapped parking, pampering and more…

I deserve some pampering before baby arrives, right? Any creative ideas?

Prenatal pampering is definitely one of the biggest trends around—and rightfully so!

Here are some of our favorite ways to treat yourself (and your partner) before diaper changing and 2 a.m. feedings take over.

Hire a baby planner They’ll help you design a nursery, set up your registry and even send out birth announcements when the time comes. Sound a little too indulgent?

Come on, you had a wedding planner…and you didn’t even have a huge belly weighing you down at the time. Doesn’t baby deserve the same kind of treatment?

Take a babymoon With a new baby on the way, it’s tough to predict the next time you and your husband will be able to get some alone time, let alone an actual getaway.

Now’s the perfect opportunity to sneak off for a romantic just-for-two vacation. Plus, hotels and resorts offer tons of fun packages exclusively for moms-to-be and their partners.

Get ready to be very pampered.

Get a food delivery service It’s tough enough to maintain a healthy diet when life is normal. Add the nutritional demands of pregnancy, plus your never-ending to-do list, and you’ve got a perfectly legitimate reason to splurge on food delivery. Some services even have special meal plans designed specifically for pregnant women, so do your research first. And always ask for a taste test before you commit! (Yum.)

48

thebump.com

How should I go about choosing a maternity photographer?

So you’re ready for your close-up? Most pregnancy photo shoots happen six to eight weeks from your due date, so there’s almost no room for error if you don’t like the results or if the photographer makes a mistake.

(Scheduling a reshoot before baby is born can be tough or even impossible.) To avoid any blunders, look for someone with extensive experience or, even better, someone who specializes in pregnancy photography.

Experienced shooters will be familiar with the most flattering angles for your pregnant body and will know how to focus on your belly while de-emphasizing other (also expanding!) parts like your hips, arms and legs. Always check the photographer’s website and portfolio, and ask for referrals.

Make sure the photographer is thoroughly involved in the editing and photo selection process—this is an important step toward the finished product and represents about half of your cost. The photographer should be able to expertly guide you to the best and most unique photos, and give suggestions for cropping and finishes. And as for the film vs. digital debate, consider choosing film. Sure, it’s nice to be able to email and post your digital photos, but film prints are archival, whereas digital prints are likely to fade over time. Film also tends to be more expensive than digital, but trust us—the quality and longevity is worth it.

Is it tacky to have a baby shower if I’m pregnant with my second child?

No. Every baby should be celebrated…and who wants to pass up an opportunity to get together with friends and loved ones? That doesn’t mean they have to shower you with gifts, though. If it makes you feel better, you can even write “no presents” on the invitations. Here’s an idea: Why not make the party a twist on the traditional shower? Since you’ve already got one baby, make it a family affair and invite everyone’s spouse and kids.

You don’t even need to call it a shower! These days, some moms are calling the celebration for their second baby a “sprinkle.” Cute!

Is it okay to just ask for money as a baby shower gift?

Sorry, but no. While we all have more uses for cash than we do for 32 fleece blankets, you’d be out-of-line for requesting it. No one is obligated to give you (or baby) a gift, so what to give should be totally left up to the gift giver. (Help them out by registering.) Saving for something specific? Well, in that case, it’s okay to throw money out as an option if—and only if—someone specifically asks what you need. >

I’m going on a babymoon.

How can I avoid getting swollen feet or ankles while I travel?

Swollen feet and ankles are tough to avoid during pregnancy.

Make sure you’re putting your feet up whenever possible. That means taking plenty of breaks if you plan on doing a lot of walking.

(Find a nice park bench and chill for a while.)

Wearing support hose may help too, but we’re not huge fans of the fashion statement those make!

(

Is it rude to register for gifts?

Just the opposite: The registry is simply a wish list—a convenience to help guide friends and family to the goods you want and need, if they want the help. Shower guests aren’t required to buy off your registry (or to buy you anything at all). Now even if you

do register, you should never expect to receive only the gifts on your list, or dis a friend who goes off the registry. It probably means they were putting extra thought and effort into searching for the perfect gift!

(

How long should we wait before telling our family and friends that I’m pregnant?

This one’s totally up to the two of you. Some couples prefer to wait to share the news until the risk of miscarriage drops: when they see a heartbeat on the ultrasound (around six to eight weeks), hear a heartbeat with a fetal Doppler (around 10 to 12 weeks) or at the end of the first trimester (12 weeks). Others choose to spill the beans as soon as they test positive, rationalizing that the people they’d tell would be their network of support if anything were to go wrong.

Once you find out whether it’s a boy or a girl (usually at your midpregnancy ultrasound), you might want to make another announcement. Here are a few fun ideas for disclosing the sex: Order a cake with pink or blue frosting inside—the first slice reveals baby’s sex!

Buy “I love Grandma” (or Grandpa) onesies in blue or pink, and give them as gifts to your parents and in-laws.

Be obvious: Walk in wearing a maternity tee that spells it out (“It’s a girl!” or “It’s a boy!”).

Order custom fortune cookies with the big news hidden inside.

Invite everyone over to watch a video of the ultrasound and guess the sex. Afterward, have one guest open a gift that reveals the truth.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

49

celebrate How long can I wait to send thank-you notes for gifts without seeming rude?

You’ll probably be very busy (and exhausted!) in the weeks before and after baby arrives, so your family and friends are sure to understand if you’re late. Even so, it’s best to send out those thank-you notes ASAP. Try to do it before baby is born, if possible. (We know it’s tough, but it still will be easier now than when you’re changing diapers and waking up at all hours!)

For the gifts you receive after delivery (and the leftovers from beforehand), shoot for getting notes in the mail by the time baby is two months old. And if you don’t make the deadline, don’t convince yourself that you’ve waited too long. The rule here is the same as with wedding gifts—it’s never too late to show gratitude.

How much maternity leave should I take?

First, find out what your employer offers.

Review your employee handbook and any medical or maternity leave policies, or check with a rep from HR. You may be eligible for short-term disability coverage and/or paid or unpaid leave as a benefit.

If you work for a company that has at least 50 employees in a 75-mile radius and you’ve been there at least a year, you’re eligible for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). It allows you 12 weeks off in a 12-month period. You can take it all at once, or in shorter increments. For example, you could take eight weeks off right after baby is born, and then take off one day a week for the next 20 weeks. Your employer must continue to provide health coverage and must allow you to return to your same job or an equivalent one.

Check the National Conference of State Legislatures ( NCSL.org) to see if your state has its own regulations on leave.

50

thebump.com

I think I’d like to change my work schedule after baby. When and how should I talk to my boss about it?

If you’re hoping to switch things up once your maternity leave is over, it’s probably best to lay your ideas on the table now.

First, make sure you’re clear on what your company’s policies state. Once you’ve done your homework, write up a detailed proposal for your boss. Go ahead and flesh out exactly how your ideal schedule would work. Are you thinking part-time? Flextime?

And include what sort of workload you could handle in that amount of time. It may also help to mention who could take on any responsibilities you’ll be casting aside and how you’ll train them.

Next, set up a meeting and have a heartto-heart with the boss. She’ll appreciate that you’ve organized the details in a way that makes your plan easy to implement, upping your chances of getting your way. Talk it out (be ready to compromise) and make a plan. Be sure to get the final agreement in writing (and send a copy to HR) to avoid misunderstandings later on. (Disclaimer: Only you know your boss and company. We can’t promise she’ll go for it.)

It’s tough to get around! Can I park in the handicap space while I’m pregnant?

If it’s a space designated by the store as “stork parking” or “family parking,” by all means, yes, park there. But if it’s a space that requires a handicapped parking permit, you definitely shouldn’t park in it unless you have one (or else you’re breaking the law and could get a ticket or, worse, your car could be towed). The good news is, if you have pregnancy complications that keep you from being mobile, you can apply for the permit. You’ll likely need a doctor’s note verifying your condition, so check with your DMV about what’s required. Otherwise, ask your partner to drop you off at the door.

The Bump experts: Ashley S. Roman , MD, OB-GYN and clinical assistant professor at New York University School of Medicine; Jennifer Loomis, fine-art maternity photographer; and Melissa GOuld and Ellie miller , founding partners of The Baby Planners

glow

prenatal

power foods

Finally—stuff you can (and totally should) eat! Keep yourself and baby healthy with these smart choices.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

berry good for you

Want a sweet, good-for-you treat? Think strawberries. A half cup has more than half the vitamin C you need for the day. Not only does the C help with iron absorption (important for baby), but it promotes healthy teeth and bones. Strawberries also have fiber and antioxidants.

Tip Strawberries tend to contain higher amounts of pesticides than some other types of produce. So if you can, try to buy the kind certified organic by the USDA, and be sure to wash your strawberries thoroughly.

Suitable subs Most fruits and veggies have vitamin C. Notable ones include broccoli, tomatoes and any citrus fruit. So don’t forget to drink your morning OJ, or split open a tangy grapefruit!

52

thebump.com

thinkstock

strawberries

yogurt

sweet potatoes

Eat an eight-ounce cup of yogurt in the morning and you’ll have one of your three servings of calcium for the day out of the way. Calcium keeps your bones and teeth healthy. Yogurt also has protein, and some brands are fortified with vitamin D. Check the label: If yours has active cultures, it could reduce your risk of a yeast infection too.

Tip Steer clear of flavored yogurt, which can come with a whole lot of sugar. Instead, buy plain, low-fat yogurt and add your own fresh fruit. (Bonuses: fiber and vitamin C!) Suitable subs Any dairy products, especially low- or nonfat milk and hard cheeses, are good options. If you’re not into those, tofu (made with calcium sulfate), sardines and collard greens all have calcium.

Or look for calcium-fortified soy milk, cereal and orange juice.

Here’s enough reason to eat more sweet potatoes: They’ve got tons of vitamin A, which helps baby’s eyesight develop and aids in bone and skin growth.

Plus, they’re full of nutritious fiber, vitamin B6 (helps form red blood cells), potassium (more than a banana has), vitamin C, iron and copper (which helps your body absorb the iron).

Tip Swap in sweet potatoes for any regular potatoes you eat, whether they’re mashed, baked or French-fried (um, yum!). Just be sure not to get too much of a good thing—abnormally large doses of A have been linked to birth defects, so try to stick to one A-rich source every other day to be sure you’re safe.

Suitable subs Think colorful!

Carrots, cantaloupe, apricots, mangoes, red bell peppers and winter squash all have a significant amount of vitamin A.

beans

salmon

Time to find a really great threebean chili recipe. Chickpeas, black beans, soybeans, white beans, kidney beans and pinto beans are excellent sources of fiber to keep your, um, digestive system running smoothly.

They’ve also got iron, protein, calcium and zinc.

Tip If you don’t mind some extra prep work, buy dried beans instead of canned, since they tend to have less salt. When you opt for the kind in a can, be sure to rinse them before cooking to remove some of the salt.

Suitable subs Artichokes, peas, broccoli, pears, raspberries and whole-wheat pasta and bread are other high-fiber foods.

Make your baby even smarter!

The omega-3 fatty acids (aka DHA and EPA) in fish help her brain develop—and they’re good for her eyes too. Salmon is also a great source of lean protein for you, mama-to-be.

Tip Your doc probably told you not to overdo it on seafood.

Salmon is a low-mercury fish, but to keep baby safe, you should still limit your intake to two servings of six ounces or less each week.

And always make sure it’s been completely cooked.

Suitable subs Shrimp, pollock and catfish. Not a fish fan? Ask your doctor to recommend an omega-3 supplement. There are even some vegan options. >

weird ones If you can stomach them, add these picks to your grocery list: sardines

It’s their tiny bones that offer all that calcium.

prune juice

Great if you’re a vegetarian, since it’s got a ton of iron. figs

They’re packed with calcium, iron and potassium.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

53

glow

baby brain builders eggs

Packed with protein, folate and iron, eggs also are a good source of choline. Never heard of it? Choline is critical to fetal brain development. Some eggs are also fortified with omega-3s for an extra brain-boost.

Tip If your habit is to order the egg-white omelet, break it and have the real deal instead. The yolk is where the choline is.

Suitable subs Beef, cauliflower, milk, wheat germ, soybeans and peanuts also contain brain-building choline.

spinach

Switch up your usual salad—make it with spinach, which is rich in folate (aka folic acid), a key nutrient for preventing birth defects. Plus, it’s got lots of iron, which is crucial in helping your red blood cells deliver oxygen to your baby.

Tip Pair spinach with tomatoes, or some other source of vitamin C, to help your body absorb all that iron.

Suitable subs Other dark, leafy greens, like broccoli, kale or chard. Asparagus, lentils and peas also have plenty of folate. For iron, eat lean red meat, iron-fortified cereal or oatmeal, dark-meat turkey or soybeans.

To keep your energy level up, eat plenty of whole grains. If one of them is oatmeal, you get fiber, B6 and protein. Fortified oatmeal has extra iron.

TIP Skip the syrup or flavored instant packets (they’ve got tons of sugar!). Instead, add your own healthy toppings, like fresh fruit and fat-free milk, for a perfectly balanced morning meal. suitable subs Other whole grains, like wheat bread or seeded rye, whole-grain pasta, brown rice, barley and quinoa.

The Bump expert: Maria Pari-Keener , registered dietician and founder of Maternal Health Matters, an NYC practice offering prenatal and postnatal counseling

54

More about what to eat at TheBump.com/pregnutrition thebump.com

antonis achilleos

oatmeal

Mom care, baby care and fitness all in one Staying healthy when you are expecting can make your pregnancy easier and smooth the transition to being an active new mom. Galter LifeCenter and Swedish Covenant Hospital support you every step of the way through excellent prenatal, postnatal and pediatric care, as well as a variety of fitness courses and services including: • Pre- and postnatal Yoga and aquatic classes • Pre- and postnatal massage • Prenatal visits with the pediatrician • Prepared childbirth and breastfeeding classes

receive

10% OFF

a prenatal yoga or prenatal aquatic class.

see index

mommy deals

• Watsu aquatic massage therapy • Pilates for new moms • Mom and baby workouts • Aquababies

To learn more, visit GalterLifeCenter.org/thebump or call (773) 878-9936.

Galter LifeCenter

Chicago's Leading Medical Fitness Center

glow

sweet dreams? you wish If you’re reading this at 4 a.m., you’re probably in your third trimester. Here’s why you can’t sleep—and how you can start getting the rest you need.

By Cynthia Ramnarace

avoid bright light, mama!

Sorry, but peeing and pregnancy go hand in hand—your baby is practically using your bladder as a pillow right now. You can try to prevent middle-of-the-night bathroom runs by drinking lots of water early in the day and tapering off at night (you still need eight glasses total!), but that’s not a no-fail solution. Focus on finding ways to easily fall back to sleep once you’re up, since all that waking can keep you from getting the deep sleep you need. One idea: Use low-wattage hall and bathroom night-lights so things stay dim while you’re up. Bright lights are stimulating and can make you too awake.

56

thebump.com

you’re napping too late

We know you’re exhausted, but if you take a power nap during the day, make it before 3 p.m. Then it’s less likely to interfere with the sleep you get at night. (And to prevent that grumpy, just-woke-up feeling, keep the nap around 20 minutes.)

you’re hit with heartburn

If indigestion (blame the pregnancy hormones!) is keeping you awake, try preventing it by not eating within two hours of bedtime and avoiding spicy foods.

It’s completely safe to take an over-thecounter antacid like Tums or Rolaids, or an

devon jarvis

you’ve got to pee—constantly

H2 blocker like Zantac. (Always doublecheck the dosing with your OB.) More tricks: Try elevating the head of your bed a few inches. And keep stomach acid in its place by sleeping on your left side.

you can’t get comfy

Just can’t settle down once you get into bed? Sure, it could simply be because your big belly keeps you from getting comfy, but if it’s particularly annoying, talk to your doctor. According to the National Sleep Foundation, around one in four pregnant women get restless legs syndrome.

If you have it, that could be a sign you’re not getting enough iron or folate—both crucial building blocks for your baby—and if that’s the case, you’ll want to increase your intake.

you’re, um, snoring

Ugh. All that extra weight of pregnancy, combined with swollen nasal passages, can turn you into a snorer. If that’s what is keeping you up, try nasal strips (like Breathe Right), which open nasal passages, allowing for better airflow. If this is an ongoing and extreme problem, you may want to give a breathing machine called CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) a shot.

you’ve got aches and pains

Aching back? Putting a pillow between your legs while you sleep can ease the pressure.

Leg cramps? Elevate your legs as much as you can during the day while you’re sitting.

Even better: Ask your partner for a calf massage. After all, the better you sleep, the better he’ll sleep. (Seriously. Tell him that.)

baby’s a night owl

Babies in the womb love to move when mom is still, so if it feels like your kid is dancing on your rib cage, there’s not much you can do to stop it. But don’t worry—despite what other people may tell you, just because your baby is up all night during pregnancy doesn’t mean he’ll do the same after he’s born. Maybe knowing that will help you rest easier. Try to relax and enjoy the kicks.

you’re kinda freaked out

Thinking about your to-do list, the looming delivery and the new demands of motherhood can keep your mind racing at night. But instead of tossing and turning, get up and take a warm bath or read a book (something light and non-pregnancy-related). Avoid the urge to clear out your TiVo playlist or play online sudoku—the light from the screen can make you feel even more awake, so it could be harder to go back to sleep.

The Bump experts: Tracey Marks, MD, author of Master Your Sleep: Proven Methods Simplified, and Stuart Jones, MD, ob-gyn and chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio

more help Daily exercise can also help promote more restful sleep, so—no matter what’s keeping you up—try to get 30 minutes of walking or swimming in a day. If these solutions don’t work, it’s okay to take a nighttime

acetaminophen (like Tylenol PM) or an antihistamine (like Benadryl) as a mild sleep aid. In extreme cases, prescription sedatives (like Ambien) can help. Just get the go-ahead from your doc before taking anything.

Get more third trimester tips at TheBump.com/thirdtri Chicago

•

thebump.com

57

glow

your little black book Check out these stores and services to help you stay gorgeous and healthy while you’re pregnant.

By Kristin Koch

Just because your belly’s getting bigger by the day doesn’t mean you can’t look a-maz-ing. At Belly Dance Maternity, you’ll find everything from sophisticated office outfits to itty-bitty bikinis to proudly show off that baby bump on the beach. (773-862-1133, BellyDanceMaternity.com) The diaper bags at Kickin’ are so stylish you’ll want to carry them whether you’re toting Pampers or not. Plus, the shop has plenty of chic and comfy (read: frump-free) maternity pieces from Olian and jeans that will expand with your belly from Joe’s Jeans and Seven for All Mankind. (773-281-6577, KickinMaternity.com)

stay fit

Channel your chakra and tone your bod with a prenatal yoga session at Bloom Yoga Studio.

The center also offers Mom & Baby yoga and Infant Massage classes to help you bond after baby arrives. (773-463-9642, BloomYogaStudio.com)

prep for baby

New Mother New Baby is your one-stop shop for everything you need to get you through the next nine months, from maternity tanks to pregnancy-

58

safe remedies for dry skin, stretch marks and, um, hemorrhoids. Plus, you can sign up for a variety of classes to prepare you for delivery and motherhood. (847-272-1500, NewMotherNewBaby.com)

tip

satisfy cravings

stay safe

pamper yourself

“Chicago sidewalks get pretty icy during the winter, so be sure to wear flat boots— not high heels!—and avoid carrying anything too heavy. In the summer, your biggest threat is dehydration, which can cause preterm contractions, so drink more water than usual when it’s hot, and stay indoors when there’s an ozone alert.”

Now that you’re eating for two, you want to eat right, but you’re so busy gearing up for baby, it’s hard to find time to food shop. We get it, which is why we’re fans of Peapod— an online grocery store that lets you shop online and have the food delivered to your Chicagoland home.

(800-573-2763, Peapod.com) Relieve pregnancy aches and pains at Urban Oasis, which has a prenatal massage designed to help not only sore muscles, but constipation, nausea and gas too! (312-587-3500, UrbanOasisMassage.com) Or get some pampering courtesy of Sweet Pea’s Studio, which offers both pregnancy and postpartum massage. Try the Bouncing Back From Baby class, a mix of therapy and stretches to help you feel like your prebaby self faster. (773-248-9642, SweetPeasStudio.com)

Shirley Moore ,

certified nursemidwife, Midwifery & Women’s Health, Forest Park

More local shops at TheBump.com/chicago thebump.com

b2m productions/getty images

get retail therapy

$39 for 30 min

or

$75 for 60 min

massage special

see index

mommy deals

glow

bathing beauties Finding a flattering swimsuit is tough enough without being pregnant. But before you skip that trip to the beach, check out these fabulous maternity swimsuits— made just for a mom-to-be. You can look hot in spandex.

By Jené Luciani

showing skin

left Who says pregnant women have to cover their tummies?

If you’re comfortable baring your bump, it’s totally okay! And this snakeskin-print style by Vix for A Pea in the Pod is super-sexy. $175, DestinationMaternity.com

boho chic

love this halter-kini because it’s sporty, flattering and a tad bohemian. $70, JCPenney.com

gone gingham left One-piece

styles are back with a vengeance, and this one reminds us of a summertime picnic in the park. Plus, the allover print helps minimize a growing belly. $30, DestinationMaternity.com >

60

thebump.com

all images courtesy of the manufacturers

above We

mommy deals

25% off your first baby purchase + 10% off year-round (see index)

glow

winter winners But what about the winter? These cold-weather finds will help you brave the elements—without making you feel like a marshmallow.

in the trenches

left A trench is an all-weather essential, so why should pregnant women get left out in the cold? This classic belted version gets a mom-to-be twist by cinching above the belly. $30, DestinationMaternity.com

sweet pea

left This soft-terry version of a preppy peacoat is as comfy as it is cute. The flared silhouette and pleated back are made to accommodate a growing tummy. $35, OldNavy.com

shop Belle Up Maternity

3440 W. 111th St. Chicago (773) 233-2442

warming trend

above Instead of puffy, this “puffer”

coat is chic and slim-fitting, hugging curves instead of accentuating them. It’s warm too. $98, Gap.com

62

Preggers

900 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 943-6262

Get shopping tips at TheBump.com/pregclothes thebump.com

all images courtesy of the manufacturers

stores we love

motherhood.com also available at Destination Maternity® stores, destinationmaternity.com,

©2012 Destination Maternity Corporation®. All Rights Reser ved.

and Macy’s

LIKE US

facebook.com/motherhoodmaternity

glow

fit celeb moms How these stars lost the postbaby pounds—and how you can too.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

padma lakshmi celeb strategy The Top Chef host said she guzzled

water after baby Krishna was born—making a point to drink at least one and a half to two liters every day.

Why it works Drinking plenty of water flushes away toxins, makes you feel fuller—to ward off unhealthy cravings—and keeps your metabolism going.

Real-mom move Take it from Padma: “I always just keep a big bottle by me, and that way I can monitor how much I drink,” she told Star magazine. Another easy way to remember? Drink an entire glass each time you sit down to feed baby—that’ll be at least eight times a day in the beginning!

alicia keys

64

thebump.com

Padma Lakshmi

filmmagic/getty images

celeb strategy The singer reportedly followed a weight-loss plan that included eating five small meals per day and working out about 25 minutes at a time.

Why it works Contrary to what some people think, eating smaller, more frequent meals doesn’t actually boost your metabolism. But some people swear by it to help them eat less. Why? Since they don’t feel so starved between meals, they don’t overindulge as a result. And the short workouts work because exercise is cumulative. In other words, work out for 10 minutes, three times a day, and you get the same benefits of having worked out for a full half hour.

Real-mom move Take advantage of baby’s naptime— or when your partner’s there—and squeeze in some 10-minute workouts. If you’re old-school, do some classic moves like push-ups and crunches. If you need some guidance, try a workout DVD. And be sure to stock up on healthy, easy-to-prepare snacks. >

mommy deals

FREE upgrade to ultimate gender determination session (see index)

Pregnancy Wellness Care Offering Chiropractic, Webster Technique, Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, Functional Rehabilitation and Nutrition for the following:

We are located in the West Loop at: 600 W. Fulton St. Suite 304 Chicago, IL 60661 312.756.1778 serenityhealthwellness.com

• Infertility/Labor Introduction/Assistance (sciatica, carpal tunnel, swollen legs, nausea, etc.)

• Breech Presentation • Pre and Post-partum Rehabilitation

New Family Care • Pediatric Chiropractic • Post-partum Doula House Calls are available for our existing patients

glow

amy

adams

celeb strategy When her daughter, Aviana, was an infant, the actress

was spotted exercising with baby in tow. Her workout? Walking while pushing Aviana in the stroller (no need for a sitter!).

Why it works Pushing a stroller loaded with 35 pounds can burn a whopping 18 to 20 percent more calories than walking without one.

Real-mom move After baby is born, “me time” will be at a premium, so find ways to work her into your fitness routine. Remember: You can also use baby as a weight, lifting her above your head to work your triceps. Burn calories by dancing around the house during playtime. Prefer something structured? Take a mom-andbaby yoga or Pilates class together.

tip

Amy Adams

Before you start a weight-loss plan, get the go-ahead from your doc.

kourtney

kardashian

and salmon and chicken,” Kourtney told Life & Style. “Fresh food is so much better.”

Why it works Sticking to natural foods means you’ll be less likely to consume empty calories. Plus, leafy green vegetables have plenty of fiber, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Real-mom move Fill your fridge with healthy foods you love—fruits, veggies and lean protein. (Warning: If you’re breastfeeding, don’t go crazy cutting calories. You need about 500 extra calories a day to feed baby and stay healthy.) And don’t forget that pairing a healthy diet with exercise gives you an extra edge. “I’m big on running—just putting on my iPod shuffle and going for a run by my house,” Kourtney told Life & Style.

Kourtney Kardashian

More shape-up tips at TheBump.com/fitnewmom

filmmagic/getty images; associated press

celeb strategy “I’ve been eating salads

glow

sick of morning sickness?

Knowing it usually goes away after the first trimester probably isn’t comforting.

Here’s how to feel better now.

fyi

by Elena Donovan Mauer

good news Morning sickness isn’t exactly the best name for that nauseated, about-to-puke feeling of pregnancy. For one, it doesn’t even begin to conjure up just how crappy you feel. And then there’s the fact that it hits any time—morning, noon or night. And since doctors aren’t even sure why we get it—all those new pregnancy hormones and a heightened sense of smell are two likely causes— it’s not so clear-cut how to make it go away. But with a little trial and error, you can figure out what works for you. Try some of these common tricks to find relief and cope.

get your graze on

Instead of three big meals, try to cut it down to five smaller meals throughout the day. Some moms-to-be swear not getting too full helps prevent nausea before it starts.

beat queasiness with b6

Take a little B6. It’s been shown to reduce the severity of morning sickness in some women. The American Pregnancy Association recommends 50 mg daily. >

getty images

lemons curb queasiness

Some studies suggest that having morning sickness is a sign of a healthy pregnancy.

That’s because those extra hormones thought to cause the queasiness are essential for proper development of the placenta.

Does that make you feel at least a little better?

68

thebump.com

4D Imaging LLC - See Your Baby Now! free

heartbeat keepsake with any 3d package! see index

mommy deals

4256 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 105 Arlington Heights, IL 60004 Gender check/DVD/Video streaming

Call 847-818-0777 for Special Offers

www.WindowToYourBaby.com • Visit us on Facebook

maternity nursing baby $20

OFF first in-store purchase of

$100see index

mommy deals

3440 W. 111th Street | Chicago, IL 60655 | 773.233.CHIC (2442) | www.BelleUp.com © 2012 Belle Up LLC; Photographer: Naja Lerus Photography.

glow

You know you’re supposed to be getting plenty of nutrients, but that’s pretty tough when all you can stomach is dry toast.

And if you can’t bear to swallow those big prenatal vitamins either, try children’s chewable vitamins. They might be easier to keep down. Just double-check with your doctor that the dosing is okay. Especially important: that they have enough folic acid, which helps your body create the extra blood you need during pregnancy, preventing birth defects. You should be getting 0.4 mg each day.

add some accessories

You know those seasickness wristbands (like Sea-Band)? Wearing them can help with morning sickness too. That’s because they’re designed to press acupressure points on your wrists, which has long been tied to the reduction of nausea.

stock up on citrus

Sniff or suck on lemons—or squeeze their juice onto your food or drink. We’re not sure whether it’s the refreshing scent or the distracting sourness, but lots of moms-tobe swear that lemons were key in getting over their morning sickness symptoms. (We like lemon Preggie Pops too!)

get minty fresh

Lemons don’t work? Try mint.

Peppermint tea, chewing gum and, well, mints work for some women. Whip up a batch of decaf iced tea with mint!

70

tip

try some ginger

Okay, so you can’t have the raw fish, but you can have the ginger at your local sushi joint—and it can help you feel less pukey.

And try other ginger stuff, like ginger ale, ginger capsules or ginger candies too.

keep your cool

Pregnant women tend to get overheated, making feelings of nausea worse. Try to avoid stuffy, hot places and large crowds.

Go outside to get fresh air if you’re starting to get sick, and to prevent queasiness in the first place, stay cool by running a fan.

take a nap

Some moms-to-be say they get nauseated when they’re feeling tired, so be sure to rest up when you can. If you can squeeze in a nap, do it. Just try not to go to sleep right after a meal, since that can make you feel sicker.

is it severe?

In rare cases, the nausea can be so bad that you can’t keep down any foods or liquids, which can mean dehydration and lack of nutrients for you and baby. If this happens to you, or your symptoms continue well into the second trimester, see your doctor.

stash some snacks

If you’re queasy first thing in the morning, it may be because your stomach’s so empty. So it might work to have a tummysettling snack before you even get out of bed. Stockpile saltines—or another food you can stand—in your nightstand.

Sounds crazy, but this trick can head off nausea. Worth a shot!

drink plenty of water

It’s super-important for you (and baby!) to get plenty of fluids. So keep a bottle of water by your side at all times and sip—don’t chug, especially during meals; it could set off your stomach—throughout the day. It will help keep you and baby well-hydrated.

The Bump expert: Ashley S. Roman, md, OB-GYN and clinical assistant professor at New York University School of Medicine

More a.m. sickness tips at TheBump.com/sick thebump.com

shutterstock

act like a kid

SHUTTERSTOCK

• Create delicious, healthy meals in our kitchen to cook and serve piping hot in yours.

• Online ordering, curbside pick-up or delivery for a small fee!

• Entrées start under $3.50/serving!

Hey Mom - Shorten your to-do list with a little help from

Entrée Kitchen

630-668-4450 • info@entreekitchen.com www.entreekitchen.com

• Stock up your freezer for baby’s arrival!

• FREE Meals and More Savings Program—save 20% or more! mommy deals

FREE meal assembly with code: 381b9655c4 (see index)

glow

“sex during pregnancy was…”

Sorry, but we had to ask.

Amazing!

I had more confidence in my body and felt very sexy.

64bunnyloon

I wish it was that good all the time.

tiffyheartsjeffy

Like another household chore...I just wanted to get it over and done with!

882_RR

Mostly a laugh fest.

I tried not to pee on my husband (several times). rainorshine_caligirl

It made me feel like a beached whale getting humped.

An activity best enjoyed alone!

labelle33

AMMJ589

Nonexistent. My husband was afraid of hurting the baby. rstrick&cel

72

Laughs and sexy scoop at TheBump.com/chat thebump.com

names have been changed

Aggiefan63

Supporting Moms From the Inside Out!

Chicago’s Only Fletcher Pilates Movement Studio ®

•

•

Private Lessons & Group Classes

• Fully Qualified Staff Certified Through Healthy Moms LLC ®

•

Percussive Breathing™ Lessons

Helios Center for Movement 773.248.0920

•

2258 W Belmont Ave (entrance on Oakley)

•

Chicago, IL

•

heliosmovement.com

Peek A Belly 3D 3D/4D Ultrasound

See them early, Love them forever!

Imagine seeing what your baby really looks like and watching the little one move. Elective 3D/4D ultrasound allows you to see your unborn baby for the first time! Our ultrasound imaging services give you a realistic view of your baby that you will cherish forever.

16626 W 159th St, Suite 701, Lockport, IL www.peekabelly3d.com

• See Sex @ 15 weeks • Certified Techs • Schedule online

Call 815-524-3963 for an appointment—Just west of I 355! mommy deals

Free DVD when you mention The Bump (see index)

glow

fashion checklist

A mix of wardrobe staples and maternity pieces will get you through all nine months.

you need

jeans Forget skinny styles and grab your roomiest pair for the first couple of months.

maternity jeans Work a dark wash (with a stretch panel) for day into night.

blazer Button up to hide your growing bump, or wear it open to let your belly breathe.

wrap dress Adjust the dress to fit a fluctuating waistline pre- and postbaby.

tank top You can rely on that stretchy shirt from your closet until the day you pop.

Cover up unbuttoned pants with extra-long styles.

t-shirt Slide by in a largersize shirt from your own stash for the first few months.

Maternity t-shirt Show off your great new cleavage with a V-neck style.

cardigan Be ready for unexpected hot flashes. A basic button-up is easy on, easy off.

maternity cardigan Get a neutral hue, like black, that you can dress up or down.

skirt Turn to a pencil skirt for a slimming style even when you start feeling bigger.

Maternity skirt Highlight your thinnest assets (your legs!) with a short hemline.

little black dress A style with an Empire waist won’t restrict your growing bump.

Big black dress Take the maternity route and your dress won’t ride up in front.

Husband’s t-shirt Steal one of his XL tees for some reprieve in the final stretch.

Don’t reveal any seams with your snug tanks and tees.

black pants A side-zip is easy to leave open unnoticeably.

74

Maternity tank top

under-belly black pants

maternity black pants

Hide your belly and keep pants up with a wide panel.

Find fashion secrets at TheBump.com/clothes thebump.com

heather levine

you have

bellybuds belly

®

red in Featu

in T Only

heat

res

Start now. bellybuds

®

©2012 Lions Gate Films Inc. and Alcon Entertainment, LLC. All rights reserved.

glow Orgasms, sore boobs, cravings and more...

How can I relieve bloating and indigestion?

Your pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on your gastrointestinal tract, so you’re more susceptible to bloating, indigestion, gas, reflux and constipation.

There are a few things you can do to ease some of that discomfort. Eating five or six small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals, and eating them slowly, will give your tummy more time to digest.

Another trick is to avoid greasy or spicy foods since they often cause indigestion.

And put off napping until more than an hour after you eat. It’s safe to take a chewable antacid (they also have calcium!), but never exceed the proper dosage on the label.

Will I ever be able to wear my pre-pregnancy clothes again?

Probably—but not for a while. Remember, it took nine months to gain that weight, and it could take nine to 12 months or longer to get rid of it, depending on how much weight it is.

To make the return to your pre-pregnancy body quick and healthy, eat a well-balanced diet throughout pregnancy and after delivery.

Aim for fruits, veggies, lean proteins, calciumrich foods, whole grains and healthy fats.

Staying physically active will help you get back in shape too. But remember to be patient—if you feel frustrated about your changed body, just take a look at your little bundle of joy. Totally worth it!

76

thebump.com

Is it safe to have an orgasm during pregnancy?

Yes, you can still have an orgasm while you’re pregnant. You may notice your belly getting really hard after it—that’s because the orgasm can cause a small contraction, but that’s nothing to worry about. It won’t hurt you or the baby (and we swear he won’t know what you guys are doing!).

But before you jump into bed, run it past your doc. If you’ve got complications such as placenta previa or incompetent cervix, your doctor may advise against sex and orgasms because they could cause preterm labor, so be sure to double-check.

My boobs are so sore! What exactly is going on, and when will this stop?

Very early in pregnancy, your hormones start prepping for lactation, making your milk ducts grow and filling them with milk. All the stretching involved with that is what’s making you so uncomfortable.

The good news is, this is likely temporary.

Around week 16, your boobs are ready to release baby’s first food, colostrum (and— warning—they just might!). But there will be other changes. Your breasts will keep getting bigger throughout pregnancy, and they’ll probably feel really heavy. Your nipples may start to stick out more and darken. To deal, wear a comfortable bra with supportive cups and adjustable straps. You may even need to go up a size or two (or more!).

Do I really have to buy maternity underwear?

What’s the difference?

Maternity underwear is usually made to be extra-stretchy and either low-cut, to fit underneath a growing belly, or high-cut, to fit over it. But no, it’s not a necessity. You can totally get away with wearing some regular comfy undies, as long as they have plenty of stretch and are low-cut. Just beware that you may have to buy some in a larger size late in the pregnancy. Luckily, it’s easy to find soft, durable pairs that are affordable. (Think Hanes!) Look for the microfiber seamless kind—they’re lightweight and won’t add bulk to your frame.

Help! I have to go on bed rest.

What does that really mean?

Bed rest can be a dreaded term for a mama-to-be, but it doesn’t have to mean your life is totally on hold. The definition of bed rest isn’t the same for every expectant mother, and the key is to ask your doctor about your specific limitations.

They’ll depend on the reason why you’re on bed rest. Some bed rest can be very strict—the doctor may not even want you to sit up, let alone get up to grab a snack. For others, it may be safe to walk for short periods of time (like to the bathroom or kitchen) or to drive to a doctor’s appointment. Make sure you ask your doc plenty of questions so you’ll know which activities you can and can’t do. It’s a good idea to ask her if there’s a particular position you should be lying in while you rest. Also important: not to cheat. Hang in there!

My belly keeps getting in the way. What are some great sex positions we could try during my pregnancy?

It can be frustrating when your tried-and-true lovemaking positions (like the old standby, missionary) don’t work, but there are plenty more, like: Rear-Entry We don’t love the term “doggie-style,” but you know what we’re talking about. You can also stand slightly bent over with one knee on a chair and your guy behind you.

Spooning Lying in bed with your guy behind you can be intimate, and you don’t need to use a lot of strength.

Seated Have your guy sit in a chair. Sit on his lap, either facing away from him or sideways so you can have eye contact without your belly in the way.

Is it true pregnant women shouldn’t take baths?

No, baths are safe (and superrelaxing!) during pregnancy, but you do need to watch the water temperature. Pregnant women should never let their core body temp get higher than 102.2°F— especially in the first trimester— since there may be a greater risk for baby to be born with defects in the brain and spinal cord. But you’re not likely to overheat in a bathtub, since the water cools over time and your upper body is actually out of the water. To be extra-safe, test the water with a bath thermometer (get one made for babies!) and be sure to run both hot and cool water as you’re filling the tub. You should avoid hot tubs, though. They can raise your body temp to 102°F in just 10 minutes. >

What non-maternity clothes can I buy to wear now that I’ll want to use postpregnancy?

Get a cardigan that doesn’t close in the front that you can layer over dresses and blouses, a lightweight tunic and a shift dress—any of them can be cinched with a belt after the pregnancy.

Depending on how big you are, you might also go for an Empirewaist dress or a strapless dress with elastic in it (hint: Look in the swim department— some stretchy cover-ups can be worn as dresses!).

Chicago thebump.com

77

glow I’ve heard that some moms-to-be get weird cravings for stuff that’s not food. What’s up with that?

Studies show about 90 percent of pregnant women have cravings, particularly in the first trimester. Cravings for pickles and ice cream are pretty standard. But some women get strange cravings for stuff like dirt and clay; it’s called pica, and luckily, it’s pretty rare during pregnancy. We don’t know for certain what causes pica, but according to the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, it could be connected to iron deficiency. What’s scary is nonfood items may contain toxic ingredients that can potentially harm both you and baby. So if you’re experiencing unusual cravings, contact your health provider.

Is it okay to eat a rare steak during pregnancy?

No, it’s best not to risk it.

Undercooked meats can carry toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that could cause an infection called toxoplasmosis. It has the ability to cross the placenta and have devastating effects on the fetus, including premature birth, low birth weight and brain problems (scary!). So to be safe, make sure your steak is cooked until there’s no more pink in the middle, to kill any bad stuff.

78

Is my prenatal vitamin causing my constipation?

What can I do to feel better?

Constipation is a common problem for pregnant women.

During pregnancy, high levels of progesterone slow the movement of food through your digestive track, and as your bump grows, the pressure from your uterus onto your rectum only makes things worse. And yes, it can be made worse by the iron in your prenatals.

If you suspect the iron levels in your vitamin are to blame, check the label—you probably don’t need more than 30 milligrams of iron a day, unless you’re anemic. (If your prenatal has more, ask your doc if you can switch.) To help the problem, make sure you’re getting at least eight cups (64 ounces) of water each day (juice and decaf tea are good options too). Also, add more fiber-rich foods to your diet, such as whole grains, beans, veggies and fruit. But as you increase your fiber, be sure to increase your fluids— otherwise, your tummy will just feel worse! Make an effort to stay active—the more you move, the more your bowels will too. If you’ve tried all of these things and still aren’t regular, talk to your doctor.

The Bump experts: Danielle Cavallucci , coauthor of Your Orgasmic Pregnancy; Amy Tara Koch , author of Bump It Up; Nicole Meadow, MPN, RD, nutritionist; Karen Moise, RN at Texas Children’s Hospital Fetal Center; and Ashley S. Roman, MD, OB-GYN and clinical assistant professor at New York University School of Medicine

Is a Pap smear safe when you’re pregnant?

Pap smears aren’t just safe during pregnancy, they’re actually a routine part of prenatal care. Your doctor will need to know if you’re at risk for cervical cancer and will check to see if you have any STDs, which can cause premature births or even blindness. You’ll probably have a Pap at your first pregnancy checkup. If you haven’t had a Pap smear in the year preceding your first prenatal visit, get one ASAP.

100s of answers at TheBump.com/q&a thebump.com

Nursing bras, stretch marks, and delivery rooms—oh my!

NeW From the bump! the only pregnancy guide that tells it like it really is.

is it ok to have sex?

When will i start showing?

Do i have to drink milk?

Do i really need a birth plan?

Available wherever books are sold or at www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/the-baby-bump.html

nest

what’s your

nursery style?

Whether it’s playful, modern or retro, we’ve got ideas for you.

by Sarah Newell

prop styling by kendra smoot

photography by david a. land

crib & dresser

Traditional dark walnut gets an update with a slim shape.

Sparrow crib, $730, and 3 drawer dresser, $820, OeufNYC.com

bedding

tip

Animal silhouette decals make for an artistic statement.

Jordan, Jordan Guide Design, (630) 745-8597

Mix it up with geometric designs in soft colors.

Florentine sheet, $36, and Basics skirt, $68, SerenaandLily.com

changing table

Mini Dot sheet (used as a changingpad cover), $54, PotteryBarnKids.com

elephant decal

A large wallpaper decal makes a dramatic statement. Olifant, about $85, Inke.nl

mobile

A mobile can be ultra-chic instead of cutesy. Wallter Hex Hanging Shape Art mobile, $80, SpunkySprout.com

rug

Choose a timeless floor covering baby can grow into. Bella cotton flatweave, $925, MadelineWeinrib.com

stacked boxes

Store toys out of sight in stacking containers.

Bali baskets, $128, SerenaandLily.com

stuffed giraffe

An oversize stuffed animal makes a cute decoration now—and fun plaything later.

Gentle Giant Giraffe, $155, FAO.com >

Chicago • thebump.com

81

nest

crib & dresser

Sleek, all-white furniture makes the perfect counterpoint to bold accessories.

Alma Papa crib, $700, dresser, $750, and change tray, $210, Giggle.com

bedding

Who says it all has to match? Chevron fitted crib sheet, $38, DwellStudio.com

changing table

Carousel Designs Solid Peony crib sheet (used as a pad cover), $22, BabyBedding.com

rocker

A bold Marimekko fabric adds a punch of girliness. Collins rocker, $1,595, DucDucNYC.com

pillow & throw

Get comfy with this cozy throw and soft pillow. Letter cushion, $68, AtsuyoEtAkiko .com; Junior Greek Key blanket, $150, JonathanAdler.com

kid’s chair

When baby is a big kid, she’ll love having her own mini seat.

Vitra Panton Junior chair, $260 for set of 2, CSNStores.com

rug tiles

Customize your rug size by piecing together carpet tiles.

Toy Poodle pink tiles, $14 each, Flor.com

pendant lamp

Don’t be afraid to choose a light with high style. Hangin’ Around lamp, $99, LandofNod.com >

82

thebump.com

tip

Choose bold colors for a whimsical look.

Kathryn, Design Inside, (800) 776-3609

diy these paper cutouts!

Chicago Chicago • thebump.com

83

nest

84

More inspiration at TheBump.com/nurseryideas thebump.com

crib & dresser

Creamy-white circles really pop against beech wood. Noe crib, $1,490, and dresser, $1,650, PetitNest.com

tip

For a retro feel, mix modern and vintage pieces.

Karyn, Divas N’ Design, (847) 883-9200

Kathryn, Design Inside, (800) 776-3609 bedding

Choose sheets in a calming color like seafoam green. Mist Dia quilt set, $145, AreaHome.com

chair

A rocker can be an attractive alternative to a glider. Eames molded rocker, $479, RoomandBoard.com

pillow

Soften a plastic rocker with a pretty pillow.

Large square pillow, $63, PommeNYC.com

rug

A multicolored woven rug adds a homemade, nostalgic look. Blue Multi rug, $169, LandofNod.com

pennants

A playful string of flags flags is gender-neutral is gender-neutral and and oh-so-cute. oh-so-cute.

Sophie Sophie Cuvelier’s Cuvelier’s garlands, garlands, from from about $41,about $41, SelvedgeSelvedge-Drygoods.org

wall art

Add a colorful touch with vintage-inspired urban artwork. New York print, $65, LandofNod.com

rocking horse

Choose an old-school toy as an icon of retro style. Playsam rocking horse, $195, MonPetitBijou.com

Chicago • thebump.com

85

nest

registry answers Stumped about what to choose for baby? These are your deciding factors.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

convertible stroller

The Stokke Xplory isn’t just cool-looking. With seven seat positions, it’s so adaptable. $1,049, Stokke.com

86

thebump.com

courtesy of the manufacturer

We’ve observed (and, admittedly, experienced) more than one pregnant woman meltdown while shopping for baby gear. It’s understandable— with all the choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. (And your hormones don’t help.) So we wanted to give you the lowdown on how to make some big picks. Now, no more panic attacks, okay?

stroller

monitor

breast pump

travel system or convertible?

sound-only or video?

electric or manual?

Make this decision in conjunction with your car seat pick.

A travel system is a fancy name for a stroller that comes with an infant car seat that fits inside.

Once baby outgrows the car seat, he can sit upright in the stroller. Convertible strollers tend to be expensive— but really cool.

(Think of them as the Transformers of strollers.) They either recline completely flat, or have a bassinet attachment to accommodate a newborn. For older babies and toddlers, they easily convert to a seated position.

Some even have an extra adapter (usually sold separately) for fitting in an infant seat too.

If you’re an urban mom-to-be, or plan to walk with baby a lot, one of these might be worth the extra cash.

There’s an array of different features available for baby monitors, and one that comes with a price hike is video display. Babies become good communicators pretty early on— believe us, with just sound, you’ll know if yours wants to be picked up. So if you’re trying to save some moola, video might be a good place to cut back. It can be useful, though, if your baby is the kind who makes lots of noises in his sleep (is he up or just dreaming?

See instantly!), or if you can’t resist taking a peek here and there “just to be sure everything’s okay.” With video, you may not find yourself running back and forth to the nursery nearly as often.

If you’re planning to breastfeed and to work full-time, an electric double pump is the way to go. It will save you a ton of time (which will be at a premium once you’re back to your 9-to-5) since the electric pumping mechanism makes the process more efficient. If you’re a stay-at-home mom and don’t think you’ll pump often, you may just want a manual pump, which you operate by squeezing with your hand. They’re smaller, lighter and handy to have for occasional use. On a tight budget and deciding between a high-quality hand pump and a low-quality electric one? Go for the manual. Because a good breast pump is important to your health and baby’s, yours shouldn’t be cheaply made. >

Chicago • thebump.com

87

nest

car seat infant carrier or convertible?

How much are you in your car—and more important, how many stops do you normally make?

These are the big questions when it comes to choosing an infant seat or a convertible one.

That’s because an infant seat is made for portability. You snap it into a base that stays in your car (Have two cars? Get two different bases), and it also snaps into a compatible stroller.

The best part? Baby will probably sleep through the whole thing. The drawback is that most infant seats only fit babies up to 20 or so pounds, so you’ll have to invest in a new seat around age one. A convertible seat, on the other hand, usually fits babies from about 5 pounds up to 40 or more pounds, so it’s a longerlasting purchase. If you do opt for the convertible kind, it will stay in your car, and you may disturb baby whenever you’re transferring him in and out.

88

thebump.com

diaper disposal special pail or standard can?

Most moms who use disposable diapers are biased one way or the other: They either love diaper disposal systems, made to seal each diaper in plastic, or they hate them. If you purchase one of these special pails, you probably won’t have to worry about that gross poop smell (yay!), but you’ll have to constantly stock up on refills of the plastic (boo!).

And if you already feel guilty about the environmental impact, adding more plastic to the mix won’t help. If you just use a regular can, you’ll probably have to take out the trash more often, or find another way to deal with stinky diapers, like putting them in their own bag (Reuse the ones from the grocery store!). This one’s a matter of personal preference.

crib standard or convertible?

A crib that converts to a full-size bed is a popular choice, since many moms don’t want to buy a piece of furniture that can’t be used past toddlerhood.

But there are a few reasons you might not want to pick the convertible kind.

First off, those models tend to be large, and if you have space concerns, a smaller crib might be a better choice for you. You might not love the idea of your child sleeping in a full-size bed (A twin is usually plenty big for a kid) or like the look of a bed that’s been converted from a crib (Some of them look a little “off”).

If you plan to one day have more kids, consider this: Since some convertible models shouldn’t get changed back into a crib after they’ve been dismantled to become a bed (for safety reasons), you might prefer to save the crib for the next baby and buy your older kid his own big-boy bed.

bedside sleeper bassinet or playard?

Newborns usually sleep in lots of places besides the nursery for convenience and safety reasons.

(Did you know baby is at a lower risk of SIDS if he sleeps in your room—but not in your bed?)

Both a bassinet and a playard (with a bassinet attachment) can come with wheels, so they’re easy to move from room to room, and they’re the right size for a newborn. If you’re into looks, a bassinet is the clear winner, since most of them are undeniably adorable. A playard usually isn’t the cutest, but it’s so multipurposeful: It folds up for trips to Grandma’s house, and when baby’s older, you can remove the bassinet attachment and use it as a playpen or travel napper.

Remember: The bassinet will get outgrown in months. >

• • • • 847.679.6146

•

www.lazarsfurniture.com

•

Cribs & Dressers Bibs & Bottles Strollers & Car Seats And so much more…

89

6557 N. Lincoln • • thebump.com Lincolnwood, IL Chicago

nest

diapers cloth or disposable?

cloth diapers

Cloth diapers mean fewer chemicals against baby’s sensitive skin— and less (hard-todecompose) stuff being dumped in a landfill. They can be costly, but since

90

many of the newest styles are made to fit a growing baby, you may end up paying less than what you’d shell out for disposables over the years. Know that cloth ones require

more effort and more laundry—if you work long hours or have to pay to use a washer and dryer, they may not be for you—and they’re not 100 percent waste-free, with all

that extra energy and detergent used to clean them. Some daycares won’t use cloth, since they more easily spread germs; they’re also not as convenient when you travel.

More tips at TheBump.com/babyregistry thebump.com

courtesy of the manufacturer

Bum Genius diapers cut down on landfill waste—and they’re totally cute! About $18 each, BumGenius.com

Congratulations on your pregnancy The beginning of life is a miraculous event.

I know because I am a proud father. That’s me with my son, Kona.

I’ve had another profound experience in my life as well. I lost both of my parents – one in 2001 and the other in 2002. My parents worked hard to buy two homes, but they failed to buy life insurance.

Consequently, while my siblings and I were mourning their deaths, we were also scrambling to refinance their homes because of a “due at death” clause in the mortgages. The experience drained us spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially.

Through life insurance, I’ve made sure that my family won’t have to face financial hardship if I die suddenly. I’ve made it my mission to offer the same peace of mind to my clients so they may sleep like a baby.

No matter what your budget, I’m confident we can put a life insurance plan in place to meet your needs with plenty of money left over for diapers. Plus, COUNTRY Financial® offers a Multi-Policy discount when you combine life, auto and homeowner’s insurance.

Please call me to fulfill this important obligation as a parent: to provide future financial security for your child. Now is the time.

Policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® or COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL

Sincerely, Michael Basile Financial Representative Chicago 773.728.2957

1011-220

nest

car seat smarts A cute design is just a bonus. Baby’s seat should be safe and comfortable—but how do you know? by paula kashtan

Deciding between an infant seat and a convertible one?

Check out our tips on page 88.

tip harness

A five-point harness is a safety must. Look for one that’s easy to adjust and that has straps you can easily tighten or loosen each time you put baby in or take her out.

energy-absorbing foam

During an accident, it keeps baby safe and protected from impact.

head support

Since your newborn won’t be able to hold up her own head, your seat should have a special infant head support. It’s safer to use the one that comes with your seat as opposed to one you can purchase separately.

side protection Since side-impact accidents hold the most potential danger,

92

thebump.com

it’s essential that your car seat provide sufficient protection.

This means deep side walls and adequate barriers around the head so that baby’s head, neck and spine will stay aligned even during an accident. The government currently only has standards for front-impact collisions, so you’ll need to do a little detective work on this one.

Look for research and evidence on the manufacturer’s website that support any claims about side-impact protection.

comfort

Take a feel. Do the material and padding seem soft and snuggly, like stuff you might not mind sitting in? Baby will probably spend quite a bit of time in the seat—don’t you want her to be cozy? >

safety rec Sitting facing the rear of the car decreases a baby’s risk of head, neck and spine injuries in the event of an accident.

That’s why the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends babies ride rear-facing until their second birthday or they reach the max weight and height for their seat.

LULU*/cwc international

always look for

Since 2005 Cradles & All has been the premier shopping destination for moms-to-be in the western suburbs.

205 W. State St. Geneva, IL 60134 630-232-9780 cradlesandall@ameritech.net www.CradlesandAll.com Open 7 Days a Week

mommy deals

Cribs Cradles Strollers Car seats Baby gifts Christening items Push presents Nursery furniture Baby registry

: cradles & all : @cradlesandall

10% OFF $100 and $50 OFF glider and ottoman (see index) Chicago • thebump.com

93

nest

for ex tra safety

expiration date Believe it or not, car seats have expiration dates. Normal life span is about six years—after that, the plastic can become brittle. That’s why you should avoid secondhand seats unless they come from someone you trust.

registration

If you register your car seat when you buy it, you’ll be notified of any recalls, updates, new manuals or other important info.

latch instructions

All vehicles and child safety seats made after 2002 are required to have LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) components, which are designed to make the seat easier to install and attach more securely. Be sure to consult both the car seat instruction manual and your vehicle’s manual to be sure you’re using the LATCH restraint system correctly.

wiggle room

See if yours is properly in place by holding the seat where it’s connected to the seat belt or tether and trying to move it back and forth—if

it budges more than an inch to the left or right, it’s not tight enough. If you’re unsure— or you could use some help with the entire installation process—a local expert can walk you through everything (see below).

strapping in

One common mistake parents make is not tightening the straps enough while securing baby in the seat. Check by doing the pinch test: If you can take your fingers and pinch the webbed straps of the harness together, it’s not tight enough.

keeping warm

Since bulky jackets can affect the way baby sits in the car seat and the way the seat performs in the event of an accident, it’s better to dress baby normally and then keep her warm by covering her in cozy blankets.

extras

Though dangling mirrors and baby toys (even seemingly innocuous clip-on ones) may seem like a great way to keep baby calm during a car ride, they could turn into hazardous flying objects in an accident.

So consider skipping them. >

“did i do it right? ” Knowing baby’s seat is installed properly isn’t always so straightforward. Experts at these local centers can inspect yours to be sure it’s been perfectly secured. Call ahead for an appointment.

Children’s Memorial Hospital

2300 Children’s Plaza Chicago (773) 975-8613

94

thebump.com

Safety Squad: Chicago

Evanston Police Department

Worth Police Department

Call for locations (773) 382-2833

1454 Elmwood Ave. Evanston (847) 866-5000

7112 W. 111th St. Worth (708) 448-3979

“If you don’t shop Bedrooms4Kids Outlet,

you’ll probably pay too much!”

All of our furniture is made of solid hardwood. We have Bunk Beds, Staircase Beds, Space Saver Beds, Captain’s Beds and Conversion Beds in stock and ready for immediate delivery. We also offer Memory Foam Mattresses in ALL sizes, Cribs, Dressers, Chests, Nightstands, Bookcases and much more!

free

crib mattress with purchase

see index

mommy deals

• Will County Taxes!

• Quick 2-3 Day Delivery!

• Kid-Friendly Showroom is Now Open!

SAT 10 AM - 5 PM SUN 11 AM - 5 PM (or Weekdays By Appt.)

www.Bedrooms4Kids.com

(708) 444-4200 • 18535 West Creek Drive •Chicago Tinley Park, IL • thebump.com 95

nest

space saver

combi coccoro Three of these could fit comfortably in the backseat of a small car.

Plus, it comes in über-cute colors. $200, CombiStrollers.com

easy to use

graco snugride 35 This infant seat comes with a stay-in-car base and an easy dial for simple installation.

And you can use it with a stroller until baby’s 35 pounds. Wow! $180, GracoBaby.com for stores

fave

our car seats Five top picks with cool features. by caitlin brody

super-safe

for teeny babies

chicco keyfit 30 Babies as light as four pounds can cruise safely in this infant carrier, which comes with a removable newborn insert. $180, BuybuyBaby.com

grows with baby

maxi-cosi priori You won’t have to worry about baby outgrowing this seat—it fits kids from birth until about age four.

Bonus: four reclining positions. $200, Giggle.com

96

Top safety tips at TheBump.com/carseat thebump.com

all images courtesy of the manufacturers

britax marathon 70 This convertible seat uses special technology to lower baby’s center of gravity so she’s less likely to propel forward in the event of a crash. $280, BritaxUSA.com

High chairs, strollers and car seats, breastfeeding accessories, posh diaper bags, bathing and feeding products, unique baby and toddler gifts, bottles, and cloth diapers. (773) 588-5120 | OurBabyFurniture.com

modern baby+kids bedding Unison Studio+Store  2000 W Fulton St, Chicago 877.492.7960 unisonhome.com

mommy deals

Get 15% off your online purchase with promo code: BUMP15 (see index)

nest

go for a stroll(er) How to choose from the dizzying selection of wheels for your on-the-go baby-to-be. by paula kashtAn

musthaves

newborn-friendly

Since newborns can’t sit up on their own, they need a stroller that either has a seat that fully reclines or that works with an infant carrier. If you get the carrier, be sure it easily locks into your stroller.

five-point harness

For safety, all babies should be secured in a five-point safety harness that’s easy to buckle and adjust (yup, even on tame walks around your neighborhood!).

big canopy

Look for one large enough to shield baby from the sun, wind and rain.

quality brakes

Check how reliable the brakes’ locking mechanism is—if it could unintentionally disengage with just a slight amount of pressure, it’s not safe. Also look for ease in both locking and unlocking the brakes (the latter is often overlooked).

no-pinch hinges

Do an extra safety check, making sure any features where baby’s fingers or toes could potentially get pinched—moving handles, baskets, cup holders, sun shades—are out of baby’s reach or well-covered with cushiony fabric so she won’t get hurt. >

shop stores we love Galt Baby

Our Baby

3420 N. Elston Ave. Chicago (773) 588-5120

98

thebump.com

lulu*/cwc international

1915 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago (773) 327-9980

Planning to Breastfeed?

Let our Lactation Consultants and expert staff make it easy and comfortable!

- Pre/Postnatal Lactation Consultations 7 days a week - Breastpump/Scale Rentals & Sales - Bra Fittings (fully stocked, all sizes A-J) - Pre and Postnatal Classes - Maternity/Nursing Apparel/Pajamas - Cloth Diapers/Baby Carriers

Symphony®

BabyWeigh™

3115 Dundee Rd., Northbrook, IL - 847.272.1500

www.newmothernewbaby.com

Photo by Soben Studios

- Mother/Baby Boutique & Gift Registry

The family-owned destination for all your juvenile product needs.

LEGO • Baby Bjorn • Diono • B.O.B. • Mustela • Bruder • Playmobile • UPPAbaby • Lamaze • Stokke mommy deals

15% OFF with promo code: BUMP15 (see index)

Visit our new retail store at 798 S. Buffalo Grove Rd., Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 847-272-5437 www.JustKidsStore.com Serving Illinois

nest

also consider

ease of use

How easy is the stroller to push?

How about turning it in a tight space? Can you steer it with one hand?

weight

Is it a manageable weight? Remember, you’ll also have a growing baby and gear in the stroller once you’re actually pushing it, and you may be hoisting it into the trunk a lot.

comfort

It’s great if baby’s comfortable, but what about you? Are the handles adjustable or at an appropriate height for you? Do you have to change your normal gait when pushing it?

Make sure that everyone who plans to frequently use the stroller finds it easy to use too. (If you and your partner have a vast height difference, you should probably look for something adjustable.)

durability

Can the wheels stand up to rough sidewalks?

Jogging? How about nasty weather?

growth factor

If you’re planning to use the stroller beyond infancy, look for features you’ll want for an older baby. For example, does the seat fully recline, and does it have an extended footrest so she’ll be able to nap comfortably?

storage space

Consider what you’ll be carrying around besides baby and the stroller, and make sure there’s room to stow it.

size

Be sure it doesn’t seem too bulky for your home or lifestyle. A bells-and-whistles stroller might seem great in the store but take up a ton of space in tiny boutiques and restaurants, or even just at home.

folding

Check how easy it is to fold up the stroller— it’s great if you can do it with one hand, since you’ll be holding baby with the other. And take note of how small it gets while folded.

Will it fit where you need to store it? >

personal preferences Your lifestyle will probably factor into your decision quite a bit. Once you’ve considered the basics, start asking yourself questions like: How much do you intend to use your stroller? (Light shopping trips?

Long walks in the park? Jogging?)

What kind of weather will you be using the stroller in?

Are you going to share the stroller with another parent or caregiver?

100

thebump.com

How much storage space do you want or need?

Will you need to fold and unfold your stroller frequently?

Does it need to fit in a small trunk or hatchback?

Do you want to be able to use the same stroller after baby’s newborn stage, or are you okay with buying a new one later?

Are you an urbanite or suburbanite? Will you be dealing with jagged sidewalks, lots of staircases, steep hills or any other challenging situations?

The Stork’s Cradle

d b o o egins! h d l i h c l Where a whimsica (630) 752-1584 210 W Wesley Wheaton, IL 60187 storkscradle@sbcglobal.net www.thestorkscradle.com

We specialize in: Children’s room design services Furniture & accessories from birth to teen Maternity wear & diaper bags Heirloom gifts for the new baby Fabulous gifts for Mom (and Grandma!)

Vintage inspired toys & games Christening gowns & gifts Gift registry available

Greater Chicagoland’s Only Bleach-Free Cloth Diaper Service 1, 3 or 7 weeks

free

when you prepay

see index

As low as $15.50/week for a single child!

mommy deals

Learn more by visiting www.CleanGreenNappy.com

nest

space saver

Britax B-Agile Using just one hand—and only seconds of your time—you can fold this stroller completely flat and lock it into place, making grocery trips a breeze. $250, BritaxUSA.com

grows with baby

uppababy vista Complete with both a bassinet and a big-baby seat that you can easily switch and adjust, this stroller can carry baby from birth through toddlerhood. $680, UPPAbaby.com

top

our stroller picks Whether you’re a workout queen or a pack rat, we’ve got the stroller for you. by caitlin brody

jogger

lightweight

Maclaren triumph This umbrella stroller weighs only 11.5 pounds (most strollers are about 17 pounds—or more!), and the washable seat comes in a slew of bright colors. $180, MaclarenBaby.com for stores

double

bugaboo donkey

This stroller expands from a single to a double with three clicks. The seats are reversible, so kids can face mom or the neighborhood. Tough wheels too!

From $1,199, Bugaboo.com

102

Find baby’s ride at TheBump.com/stroller thebump.com

all images courtesy of the manufacturers

Baby jogger summit XC This stroller/jogger hybrid offers a smooth ride to kids up to 75 pounds (whoa!). And the handlebar adjusts to fit mom comfortably. From $400, BabyJogger.com for stores

mommy deals

$5 OFF $30 or $10 OFF $50!

(see index)

Kids look great instylishoutfits, but whowants topay high-endprices whenthey’re outgrownso quickly? Once UponAChildoffers the perfect solution: the latest innewandgently usedbrandname clothes, toys, books, equipment, andfurniture…just right for fast-growingbabies, toddlers andyouth!

We alsopay $$ onthe spot for gently useditems your kids have already outgrown!

Hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 8pm, Sun: 11am - 6pm

4616 N. Harlem Ave., Harwood Heights, IL 60706

708-867-8651 • www.onceuponachildharlemandfosterchicago.com BEST NEW STORE FOR KIDS (Chicago magazine / Top Shops 2011) 976 Green Bay Rd. Winnetka/Hubbard Woods p. 847 446 1100 www.leoleno.com baby furniture, high chairs, bedding, strollers, ride-on toys, learner bikes, wooden toys, puzzles & games, gift registry

mommy deals

10% off one item (see index)

nest

registry cheat sheet

furniture/bedding

health/safety

feeding

crib crib mattress 2–3 fitted crib sheets 4–6 receiving blankets waterproof mattress pads dresser

baby monitor pacifiers thermometer nasal aspirator baby nail clippers first-aid kit infant bathtub 4–6 hooded bath towels 6–8 washcloths baby shampoo and wash brush and comb set diaper cream

4–8 bibs 6–8 burp cloths breast pump and accessories breast-milk storage containers or bags 1–3 nursing bras breast pads nipple cream nursing pillow 10–16 bottles and nipples insulated bottle tote bottle brush bottle sterilizer bottle warmer dishwasher caddy

gear high chair swing bouncer seat or rocker car seat car window shade stroller umbrella stroller baby sling or carrier diaper bag changing mat diaper pail activity mat

layette/clothing 4–6 undershirts 4–6 long-sleeved onesies 4–6 footed outfits 4–6 sleep sacks or swaddle wraps infant hats no-scratch mittens

in the bag

Pretty soon you won’t leave home without a diaper bag. This one’s colorful and wipes clean. $100, DwellStudio.com

104

Shopping 101 at TheBump.com/babyregistry thebump.com

courtesy of the manufacturer

Your at-a-glance guide to the baby stuff you should put on your wish list.

We are your premier source for cloth diapers and baby care!

My Baby Pumpkin, LLC provides your little one with the comfort it needs when cloth diapering. We are here to provide you with the latest in natural family products.

Call 414.331.6259 today!

Visit us today at www.mybabypumpkin.com Inspire your child’s imagination with design kits from ZWalls.

Easy-to-hang and durable (but also removable) modular mural pieces from ZWalls are kid-tested and adored. Each piece is 1/4” thick, so the whimsical images really come alive! Visit our site to build your own scene by mixing characters and backgrounds, or choose a kit for a themed room your child will love.

Room Décor and More! 1-800-685-ZWALLS

(1-800-685-9925)

info@zwalls.com

ZWalls.com

nest

nesting: what’s up with that?

The urge to make baby’s house a (germ-free, ultra-organized, impeccably designed) home explained.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

which color is perfect?

106

thebump.com

why we do it

People who refer to a pregnant woman’s urge to prepare the home as an “instinct” are on to something. Sure, birds are the best-known nesting animals, but mammals like us do it too—our hormones may be partly to blame for giving us the impulse to browse for hours searching for the perfect nursery paint color and folding newborn onesies into tidy little stacks.

But it’s also our nerves. No matter how much we’re looking forward to life with baby, it’s truly scary knowing that we're in for such a drastic change, and preparing our surroundings as much as possible makes us feel like we have just a little bit of an edge in getting this whole new mom thing right. >

don't feel like nesting?

Everyone’s different!

You’re probably just fine, as long as you’re motivated to do the basic baby prep work. If not, there’s a small chance your lack of motivation could be a symptom of deep fear or denial, so do an honest self-check.

antonis achilleos

When I was pregnant, I had an overwhelming desire to overhaul the two-bedroom apartment I share with my husband—not just to make room for baby, but to accommodate our new lives as a family of three. That meant a lot of trips to furniture stores and a lot of putting stuff together, from the crib to a new kitchen island. I also discovered gross stuff lurking behind the trash can that had to be scrubbed off stat, and don’t even get me started on what was in the back of the refrigerator. Yup, I—the girl who is usually allergic to housework—was nesting.

Your ultimate Resource for Children’s Product Safety

SHUTTERSTOCK

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalls children’s products approximately two times per week. Are your children’s products safe?

Stay informed and learn how to create safe environments for children at www.KidsInDanger.org.

Sign up for KID’s monthly safety alert with the latest news and children’s product recalls. Access free safety resources to help you check your children’s products for safety. Learn more about unsafe children’s products.

Join the conversation: Kids In Danger is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting children by improving children’s product safety.

Facebook at facebook.com/kidsindanger Twitter at twitter.com/kidsindanger 116 W. Illinois Street, Chicago IL 60654 (312) 595-0649 • Email@KidsInDanger.org

Kids’ Stuff With Previous Experience $5 OFF

We buy & sell gently used clothes, toys & equipment!

your purchase of or more!

$30

see index

mommy deals

Oak Brook OnceUponAChildOakBrook.com • 1600 W. 16th Street, Oak Brook, IL • 630.468.2330

nest

the first surge to expect

A lot of moms-to-be do big-time nesting in the second trimester, when their energy level is at its highest. You might find yourself noticing things that need fixing or reorganizing. You might look around your home and realize that you need to squeeze in an entirely new person—and all of his or her stuff—and clean out closets and drawers to make room. You might do some deep cleaning because things seem too germy for a vulnerable newborn's environment. You might do all of the above. Sometimes, the tasks are huge, like a kitchen remodel; other times, it’s as simple as finally finishing that scrapbook. It could be baby-related or not.

…and the second

The nesting urge could kick in again close to your due date—some say that neurotically cleaning your home is a sign you’re about to go into labor. (Case in point: my friend, April, who did laundry in the buff to ensure every stitch of clothing she owned was clean.

Three days later, her son was born.)

clean, but clean wisely

Okay, so it will feel really good to be prepared for baby, but it’s also important for your health and sanity not to stress yourself. If you have unrealistic expectations for what you can get done before the birth (news flash: It’s never everything), then you’ll just wear yourself out trying. So know that plenty of it can wait until later. (See below.)

extreme nesting

If you suspect your nesting efforts are overthe-top, ask yourself how you’re feeling, since heightened nesting behavior can be associated with anxiety. Remind yourself that it’s normal to be nervous about having a baby and consider talking to someone you trust about your feelings to get it off your chest. And if your nesting seems scary, out-of-control or is affecting any of your relationships negatively, consider seeking professional help. Otherwise, happy cleaning!

The Bump expert: Carrie Contey, PhD, a prenatal and perinatal psychologist in Austin, Texas

seriously, don’t stress Sure, some to-dos are important, but others can wait until after baby is born.

Smart to Do

Not Worth Going Crazy Over

Buy the two essential safety items: the car seat and the crib.

Stock up on newborn must-haves, including enough outfits, bedding and changing and bath supplies.

Get feeding gear, if you’ll bottlefeed. (If you’re breastfeeding, all baby needs at mealtime is you!)

Make fixes that will make doing everyday tasks easier and safer, like replacing a curled-up area rug because it’s a tripping hazard.

Vacuum, dust and clean up any big, germy messes like the cat fur that’s been lingering under the bed.

Making lots of meals in advance to freeze for the newborn days.

You'll be fine as long as you know good restaurants that do takeout.

Buying toys. Baby won’t be doing much more than sleeping and eating the first few weeks.

Getting tons of gear for an older baby. There are bound to be more gifts and shopping trips post-birth.

Installing baby gates, outlet covers and drawer locks. You’ve still got months before baby crawls.

Big home remodeling projects.

This isn’t your last chance ever.

108

Get ready for baby at TheBump.com/pregnancy thebump.com

Preparing and Caring for your New Baby Northwestern Memorial Hospital offers many classes to help you prepare for the birth and care of your baby.

• Great Expectations: Childbirth Preparation • Newborn Care: the Basics • Infant/child CPR and Safety

Call 877-926-4664 to learn more about our class offerings, dates, times and locations.

prentice.nmh.org ©2010 Northwestern Memorial Hospital

?

what should be on my registry how do I find a pediatrician

how do I get my baby to sleep what’s the best

stroller

learn

together at

kick Spr ut

.com

events & local groups for expectant moms to meet, learn from experts, and discover the latest baby brands

mommy deals

25% OFF! (see index)

facebook.com/kicksprout

nest

get packing You probably know you’re supposed to prep your hospital bag around week 35, but what exactly do you need in there?

Insurance info, hospital forms and birth plan (if you have one)

camera

Don’t forget the film, memory card, battery and/or charger.

cell

phone

Remember the charger too! If your hospital doesn’t allow mobile phones, pack a prepaid calling card and phone numbers.

robe

or cardigan

You may get cold in just the hospital gown.

warm socks

The nonskid kind will keep you from slipping.

Bring 2 pairs.

toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant

hair things

A headband or ponytail holders to keep your hair out of your face

your go-home outfit Something comfy in a 6-month maternity size and flat shoes

underthings

2 nursing or maternity bras (no underwire) and nursing pads (whether or not you’ll nurse, you may leak)

baby’s outfit

To wear home. Usually newborn size fits.

warm baby blankets For the ride home

what’s optional Music for the delivery room Sugar-free lollipops or lozenges to keep your mouth moist during labor (candy with sugar will make you thirsty) Snacks and lots of change for the vending machine (you’ll probably be hungry after labor, and the cafeteria could be closed) Very light reading (think magazines and newspapers) Pajamas or comfy clothes (unless you’re fine with the gown)

110

Sanitary napkins (the hospital will provide all you need, but you might prefer your own, less-generic ones) Flip-flops if you’ll share a shower Maternity underwear (you’ll get some disposable pairs from the hospital, which some women find handy and others find gross) Lip balm (hospital air is very dry) Diaper bag (the hospital will supply diapers, wipes and bottles, so you may not need this)

More packing tips at TheBump.com/bag thebump.com

courtesy of the manufacturer; Palm Beach international carry-on by Mulholland brothers, $610, luggage.com

paperwork

a roller bag is easy on your back

mommy deals

2 or 4 free prowraps with order (see index)

nest Eco-nurseries, high chairs, safety tips and more…

Should I use crib bumper pads?

No. The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission recently called for a “reexamination” of bumpers after reports that 52 infants died from bumper-related incidents between 1990 and 2010. The danger? An infant could suffocate if his nose and mouth get trapped under or against the pad. Plus, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns that an older baby could use a bumper to climb out of the crib, so it poses a danger of baby falling too. We think bumping his head or getting his arm “stuck” between the rails is minor compared to that. To be completely safe, keep everything, except for a mattress, a fitted crib sheet and a light receiving blanket or swaddle (oh, and your baby!), out of the crib.

The baby gates I’ve seen are so ugly.

Are there any cute options?

There is a whole slew of baby gates that will keep baby safe without compromising your décor style. Custom designs can be made to look like your banisters so they blend right in. There are also retractable styles that roll up close to the wall when not in use. Or go for a bamboo, wood or metal (which can securely mount to the wall) gate. One to try: the Loft Gate from Giggle; it’s made from dark wood and aluminum. Of course, looks aren’t everything. To be safe, look for gates with double-lock systems (easy for you to open, but hard for your tot to) and extensions to fit the various openings in your home.

112

thebump.com

I’m spending a lot of time and money on baby’s nursery. How can I avoid having to change it all in a couple of years?

Pick a theme (if you want), but stick to thematic items that are replaceable, like easily removable wall decals, lamps and toys. Bigticket items like the furniture should be neutral so they can work with different bedding and art down the line. When you’re choosing the furniture, consider styles that can grow with baby. If you’re investing in a dresser that you’ll use as a changing table, be sure it will look okay once your babe is out of diapers and you no longer need that changing pad.

If you’re going with a convertible crib, make sure you love the way it will look as a bed later on (otherwise, you may want to skip the conversion kit and buy a twin bed instead).

I’d like to register for a high chair, but there are so many to choose from!

How should I make my pick?

First, consider which style will work best for your home. You’ll probably see these options: standard A freestanding chair. It can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, metal or a combo. Baby can use this chair as soon as she’s sitting (typically at six months). It’s a good choice if you’ve got plenty of space (they tend to take up a lot of it) and want something easy to clean. Look for a removable tray that’s dishwasher-safe.

European These are usually made of wood and don’t have trays, meaning you can >

Worried about your baby’s crying, sleeping, or feeding?

Call our infant specialists.

We’re here to help.

for a happy baby and a healthier planet

Phone support. Home visits.

Parent groups.

Services in English and Spanish.

cloth diapers eco-friendly products prenatal classes

Fussy Baby Network ® 888.431.BABY (2229) www.fussybabynetwork.org/help Erikson Institute 451 North LaSalle Street Chicago, IL 60654-4510

(708) 873-4588 14910 S. LaGrange Road Orland Park, IL 60462 www.cutiepoopsandbottoms.com

stuff you can actually do (yay!)

Maybe you thought these things were off-limits during pregnancy, but they’re not (completely).

Paint Your Nails

Choose a polish brand that’s free of dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene and formaldehyde. And apply it (or have it done) somewhere that’s well-ventilated so you (and baby) aren’t breathing in harmful fumes.

Highlight Your Hair

Wait until the second trimester to do chemical hair treatments. Since highlights are covered in foil and aren’t applied to your scalp, there’s less risk of chemicals getting absorbed into your skin than there is with other dye processes.

Eat (some) Soft Cheeses

You can eat a soft cheese like Camembert or Brie, but only if it’s been pasteurized (to kill any listeria, a harmful bacteria). So check the label to be sure. And when in doubt, avoid it.

Lift Weights

Strength training can actually help reduce pregnancy aches and pains, so go for it! If you’re a beginner, use 10-pound or lighter dumbbells. Stretch your muscles before and after, and don’t exhaust yourself.

Find more facts at TheBump.com/isitsafe

nest bring baby right up to the table.

Some models “grow” with your child, so they can be used for many years, starting at nine months. They can be pricey too.

Portable These compact seats clip onto your table or strap onto a kitchen chair. They’re as secure as standard high chairs but often have a weight limit of around 35 pounds.

Booster Seat You might want this when your baby becomes a toddler. It will raise him up to the table and comes with a seat belt to keep him squirm-free.

Once you’ve picked a style, consider these features: Five-point harness Keeps even a small baby safe and in place.

Seat, footrest and height adjustability After all, babies

come in all shapes and sizes!

One-hand tray removal You’ll be grabbing it while holding baby.

Washable It will get dirty.

Stability The wider the base, the more stable it will be.

Collapsible If you don’t have a lot of room in your house, you’ll want to fold it between meals.

Reclining If the seat reclines, baby can sit in it at a younger age. Bonus: post-meal siestas.

Locking If your high chair has wheels, it’s important that you’re able to lock the wheels in place.

Is it worth the extra money to buy organic bedding for baby?

Maybe. It depends on your own wants and values—and your budget. The difference between organic cotton and the regular

114

kind is that organic is farmed without the use of pesticides, so it’s less likely that chemicals will come into contact with baby’s skin if his clothes and sheets are organic. Exactly how much of a pesticide ends up in a finished, regular cotton sheet is hard to gauge, though. And the exact health risks of skin exposure to traces of pesticides aren’t really clear. Still, your baby’s skin is absorbent, and he’ll spend quite a bit of time in his crib—you may feel it’s worth it to spend anywhere from 10 percent to 100 percent more for the organic stuff.

Also, consider this: Cotton farming accounts for more than 10 percent of the pesticide use in the world. Releasing those toxins into the air, earth and water is considered bad for the environment—another reason you might choose organic.

Will I be able to assemble the crib myself?

We know you’re super-mom-tobe, but we suggest sitting this one out—or at least partnering with, well, your partner, since most cribs need two people for assembly. It’s no easy feat to begin with, but it’s even harder while you’re pregnant. Crib parts are heavy, and there’s a considerable amount of bending and lifting involved.

Make sure he puts aside at least one hour to complete the assembly and be sure to follow the crib manufacturer’s exact instructions.

What are some gender-neutral nursery ideas?

There are tons of nursery ideas that work for either a boy or a girl.

Creams, yellows, greens and blues are good wall colors to start with, and animal, alphabet and number themes are great too.

It’s a good idea to leave empty space in the room for after baby is born, so you can add photos or art specific to baby, no matter the sex.

Soon, the nursery will fill up with toys, books and clothes, so even a gender-neutral room could have tutu-ed dolls, toy trucks—or both!

The Bump experts: Gerri Panebianco, cofounder and

designer at Little Crown Interiors;

Kim Walls , CEO of Episencial; and Ali Wing , founder and CEO

of Giggle stores

100s of answers at TheBump.com/q&a thebump.com

mommy deals amazing deals and steals for members of

It pays to be a mommy!

Get in on fabulous freebies, discounts, and savings—just for you!—such as: • Two weeks of free meals • 40% off maternity clothes • 20% off nursery furniture • Much, much more!

p.com

um Visit theb—and let today roll. s t n u o c s i t he d

Check it out!

delivery

no worries

(seriously!)

With all the rushing, pushing and stretching (ouch!), giving birth seems scary, right? Let us ease your mind.

By Elena Donovan Mauer

fear labor will be too painful to bear

Why you shouldn’t worry Just look

around at all those babies out there in the world—and all those families with more than one kid. Labor didn’t scare those moms away from doing it again.

Feel confident knowing there are plenty of pain management methods available to you—from breathing techniques to epidural anesthesia.

What you choose depends on your own views on pain and on what’s available at your hospital. So be sure to take a childbirth class, learn about your options and create an action plan for how you’ll handle what labor throws your way. You could opt for pain meds, soft music, aromatherapy, massage, walking, changing positions often or working with a labor support person, like a doula. You can do it!

that’s a big melon!

116

thebump.com

fear you’ll give birth in your car Why you shouldn’t worry Getting

through all of labor before you can get to the hospital is pretty rare. Remember: A woman’s cervix dilates about 1.2 to 1.5 centimeters per hour during active labor— and it needs to reach 10 centimeters to deliver your baby, so time’s on your side. fear you’ll poop in front of everyone during delivery

Why you shouldn’t worry Well, we can’t say it’s not going to happen. Pooping while pushing the baby out is actually pretty common. But honestly, if you do it, you probably won’t even know—or care, really. You’ll be distracted by everything else you’re doing. And believe us, the doctor, nurse or midwife has seen it plenty of times before. Your husband? He’ll be too fixated on that new baby to notice.

fear your vagina will get stretched—permanently

Why you shouldn’t worry It’s the

hormones of pregnancy and labor that make your vagina soft enough for a baby to pass through, so know that it won’t stay so pliable—in fact, it’s totally possible for it to go completely back to “normal.” If you’re healthy, it can happen pretty quickly—even if you had to get stitches. Some moms we know swear their lady parts went back to exactly the same as before. Others notice a slight difference, but nothing life-changing.

Encourage the process by practicing Kegels—squeeze your vaginal walls (like you’re holding your pee) and hold for 10 seconds. Do it 10 times, a few times a day.

opposite: thinkstock

fear you’ll have to get a c-section Why you shouldn’t worry If you’re

planning on a vaginal birth, there are ways to reduce your risk of having to get a c-section.

That includes gaining weight healthily throughout your pregnancy and choosing a health provider with a low rate of c-sections (so ask!). But know that sometimes, no matter what you do, a baby needs to be delivered via c-section. And that’s because

mom’s or baby’s well-being is threatened.

Your and baby’s health are most important, so if this happens to you, know that a c-section is much better than the alternative. fear your doctor won’t make it there in time

Why you shouldn’t worry Hospitals and birth centers are bustling places with plenty of staff. You won’t be alone. Worst case scenario: There will be a registered nurse closely monitoring you throughout your labor. But most OBs and midwives are used to being on call, so yours knows how to get there in time. If some rare hitch happens, there’s likely some (very qualified) in-house physician or nurse-midwife who can fill in. fear the epidural won’t work Why you shouldn’t worry An epidural

is the most common pain medication for childbirth, so your hospital staff knows what they’re doing. Still, there are times when it doesn’t fully work (occasionally a mom will say it only relieves the pain on one side of her body). But keep in mind that if this is the case, the anesthesiologist may be able to adjust the medication—and don’t forget about the natural pain-relief techniques you learned in birth class. (Remember: Plenty of moms do this totally drug-free!) If you’re worried about complications, know that your vital signs are monitored closely after you’re given an epidural, and your health provider knows to intervene quickly if there’s a problem. fear there will be something wrong with the baby

Why you shouldn’t worry If you’ve had

good prenatal care, your doctor has already screened your baby for life-threatening issues and will be able to detect most serious problems before baby’s birth. So rest assured: It’s highly unlikely there’s something severely wrong with baby if the doc says everything’s A-OK.

The Bump expert: Jasmine Z. Ortega , certified nurse-midwife at the University of California, San Diego Birth Center, Hillcrest

Get labor advice at TheBump.com/delivery Chicago

•

thebump.com

117

delivery

my birth story Illinois mama Melissa Ortega welcomes baby boy Cruz on her first wedding anniversary.

not your typical anniversary

On the night before our first wedding anniversary, my husband, Rudy, and I went out to dinner. I was almost 39 weeks pregnant, and although I was a little tired, I felt fine. When we got to the restaurant, however, I started having lower-back pain and mini spasms. I ignored it, but the spasms continued when we returned home. I laid on the couch and called my doctor.

“Unless your water breaks, it isn’t time yet,” she said. Around 12:30 a.m., Rudy suggested I go to bed. “I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep,” I said, lifting myself off the couch. As soon as I stood up, BAM! My water broke! Rudy quickly got me a change of clothes, and we left for the hospital at 1 a.m. I was excited and nervous at the same time; I’d assumed that my baby wouldn’t be born on my exact due date, but I wasn’t expecting him to be born on our anniversary!

the waiting game

At 2 a.m., my contractions became a little stronger, but they weren’t as terrible as I’d imagined. The anesthesiologists gave me my epidural, and everything went numb below my ribs. The nurses continued to check on me throughout the morning, but I wasn’t progressing enough. At noon, they gave me Pitocin to help things along, but still, at 3:30 p.m., I had only dilated 5 centimeters.

Sweet drea

118

ms, Cruz!

thebump.com

New mom Melissa and baby boy Cruz

“it doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere soon”

“Your baby is comfortable,” my doctor told me. “It doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere soon.” She told me that since my water had been broken for more than 17 hours, I’d need antibiotics to prevent infection.

My other option was to have a c-section, which I decided on. After we signed the paperwork, I was wheeled to the OR. I started to cry because I was so scared. This is finally happening, I thought. In the OR, I was given morphine and prepared for the surgery. The morphine made me loopy, and I began to feel a lot of heavy pressure. They were performing the surgery.

hello, baby cruz!

Before I knew it, I heard my baby cry. It was the best sound in the world! Cruz was born at 4:58 p.m. and was 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and 19.5 inches long. I looked at Rudy, and he had tears in his eyes. The nurses cleaned Cruz and brought him to me. I was tired and my arms were weak from the anesthesia, so a nurse held my son to me so I could breastfeed him. He was the most beautiful baby I’d ever seen! I was so happy and amazed that I was a mom. When I looked at Cruz, all I could think was, How can you love someone so much after such a short amount of time?

want more?

Here’s a sneak preview of just some of the birth stories you can find at TheBump.com.

“They laid her on my chest, and she looked at me, wet and wideeyed. I said, ‘I’m Amy. I’m your Mama.’”

“I felt trapped, so I clawed off the devices. I needed to move!”

“I started crying because I was so frustrated and exhausted.”

Brendaemily

miasmom82

“I had no idea I was in labor. My doctor said if I’d waited longer, I would’ve had my baby at home.”

“I ate eggplant in hopes that it would kick-start labor (an old wives’ tale). I gave birth that night!”

“Every time I got a contraction, my back felt like it was on fire. Yowch!”

cynth1

Dinaffw

“I yelled, cursed and worked harder than I ever have in my life.

But as soon as Otis arrived, all the pain was forgotten.”

“The nurse said I could go ahead and start pushing.

Two pushes later, my baby was born.”

images courtesy of the couples

AmyTD81

torimales

lindz5223

“Luckily, it only took us 20 minutes to get to the hospital.

Otherwise, I might have given birth in the car!”

dortus

clilydance

Read more stories at TheBump.com/birthstory Chicago

•

thebump.com

119

delivery Labor prep, c-sections, birth plans and more…

Should I go med-free for the delivery?

This is a personal decision with no wrong answer. Some of the reasons why women choose to go “natural” include a desire to avoid medical intervention and to minimize baby’s exposure to medications. Maybe they want to make sure they can feel contractions as they push, to help get the timing perfect.

If that doesn’t sound like you, there are safe meds to help with the pain. Over half of the women who have hospital births choose epidural anesthesia. It allows for a steady flow of medication through an injection near your spinal cord, preventing you from feeling most pain below the waist. If you get one, know that you may not be able to walk once it’s administered and you may still feel its effects for hours after delivery. Some other options are a spinal block (similar but lasts only a couple of hours) and a local anesthesia. If you do opt for a med-free birth, it’s important to know some pain-management techniques.

Take a natural-birthing class so you’ll know what to expect every step of the way.

What are some creative ways to deal with pain during labor?

Whether you get the meds or not, you’ll want to come armed with some natural painrelief techniques. We’re not saying it will be easy, but it’s important to relax. One way?

Find your happy place—we’re fans of the beach and a campfire under the stars. When a painful contraction comes on, imagine

120

thebump.com

yourself there, picturing every detail from your beach towel to the sound of the waves, while deeply breathing. You might also want to try music therapy with calming tunes like Enya or some other spa-like sounds, but hey, you might want to mix in some Kanye or Beyoncé—or whatever else floats your boat! Appeal to your sense of smell too: We don’t mean candles; we mean stuff that smells like home, like a pillow, blanket or cozy sweatshirt. Essential oils are nice as well.

When you’re in labor, nothing beats a massage. Have your partner apply pressure to your lower back with his knuckles. Also helpful: some motivation. Keep baby’s first outfit in plain sight to help you stay goaloriented. The bottom line? Do what works for you. You’ll learn more ideas at your birth class. Or try a HypnoBirthing class to learn additional relaxation techniques.

Can I eat or drink during labor?

For the most part, yes. If you have a lowrisk pregnancy and a normal labor, you can typically eat and drink anything, as long as it’s nutritious (docs recommend snacks with complex carbs and vitamin B so you have plenty of energy). That said, you might not want to. Labor can bring on some unpleasant side effects like nausea and vomiting, so if you’re going to eat, keep it light. And once you have an epidural, you’ll probably be required to stick to liquids or nothing at all.

Will our sex life be affected if my husband looks down there during delivery?

It’s a possibility, but probably not. Yes, it can be strange for some husbands when body parts once reserved for sexy time suddenly are used to bring baby into the world. Sure, once he sees some blood and eventually a whole human pop out of your body, his perception of it could shift—temporarily.

But we don’t think you have anything to worry about, since we know plenty of dads who witnessed their babies’ birth, and their libidos haven’t slowed.

Remember that you shouldn’t have sex until about four to six weeks after birth to give your uterus and cervix time to heal. We think your guy will get over the non-sexiness he saw in the hospital by then. In the rare case he doesn’t—and it persists—we suggest seeing a counselor or therapist.

My husband’s nervous to cut the cord. Will he regret it if he doesn’t do it?

Maybe, but ultimately, it should be his choice whether to cut the cord. We know childbirth isn’t exactly a walk in the park for you, but remember there’s pressure on your guy too! He’s got to be the labor coach, and he’ll be deeply concerned about your and baby’s well-being during the birth process. Cutting the cord, to some, is a dad’s rite of passage, and it makes some dads feel closer to baby and like a bigger part of the birth experience. But if he doesn’t want to do it, he shouldn’t be pressured to. That won’t make him any less of a dad, so support his decision either way.

How can I avoid tearing?

Sorry, but there’s no surefire way to prevent tears in the skin surrounding your vagina during delivery. (Yes, ouch.) Some studies suggest that regular perineal massage during the final six weeks can reduce your risk by gently stretching the vaginal opening, making it more elastic and better able to fit around baby’s noggin.

To try it, wash your hands and lube up your fingers with K-Y Brand Jelly. Sit with your knees bent and your legs spread.

Place your thumbs about three to four centimeters inside your vagina, with the pads of your thumbs pressing the bottom.

Gently stretch the vaginal opening down and to the sides, and hold until it stings slightly.

Then massage the bottom half of the vagina, and place a thumb inside and pull outward on the lower rim. Repeat twice a day.

Know this, though: Despite studies suggesting the massage can mean fewer tears, many OBs believe it may not help.

What causes low birth weight?

A baby is considered to have low birth weight if he’s less than 5 lbs., 8 oz. Being that small at birth increases a baby’s chance of having serious health problems or disabilities. Factors that can make you more likely to have a baby with low birth weight include health problems, like infection, cervical incompetence or issues with the uterus or placenta, and lifestyle choices, like smoking and drinking during pregnancy. A premature baby is more likely to have low birth weight, and one of the biggest risk factors for preterm birth is carrying multiples. >

I’m getting a c-section. What will the scar look like?

A c-section scar may be horizontal or vertical, and it usually sits right above your pubic hairline, so you should still be able to wear a bikini (yay!). It will take between four and six weeks for the incision to heal, and it will likely fade over time—just how much will depend on your genes (some women are more likely to have excess scar tissue). Sorry, but it will never be completely invisible. You can help it along with a scar-fading ointment like Mederma.

Chicago

•

thebump.com

121

delivery What’s a doula, and why might I want one?

A doula can be your emotional and physical cheerleader throughout your pregnancy, labor, delivery and even in baby’s early days. Typically, you’ll meet your doula a few months before your due date so you can form a relationship, discuss any questions or fears, and develop a birth plan. It’s important to know that doulas aren’t medical practitioners, so they don’t substitute for a doctor or certified midwife. But they can help you understand labor and delivery and stay by your side to support you during it. A doula is trained in labor relaxation methods and can help you communicate with the doctors and nurses.

Studies have shown that using a doula lowers the overall c-section rate by 50 percent and the length of labor by 25 percent. Those moms are also less likely to use pain meds.

A doula doesn’t take over for your partner; she helps and encourages you both.

A doula should be someone you feel comfortable with— after all, she’ll be with you throughout some monumental moments, and you’re going to want to be confident asking her questions. She should be certified by a reputable organization and come highly recommended, so try asking around. Or search for one at AmericanPregnancy.org.

122

Do I need a birth plan?

A birth plan is just that—a game plan for baby’s arrival.

It’s not a necessity, but it’s a smart way to make clear your desires about issues like pain meds, people involved, episiotomies, cord cutting and anything else you expect to happen a certain way during labor and delivery.

How it works: First, talk over your wishes with your doc, making sure he agrees and that they fit within hospital restrictions. Then, write them down (try not to make it a huge, multipage plan—use clear, distinct shorthand, or print out the birth plan checklist at TheBump.com).

Then see to it that you, your doctor and the hospital staff each have a copy.

What are some reasons I may need a c-section?

A c-section occurs in 32 percent of all deliveries in the US. In a c-section, mom is given anesthesia and the baby is delivered through an incision in her abdominal and uterine walls. Your doctor might say you need a c-section if you have a high-risk pregnancy or if your or baby’s health could be jeopardized by a vaginal delivery. Some reasons include placenta previa (the placenta covers the cervix), uterine rupture (a tear in the uterus), baby is breech, fetal distress, preeclampsia and being pregnant with multiples.

My doctor said I have a tilted uterus.

What does that mean?

A tilted uterus is exactly what it sounds like— it’s when your uterus leans more toward the front (anterior) or the back (posterior) of your body. Don’t worry, though. A tilted uterus is not a cause for concern, and it’s actually quite common. You don’t need to fix it, and it shouldn’t affect your ability to conceive or to deliver a perfectly healthy baby.

Hooray!

The Bump experts: Shoshana Bennett, PhD, DrShosh.com; and Ashley S. Roman , MD, OB-GYN and clinical assistant professor at New York University School of Medicine

100s of answers at TheBump.com/q&a thebump.com

tHe family B irtHPl ace

expert care

and a

Personalized exPerience

childbirth is one of life’s most important and intimate events, and we offer rooms with a beautiful view of the lake and personalized care. neonatologists, anesthesiologists, obstetricians and nurses provide compassionate, specialized care around-theclock. and, we continue to help you after the birth with lacation specialists and a support group for new moms.

HigHest level of care for HigH-risk moms and infants as a state-designated level iii Perinatal care facility, saint Joseph Hospital is well-equipped to care for high-risk mothers and premature infants to ensure that you and your baby get the specialized care you need.

For more information, visit

sjh.reshealth.org /maternity or call 877-RES-INFO (877-737-4636)

Join the conversation

labor

the

labor party

Okay, so it’s not exactly a party. Labor lives up to its name. But these tips can help you get through it more comfortably. by elena donovan mauer

Once labor starts, you don’t want to waste energy by stressing out. That’s why it’s important to know exactly what to do, says Elizabeth Stein, a certified nurse-midwife in New York City. Talk to your provider about whether you should call her or the hospital first and how long you should stay home.

Also, discuss the likely scenarios with your partner: What if he’s at work and you’re home? Will he come home to take you to the hospital, or will you meet there? (And how will you get there solo?)

stay fit

There’s no exercise proven to make labor easier, but The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says staying fit can help you better handle any pain. It may also increase your stamina.

124

thebump.com

If you took Lamaze or another childbirth class, you probably learned that deep breathing can help with pain management.

Throughout your pregnancy, consider working in another practice that focuses on breathing, like yoga. “[Yoga] breathing techniques and the philosophy of staying present really helped me,” says Bumpie klio79. “I think my yoga background helped me to have the endurance and mental focus to get through the experience.”

have a support team

Make sure the people you plan to have around are ones you can count on to make you feel better. “My mom and husband were the best!” says LadyDelilah. “They really anticipated my needs and were so helpful during the labor period. They made the experience that much more beautiful.”

MASTERFILE

know the plan

If you’re a social butterfly, you might want a whole team of your nearest and dearest with you (if your hospital allows it).

But if you feel more comfortable when you’re one-on-one with your guy, make him your only guest in the delivery room.

Some moms also decide they want a specialist there to help them through labor. “My doula, Breana, helped me manage the pain, since I went med-free,” says InLovewSB. “She brought in a soothing CD. And she acted as a go-between for us and the nurses. By the end of the day, I loved her like my oldest friend.”

save your energy

You’ll probably spend much of the first part of labor in your home. While you’re there, relax as much as you can, suggests Stein. “Don’t get to the hospital exhausted,” she says. Try taking a soothing shower, or ask your partner for a tender massage.

It’s also a good idea to have some snacks (something light and appetizing) and plenty of water, since once you’re at the hospital, you may not be able to eat and you’ll need your energy.

get out of bed

Some women find that moving around during labor helps baby get into position for birth. It can also help you feel less antsy waiting for his arrival after you get to the hospital. If you’re up to it, walk the halls. Or sit and bounce on an inflatable birthing ball. “I loved the birthing ball!” says CourtneyR2N. Depending on the amenities in your delivery room, you might be able to shower or sit in a tub, which could up your comfort

level. “I labored in a birthing tub at the hospital, and it made a big difference—the contractions seemed to melt away in the water,” says SkiesOfBlue.

go with the flow

“Be open-minded and flexible,” says Stein. Labor and delivery can be unpredictable, so let go of any preconceived notions.

For example, some moms-to-be are adamant about having an anesthesia-free birth but are caught off-guard if they start wanting an epidural. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself; have an idea of what you want, but don’t feel like you’ll fail if it doesn’t go exactly as planned.

use gravity

It’s likely you’ll be in an upright position when baby is born—not flat on your back. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be in the hospital bed. “Birthing beds are very flexible and can be converted to many different positions,” says Stein, so usually it’s more like sitting than lying down.

But be open to other postures that, depending on how baby is positioned, could make delivery less painful or your pushing more efficient. “I prefer it when the mom is semi-squatting in an upright position. It opens the pelvis the most,” says Stein.

listen to your provider

When it’s time to push, trust your OB or midwife to tell you when—and how hard. “I’ll say, ‘Okay, just push a little bit,’” says Stein. Do what your provider advises, and you could avoid wearing yourself out with ineffective pushing and even prevent unnecessary tearing. >

Chicago

fyi know labor Those funky cramps you get in the third trimester may be contractions.

But don’t rush to the hospital as soon as you feel them.

You’ll know they’re signaling “It’s time!” when: They’re happening regularly—and keep getting more frequent.

Walking, resting or changing positions doesn’t stop them.

The pain isn’t just coming from the front of your body; it starts in the back and moves forward.

•

thebump.com

125

labor

stages of labor stage 1 Your cervix

stage 2 Time to push!

goes from 0 to 10 centimeters dilated.

This could go on for a few hours—or days!

You might find some bloody discharge (called “bloody show”), and at the end, your contractions will get longer and stronger.

You’ll bear down with each contraction and move baby down the birth canal. It could last 30 minutes, or more than three hours.

This one comes with the biggest reward: Baby is born. (Yay!)

stage 3 You’ll probably get contractions that are closer together so you can deliver the placenta.

Then you’re finally done. (Double yay!)

got a smartphone?

An app like the Birth Buddy for iPhone can make it super-easy to track all of your contractions.

delivery room tools

1 forceps This tong-like bad boy is used if you’re having trouble pushing or your doc needs to change the baby’s position.

2 amniotic hook In the early stages of

delivery, this crochet-like hook is used to break your water if it hasn’t yet happened naturally. (Don’t worry. It looks scarier than it feels. We promise.)

1

2

3

3 vacuum If pushing is proving ineffective,

your doctor may use this to gently pull the baby out with suction.

4 hemostat Your doctor may use this clamp to hold the umbilical cord while your guy makes the cut. (If he can handle it!)

5 scissors Deep breath: In an episiotomy, these are used to cut the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) to make more room for baby.

6

4 5

6 scalpel Unless you’re having a c-section, your doctor probably won’t use this—but it will be on hand just in case.

126

Get birth advice at TheBump.com/labor thebump.com

labor

home birth vs. hospital More moms are having babies in their own living rooms (and bathtubs!), but what are the pros and cons?

great debate

.. delivering at home. create an

to s much easier be “At home, it’ t for a baby to en nm ro vi your by ed intimate en nd ou e, you’re surr er ve Th . ha in n rn ca bo you objects, and like. d u’ yo own personal if e er members th other family very specific oice if you’re ch ere ht rig e th It ’s ant to have th “I’ve see d what you w n too ma about who an . ny th ld or support w e th rs te h ome birth ings go very wro t no , er when baby en ow sh ng to h . T he m o or o b m tu e e th is not the nitoring eling You can be in same as done at hospital. ps and IVs. Fe m pu w h by d a F t’ re ty o s done in encumbe body’s abili checked r example, baby dent in your ’s heart ra the every so e the pain free and confi m o te is co ft is er e a ov n t , to th not cons e hospit you tantly lik al. For m can empower the first ing! e it az e , am th ’s It e s h. ig m n that so onitorin of childbirt n home with the g gives mething e times whe la c b o o u r, ld if e a Sure , there ar b n d I c an e wrong ce, lik The clea react to the right choi r t if it immed births aren’t setting is advantage to b egnancy. Bu iately. pr k is -r e gh in hi the abilit you have a ed, and y to resp g in a hospital Waiting operly screen pr o fo n en r d e be e m u ve m ergency ergently you’ and yo call and serv . send an u are healthy— care— ambulan ices to take you baby and yo then tra ckup ba y nc ge r c er e n sfer you to your h h have good em rt to the ER ome , close to successful bi , a a e h ve v o e ha s n n p ca if ital, c you’r you If baby ’s tions . ical interven blood or ould take 30 min e without med oxygen utes. rmal a period no y el et pl fl m o o co w is cut f time, it ve Childbirth is o ha c ff d t o is n’ for u a es ld b do il c ity. Cert and it ainly, sit ause a long-term and natural, happ e n u ital.” a sp ti ho th o a n e in s like that to happen they ’re p vast minority o f reventa ble, why the time. But if would y OB -GYN ou risk it Bite r, MD, ?”

Ro be rt M .

G

...or at the h osp

reg La tchaw , MD, OB

ital

-GYN

but what about a birth center?

A birth center, a facility reserved for prenatal care and childbirth, is often designed to be cozy, so it sounds like the happy medium between hospital and home. But birth centers can vary greatly. Some are part of a hospital;

128

others are independent. They can be staffed by OBs, midwives and/ or nurse-midwives. Pain meds and medical interventions may or may not be available. So ask lots of questions before making your pick!

Get labor advice at TheBump.com/delivery thebump.com

free

pregnancy & baby announcement

websites!

from • Get a personal web address on The Bump, such as TheWalters.ourbabychannel.com • Share your gift registry • Upload photos and link to external photo albums • Upload videos or link to your YouTube videos

50+

color/design variations

start yours now at

TheBump.com/BabyWebsites

promotion

chicago Hospitals

Saint Joseph Hospital SERVING Chicago, IL ABOUT US From the

accessible staff, to its community of families and the inviting, state-of-the-art birthing suites, Saint Joseph Hospital provides every level of support. In-house neonatology coverage and a 24-hour, state designated Level III Perinatal Care Facility provides exceptional care—and ongoing followup medical support—to high-risk infants. Thanks to the single-room layout, families stay together as a unit. Pre- and post-delivery education is extensive, including a question-andanswer hotline, a weekly Mom Network gathering and personalized lactation consultations.

SJH.ResHealth.org/ maternity 2900 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 665-3605

H

i e cial sp

go

Sp

ca

Chicago Hospitals

i Ch

promotion

o

ta lG ui de

Swedish Covenant Hospital FOUNDED 1886 SERVING Chicago ABOUT US At Swedish

Covenant Hospital, every birth is special and unique.

Against a calming backdrop, replete with wall art and healing gardens, new and expectant parents are supported at every step of the childbirth process.

Through a partnership with Galter LifeCenter, offerings include aquatic and physical therapy, fitness programming and mother and infant massages.

Robust prenatal education and special events range from breastfeeding tutorials to how to make your own baby food. Delivery services include 24-hour access to volunteer doulas.

SwedishCovenant.org 5145 North California Ave. Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 878-8200

chicago Hospitals

Children’s Memorial Hospital FOUNDED 1882 SERVING Illinois ABOUT US Children’s

Memorial Hospital is the region’s top provider of pediatric specialty care, and Illinois’ only freestanding hospital exclusively for kids. Our staff includes 1,100 pediatric specialists and offers 70 pediatric specialties. Children’s Memorial Hospital is becoming Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Opening downtown in June 2012, our new state-of-the-art facility will help provide more care to more children. Prepare to be amazed: ChildrensMemorial .org/newhospital.

ChildrensMemorial.org 2300 Children’s Plaza Chicago, IL 60614-3363 (773) 880-4000 First-time appointments: (800) KIDS-DOC®

Nick Merrick / Hedrich Blessing

promotion

thebump.com

Get the inside scoop on fertility, pregnancy, birth and everything baby, plus chat with thousands of mommies and mommies-to-be.

stage-by-stage advice

interactive tools

Find info you need, when you need it—from getting pregnant and being a mama-to-be to baby’s first year and caring for toddlers.

local online communities and resources

Use our tools page—a personalized pregnancy checklist, addictive baby namer, easy-to-use registry and more.

real birth stories

Join in conversations happening 24/7 with other moms, plus the best stores and services—right in your area.

Read real-deal accounts from new mommies. Ooh and ahh at their new additions and submit your own story!

From the creators of The Knot, thebump.com is the go-to website for hip moms-to-be and new moms.

basics

baby

boot camp

Attention newbie mom: Use this know-how to handle the first weeks with your newborn like a seasoned veteran.

The first month with baby will be a true test—of your stamina, patience and ability to handle sleep deprivation, among other things. And since you won’t have a drill instructor to bark orders at you, we thought we’d give you some smart pointers to help you get through it. Don’t worry: Once baby graduates from newborn status to infancy, you’ll have the training...er, experience to handle most stuff parenthood throws your way.

134

thebump.com

devon jarvis

by elena donovan mauer

sleep

make day and night drastically different

If you want to get something resembling a good night’s sleep in the near future, make it your mission to help baby learn to distinguish day from night. That means exposing her to the noises and, well, daylight during the day, and keeping the nighttime about quiet and darkness. When baby wakes at night, make your encounter all business: Feed her, burp her, change her and put her back in the crib.

Save conversation and playing for daytime.

let go of perfection

Baby is not going to keep a predictable schedule anytime soon, so don’t expect her to. Instead, follow the tried-and-true “sleep when baby sleeps” advice. That means forgetting about the sink full of dirty dishes and taking a nap—because you never know when you’ll get your next opportunity! Rest is definitely more important than cleaning.

crying

keep a mental checklist

It takes awhile to get to know your baby, so if she’s crying and you don’t know how to make her stop, don’t freak out. Simply rely on trial and error. First, start with the basics: Could she be hungry or have a dirty diaper? Try feeding or changing her. Once you’ve ruled those out, consider her comfort level. Is she hot? Cold?

Does she just need some soothing? Adjust the thermostat or her clothing, hold her close and rock her. It’s okay—and totally normal— not to be able to read baby like a book.

seek help

Frequent crying or fussing can be stressful, but take comfort in knowing the crying itself doesn’t hurt baby. And because it’s too much to deal with every single cry yourself, remember to accept help from your partner and others as much as possible so you get a break. If you suspect something’s wrong

start a bedtime routine now

Babies learn quickly about life’s routines and what to expect next, so if you do a feeding, then rock and sing to baby, then put her in the crib (or whatever other routine you like), she’ll gradually learn that this series of events means bedtime. Instead of holding baby until she conks out, put her to bed while she’s drowsy but still awake. That way she’s more likely to equate the bassinet or crib with sleeping than to decide she wants to sleep (or stay awake) wherever, whenever.

let baby sleep in your room

Invest in a bassinet or a co-sleeper—or wheel in the crib—so baby can sleep by your bedside in the early weeks. Not only does keeping baby in your room (but not in your bed) decrease her risk of SIDS, but it also makes middle-of-the-night feedings less stressful, since you’ll barely have to leave your bed. (If you’re bottle-feeding, consider storing some supplies right in your room.)

(you’ve got those mom instincts now!), take baby to the pediatrician. She could have a chronic condition, such as reflux, or a protein allergy, both of which are treatable, and babies usually grow out of them—yay!

do what works

If there isn’t a medical explanation and the crying happens more than three hours a day, at least three times a week, in the first three months, then your baby can be categorized as “colicky,” which is the case for about 20 percent of babies. If that happens, you’ll want to get extra-creative and try out some soothing techniques to see how your baby responds to them. Some popular ones are swaddling, using a pacifier, rocking, white noise and vibrations—or even driving baby around town. If it works (and it’s safe for baby), go ahead and do it. The good news: Most colicky babies outgrow it by the time they’re about three months old. >

Chicago • thebump.com

135

basics

read baby’s signals

input & output

So how much are you supposed to feed this baby, anyhow? If you’re nursing, it’s hard to tell, since you won’t have bottles with ounce markings to gauge baby’s input. But luckily, babies seem to know when they’ve had enough. No matter how you’re feeding baby, she should seem content right after eating, and in those early weeks, she’ll probably fall asleep for two to three hours once she’s full.

Be careful, though—some babies want to suck on something, whether they’re hungry or not.

If sucking on a finger or pacifier calms baby, then she doesn’t need to eat any more.

do diaper checks

The other indicator that baby is eating enough is her output, so keep an eye on those diapers. Newborns should wet about 8 to 12 diapers each day. As for poop, the number isn’t so straightforward—your baby could soil 10 diapers a day (especially if you breastfeed), or she could go up to 7 to 10 days without a dirty diaper and be perfectly healthy (as long as she’s not uncomfortable!).

Just beware of hard, pellet-like poop; it could be a sign your baby is constipated.

know your colors

keep an eye on weight

Baby will likely lose up to 10 percent of her birth weight in the first three to seven days— that’s totally normal. After that, she should be gaining about half a pound a week. Your pediatrician will help you measure and track her progress and alert you if her weight gain or loss is a cause for concern.

136

thebump.com

be flexible

Like we mentioned before, baby doesn’t know how to follow a clock. Sure, there are newborns who are perfectly fine eating every three hours on the dot. If yours is one of those, lucky you! Others might be hungry closer to every two hours, or “cluster feed,” meaning they want what seems like back-to-back feedings.

(This tends to be common in the evening, so be prepared.) Seeing how some babies take as long as 45 minutes for a feeding, you might have days where you feel like all you’ve done is feed your baby. That’s totally normal.

And on those days, remember: That’s a very important thing to have accomplished! >

giraffe: jim bastardo; helmet: getty images

In baby’s first couple days, she’ll have a black stool known as meconium—that’s a product of all the stuff she “ate” in utero. After that, an exclusively breastfed baby’s poop is usually yellow and has a seedy look to it. But no matter how you feed baby, her poop could be yellow, brown or green—all of which are totally normal. If it’s red, black (after the first couple days) or white, though, it could mean there’s a problem, so notify your baby’s pediatrician if you see any of those weird colors.

make beautiful music together.

Come spend time with your kids in our exciting family classes—a rich musical environment that encourages your infant/toddler/preschooler to explore the joy of music. Find out what beautiful music you and your family can make together.

(800) 728-2692

.

www musictogether.com .

For classes in the Greater Chicago Area:

www.MusicTogether.com/Chicago

basics

avoid large crowds

keeping Newborns’ immune systems ba b y healthy have a lot of developing to do, so something as run-ofthe-mill as a fever could land them in the ER. That’s why you’ll probably want to avoid letting baby get passed around a crowded room of people you barely know.

That doesn’t mean you have to be antisocial, though. In the first weeks, a better idea than going to a party might be to have family and friends come see you in small groups or individually. Ask anyone who’ll hold the baby to wash their hands first, and politely ask sick people to wait to visit.

use your best judgment

So when is it okay to take baby out? Every new mom and pediatrician thinks something different, so you’ll have to talk to your baby’s doc and decide for yourself what’s best for your family. If you’re feeling cooped up and the weather’s nice, it’s probably just fine to take baby out for fresh air and a walk in the neighborhood. Pick a restaurant with alfresco

dining or somewhere not-so-crowded with lots of open air. Try to shield baby from strangers who might try to touch her or get close (you never know what some people will do!). Pulling down the stroller shade, draping a receiving blanket over the car seat or donning a nursing cover while wearing her in a carrier can signal to them to keep their distance.

get immunizations

You, your partner and anyone else who’ll care for baby should make sure they’re up-todate on vaccinations. Particularly important are the Tdap vaccine, which helps prevent whooping cough, and the seasonal flu vaccine.

If baby’s inner circle isn’t sick, she’s much less likely to catch something. Baby will get her first set of shots around her two-month birthday, which will give her immune system a bit of a boost against some communicable diseases. After six months, she should be able to get a flu shot.

The Bump expert: Cheryl Wu, MD, pediatrician at LaGuardia Place Pediatrics in New York City

around town When you and baby are ready for an outing, head to one of these Chicago spots.

KickSprout organizes mom meet-ups.

You’ll discuss interesting (and relevant!) topics each week—the perfect way to make new-mom friends. (312-8549020, Kick Sprout.com)

138

Chicago Park District offers free movies in local parks from June to September. Let baby snooze in her carrier while you catch a flick.

(312-742-1134, ChicagoPark District.com)

Bellybum Boutique has some fun classes for mom and baby, including topics like “Let’s Play...En Francais!” and “The Early Days: Baby’s Here, What Now?” (773-8680944, Bellybum Boutique.com)

Little Beans offers a Music & Movement class for ages six months to two years. You and baby can let loose and (when he’s older) dance!

(773-251-1025, LittleBeans Cafe.com)

No-stress tricks at TheBump.com/newmom thebump.com

Develop the Mind…

Experience the Fun! • High Quality Fun • Brain Stimulating Activities

$20 OFF

first class enrollment, online code bump-b4 see index

mommy deals

The very best in early childhood music education.

• Highly Trained Teachers • Award Winning Music • Premium Instruments • Connect with other moms • Teach your baby the language of music • Birthday Party Packages

(773) 572-8054 3829 N. Southport Chicago, IL 60613 www.themusicplayhouse.com

Coffee. Community. Kids.

We’re a hip Chicago coffee shop with a separate new mom’s room and family room with an indoor play space. Our family room offers the perfect spot for parents to relax, chat, read or work while the little ones enjoy our age-appropriate indoor play space, complete with a Victorian-style house, train table, and rotating play themes.

Play memberships are perfect for those who want to visit us often!

We offer FREE Wi-Fi and FREE PARKING. Kids welcomed. Kids appreciated. You may now relax. A café where kids can be kids and you can be you!

3652 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60613 773.281.0785 • www.FamilyGroundsCafe.com Facebook.com/familygroundscafe mommy deals

FREE month of our New Mom’s Membership (see index)

basics

the 411 on breastfeeding Brush up on the basics to make nursing go a whole lot smoother.

by Nina Carbone

getting started

FOCUS Sit with baby in a

quiet space with few distractions and easy access to all the things you need for nursing: a burp cloth, a pillow (a nursing pillow, if you’ve got one) and a clock for keeping time.

Get comfortable Rest

baby on the pillow so you can easily elevate him and bring him closer to your breast.

This will help keep you from having to lean over too far and putting additional pressure on your back.

Think tummy to tummy

Check to make sure your baby is comfortable too.

Place him on his side with his body facing your nipples.

His neck should stay straight, and his head shouldn’t turn to either side.

holding positions

Crossover hold This is a great

1 position for a first-timer! Use your right arm to hold baby while he nurses on your left breast. Gently cup the back of his head with your right hand. Your thumb and pointer finger should be at each of his ears.

tip

2 If baby is feeding on the Football hold

right breast, hold her torso under your right armpit, like you’re cradling a football.

Cradle hold Support his head

3 in the bend of your left elbow

this page: brown bird design; previous page: GETTY IMAGES

while he lies in front of your body and nurses from your left breast.

4

Side-lying hold Lie on your

side and place baby facing you—belly to belly. Bring her close and let her latch on to the breast that’s closer to the mattress.

Once baby is done nursing on one breast, offer him the other. If he doesn’t nurse more, that’s okay.

Start with the opposite breast each time so baby doesn’t start playing favorites!

Twins holds Got twins? Try the double football

5 hold: Use two pillows to prop your babies on either

side of your waist, facing you. Lean forward, resting your arms on either side of the pillows and holding their heads, feeding one baby on each breast simultaneously. Or modify other holds to make them work for your twins. >

Chicago • thebump.com

141

basics

troubleshooting

issue You can’t get your baby to latch on. solution Relax and take your time! You’ll know it’s right if baby’s lips are turned out and she has enough of your breast in her mouth.

(See our latching pointers on page 144.) If your baby is tightening or pursing her lower lip, gently press on her chin to help turn her lip out.

It could take a few weeks for you to feel like you’re getting this right the first time, every time, but the earlier you can, the better. So ask for help. issue You’re worried. solution If it doesn’t

seem to be going well, don’t hesitate to call a lactation consultant. In one visit (often covered by your insurance company), they can usually identify any real issues and make you feel much more confident.

issue You’re engorged. solution As your body

learns to release the right amount of milk, you could find yourself painfully full.

Use a breast pump to pump an ounce or two of milk—or manually express it—to relieve the pressure so your breast is soft enough for baby to latch on to. A hot shower can also help.

issue Your milk hasn’t come in. solution Wait it out. It can take a fews days or up to two weeks post-birth for your body to learn to release milk. But baby is still getting nourishment from the colostrum you had before he was even born. Keep nursing him every two to three hours to stimulate milk production and take note of his number of wet diapers.

issue You don’t like breastfeeding. solution Nursing can feel awkward, make you sore and take up what seems like all your waking time in the beginning, but both you and baby will get the hang of it—and he’ll get more efficient. (And the soreness usually goes away.) Be careful not to let yourself be pressured into formula feeding just because “it’s easier.” issue Your nipples are inverted or flat. solution To draw the nipple out, try pumping just before nursing. You might also try nipple shields, which direct milk through a hole and into baby’s mouth. The only problem: They can lead to a decrease in milk supply, so talk to a pro first.

breastfeeding myths debunked MYTH I got a boob

MYTH Eat for two

MYTH My milk

MYTH Nursing

job, so I can’t breastfeed.

REALITY Silicone implants aren’t harmful to baby. However, if the incision was through the areola, then you may have problems with milk supply.

while nursing.

REALITY You only need about 200 to 500 extra calories a day.

But you should be drinking extra water. Aim to drink nine glasses, instead of the usual eight, each day.

is fine after I drink wine if I pump and dump.

REALITY Alcohol stays in your bloodstream even if you pump. Wait three hours to nurse after five ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer.

will make my boobs sag.

REALITY Yes, your breasts will probably change, but the real truth is, pregnancy alone plays a bigger role in that than whether you breastfeed does.

142

thebump.com

been there, done that Advice from Bumpies who breastfed (and lived to tell about it).

It doesn’t just happen.

You both have to work at it.

Be patient.

Good2BdaMommy

Have your partner change diapers in the middle of the night, so your only job is to nurse. chadandamy

Stick with it! It really pays off in the end.

fyi

AAP advises nursing at least until baby’s first birthday.

must-buy breast pumps

from top: veer; courtesy of the manufacturer

Get a good, quality pump to make time away from baby much easier.

lynnbeez

Remember that she’ll only be little once.

Thinking about that helped me enjoy the time we had together, alone, nursing, even when it was the middle of the night.

a few we love

Pump in Style Advanced by Medela, from about $280 Purely Yours Ultra by Ameda, about $300 Manual Breast Pump by Lansinoh, about $30 >

StacieErin

Don’t try to schedule feedings.

Your baby will let you know when he needs to be fed. irishmolly04

Chicago • thebump.com

143

basics

Use your nipple to tickle baby’s lower lip so he opens his mouth wide.

Keep your back straight and bring baby to your breast. It’s important to really pull baby close to you.

Aim your nipple toward the roof of his mouth. For a proper latch, at least a half inch of your breast in addition to the nipple should be in his mouth, so be sure most of your areola is in there.

Baby should start to suck to get your nipple into position and to signal your body to “let down” the milk.

bumps you may hit in the breastfeeding road

Breastfeeding.com has answers, videos and info on local lactation consultants.

Be sure to resolve serious issues ASAP, but don’t worry; they’re totally fixable.

plugged ducts

Got it? When your milk

doesn’t drain completely, your ducts can get clogged.

Your breast will be sore to the touch, or you may notice a hard lump or redness.

Fix it Avoid long stretches between feedings, make sure bras aren’t too tight, apply warm compresses to your breast and massage it to get milk moving. Be on the lookout—a plugged duct could turn into mastitis.

mastitis

Got it? A bacterial infection marked by flu-like symptoms, which include fever, swelling and pain in your breasts. You may also have cracked skin, engorgement or clogged ducts. Mastitis usually occurs within the first couple months of nursing.

Fix it Antibiotics, frequent nursing or pumping and hot compresses.

144

thebump.com

Watch baby’s cheekbones and listen for swallowing to make sure that he’s really drinking. Don’t be fooled by just suckling sounds—they don’t always mean that baby is getting milk.

more

thrush

Got it? It’s a yeast infection in your baby’s mouth that can spread to your boobs. Look for itchiness, shooting pain after feedings, soreness, rash or intense burn.

Fix it You need antifungal medicine for your nipples and baby’s mouth.

Start sterilizing everything (pacifiers, bottles, toys), and rinse and thoroughly dry your nipples after each time baby nurses.

cracked nipples

Got it? It’s when nipple skin is broken, dry and sometimes bloody.

Fix it Start by ruling out thrush. Then check baby’s positioning. Between feedings, apply a lanolin cream that’s made for dry, cracked, sore nipples

and is safe in case baby ingests some (like Lansinoh).

Try putting some milk on your nipples after nursing and let them air-dry—breast milk can actually help heal dry skin. Amazing!

The Bump experts: Jane Morton, MD, pediatrician at Burgess Pediatrics in Menlo Park, California, and andi silverman , author of Mama Knows Breast: A Beginner’s Guide to Breastfeeding

veer

latching pointers

Chicago Nannies, Inc. is the leader in household staffing.

10 years+ of placing nannies and newborn care specialists throughout Chicagoland Permanent, temporary and emergency staffing Comprehensive applicant screening and extensive menu of background check options A reputation built on the trust and faith that our families have in us A straightforward, intuitive and transparent process 24-hour baby nurse services

Contact us to learn more about how we can support your family.

708.524.2101 | www.ChicagoNanniesInc.com | contact@chicagonanniesinc.com 773.720.5505 | Licensed & Bonded | Member of the International Nanny Association

Learn more at www.pinedentalcare.com At Pine Dental Care, it is our goal to create a fun, educational and positive dental experience for you

1460 North Halsted St., Suite 403 Chicago, IL 60642

773-880-5455

and your child. Our doctors specialize in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, giving our practice the unique ability to work with patients of all ages.

2601 Compass Road, Suite 105 Glenview, IL 60026

847-724-5455

basics

your breastfeeding diet You probably stuck to a healthy pregnancy diet. So there’s no need to change much if you’re still fueling up on these nutritious foods. (But ask your doc if you should take a vitamin too!) by nina carbone

calcium Getting enough calcium is important to prevent bone loss, so eat plenty of yogurt, milk and cheese. Don’t eat dairy? Get calcium from tofu, soy cheese or tahini. lean proteins Aim for about 5.5 oz. of lean meat. Suitable subs for 1 oz. of meat include an egg, a tablespoon of peanut butter and 1/4 cup of cooked beans. whole grains Healthy carbs give you energy to make milk and keep up with baby. The fiber will help keep your digestive system working properly. fruits and veggies Fruits and veggies offer plenty of vitamins— most notably C, which helps you stay healthy. omega-3-rich (but low-mercury) fish DHA (a type of omega-3) is thought to help baby’s brain develop—even after birth! You can also take a 200 mg supplement.

146

Get nursing tips at TheBump.com/feeding thebump.com

spinach, yogurt, bread, apple, orange: shutterstock; milk, chicken, pear, shrimp: thinkstock; broccoli: istockphoto

iron-rich foods, such as leafy greens Nursing moms need 10 mg of iron a day. It’s in red meat, beans and leafies like broccoli and spinach.

Sensory learning, neuromuscular activities and spatial awareness, otherwise referred to as,

“WEEEEEEEE!!�

The Little Gym helps children reach their greatest potential.

From 4 months through 12 years, classes promote development and build confidence during each stage of childhood.

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657 773.525.5750 - tlgchicagoil@thelittlegym.com - www.thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL

Real Babysitters. Real Easy.

Experienced, adult sitters Rigorous screening process Childcare arranged through a single phone call or email Competitive rates No booking fees Full-time, part-time and occasional

Northwest suburbs (847) 202-9100 contact@mothers-helpers.net

Downtown Chicago (312) 909-5508 reach@mothers-helpers.net

North Shore area (847) 272-8600 connect@mothers-helpers.net

For more details, visit us online at www.MothersHelpersChicago.com or www.mothers-helpers.net

basics

say what?!

Toddlerhood starts, and—finally!—you two can have a conversation. Try these fun ways to encourage his language skills.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

You might naturally stop using that singsongy voice with your toddler once you realize how much he truly understands—you’ll ask him to bring you a book and he’ll walk to the bookshelf, or you’ll wonder out loud where the cat is and he’ll point to Chester.

Baby talk isn’t necessary anymore, since he’s already paying attention to your words and making meaningful associations.

keep it simple

When you talk to him, use straightforward, simple words and short sentences to keep him from getting confused. “Think of it as mini bullets,” says Dr. Fran Walfish, child and family therapist and author of The SelfAware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building a Better Bond with Your Child. “The less

let’s chat!

words, the easier it is for the child to comprehend.” Slow down and enunciate clearly, so he can learn more of your words.

become a narrator

Talk to your child about what’s going on around him—and if he’s communicating nonverbally, give him the words. For example, if he’s raising his arms to you, says Walfish, “say, ‘Sam wants mommy to pick him up.

Pick up the baby!’” It might seem weird to call yourself “mommy” instead of “me,” but young toddlers don’t really get pronouns just yet, so your point will be much clearer.

listen closely and reply

In the beginning, your toddler’s words will be hard to understand—you might not know whether he’s actually talking or just babbling. But if you really listen—and look at what he’s pointing or motioning at—you’ll start to get it. Up his confidence level by showing him you understand. If he’s saying “da” for “duck,” respond by saying, “Yes, that’s a duck!” Resist the urge to start calling things by his words for them, and he’ll more easily learn the correct pronunciation.

practice patience

Kids learn to talk at different rates, so if yours seems behind, he’s likely just fine. Keep talking with him to help him catch on. It’s worth it to mention any delays to his pediatrician so the doc can check for explanations (like a hearing problem) or lead you to a pro who’s trained in helping kids learn to speak.

More toddler tips at TheBump.com/tots

getty images

quit the baby talk

wow!

By the age of two, a toddler’s vocab can reach over 50 words.

save

$450

on one year of childcare

see index

mommy deals

basics

breastfeeding tracker date:

baby’s name:

feedings breast left | right

time

feeding duration

baby’s mood

: : : : : : : : : : : : : :

diapers

Circle and keep track of baby’s diaper changes throughout the day. pee poo

time

150

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

Download more trackers at TheBump.com/tracker thebump.com

:

“Where fun and imaginations meet!”

Kid City allows children six and under to explore the function of a city through pretend play. We feature a market, post office, play house, dress-up boutique, reading corner, automobiles and much more.

50% OFF your first open play visit

see index

mommy deals

Available for private birthday parties 1837 W. Grand Ave.Chicago, IL 60622 (312) 829-6775 info@kidcitychicago.com www.KidCityChicago.com

A well fed baby is a happy baby!

Lactasties are tasty treats for lactating mommies that

provide essential nutrition and enhance your breast milk supply while satisfying your sweet tooth with a fresh, home-baked taste!

Enhance and enrich your milk supply deliciously!

Every Lactasties cookie is baked with top quality, allnatural ingredients with no preservatives or highfructose corn syrup. Lactasties contain oats, brewer’s yeast, and flax seed – time-tested, natural breast milk supplements. One to two cookies daily is all it takes!

Available in chocolate chip, almond raisin, and dairyfree and gluten-free varieties.

Available online and in Orland Park, IL, at

www.lactasties.com chefvictoria@lactasties.com (708) 917-8029

basics

bottle-feeding tracker baby’s name:

date:

feedings amount

time

notes

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz.

:

oz. oz.

total

diapers

Circle and keep track of baby’s diaper changes throughout the day. pee poo

time

152

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

Download more trackers at TheBump.com/tracker thebump.com

:

www.languagestars.com 866-55-STARS

Our Passion: education for optimal dental health, preventing the onset of dental disease.

Pediatric Dental Health Associates 737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1330 Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 286-8198

basics Nip slips, breast milk storage, easing gas pains and more…

When will baby sleep through the night?

Have some patience, new mama. While some newborns sleep for a six-hour stretch in the first six to eight weeks, most won’t until they’re at least three months old. But there are some things you can do to help her learn to sleep better. First, keep a nightly bedtime routine (think: bath, jammies and lullaby). Teach her to fall asleep on her own by laying her in her crib while she’s tired but not yet asleep. If you always rock her or give her a bottle until her eyes shut, she may think those actions are necessary for sleep. But if she knows she can fall asleep on her own, she’s more likely to do that if she wakes up at night, rather than call out to you.

I’m nervous about a nip slip! Any tips for breastfeeding in public?

Practice, practice, practice! While you’re at home, nurse baby in front of a full-length mirror to see what everyone else is seeing.

You’ll probably find there’s actually a lot less boobage exposed than you thought.

And checking your reflection will help you find the least-revealing position. Experiment with different nursing tops to find what works best for you. Many moms go for loose button-downs or layer with a cardigan to avoid an exposed breast. Nursing camis are popular too (you won’t have to lift your shirt and show off your tummy). You could also use a receiving blanket or a nursing cover for extra discretion. If you’re still nervous, find a

154

thebump.com

place to nurse that’s out of the way. Take the corner table at the café, or ask a store clerk if you can use a fitting room for extra privacy (public bathrooms can be gross and usually don’t have seating). Buddying up is a great idea, too, since you’ll probably feel more comfortable among supportive friends.

Find breast buddies at a baby playgroup, a breastfeeding support group or any babyfriendly places in your neighborhood. And don’t worry—as time goes on, you’ll get more comfortable “eating out.”

How should I store my breast milk, and how long will it keep?

Store your breast milk in a glass or a BPA-free plastic container that’s clear in color (so you’re sure it’s dye-free). Plastic storage bags work too, as long as they’re made for breastmilk storage (regular plastic zipper bags can be weak and leak). Freshly pumped milk can stay at room temperature for up to six hours and will keep in your fridge for up to seven days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you can freeze breast milk for up to three to six months in a regular freezer, or up to 12 months in a freestanding deep freezer. Slow-thaw the milk in the fridge for 12 hours, or submerge the frozen milk in a cup of warm water to speed up the thawing process. Remember, never microwave a bottle—it can remove some of the milk’s nutritional value or overheat the bottle, risking a burn to baby’s mouth. >

Are you tired of dieting?

Lose your baby weight in a way that’s fun and free of discipline and guilt!

Nutrisults clients experience weight loss, increased energy and feel good in their bodies again!

Revolutionizing how you find your

nanny.

The first of its kind, we’re a nanny provider offering virtual introductions. View prerecorded videos of candidates matched to your family from computer or smart phone 24/7—anywhere in the world.

Only meet with nannies you’ve preselected.

Mention this ad for special discounts.

Call 773.649.9454

Learn more at www.nutrisults.com

773.856.5525 • CambridgeNannyGroup.com

4 vaccinations baby will need from birth to six months

A look at some of the common vaccines your child may recieve.

Hepatitis B Vaccine (HepB)

The first dose should be given before she’s discharged from the hospital after birth.

She’ll get the second dose between one to two months and the third between six to 18 months.

Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV)

Streptococcus pneumonia is an illness that can be serious and even lead to death. Baby should get this at 2 months, 4 months and 6 months, and a booster given between 12 and 15 months.

Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine (DTaP)

It’s a combination vaccine to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Your child will get it at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, between 15 and 18 months and 4 to 6 years.

Rotavirus Vaccine (RV)

It’s not a shot— this vaccine is taken orally. Baby will get it between 2 months and 4 months of age, in two to three doses, depending on the brand of vaccine she gets.

Find more new mom tips at TheBump.com/newborn

basics

My husband wants to taste my breast milk.

Is that safe?

Yup! As long as you’re healthy (and HIV-free), there’s nothing harmful in your breast milk. After all, it’s made for human consumption, so it’s fine to eat. In fact, breast milk has so much good stuff in it (like antibodies), it’s been used as a home remedy for diaper rash, sore nipples, burns, bug bites and even as a makeup remover (seriously!). As for the taste, expect it to be bland with a bit of sweetness.

And the flavor can actually change subtly depending on what you’ve been eating.

(

What should I keep in my diaper bag?

How much you carry depends on whether you like to be ultra-prepared or to travel light. If you’re bottle-feeding, you’re going to want to keep extra bottles, nipples and formula in the bag. Are you a nursing mom? Throw in your nursing cover. Be sure to have important numbers (in case of an emergency), extra money (you’ll be prepared for an unexpected snack time), a hat, zip-top bags (for dirty diapers or clothes), an extra blanket and a change of clothes, since you never know when there will be a diaper blowout! Another smart idea: Keep a copy of baby’s updated immunization card in a safe spot (like a plastic baggie, so it won’t get spilled on!) so you’re prepared at each doctor’s visit. Of course, don’t forget wipes and extra diapers (one for every two hours, plus a few extra)! >

(

OMG, is that poop on my shirt? How do I get these baby stains out of clothing?

Here’s help for tough stains: poop Wipe off any poop with a spoon or dull knife and pretreat the stain with a stain remover like Spray ‘N Wash.

Let it sit on the garment for five minutes before tossing it in the washing machine.

Check the stain after it goes through the wash. If it looks like it didn’t come out fully, don’t put it in the dryer—airdry it instead, since the dryer can actually set the stain.

For lingering stains, soak the garment in color-safe bleach for at least 30. pee Rinse the clothing in cold water and toss it into the washing machine as soon as you can! It’s usually super easy to remove, as long as it doesn’t sit too long. spit-up Rinse the garment in cold water and use a stain remover before tossing it in the washing machine. If it’s a big stain, you may want to soak it in warm water and detergent for 15 minutes first. Depending on what baby ate, the stain should come out easily. If it’s still there after you wash and air-dry it, soak the garment in color-safe bleach. blood Rinse the clothing in cold water and use a stain remover before putting it in the washing machine. Air-dry. If it’s still there, treat the stain with hydrogen peroxide.

How should I protect baby from the sun?

We love warm weather, but the sun comes with heat and free-radical risk, which can be harmful to baby’s skin.

Slather baby with sunscreen when she’s under the rays (especially when the sun is at its strongest, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and keep her protected with a shade. You may have heard that sunscreen can’t be used until six months because babies’ skin is so sensitive, but as long as it’s a mineral-based one (look for active ingredients of zinc and/or titanium), you can use it from birth.

home, sweet

home!

from k

check out

updatyed dail thenest.com

from

a sister site of

k

basics Whoa! Baby’s pooping eight times a day. Is this normal?

Yes, if baby’s breastfeeding, he could poop as often as after every feeding during his first six months. But it’s also normal if baby’s only pooping once every few days. Do keep an eye on the color and consistency, though: Breastfed babies usually poop a mustardyellow color, but the poop could range in color from yellow to brown to green no matter how he’s fed. All those colors are normal, and there’s no reason to worry— as long as baby’s poop isn’t hard. If it’s hard and pebblelike, red (could be blood), black (could be digested blood) or white (could signal a liver problem), give the pediatrician a call.

Can I get pregnant while I’m still breastfeeding?

Maybe. Generally speaking, exclusive nursing can help prevent pregnancy. Here’s why: Prolactin, the hormone that stimulates the production of milk, also prevents eggs from maturing and becoming fertilized. But know that this isn’t a foolproof birth control system, so always use a backup method if you’re not ready for baby number two just yet. Male and female condoms, diaphragms, nonhormonal intrauterine devices, cervical caps and

158

vaginal sponges are all safe forms of birth control for breastfeeding mamas. Talk to your doc about the right backup method for you.

What’s the best position for a newborn to sleep in?

Yay, you finally got baby to sleep! Believe it or not, not all sleep positions are created equal. Placing baby on his back is the safest sleep position. Even if you believe baby will sleep more soundly on his stomach or side, resist the temptation. Tummy sleeping dramatically increases the risk of SIDS. But if baby starts rolling over from his back to his stomach in the crib on his own (this usually happens around four or five months), it’s safe for him to sleep on his tummy. Still, place him on his back at the start of the night. If he turns to his tummy himself, that’s totally okay.

More stay-safe tips

Steer clear of infant sleep positioners, which seem like a way to keep baby from rolling over but actually can increase the risk of babies suffocating. Also, keep the crib clutter-free: Pillows, stuffed animals and bumpers are all suffocation hazards too. Without them, you can rest much easier.

The Bump experts: steve boorstein , ClothingDoctor.com; Louis Borgenicht, MD, pediatrician; Dawn Cedrone, RN, NewBornMomSolutions.com; Deborah Davis, MD, pediatrician; Conner Herman and Kira Ryan , cofounders of Dream Team Baby; and Kim Walls , CEO of Episencial

How can I ease baby’s gas pains?

All babies get gas—it’s a natural by-product—but some babies are bothered by gas more than others. If you suspect baby is uncomfortable because of gas, you can help expel it by carefully bicycling her legs or giving her a gentle belly massage. If she seems to be in pain and is crying frequently, call your pediatrician to determine if she’s experiencing other problems that should be medically treated.

Newborn tips at TheBump.com/babyq&a thebump.com

e-market place

i knew I was a dad...

holy crap, i’m a dad!

Read on to see what happened to real dads when they realized they were a parent. i knew I was a dad...

i knew I was a dad...

the first time my son smiled at me. Not the smile a baby gives when he has gas, but the one that says, ‘Hey, I know you!’

when my wife was asking me to give the 4 a.m. feeding. john

when I could pick up and throw away my daughter’s poop balls without thinking twice about it. zane

i knew I was a dad...

when I realized she has my eyes...Since I was adopted, I have never seen anyone that looks like me before.

At that moment I thought, she’s really mine. david

joe

Get new dad tips at TheBump.com/newmomnewdad

mommy deals It pays to be a mommy! Get in on fabulous freebies, discounts and savings—just for you!

BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS Mention our ad in-store

and receive 10% off your purchase of $100 or more, or receive 10% off any order online with code: Bump2012.

Bedrooms4Kids Outlet Mention this ad to 2Sisters Photography Receive one

complimentary 11x14 print or fifty complimentary birth announcements with your session and print order when you mention The Bump. Only for first time clients and not valid with mini sessions, events or any other promotions.

4D Imaging LLC. Receive a free heartbeat keepsake with any 3D package. Must use code: Bumpheart at the time of the appointment.

ALICIA’S PHOTOGRAPHY $50 off your session when you mention The Bump.

receive a free crib mattress with the purchase of any solid hardwood conversion crib and dresser of your choice ($149.99 value).

Bellē Up Maternity Mention this ad to receive

$20 off your first in-store purchase of $100 or more. Not to be combined with other sales or promos. Expires 12/1/12.

Bellybuds® Receive 15% off and free shipping when you purchase Bellybuds® at www.bellybuds.com. Enter claim code: BB2GET15 at checkout.

Bold & Posh By Lauren—Ashley Barnes

AuPairCare Save $450 on one year of childcare!

Mention promo code: AUPAIRS to receive a free application ($350 value) and $100 off program fees.

Balancing Point Center for Wellness

Receive $39 for a 30-minute or $75 for a 60-minute prenatal/postnatal massage (along with a free initial consultation with the doctor).

Also receive an extra $10 off all additional services. Mention The Bump when scheduling each appointment.

Mention The Bump to receive $5 off your first order of $30, or $10 off $50. Offer expires December 25, 2012.

Bottoms Up, Inc Mention The Bump with your first order of diaper service and receive two prowrap covers of any size or receive four prowrap covers when you order our 11 week/12th week free service.

Bubbles Academy Get 15% off your first Babies or Crawlers class session! Bond with baby while he or she enjoys developmentally stimulating

.com p m u b e h t Visit d let

Check it out!

today—an ts roll. n t he discou

music, colors, activities and fun. Call us at (312) 944-7677, and mention The Bump during registration to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

Byrdhouse Photography Receive a

complimentary 5x30 storyboard panel with your print order, when you book both a maternity and newborn session. Please mention The Bump when booking your session.

Car seat Canopy Get 100% off the car seat

canopy of your choice at www.CarSeatCanopy .com when you use promo code: bump.

The Celebration Stem Cell Centre We will process and bank your baby’s cord blood according to the stringent quality standards of a public donation bank. Register online and enter promo code: IL-500 to receive $200 off initial stem cell processing costs.

Chicago Nannies Mention The Bump and

receive 10% off any permanent placement service.

Children’s Memorial Hospital is becoming

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Opening downtown in June 2012, our new state-of-the-art facility will help provide more care to more children. Prepare to be amazed: ChildrensMemorial.org/newhospital.

Clean Green Nappy Diaper Service Prepay for 3 months, save 10% (like getting a week free).

Prepay for 6 months, save 11.5% (like getting 3 weeks free). Prepay for 12 months, save 13% (like getting 7 weeks free).

COUNTRY® Financial—Michael W. Basile

Get the answers you need to make informed decisions about your insurance and investments.

That’s why I’m offering a comprehensive financial plan at no cost. Contact me at (773) 728-2957 to schedule an appointment.

Cradles & All Baby and Children’s Shop

Mention The Bump ad in-store and receive 10% off your purchase of $100 or more and $50 off any glider and ottoman.

Cribs To College Bedrooms Free gift while

supplies last! Some restrictions apply. Not valid with other offers or on prior purchases. See store for details.

Entrée Kitchen Free meal assembly for

expectant and new moms ($18 value) with code: 381b9655c4. Take advantage of our curbside service when you order and pay online. No need to take your baby out of the car. Minimum purchase of 6-entrée package.

Family Grounds Cafe Get one free trial month of our new mom’s membership. It’s the perfect opportunity to check us out and meet other moms new to motherhood! Discussion groups are lead through kickSprout with a discount of up to 40% off most events offered at our café.

Foss Swim School Free swim diaper

with registration.

value varies by location). New customers only.

Not redeemable for cash. One offer per child. See academy director for details.

Galter LifeCenter Receive 10% off a prenatal yoga or prenatal aquatic class. Please mention The Bump when registering.

Kustum Kribs Baby Boutique Free weekly

GoldenView Ultrasound Free upgrade from

quick gender determination session to ultimate gender determination session. Available from 15 weeks.

Gymboree Play & Music The two of you for $22 for your first month! Plus, no new member fee, and a free class on us! Offer valid through 2/28/2014. Must enroll by child’s first birthday.

Other restrictions may apply.

Helios Center For Movement Save 20% off of the purchase of 10 Bump Camp (prenatal) or Return To Life (postnatal) classes. Regular price: $150.00. Mommy Deal price: $120.00. Limit one offer per customer.

“I’m the Daddy” Gear by DaddyScrubs Visit

our website today to see our full line of daddy gear for labor, delivery and beyond for new dads!

Use promo code: bump10 to receive 10% off your entire purchase.

mom meet-ups, story times and tot music and movement sessions. Mention this exclusive offer and receive 15% off your first purchase with online code: BabyBump. Not valid with any other promotions or on-sale items.

Language Stars Mention The Bump and receive $50 off your first season’s tuition at any of our Language Stars locations!

LAZAR’S JUVENILE FURNITURE Save 20% on a crib mattress when you mention The Bump. leoleno Mention The Bump and receive 10% off

one item!

THE LITTLE GYM We’re offering 50% off the first semester of Bugs class for children four to ten months. Must enroll in the Value Plan and must become members. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Up to a $210 value per child!

Little Portraits Free 8x10 portrait with your

photo session and print order. Just mention you saw our Little Portraits ad in The Bump.

JustKidsStore The Bump readers receive 15% off any regularly priced item. To redeem, enter promotion code: BUMP15 at checkout, or bring your book and show this page at the register.

Items from certain manufacturers excluded.

Mother’s Helpers Mention The Bump and receive $15 off your membership!

kickin’—active boutique for moms-to-be & babes Receive $25 gift certificate for a future

Bunnies or Pups class enrollment. Use coupon code: BUMP-A2 when you register online, or call us at (773) 572-8054.

purchase with any $250 pre-tax purchase. Offer not combinable with other offers or sale items.

Valid through December 2012.

KICKSPROUT Join us for your first kickSprout

event and receive 25% off the ticket price using code: thebump.

Kid City Chicago LLC Get 50% off your first

open-play visit! This special offer is valid before baby’s first birthday. Call us at (312) 829-6775 and mention The Bump to take advantage of this exclusive promotion.

Kiddie Academy® Enroll your child by December 2012 and receive free registration (maximum

The Music Playhouse Receive $20 off your first

MUSIC TOGETHER Receive free registration when you mention code: “BUMP” at any participating center in the greater Chicago area.

My Baby Pumpkin, LLC Shop with My Baby

Pumpkin, LLC for all your cloth diapering needs and receive 10% your order with the coupon code: thebump until 12/31/2012. (Excludes bumgenius, flip and econobum products.)

MYGOFER.COM Receive 25% off first purchase of baby or nursery items, plus 10% off all baby food and nutrition, health and safety, baby and toddler clothing, feeding, and diapers

purchases through 2012. To claim, visit mygofer.com/bump.

New Mother New Baby Call us to schedule your free breastfeeding class with our renowned lactation consultant. Get the information you need to have the most successful breastfeeding experience, including getting through the first week, best breast pumps and tips on returning to work.

Old Town School of Folk Music Readers of

The Bump are invited to come to a free trial of a current Wiggleworms or Lullabies class. Call (773) 728-6000 to reserve your space in one of our available classes and join the fun!

ONCE UPON A CHILD $5.00 off a $30.00

purchase or $10.00 off $50.00.

SOBEN STUDIOS Mention The Bump to receive 48 free birth announcements or a $100 credit towards an album.

STEMCYTE, INC. Sign up with StemCyte and use your special code: BUMP to receive a $250 discount on your enrollment fees! This offer cannot be combined with other offers.

THE STORK’S CRADLE Present your guide in-store to receive a free Teething Bling necklace! This fabulous Mom must-have looks beautiful on mom and is fun for baby!

SWADDLEDESIGNS Shop at SwaddleDesigns.com for new styles and hard-to-find items. Our collection includes over 700 stylish, quality essentials. Free shipping with orders over $75.

Receive a 10% discount with promo code: Bump10.

Once Upon A Child—Oak Brook Take $5 off a purchase of $30 or more! Present your guide at time of purchase to receive discount. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Not valid on past transactions or on discounted/clearance items.

Offer expires 12/31/12.

Sweet Dreams Infant Care All first-time customers, mention The Bump and receive a free Miracle Blanket, the only swaddle blanket that guarantees your baby a better night’s sleep.

Helps babies sleep better on their backs!

Our Baby Mention our ad in-store and receive

Tonya Underwood Photography Let us

10% off your furniture purchase of $100 or more.

Also, get $25 off any glider purchase. Cannot be combined with other store offers.

Peek A Belly 3D Free DVD when you mention

The Bump.

Sauganash Wellness Center Baby’s first visit

is free! Plus, moms receive free goodies!

SERENITY HEALTH & WELLNESS First time clients—come and experience what Serenity Health & Wellness has to offer. Receive a one-time discount of 20% off an initial consultation for the expecting woman with one of the physicians. Treat yourself to a pain free pregnancy!

Seven slings Get 100% off the baby carrier of

your choice at www.SevenSlings.com when you use promo code: bump.

Shay Feeney Photography Mention The Bump when you schedule your session and receive $25 towards a digital collection or $75 toward a keepsake album.

know you found us in The Bump and receive $50 towards a 7x7 coffee table book when you book a session. First-time customers only please.

Udder Covers Get 100% off the nursing cover of your choice at www.UdderCovers.com when you use promo code: bump.

Unison Get 15% off your online purchase with promo code: BUMP15 or mention in-store.

Urba Baby Mention The Bump and receive 10% off one item!

ZWalls Use coupon code: ZBump at ZWalls.com

to receive 10% off any order. No minimum purchase necessary. Applies to any item or items.

Eligible for free shipping but cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 7/1/12.

*In-store restrictions may apply. Offers from Mommy Deals partners are the sole responsibility of the providing partner.

Mommy Deals and their offers are subject to change at any time.

NEW! from

bump he

from

k

Now you can create and manage all of your registries in one place.

Plus, create a free pregnancy or baby website to share your baby updates, photos and registries with friends and family!

thebump.com/registry Featuring the registries of...

find a couple’s baby registry

create your own baby registry

CS120470 Chicago Coop Two Mommies Bump color ad 4.75x7.875_CS120470 Chicago coop Two M

Two new mommies will become the oldest of friends.

COMMUNIT Y BEGINS AT KIDDIE ACADEMY.®

Welcome to Kiddie Academy®—a community where fun and learning experiences are shared every day.

With Kiddie Academy,® you can give your child a strong foundation for the future. Discover the Kiddie Academy community near you today.

enroll by december for

free

registration see index

mommy deals

BATAVIA BOLINGBROOK CARPENTERSVILLE STREAMWOOD

630.761.4500 630.679.9400 847.844.8600 630.497.0200

www.kiddieacademy.com

mention the bump and receive

10% OFF

one item

see index

mommy deals

Apparel. Maternity. Feeding. Toys. Books.

Accessories‌and more!

Lincoln Park’s newest community baby store, where families can learn and grow.

A one-stop resource for everything baby, Urba Baby offers shopping, classes, events and story-time, all tailored to city families.

1117 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL 60614 | 773.472.BABY (2229) | info@urbababy.com

www.urbababy.com