The Bump Houston by The Bump

thebump.com/houston from

Vol. 9, Edition 2

what labor is really like

8 biggest

mistakes new moms make

Hilaria Baldwin shows yoga moves to make birth easier

$4.95

free

session with any booked baby collection

see index

mommy deals

motherhood center photogra phy

from

volume 9, edition 2

c ontents

what’s hot 8 the social club tweet, post and pin us 12 bumpie buzz baby news from houston and beyond 14 what’s in a name? top texas baby names and what they mean 16 made for mamato-be pregnancy-safe beauty products 18 ace the tests timeline of prenatal tests 20 wacky products that work weird, but useful, baby gear 22 baby by the numbers fascinating stats 24 how big is baby? weekly growth and development 144 mommy deals save big on baby stuff

beyond

basics

delivery

nest

glow

celebrate

a shower is just the start

unconventional ideas to celebrate baby

celebrate 30 third time around ali landry gets real about pregnancy 40 my pregnancy diary a local mom’s story 42 girlfriend getaways cool prebaby trips to take with friends 44 is it safe? the real deal on what you can and can’t do 46 picture perfect take great family pics 52 q+a from decoy baby names to knowing baby’s gender

on the cover

glow 56 all the right moves hilaria baldwin’s prenatal yoga poses 62 what’s going on with your skin? help for pregnancy skin issues 64 the pampered pregnancy local spots for a little indulgence 70 quiz: what’s your maternity style? find your perfect pregnancy outfit 78 eat great, feel better foods to ease your symptoms 80 q+a from stretch mark cream to prenatal massage

9 months of style best celeb fashion

Photography by Christa Renee. Fashion styling by Laura Pritchard. Hair and makeup by Stephanie Syat. Prop styling by Emily Rickard for Ennis Inc. On Hilaria: top: BCBG Max Azria; jeans: J Brand; necklace: J. Crew

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from

get inspired

amazing ideas for your dream nursery

nest

glow

celebrate

90 top 5 strollers our favorite baby ride picks 92 registry cheat sheet what you really should put on your list 94 top 5 car seats you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong with one of these 96 q+a from registry teamwork to gliders

nest

106 my birth story

basics

delivery

a texas mom shares

delivery

beyond

100 labor day childbirth basics 110 top 10 things googled from the delivery room probing questions 112 birth plan prepare for delivery 114 q+a from induction to water birth

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basics

beyond

118 new-parent survival everything you need to know 124 biggest mistakes new moms make are you guilty? 130 jessica alba gets honest she chats about green living and parenting 132 q+a from growth spurts to gripe water

140 q +a from whining to toothbrushing

136

first birthday basics plan the perfect party

No. 1 pregnancy stretch mark product in 11 countries.

“Stretch marks run in our family so unluckily for my mom, she got quite a few when she had me. That’s why I was looking for a product to prevent them. I had a very lovely bunch of girls from work, all already on their second babies, and they were all saying go for Bio-Oil. So I started using it from roughly when I found out I was pregnant, and I used it all the way through, even after I had Mischa. And I had basically no stretch marks. Bio-Oil did the trick for me.” Valerie with Mischa

Bio-Oil® helps reduce the possibility of pregnancy stretch marks forming by increasing the skin’s elasticity. It should be applied twice daily from the start of the second trimester. For comprehensive product information, and details of clinical trials, please visit bio-oilusa.com. Bio-Oil is available at pharmacies and selected retailers at the recommended selling price of $11.99 (2fl.oz.). Individual results will vary.

Posh Baby Co. is a unique boutique that offers items with a couture feel. From cribs to bibs to everything in between, Posh Baby Co. is revolutionizing modern style not only for babies and moms-to-be, but for anyone that is looking to revamp their living spaces. 5955 PHELAN BLVD., STE. O, BEAUMONT, TX 77706 CUSTOMERSERVICE@POSHBABY.CO â&#x20AC;˘ 409.860.3331

visit us online at poshbaby.co

the social

club

See what’s happening in our community on the boards, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

we asked on facebook: you know you’re a mom when… you told us: “You sway or “The only time bounce, and you you get to yourself aren’t even holding is a five-minute a baby.” shower.”

–J e ss i c a S .

–M e li ssa F.

“You’re on your lunch break, eating, pumping and Facebooking all at once.”

Our Most-Pinned board Is Called “gender-neutral nurseries.” We’re also pinning all of our favorite baby gear and delicious healthy eats. Follow us at Pinterest.com/thebump Neutral’s not boring with these stylish picks.

–Lo ri an n W.

We tweet about baby products and the cool finds we see at events we’re and shows. We’re also @thebump dishing the latest baby news, trendy must-have gear, celeb gossip and freebies. (#TBFreebies)

Go green! It’s earth-friendly and Über-cute.

instagram: Jenn Torrance

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Join your birth month club at TheBump.com/birthmonths

part of

know it all

a blast from the past. pregnant with baby #3!

family

Congratulations! Finding out you’re pregnant is exciting, but it also can be overwhelming. That’s why we created this clever guide. It boils down pregnancy and baby info into the basics, like what’s safe and what’s not during pregnancy and where to take a new-parent class. (Of course, there’s plenty of just-for-fun and fascinating stuff here too.) But, we know you want more, so head online and check out our Ultimate Pregnancy Calendar at TheBump.com/calendar. You get know-how every day, are able to track all your to-dos and receive updates on baby’s growth and development. Bonus: It’s also a mobile app.

tweet us @thebump!

Carley Roney cofounder PS: Get the conversation started with other moms-to-be at TheBump.com/community.

cofounder Carley Roney editor in chief Rebecca Dolgin Deputy Editor Elena Donovan Mauer Managing Editor Kellee Kratzer editorial Team Gabriella Baetti, Maria Bouselli, Ashley Castro, Meghan Corrigan, Lauren Daniels, Jackie DiBella, Kristin Giametta,

Shannon Guyton, Kylie McConville, Lori Richmond, Alice Stevens Contributors Renata De Oliveira, Brooke Showell Vice President, Print and Production Frank Dolphens Production Team Susan Berryman, Lois Brunnert Bethune, Adrian Hardisty, Jesse Hardy, Katie Hover, Kate Richter, Maria Julie Rodriguez,

Kasey Schroeder, Carly Steier, Jennifer Weiland, Daryl Wills, Sheryl Ziegler Executive Vice President, Custom publishing Denise Favorule Publisher Stephanie Nicolet Sales Director Kim Qualls-Bryant Sales and Advertising Team Jessica Dillion (jdillion@thebump.com, 855-473-1699), Kate Buchanan, Danielle Goldman, Sandy Lemen, Sharon Thomas published by XO Group Inc. 195 Broadway, New York, NY 10007 Phone (212) 219-8555 Fax (212) 219-1929

our expert panel Denise Gershwin, CNM, midwife and nutrition expert; Conner Herman and Kira Ryan, sleep experts; Tracey Mallett,

fitness expert; Nicole Meadow, MPN, RD, nutritionist; Preeti Parikh, MD, pediatrician; Paula Prezioso, MD, pediatrician; Ashley S. Roman, MD, ob-gyn; Andi Silverman, author of Mama Knows Breast: A Beginner’s Guide To Breastfeeding; Cheryl Wu, MD, pediatrician

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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 © 2014 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.

From Our Family to Yours KEEPING BABIES IN STYLE & SAFE FOR 25 YEARS

Babys Dream

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bumpie

buzz

What’s new for you in Houston and beyond.

sneak peek

Ultrasound Services of Texas opened up a new Katy location to give proud parents-to-be a clearer look at baby with 3-D and 4-D ultrasound imaging. They even offer portable services, so you can view baby at home, in the office or with guests at your baby shower (Ultrasound Servicesof Texas.com).

get moving

A recent study in Spain suggests that exercising at least three times a week throughout pregnancy reduces your risk of having a c-section delivery.

get some sleep

Brilliantly Baby opened a new location off Katy Freeway and launched a Night Nurse program, so tired moms and dads can catch a few winks without feeling guilty! Its team of Newborn Care Specialists will make sure baby’s in good hands, and you’ll sleep peacefully and be ready for the day ahead (BrilliantlyBaby.com).

safer play

Examine your play yard. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) passed new federal safety standards for infant and toddler play yards (framed enclosures with a floor and mesh or fabric side panels), to prevent babies from getting trapped or hurt. To meet the requirements, products must have side rails that do not form a sharp V when folded, stronger corner brackets and sturdier mattress attachments. If you use a play yard, remove any pillows or thick quilts before you put baby in it.

morning sickness drug Feeling queasy? The FDA has officially given the green light to Diclegis, a prescription medication for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy—it’s the only one approved by the fda. when taken daily on an empty stomach, it poses no harm to baby, according to several studies.

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camera-ready In a survey on TheBump.com, 56% of moms said they’ll book a pregnancy or newborn photo shoot.

Find up-to-the-minute news at Blog.TheBump.com

DIVE into a new season with swimming lessons at SwimJim! WWW.SWIMJIM.COM Teaching all ages, infant to adult, including special needs. Lessons are available in Spanish. We also offer pool rental for parties, home or community lessons, and a free water safety presentation for adults and kids at your location.

CALL US AT 713-784-1777 FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Wilcrest Location: 1100 Wilcrest Dr. #109, Houston, TX 77042 Clear Lake Location: 16511 Diana Lane, Houston, TX 77062

what’s in a

name?

Still searching? Here’s the Social Security Administration’s annual list of the top 10 names for boys and girls in Texas. By brooke showell

HELLO biblical 1 Jacob It offers both a strong, e). (Jak e nam name and a cool nick er-trendy 2 Jayden A combo of two sup en). Aid and ob (Jac names sed all 3 Daniel A fave for decades—u ations. vari of tons over the world, with the 4 Jose This Spanish version of Lone the in big is ph Jose ved much-lo Star State. share the 5 David Your little David will iath. Gol of ater defe the with name losing its 6 Ethan Fashionable without . vibe strong-yet-sensitive

” or “to 7 Noah The meaning—“to rest for this iate ropr app ems —se der” wan ounding soothing and slightly quirky-s e. nam ’s boy s from 8 Aiden This trendy choice stem . hán Aod e the old Irish nam ently 9 Angel While this name is curr genders, shooting up the charts for both heavenly boys are bestowed with the name more often than girls. d in the 10 Christopher It has remaine and still s ’80 and ’70s top 10 since the d and feels appropriate for both a chil r the adult. To freshen it up, conside nickname Topher.

MY NAME IS 1 Sophia Pretty but not prissy, classic but not frumpy—we get the appeal. 2 Isabella One of the most timeless but also most popular, with equally trendy nicknames like Ella, Ellie and Bella. 3 Emma As one of the top names nationwide, it’s pretty fitting that one meaning is “universal.” 4 Mia It’s a pet name for Maria, Mary or Amelia; as for meaning, we’d go with Amelia’s “energetic.” 5 Emily English-speaking countries around the world love the name. Emily is classic, simple, pretty and feminine—but powerful.

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6 Abigail This Old Testament name sounds like a member of the trendy grandma-names-are-cool-again tribe. 7 Olivia This poetic name first popped up in Shakespeare’s 1602 Twelfth Night—who knew? 8 Ava It fits right in with today’s popular names—girly but strong. 9 Camila In Roman mythology, Camilla (with two l’s) was a warrior maiden. 10 Sofia This lesser-used version of the ultra-popular Sophia means there will be even more little girls with the name than the ranking suggests.

Get a new name idea every day at TheBump.com/babynames

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made for

mama-to-be

Our deputy editor, Elena Donovan Mauer, shares her favorite look-great-feel-great pregnancy products. She’s pregnant with her second.

preggie pop drops “They’ve got a weird name, but these sour-fruit-flavored candies are a real pick-meup when I’m feeling queasy.” $6, ThreeLollies .com for stores

mama mio tummy rub stretch mark oil “Does anyone else hate how long it takes to rub in some lotions and creams? You can quickly slather on this oil—it dries and sets fast.” $35, MamaMio .com for stores

knocked-up fitness prenatal pilates-infused workouts

“Between work, my three-year-old and prepping for baby, I don’t have the time or the motivation to go to the gym. At-home workouts are much more doable.” $40, Knocked-UpFitness.com

belli pregnancy all day moisture body lotion

so comfy to unbutton!

“This is the only thing I’ve tried that keeps away the dry-skin itches.” $19, BelliSkinCare.com for stores

bellaband “A first-trimester must-have. It let me put off wearing maternity pants for longer. Wear it with your regular jeans unbuttoned.” $28, Ingrid andIsabel.com for stores

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rgb cosmetics nail color in fuchsia

“This line of polish prides itself on being free of DBP, formaldehyde and toluene.” $16, RGB Cosmetics.com for stores

Find daily pregnancy advice at TheBump.com/calendar

A year ago, she couldn’t breathe on her own, now she takes their breath away.

There are some things expectant parents don’t plan on. Like their baby being born too soon. But they can choose a hospital that will be ready if the unexpected does happen. Through our affiliation with The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) Medical School, women with normal and high-risk pregnancies receive incomparable care. And backed by the latest, most advanced technology in our Level II and IV Neonatal Intensive Care Units, neonatal physicians and nursing staff are saving babies as young as 23 weeks gestation – and celebrating with their families every step of the way home. You have a choice. Choose care that’s changing lives.

Call 713.222.CARE or visit childrens.memorialhermann.org

Affiliated with

ace the

tests

What prenatal tests will you need to take when? Consult our timeline. by Elena donovan Mauer

8 to 10 weeks

first prenatal appointment and ultrasound

10 to 12 weeks

chorionic villus sampling

11 to 13 weeks

first trimester screen

15 to 20 weeks

amniocentesis and multiple marker screening

new test! h-risk If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a hig OB ur yo patient, u a DNA may offer yo at ca n th st blood te rtain ce r fo en re sc al om os ch rom d isorders.

after 17 weeks

cordocentesis

18 to 22 weeks

midpregnancy ultrasound

24 to 28 weeks

glucose screening test

35 to 37 weeks

thinkstock

group b strep test

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Get details on every prenatal test at TheBump.com/tests

As you guide your child,

LET US GUIDE YOU

FIND QUALITY CHILD CARE TODAY. Selecting quality child care is not the kind of decision you should rush into without guidance and reliable information. Collaborative for Children is devoted to providing child care referral services at no cost to help parents understand their options and make good decisions every step of the way.

Visit www.collabforchildren.org to get started today.

wacky products

that work

These crazy finds can make your life easier.

have a seat

Looks like a lunch box, but My Carry Potty is really, well, a potty that you’ll want to stash in your car, just in case. $30, RegalLager .com for stores

ease of use

Forget snaps. Magnificent Baby’s footie with magnetic closures makes changes simpler. $30, MagnificentBaby .com for stores

breast friend

Freeze your breast milk in Milk Trays; then take out as many one-ounce sticks as you need to fill baby’s bottle. No annoying bags! $22 for set of 2 trays and lids, SensibleLines.com for stores

call me baby

Keep baby from handling your cell and give him his own jChews smartphone teething toy. $15, JellystoneDesignsUSA .com for stores

self-warming

On the go? Yoomi heats baby’s milk wherever you are. $33 for 8 oz. bottle and warmer, Yoomi .com for stores

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tune in

Why go classic, when you can go rock? Play lullaby versions of popular songs by Rockabye Baby! $17, RockabyeBabyMusic.com

Search for more cool baby gear at TheBump.com/gear

baby by the

numbers

The must-know (and just for fun!) baby stats. By Brooke Showell

6,989

percentage of births that are twins

150

US Department of Agriculture’s recent estimate of how much parents spend on their child over 17 years

50 thebump.com

number of diapers you’ll go through in baby’s first week

crying sessions during baby’s first year (we’re talking about you, Mom, not baby—including happy and sad tears)

$234,900

babies conceived on Valentine’s Day in 2012 (New year’s Eve also ranks high)

32,400 minutes you’ll spend breastfeeding in baby’s first six months (if you exclusively nurse)

percentage of babies born today who will live to be more than 100 years old in major industrialized nations

Get more stats and breaking baby news at Blog.TheBump.com

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how

big is baby?

See how she matches up to common fruits and veggies (and what the heck she’s doing in there) week by week. by paula kashtan

week 5

apple seed Baby is starting to form her major organs, including the heart, kidneys, liver and stomach.

week 3

poppy seed Sperm met egg and—voilà— conception! Now your zygote sets off on a six-day trek through your fallopian tube to your uterus.

week 6

blueberry With joints starting to appear, baby is forming arms and legs—and growing new brain cells each minute. Wow!

week 8

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

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week 9

olive The former embryo is now officially a fetus, and an ultrasound device may be able to pick up a view of her beating heart.

SHUTTERSTOCK

week 7

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

week 14

lemon Your fetus is busy with thumb sucking, toe wiggling, making urine and breathing amniotic fluid.

week 15

orange Finally, all four limbs have functional joints. Your fetus squirms and wiggles like crazy, though you probably still can’t feel it. >

i’ m not fat. i’ m pregnant! week 12 week 13

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

week 10

prune Arm joints work, bones and cartilage are forming, and baby’s vital organs are starting to function.

plum As you get ready for the second trimester, almost all of baby’s systems are fully formed. From here, they grow and mature.

week 11

lime Now baby’s fingers and toes are no longer webbed, and her hair follicles, tooth buds and nail beds are forming.

Houston thebump.com

week 17

week 16

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

onion Babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skeleton is hardening, and those little fingers and toes are now defined with one-of-a-kind prints.

week 18

sweet potato Baby has become amazingly mobile. She yawns, hiccups, rolls, kicks, punches, sucks, twists and swallows.

week 19

mango Vernix caseosa, a greasy white goo, now coats babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin. Some of it could remain at birth.

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week 20

banana Your baby is gulping down amniotic fluid for nutrition and to practice swallowing. Her taste buds work!

weeks 33–36

honeydew Baby can recognize and react to simple songs and may even remember them after birth. She now pees about a pint each day.

week 37 to delivery

watermelon Your full-term (yay!) baby gains about half an ounce a day, and her brain continues to develop rapidly.

are we there yet?

weeks 29–32

squash Baby is going through major brain and nerve development, and her energy is surging. Her irises react to light, and all five senses work.

weeks 22–24

papaya Settling into sleep cycles, baby snoozes 12 to 14 hours a day. Skin is becoming more opaque, and it’s taking on a pink glow.

weeks 25–28

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

Get baby updates at TheBump.com/updates

celebrate

third time around

Ali Landry gets real about expecting baby #3. By Elena Donovan MaueR Photography by colette de barros

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Actress and model Ali Landry (you probably recognize her as the Doritos girl) isn’t just a pretty face. She’s a passionate mom, an entrepreneur and even a certified car seat technician. She dished to us about her maternity fashion secrets, her favorite products and what it was like shooting a movie as her due date neared (hello, pregnancy brain!).

The Bump Did anything surprise you about pregnancy the third time around?

Ali Landry During my other two pregnancies, my skin glowed. But this time around, I got melasma [aka the mask of pregnancy]. I learned it’s really important to have a great sunscreen and protect your skin as much as possible. I wear a hat whenever I’m outside with the kids now. TB What are your best maternity fashion tips? AL Part of me wants to wake up in the morning

and throw on a big pair of pants—probably my husband’s—and a sweatshirt. But when I do that, I look in the mirror and I just don’t feel good about myself. So I really try to pull it all together, and I do feel so much better. It’s important to get a great pair of maternity jeans. Right now, skinny jeans are all the rage, so find a pair that’s flattering and really comfortable. I buy a lot of non-maternity tops that look stylish with my skinny jeans. This time around, I got some shirts that button down for easy access for nursing, so I can get plenty of wear out of them after the baby arrives. A well-fitted maxi dress with a great statement piece of jewelry is always really comfortable—and it looks flattering and put-together.

TB We heard you’re working on something to help moms find the best products. Tell us about it.

AL Yes! What people really want to know when

they’re buying something—myself included—is “What is your favorite product?” I want to know what your ultimate favorite thing is, so I can go out and make an educated decision and possibly buy it. I’m always putting together emails recommending all of my favorite things to friends and asking them what great >

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products they’ve found, so we can learn from each other. I wanted to create a seamless way for people to do that. So my business partner and I created Favored.by. It’s a mobile app that lets you poll people on their number one favorite booster seat or jogging stroller and sort those results by either a community or people you follow, maybe like-minded people or celebrities. Eventually, we’ll expand beyond parenting and include a wider range of products.

Even a thirdtimer like Ali gets pregnancy surprises!

TB Are you nesting for the new baby?

AL We’re in the process of putting

our home on the market and buying a new one, because we’re bursting at the seams! My kids, Marcelo and Estela, are sharing a room, and I want all the children on the same floor as me. I have a feeling the nesting is going to come in when I’m packing and unpacking. Fortunately, I know that this baby is a boy, and I’ve saved everything from Marcelo, so I’ll be able to reuse a lot of his things. >

ali’s favorite products Amber Teething Necklace by Momma Goose “They really worked for Marcelo, and they’re just too cute when he wears them!” $19, MommaGoose .ca for stores

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Sage Spoonfuls by Liza Huber “This cookbook made preparing homemade baby food so easy. I think that’s why Marcelo is such a great eater.” $25, SageSpoonfuls .com

Baby Björn Travel Crib Light 2 “We took this portable crib to the beach and on all our vacations. It’s so light and easy to bring along!” $300, BabyBjorn.com for stores

Nuna ZAZZ High Chair “This high chair is beautifully designed, and it’s made to grow with your child, so it’s longlasting. Even an adult can sit in it.” $260, Nuna.eu for stores

fashion styling: shayoon aboo; hair: Julio Hernandez; makeup: Davia Matson; prop styling: Daniele Maxwell for artist untied. on Ali: Dress: Zayan; Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, pinky ring: Trina Turk; Ring on middle finger of right hand: River Bed Fern Ring, Reinhold Jewelers

celebrate

Ali, Marcelo and Estela hang out on the family’s patio.

how adorable is their dog, toulouse? professionally. Why is car seat safety so important to you?

AL I’m certified as a child passenger

safety technician by Safe Kids Worldwide. Going through the course opened my eyes, and now I want to shout about car seat education at the top of my lungs. It’s not necessary to move your child up to a larger seat or a booster as quickly as many parents want to. I know all parents want the safest option for their child, but when you don’t educate yourself, sometimes you make bad choices.

TB How was it filming the movie Little Boy when you were nine months pregnant?

AL It was hard. We shot the movie in

Mexico, and they actually had to have a helicopter waiting just in case I went into labor, to fly me to a hospital in San Diego. And I had pregnancy brain. I couldn’t remember my lines to save my life! I was very emotional. I had a crying scene—it was very easy for me to cry.

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TB And what was it like wearing

maternity clothes from the 1940s?

AL It was hilarious. I wore a skirt that had a

cutout for my belly and tied at the top. The lengths of the skirts were all in the wrong places. Maternity clothes have come a long way in the last 70 or so years!

TB Are your kids ready for the new baby? AL I think Estela’s ready because she

already has a little brother, so she knows what she’s in for. We were at the doctor’s office, and the doctor said, “How do you like your little brother?” She said, “He pulls my hair.” Then the doctor asked, “So what do you think about having a new brother?” And she’s like, “I’m going to be bald.” So I think she knows that double-trouble is coming. Marcelo might be tougher to get ready. He wants to be with me all the time, and he’s very much still a baby. When I’m around, he clings to me. I might have to call in some of my expert mommy friends to help navigate our way through this.

Get the scoop on celeb pregnancies at TheBump.com/celeb

on ali: Robyn Maxi dress, Riller and Fount; earrings and bracelet: Kyle By Alene Too. on marcelo: outfit: gap kids; shoes: converse. on Estela: top: gap kids: Hood and blanket: Spirithood

TB We heard you can install a car seat

FREE 11 x 14

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PROMOTION

product spotlight Great products for pregnancy and beyond.

shrink your belly after baby

Lose inches off your belly and waist faster. Shrinkx Belly postpartum belly band offers triple compression to customize fit and help shrink your postbaby belly in weeks. Slimming support tightens and tones so you look and feel better, supports lower back and improves breastfeeding posture. Shrinkx.com

the perfect gift for the expecting dad

Soft, comfortable, and easy to wear, DaddyScrubsÂŽ is the perfect gift for the new and expecting daddy. With hoodies, T-shirts, hats and even The Daddy Diaper Packâ&#x201E;˘, you are guaranteed to find something Dad will love! For fast and secure shopping, order online at DaddyScrubs.com.

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get your healthy glow on

Expect beautiful skin and enjoy peace of mind during and after your pregnancy with Belli Skincare products—physician formulated for concerns like acne, dry skin, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. Allergy tested. Free of artificial dyes, phthalates and parabens. OB-GYN recommended. BelliSkincare.com

parenting just became a bit easier

Coway’s Air + Sound Purifier eliminates dust and allergens, while providing six soothing sounds from Brahms’ Lullaby to the pulse of a human heart, insuring that you and your baby sleep peacefully through the night. For more information go to Coway-USA.com. (800) 590-0996

newborn must-have

Newborns are obligate nasal breathers their first 4-6 months. Crane humidifiers provide moisture to relieve tiny stuffy noses, helping your baby breathe easier during feeding and sleeping. From whimsical to sleek, visit Crane-USA.com. (888) 599-0992

celebrate

a shower

is just the start

Beyond the gifts and games, celebrate baby with one of these trendy new ideas. by brooke showell

Throw a low-key fete at home a few weeks or months after baby’s birth for friends to stop by, meet the little one and honor the new parents without the fanfare of a shower (though you might get a few gifts). Plan for late afternoon and serve cocktails and light bites. The best part? Baby’s already here!

save the date

No matter what style the soiree, announce baby-party plans with a festive invitation.

thebump.com

gender reveal

This suspenseful party is hosted by expectant parents to announce their baby’s gender. But the trend has gone far beyond cutting a cake to discover pink or blue filling. One couple made a Gangnamstyle dance video; others have sent family members boxes filled with pink or blue helium balloons.

dadchelor party

Your guy’s life is changing too, so a dadchelor party (aka a man shower) isn’t just an excuse for a little man time but also a cele bration of baby. This can be a huge blowout—a trip to Vegas or Mexico—or a simple fishing trip or cigar party. Just make sure he plans it for at least a month before your due date.

all invites available on minted.com

sip and see

mother’s blessing

This intimate party is inspired by an ancient Navajo ceremony called a Blessingway. The ceremony prepares an expectant mom for her upcoming birth journey—by showering her with love, support and encouragement. It’s typically held at the very end of pregnancy—36 to 38 weeks—and 10 to 20 of the mom-to-be’s closest friends and family are invited. Guests may be asked to bring a poem, song or prayer about birth or motherhood as well as a bead to symbolize fertility. Once everyone has gathered, your guests read the passages they’ve brought and then string the beads together, so you can wear them during labor (or keep them nearby) as a reminder of all their love and support.

sprinkles

Second- and even thirdborns are getting more recognition lately, thanks to the “sprinkle” (as in a sprinkling of gifts, rather than a full-on shower). Secondtime moms are usually well set up with gear, but there’s still reason to celebrate. At a baby sprinkle, the new addition is honored with a get-together, including small gifts such as diapers, baby lotions or books.

4 tips for the perfect shower Party planner Deborah Elias of Elias Events in Houston shares her secrets for planning an unforgettable fete. 1 Get techy The Baby Shower Checklist Pro app ($1) helps you plan the special day for the mommy-to-be. 2 Serve punch Sherbet (try the lime or orange flavor) and ginger ale are a pretty and tasty (nonalcoholic!) treat. The colorful fizz makes for a great presentation. 3 Look for bargains Shop dollar stores for inexpensive décor and party favors. You can even assemble useful gift baskets of essentials like diapers and wipes for less than $15. 4 Go pastel Soft, sweet colors are in, especially genderneutral hues. Light shades of yellow, orange, purple and green work well for either a boy or girl.

Get more ideas at TheBump.com/shower

celebrate

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thebump.com

april 10

july 4

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amanda’s local faves Hospital

Baby bedding

The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, Houston, (713) 790-1234, Womans Hospital.com

Pottery Barn Kids, Houston, (713) 960-8810, PotteryBarnKids.com

OB-GYN

Tara L. Bruce, MD, FACOG, at OGA Medical Center, Houston, (713) 512-7500, OBGYN Associates.com

Crave-satisfying restaurant

Killen’s Steakhouse, Pearland, (281) 485-0844, Killens Steakhouse.com

Baby gear

Maternity photographer

Buybuy Baby, Webster, (281) 316-4275,BuyBuy Baby.com

Hansel Dobbs, Dallas, (214) 728-6862, HanselDobbs.com

Find more pregnancy stories at TheBump.com/pg

Tara donne

Am anda McBr

mommy deals

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celebrate

girlfriend

getaways You’ve probably thought of taking a babymoon with your partner, but what about escaping with friends? by elena donovan mauer

Monica and Michael Sweet/Getty Images

Your social life has likely calmed down a little since you became pregnant (no parties ’til 2 a.m. anymore!), but it will probably come to a screeching halt, at least for a short while, once baby arrives. That’s part of the reason moms-to-be are planning girls’ getaways—dubbed “mommymoons”—while expecting. “Mommymoons are definitely a trend,” says Anne L. Fritz, founder of TheJetSet Girls.com, who’s pregnant herself and has gone on three trips like this. “Girlfriend getaways are so important because they help you bond with your friends and get back in touch with your true self, not to mention that they’re fun. Take advantage of the time you have now prebaby and have an escape—nap a lot.” Looking for some cool ideas? Try these.

thebump.com

party trip

We know, we know, it doesn’t sound like fun to go on a party weekend to a sunny place when you’re not drinking and you’re spent by 10 p.m., but Fritz explains that this is a great option as long as you choose a destination where there’s lots to do, like Miami, San Diego or New Orleans. “Lie by the pool or ocean during the day, opt to go shopping or check out a spa,” she says. Spend the day and go to dinner with your friends, and if they want to go clubbing and you’re beat, say sayonara and head back to your cushy hotel room.

spa trip

Craving a little extra pampering? Even your nonpregnant friends will love the idea of getting massages and facials. “Everyone will be on the same page—that you’re there to relax and renew,” says Fritz. She likes Canyon Ranch, which has spa resorts in several locales across the country and offers treatments, yoga, fitness and even nutrition and parenting classes.

couples’ beach trip

Chris Gramly/Getty Images

How about inviting your favorite couples on a group trip? “My husband and friends and I went to the Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya in Mexico,” says Fritz. Choose the right mix of people to bring along. “It was good for my husband to go out with my friend’s hubby, and she was happy to hang out with me,” explains Fritz.

go-nowhere trip

If you need to stick close to home or you’re saving your vacation days for after baby, you can (and should!) still have a girls’ night. Just bring the party to your home—or a close friend’s. Have a movie night, when you rent baby-themed flicks (Knocked Up, Three Men and a Baby, Baby Mama) and serve popcorn and movie candy. Or make it an at-home spa night. “See if a local spa or salon can send over a manicurist or two and have the girls over for manicures,” says Fritz. “If budget is a concern, go for DIY manis.”

fancy sleepover

The other close-to-home option is to rent a luxurious hotel room nearby and have a girls’ pampering or partying trip; this avoids the possibility that someone’s husband will crash the fun. Get adjoining rooms and designate one the quiet room, suggests Fritz, so your friends who stay up and party don’t bother you too much if you head to bed early. Plan lots of fun daytime activities and delicious meals.

staycation Houston’s Hotel ZaZa not only has luxe rooms, but it’s also got plenty to do—on-site and nearby. By day, sit poolside and enjoy the skyline view; then head to ZaSpa for the prenatal

“relax massage.” By night, dine at its upscale steak house, Monarch. Take a walk to Hermann Park or any of the bustling nearby museums (from $289, 713-526-1991, HotelZaZa.com).

Get babymoon know-how TheBump.com/babymoon

celebrate

is it

safe?

The real deal on what’s off-limits during pregnancy and what’s no biggie.

yes high heels

nail polish

sexual (ahem) lubricant

caffeine

Sure, wear pumps, but avoid them in the third trimester, when you’re most likely to fall.

Water- and oil-based lubricants are safe, but you might be sensitive to a warming lube.

sunscreen

It’s important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Use a physical or mineral block, like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

deli meat

Lunch or deli meat could potentially carry listeria, a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious illness that can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery or stillbirth. Sorry, but it’s not worth the risk. Instead, stick to grilled chicken or tuna if you’re dying for a sandwich.

no 44

sometimes

thebump.com

Choose polish that’s 3-free (doesn’t contain DBP, toluene or formaldehyde). Make sure the salon is well ventilated. OBs say caffeine is okay in moderation. Cut back to less than 200 milligrams (one 12-ounce cup of coffee) a day.

highlights

Because the dye doesn’t contact the scalp and is covered in foil, it’s not considered risky.

sushi

Skip all raw and seared fish, since they contain parasites and bacteria or both that can make you sick. Instead, order cooked items, such as edamame, miso soup, shrimp shu mai, chicken teriyaki, and veggie or shrimp tempura. Cooked rolls, like a California roll, are A-OK too.

artificial sweetener This depends. You can safely use Equal or Nutrasweet (aspartame), Sunett (acesulfame-K), Splenda (sucralose) and Stevia, as long as you’re not overconsuming them. But stay away from Sweet’N Low (saccharin). It crosses the placenta, and doctors don’t know how exactly that may affect a fetus.

soft cheese

Heard you can’t chow down on your fave Brie or feta? Not necessarily. Only unpasteurized cheese is a no-no. If it has a “pasteurized” label, it’s totally fine to indulge.

exercise

Staying active is good for you and for baby, but listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, or you get nauseated or lightheaded, slowly stop and relax. Steer clear of high-impact aerobics and lying on your back.

Get all the safety answers at TheBump.com/isitsafe

celebrate

picture

perfect

Kelly Stuart, talented photographer and cofounder of one of our favorite mom-and-baby-photo sites, shares her tips for taking family pictures. by Elena Donovan Mauer Photography by Kelly Stuart

thebump.com

When career-driven Kelly Stuart and coworker (and friend) Violet Gaynor started thinking about starting families, they also began thinking about launching a website. And so The Glow was born, a stylish online destination that explores motherhood using real moms’ stories—and tons of Stuart’s gorgeous photos. “All our shoots for The Glow are very personal, just as if we were having coffee with friends,” she says. She’s photographed trendsetters, style-makers and celeb moms, such as Josie Maran, Constance Zimmer and Busy Philipps. And now, she and Gaynor have a coffee-table book forthcoming in spring 2014. Here she offers her advice for taking your own stunning family photos.

turn off the flash

Buy that memory card with extra storage, and don’t be shy about snapping away. “You can never take too many shots!” says Stuart. “This is also important as your children will quickly become very familiar with you taking their photograph, which will allow their personality to shine through.” The more photos you have to choose from, the more likely you are to have a great one.

be yourself in belly shots

If you’re having maternity photos taken, try not to think about smiling for the camera, and, instead, focus on enjoying yourself. “If a moment is genuine and natural, it will come across that way through the photography. But if it feels awkward, it will show,” she says. Making a wardrobe decision? Be sure it’s one that flaunts your shape. “Wear formfitting clothes that show off your bump. Every woman should have that special image that highlights her curves during the peak of her pregnancy.”

“Snap photos candidly to get imagery that focuses on being in the moment.”

“I shoot entirely with natural light,” says Stuart. “I also love my backlight (lighting from behind), so the brighter the better. For me, shooting with natural light allows those moments to feel soft, natural and intimate, while keeping the focus on the mother and the child.”

don’t stage your photos

keep on shooting

It’s tempting to want to set a catalogstyle scene and to try for just the right pose, but you’re not going to get the best shot by making things look contrived. “Children are at their best doing the things they love,” says Stuart. “Snap them candidly, so you get natural imagery that focuses on being in the moment.” Putting candid photos in black and white gives them a timeless, documentary feel.

do your research to find the right pro

If you’re having professional family photographs taken, know the photographer’s body of work before you commit to a shoot. There are many different photography styles, and you should be sure you’re getting exactly what you want. Their personality is key, too. “You should feel extremely comfortable with your photographer,” Stuart says. “That will help you all open up when in front of the camera.”

Get photo inspiration at TheBump.com/babyphotos

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from

your to-do list

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

get the gear

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newborn and maternity portraits. Set up your maternity session by week 34 and reserve your newborn due date. Visit TrueExpressionsPhotography.com for more information.

Houston thebump.com

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Call (866) 961-5216 or visit ChildrensCourtyard.com to tour a Children’s Courtyard near you. See how our accredited programs encourage confidence and promote learning for your child. THE little gym For over 35

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(713) 222-CARE to schedule a tour of the Women’s Center, or visit Childrens .MemorialHermann.org/maternity to preregister and view a virtual tour.

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Collaborative for Children

Find high-quality child care today using QualiFind™, Collaborative for Children’s free, online child care database, at CollabforChildren.org. Motherhood Center We provide pregnancy and parenting education, products, yoga, massage, classes, nanny services, doulas, breastfeeding support and photography. (713) 963-8880; MotherhoodCenter.com NIGHTLIGHT PEDIATRIC URGENT CARE is the convenient,

affordable way to care for your child after hours. Visit NightLightPediatrics.com for a list of insurances and services. TEXAS CHILDREN’S pavilion for women will offer obstetrical

and gynecological care, providing a full continuum of care to women, mothers and babies. The Pavilion for Women provides the most advanced treatments, before conception and continuing after delivery. Women.TexasChildrens.org VIPediatRx Choose only the best pediatric care for your children and your busy lifestyle. Call (832) 504-9889 or visit VIPediatRx.com. The Woman’s Hospital of Texas has provided exceptional

care to the women and infants we have served for more than 35 years. WomansHospital.com

50% OFF baby club

& $20 OFF custom birth announcements see index

mommy deals

celebrate Decoy baby names, knowing baby’s gender, datenight ideas and more…

Should I use a decoy baby name? Maybe. Using a decoy baby name means telling everyone you’re planning to give the baby one name (say, Angelique), when all the while you know it’s going to be something else (Sophia). This trend has been picking up steam. A decoy name is one way to dodge pesky (and overly personal) naming criticisms. If you don’t want anyone pooh-poohing your favorite name, keeping it to yourself is one way to go, but going so far as to create a decoy name will keep curious people from continually asking. It’s not for everyone, though, so weigh your situation carefully. Why am I so clumsy now? It’s because your center of gravity is shifting, says Sharon Phelan, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Univer sity of New Mexico School of Medicine. Think about it: You have to compensate for your growing belly somehow. Your body—and center of gravity—is going to keep changing throughout your pregnancy. It might be hard to keep up. So the best thing you can do is stay safe. Wear sensible shoes—pregnancy is probably not the time for stilettos! You may also want to avoid clogs, because they compromise your ability to feel and sense the ground beneath you, says Phelan.

thebump.com

What are the chances the ultrasound technician will get my baby’s gender wrong? If you wait until 20 weeks, which is when the anatomical survey is done, the technician should be able to tell baby’s gender with about 95 percent accuracy—maybe even 100 percent—says Yvonne Bohn, MD, ob-gyn and coauthor of The Mommy Docs’ Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Birth. One exception is if baby isn’t in a position so that the technician can get a good look at what’s between baby’s legs. I think baby has the hiccups in utero! What’s going on? Baby is constantly drinking amniotic fluid, and if a small amount enters his lungs, his diaphragm will contract to get rid of it, explains Michele M. Hakakha, MD, ob-gyn and author of Expecting 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice for Your Pregnancy. Sounds weird, but it’s totally normal. Baby won’t choke on the fluid because he receives all his oxygen through the placenta. If baby is hiccupping in utero, you’ll notice some small, repetitive jerks, and it can go on for an hour or more. Hiccups are most common in the third trimester, as baby grows larger and is more developed. It can be a reassuring sign that things are progressing as normal and that he’s getting ready for life outside the womb. >

mention the bump for a

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celebrate

I want to plan a last date night before baby arrives. Ideas? Make the most of your final few evenings together before becoming parents. Catch a flick See a blockbuster on the big screen before you’re doomed to Netflix. Have a candlelit dinner Cook together or order in and cuddle in the living room. Double-date Go out with your childless-couple friends and pack in adult interaction before the little one takes over. And try not to talk about the baby.

thebump.com

Surround yourself with a

support team Ask a family member to go to appointments with you and plan low-key girls’ nights with your friends. Find single-mom friends

Knowing other women in the same situation as you can help you feel less left out— and you can get lots of great advice from them. Check out the Single Parents board at TheBump.com/community. Be brave about being alone If you’re newly single, practice being independent—you might find you actually enjoy it. Soon, you’ll realize, you really can do this, and you’ll feel empowered to be a fantastic mom.

What’s the difference between an embryo and a fetus? Baby is an embryo until the end of the eighth week, when it becomes known as a fetus, says James A. O’Brien, MD. During the embryonic period, the brain, heart, lungs, internal organs, and arms and legs begin to form. Once baby is a fetus, it’s more about growth and development to prep for life on the outside.

(

The thought of certain foods really grosses me out. Why? “At the beginning of pregnancy, you’re already nauseous because of high levels of hormones, and you’re hypersensitive to smells,” explains Laura Riley, MD, director of

I’m single and pregnant, and I feel a little lonely. How can I get more excited about pregnancy? Remember, your pregnancy should be celebrated just as much as anyone else’s. Make it special Take a babymoon with friends (aka, a mommymoon—see page 42) and have maternity photos taken by a professional, suggests Christine Coppa, a single mom and author of Rattled!, a memoir about her own experience being pregnant and unattached.

(

How can I help my partner feel baby kick? Once you start to feel baby’s little knees and elbows jabbing the surface of your belly, you can give your partner a headsup on times that baby is particularly active, like just after you drink a glass of cold milk or when you lie down at night. Cuddle up with his hand resting gently on your tummy and, sooner or later (he’ll have to be patient, of course), he just may feel a little thump.

labor and delivery at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of You & Your Baby: Pregnancy. The aversions will subside as the nausea goes away, usually at the end of the first trimester. Until then, avoid the offending food. “You’re not doing harm if you’re not getting perfectly balanced nutrition,” says Riley.

Get pregnancy answers at TheBump.com/pregnancy

PROMOTION

mom knows best

When it comes to baby and pregnancy products, the most innovative pieces come straight from moms. Here are our faves!

breathe a psi of relief

What it is: Psi Bands Invented by: Romy Taormina,

a mom who suffered from debilitating morning sickness These cool acupressure wristbands are the stylish way to quell the queasies due to morning sickness, motion sickness, anesthesia and chemotherapy. They are FDA-cleared, drug-free, adjustable, reusable, waterproof and affordable. PsiBands.com

preserving milestones

What it is: Sticky Bellies® Milestone Stickers Invented by: Carly Dorogi

Sticky Bellies® are removable stickers that help parents capture baby’s amazing growth with style and convenience. Simply peel, stick and snap a pic. A variety of styles are available for pregnant mamas, baby boys, baby girls and toddlers! StickyBellies.com

GiftsForYouNow.com

What it is: personalized baby gifts Invented by: Moms who love giving and receiving

personalized gifts Personalized baby gifts create treasured memories and lasting impressions that celebrate baby’s arrival and the milestones of the years to follow. Choose from personalized blankets, keepsakes, apparel, christening gifts, picture frames, canvas prints, photo items and toys. GiftsForYouNow.com

multitasking magic

What it is: Windel, the diaper cabinet Invented by: Sarah Tamilarasan

Windel is the stylish solution to cleverly storing your diaper changing supplies anywhere in your house behind a lovely picture or work of art! USAmade of solid wood, the interior compartments hold creams and lotions, plus dispense a package of wipes and up to 40 diapers. Upscale-Mom.com

clever organizing solutions What it is: PRK Products Inc. Invented by: Paula Roeske

Our products are designed for all stages of life. One bottle unit stores infant baby bottles to sport bottles. One jar unit stores food stages 1-3, homemade or store-bought. PRK means clever organizing so you have time for what matters most. Check us out to learn more. PRKProductsInc.com

a modern alternative to the maternity support belt

What it is: The Belly Sport Bra Invented by: Physical Therapist/Pilates Instructor Bao Bei

Maternity introduces a support bandeau that feels like a sport bra on your belly! Stay active during your pregnancy, ease low back pain and minimize ab separation. Enjoy pure comfort during prenatal exercise or just on the go. BaoBeiMaternity.com

glow

all the right moves

Yoga expert Hilaria Baldwin (yup, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s married to Alec) shows us some pregnancy-safe yoga poses to keep you feeling your best all nine months. by Elena Donovan Mauer photography by Christa Renee

Hilaria invited us into her New York City yoga studio to give us the scoop.

thebump.com

expecting a celeb baby

The day before The Bump invaded Hilaria Baldwin’s New York City studio, Yoga Vida, for a photo shoot, she had her 20-week ultrasound, where she and hubby Alec caught glimpses of her baby-girlto-be. “We counted 10 fingers and 10 toes,” she gushes. “You see everything. It’s such a beautiful experience.” You may recognize Hilaria from the red carpet, where she often accompanies Alec, or from her gig as an Extra correspondent, but the Spanish beauty’s first love is fitness. She’s been teaching fitness and dance for more than a decade, and she cofounded Yoga Vida in 2005. Once pregnant, she has focused on her own health and nutrition and was inspired to create a prenatal yoga DVD.

staying fit while pregnant

If you think super-fit moms-to-be don’t have aches and pains, think again. “I get leg cramps and restless legs,” says Hilaria. “I accidentally kicked Alec in my sleep. I woke up and he was on the floor with blankets and pillows.” And, she admits, she’s had plenty of those off-days, when she needed extra rest. But exercise, she says, can give you a boost. ”When I don’t work out, I just don’t feel good,” says Hilaria. “If my legs hurt, even if I just stretch, I feel so much better.” Many pregnant women worry about exercise and that they may overdo it. “Listen to your body,” she says. “It will tell you when you need to stop.” And stick to pregnancy-safe moves like these yoga poses, which can help with discomfort. >

drink plenty of water!

glow

ankle-to-knee pose

put your hands behind you. This pose helps with hip pain and preps you for delivery.

pigeon-toed downward dog To relieve leg cramps and restless legs, get on all fours, with your hands underneath your shoulders and your knees beneath your hips. Walk your hands forward two to four inches. Press back and up into an upside-down V shape. Reach your armpits toward your ankles. Drop your neck so your head can move freely. Hold for five breaths. >

point your toes inward thebump.com

fashion styling: laura pritchard; hair and makeup: stephanie syat; prop styling: emily rickard for ennis inc.

1 Sit with your left leg straight and right ankle crossed above your left knee (but not on your kneecap). Stretch and breathe. 2 For a deeper stretch, bend your left knee and

DAMASK COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK

What on God’s green earth is more glorious than…to be a mother?

“

She cannot claim the honor of building Notre Dame Cathedral... she need not.

She has built something more magnificent than a cathedral...

”

A dwelling for an immortal Soul. The tiny perfection of her baby’s body.

– Cardinal Joseph Mindszenty, 1892-1975

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side stretch Sit with your right knee bent and left leg extended. Reach your right arm up and over to feel a side stretch. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths. This helps with back and hip pain.

repeat on the other side

straddle forward bend Relieve aches and ready your hips for birth. Sit and straddle your legs far enough apart that it’s challenging—but don’t overdo it. Flex your feet hard, stretching your calves. Walk your hands forward until you feel a deep stretch. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths. If your muscles are tight, prop yourself up with a pillow or blankets.

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Find more get-fit moves at TheBump.com/pregfit

Maternity • Newborn • Child • Family

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what’s going on with

your skin?

Probably a whole lot. And it might not be that “pregnant glow” everyone’s always talking about. By Elena Donovan Mauer Photograph by Elizabeth Messina

newfound sensitivities

Many moms-to-be switch to lotions, washes and other products that are unscented and have fewer chemicals to cut down on redness and irritation. Skip the scrubs and exfoliants; instead, use a loofah or a soft, textured washcloth. “You don’t want to make micro-tears on your skin,” says Melissa Schweiger, coauthor of Belli Beautiful: The Essential Guide to the Safest Health and Beauty Products for Pregnancy, Mom, and Baby. “Stay away from triclosan, parabens and fragrance,” she says. These ingredients are potential irritants, and some believe they pose risks to baby.

breakouts (sorry!)

Some acne products are unsafe to use during pregnancy, so before you try anything, check it with your doctor. Prescription medications Accutane, Retin-A and tetracycline are definite no-nos. And the jury’s out on over-the-counter creams, since they haven’t been tested on pregnant women. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid have been linked to growth problems and birth defects in animals, so they might not be worth the risk; talk them over with your OB. “You can safely use lactic acid, tea tree oil or sulfur to treat acne,” says Schweiger. Don’t touch, pick or squeeze pimples; wash with a mild cleanser twice a day; and use steam to clear pores.

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dryness and the itchies

If you’re dealing with dry skin, make sure to drink lots of water—you need more now that you’re expecting—and try running a humidifier in your bedroom at night. Use a gentle lotion or moisturizer. And if you get nasty itchy sensations because of your dry skin (and all that stretching), try a warm (not hot) oatmeal bath.

sun sensitivity

Stay out of the sun as much as you can while you’re pregnant. Your surging hormones make you susceptible to dark patches on your skin triggered by sun exposure, called the mask of pregnancy. So pull out the big floppy hat, find a beach umbrella and be sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day. “The sun protection that is safest to use during pregnancy is the physical or mineral blocks—the ones made with either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide,” says Schweiger. “Chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, homosalate and avobenzone, may enter the bloodstream and potentially affect the fetus.” It’s annoying to decipher labels, but you’ll feel good knowing you made a safe choice for you and baby.

stretch marks

Not every mama-to-be winds up with stretch marks. “For most people, whether or not they get stretch marks has to do with genetic predisposition,” says Glenn Kolansky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. Do your best to try to head them off by gently exfoliating and thoroughly moisturizing your belly, boobs, stomach, hips and thighs often. Drinking plenty of water may do the trick, too.

weird and freaky rashes

If you’ve got red, itchy skin, don’t ignore it. Itchy feet and hands can be a sign of cholestasis of pregnancy, a scary complication that can cause liver problems for baby. Your doctor can do a blood test to make sure that’s not causing your rash. Another common rash is PUPPP (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy), which often starts on the abdomen and spreads. PUPPP is harmless to baby, but it will be aggravating for you. Fight the itch with oatmeal baths or anti-itch cream. Your doctor may prescribe an oral medication.

label reading 101 Which skin care ingredients are safe to use during pregnancy and which should you completely avoid?

Thinkstock

The jury’s out on

BHT Butylparaben Dimethicone Disodium EDTA Glycolic acid Palm oil Polysorbate 20 Propylene glycol Sodium lauryl sulfate

Instead, stick to

Allantoin Beeswax Glycerin Lactic acid Lavender Olive oil Shea butter Sweet almond oil Tea tree oil

Titanium dioxide/zinc oxide Tocopherol Vitamin C Source: Belli Beautiful

Don’t see it on the list? Check it at TheBump.com/isitsafe

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the

pampered pregnancy

Shopping, spa treatments, gourmet meals and more. These nearby spots offer a little indulgence.

retail therapy

Put down that muumuu. Just because your belly’s getting bigger by the day, doesn’t mean you can’t look a-maz-ing. Head to NINE Maternity, where you’ll find everything from sophisticated office outfits to itty-bitty bikinis for proudly showing off that baby bump on the beach (hello, babymoon!) (713-528-0041, NineMaternity.com). The diaper bags at Pickles & Ice Cream are so stylish you’ll want to carry them, whether you’re toting Pampers or not. Plus, you’ll find plenty of chic and comfy (read: frump-free) maternity pieces (713623-2229, PicklesandIceCream.com).

stay fit

Channel your chakra and rev up that sixpack (seriously, it still exists under there) with the prenatal yoga and fitness classes at the Motherhood Center. Bonus: The center offers Mom & Baby Yoga classes to help you bond after baby arrives (713963-8880, MotherhoodCenter.com).

prep for baby

Nurtured Family (832-239-5140, NurturedFamily.com) is your one-stop shop for everything you need to get you through the next nine months, from maternity bras and clothes to natural remedies for morning sickness and heartburn. Plus, you can sign up for a variety of classes to prepare you for delivery and motherhood, including Breastfeeding Basics, Labor Techniques and Water Birth.

satisfy cravings

Now that you’re eating for two, you want to eat right, but you’re so busy gearing up

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for baby, it’s hard to find the time. We get it, which is why we love Rice Epicurean Markets (RiceEpicurean.com)—a grocery store with home- and office-delivery service. Stock your fridge with produce and organic snacks, plus a few sweets to satisfy cravings—all from the comfort of your couch. There are multiple locations in Houston if you’d prefer to peruse the store in person, or take a cooking class and learn how to make healthy meals at home.

treat yourself

Relieve any sore muscles and back pain with a pregnancy massage at Houston Pregnancy Massage & Doula Care, which is now offering a special Mother Massage Pamper Package for after labor and delivery—pure genius (713-661-8796, Doula-Training.com). Designed just for moms-to-be, Dolce Vita Day Spa’s Motherhood Massage promises to soothe muscles, improve circulation, help with back and hip pain, and lessen swelling. And—did we mention?—it’s so relaxing. (713-521-2100, DolceVitaSpaHouston.com).

beauty booty

Head to Ulta for products made just for moms-to-be, such as Belli All Day Moisture Body Lotion, which keeps skin hydrated and helps with the itchies (713-331-0065, Ulta.com).

chore busters

Too tired to conquer your to-do list? Try Pour Vous Errand & Concierge Services to run errands, like picking up dry cleaning, in Houston’s downtown and West Belt areas (713-302-9542, PourVousErrands.com).

Get secrets to looking your best at TheBump.com/glow

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9 months of

style

Our guest editor, maternity-fashion-guru Liz Lange, lets us in on her favorite celeb looks to steal during each time of year.

summer: claire danes

fall: malin akerman

“In the fall, practice proportion. If you’re wearing something loose on top, wear something tight on the bottom and vice versa. Malin Akerman did this well. Other celebrities who have sported effortless, yet proportional, fall looks include Penelope Cruz and Jenna Dewan-Tatum.” The takeaway Skinny pants and leggings are your maternity BFFs. They’re cozy on cool days too. >

from left: shutterstock; getty images

“One of my favorite summer pregnancy looks of all time was Claire Danes at the 2012 Emmy Awards. She rocked effortless elegance in a canary-yellow strapless Lanvin dress. The color screams summer and looked amazing on her. She was seven months pregnant, and she looked better than many of the nonpregnant celebs on the carpet.” The takeaway Don’t be afraid to sport a bright color as the temperature rises.

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every season: kate middleton

“Just as she does when she’s not pregnant, Kate Middleton has done a fantastic job of mixing high- and low-priced items: She wears brands like Topshop and Zara as well as more expensive labels, and she’s not afraid to put them together.” The takeaway Invest in a few good-quality, versatile pieces you can wear throughout your pregnancy, and complement them with cute bargain buys to switch up with each season.

winter: kristen bell

spring: fergie

“Fergie isn’t afraid to wear bold spring patterns and colors. She showed off her fearlessness at the 2013 Kids’ Choice Awards in a body-hugging Mary Katrantzou fish-tank-print dress and yellow Roxane heels. I love that she’s having fun with her maternity style.” The takeaway Stay true to your personal look, no matter how daring.

counterclockwise from top: getty images (2); shutterstock

“Kristen Bell has shown that you can pull off a versatile little winter dress and look beautiful no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy.” The takeaway Resist the urge to hide under bulky cold-weather clothes. They just make you look bigger. Formfitting things are more flattering. If you’re selfconscious, add a jacket or cardigan.

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Plan your maternity wardrobe at TheBump.com/fashion

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what’s your

maternity style?

Your body’s totally changed, but your fashion sense hasn’t. Take our style quiz to find your perfect maternity outfit.

Your ideal date night is: . Dinner at our a favorite place and maybe a movie.

. The old-standby a department store. It has the best quality.

b. Checking out

b. The hottest boutique

that cool, new cocktail lounge— it’s such a scene.

c. Hanging out in front of a bonfire. d . Seeing our favorite indie-rock band.

. A foreign-language e class.

Open your closet. What does your pre-pregnancy wardrobe look like? . A lot of solids a (mostly black). They never go out of style.

b. Trendy stuff I used to wear for going out.

c. Flowy, patterned

dresses.

d . Skinny jeans, rock

tees and retro shades.

. Cardigans and e button-downs in every color of the rainbow.

Where do you like to clothes-shop most?

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in town.

c. Stores selling clothes

and jewelry with Indian or tribal influences.

d . Vintage shops. e. An upscale mall.

Which celeb mama’s style would you like to channel while you’re pregnant? a . Kate Middleton

b. Halle Berry c. Drew Barrymore d . Nicole Richie e. Reese Witherspoon You’d like your babyshower theme to be: . Simple: pink, if it’s a a girl; blue, if it’s a boy.

b. Baby bling—sparkles everywhere.

c. Woodlands animals. d . Rock-star baby. e. ABC’s.

did you get...

Mostly A’s? Mostly B’s? Mostly C’s? Mostly D’s? Mostly E’s? turn the page to see your style results >

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mostly A’s

mostly b’s

Your eternal good taste means simple and sophisticated looks and clean lines. Update with timeless accessories you can wear postbaby.

High-impact maternity pieces will be your wardrobe staples. Add a statement-making handbag or sparkly jewels for mocktail parties.

1 Dalla Nonna The Little Letter Necklace in rose gold, $240, DallaNonnaJewelry.com

1 Chewbeads Greenwich necklace, $37, Chewbeads.com

2 Isabella Oliver ruched maternity midi dress, $169, IsabellaOliver.com

2 Hatch Collection The Dinner Party dress, $298, HatchCollection.com

3 Rosie Pope London Shopper Classic, $365, RosiePope.com

3 Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C. clutch, $295, RebeccaMinkoff.com >

c lassic

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glamorous

also available at Destination Maternity® stores, destinationmaternity.com, buybuy Baby and Macy’s | motherhood.com .

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mostly C’s

mostly D’s

b ohemian

h ipster

Relaxed and exotic-inspired choices express your individuality and free spirit. Comfort is key: Think breezy maxis and beachy caftans.

Hipper-than-thou even throughout pregnancy, you’re about dressing in the latest street-wear trends. Your bump will blend right in at the next indie concert.

1 Satya Jewelry gold Samsara earrings, $118, SatyaJewelry.com

1 Nepali by TDM Design Bambi Lauren scarf, $105, TDMdesigninc.com

2 Séraphine floral-print maxi dress,

2 ASOS Maternity boyfriend T-shirt, $17, us.asos.com

3 Timi & Leslie faux-leather Hayley bag,

3 ASOS Maternity peg pant in spot print, $33, us.asos.com >

$79, SeraphineMaternity.com

$170, ShopTimiandLeslie.com

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make it last

1 2

Amy Tara Koch, style expert and author of Bump It Up, dishes out the best non-maternity outfits that will work for the next nine months and beyond. sport maxi skirts Go for ones with

an elastic waistband and a flap that flips over. Try pulling the skirt up over your breasts, and you’ll have a super-cute trapeze dress that’s loose and flowy. wear wrap dresses They look good

on every body type and wrap perfectly around your bump, even as you get bigger. shop in swimwear Swimwear is a

gold mine for pregnant bellies— really. You’ll find tunics and caftans in bright colors that are designed to be loose and flowy. Pair them with leggings now and as beach cover-ups later.

try jeggings (seriously) Yes, the word jeggings is absurd, but these stretchy leggings are actually über-comfortable and look enough like jeans to work. mostly E’s

p reppy

cover up with extra-long camis

You’re into Lilly Pulitzer, Ralph Lauren and anything monogrammed. Keep the look sophisticated with tailored silhouettes perfect for the country club.

Rosie Pope Molly dress, $168, RosiePope.com

2 Waiting On Martha monogrammed cuff bracelet in pink, $54, ShopWaitingOnMartha.com 3 Belly Dance Maternity Boulevard Sunday bag, $158, BellyDanceMaternity.com

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Camis in a stretchy fabric with ruching on the side will grow with you. Plus, they’re form-fitting and flattering, so your bump will be the main attraction. stock up on empire waists Shirts and dresses with an Empire waist give the illusion of a waistline and look great on all body types. Plus, you can find stylish options without ever having to set foot in a maternity shop.

Find more fashion tips and tricks at TheBump.com/fashion

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eat great,

feel better

Foods to ease five not-so-fun pregnancy symptoms. By Joanne Van Zuidam

morning sickness what to eat

ginger

When you’re feeling queasy, ginger’s your best friend. Brew ginger tea, chew candied ginger, snack on ginger snaps or sip ginger ale. Hint: Stirring the soda to get the bubbles

out makes it easier on the stomach, says Suzanne Merrill-Nach, MD, fellow at the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and an ob-gyn in private practice in San Diego. Don’t like the taste of ginger? It’s also available in capsule form (if you can stomach the idea of swallowing something whole). what else you can do

Let your aversions be your guide. You might naturally want to avoid strong smells and spicy foods.

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You can also experiment with the temperature of your food, suggests Melinda Johnson, RD, director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics at Arizona State University and spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. You may get relief from eating cold foods, such as gelatin or a smoothie (yum). Other options that can be stomach settlers include raw veggies, cold sandwiches, lemon slices and, of course, crackers. Know that nausea is more likely to happen on an empty stomach— hence the name morning sickness, as that’s when you’re likely the hungriest. If you tend to feel nauseous when you wake up, keep crackers by your bed to nibble on right away. Also, eat sparingly but often. Consuming frequent, small meals is easier on your stomach than having three large ones a day. And don’t worry too much: Whatever you can tolerate is the right thing to eat, says Merrill-Nach. “If you’re throwing up, it doesn’t matter if it’s not the perfectly wellbalanced diet.”

The symptom

constipation what to eat

beans

Beans, berries and broccoli will boost your fiber intake, to keep things running smoothly. High-fiber breakfast cereals and oatmeal are also easy ways to ease this common pregnancy symptom. (Sorry about this one.) what else you can do

Keep a glass or bottle of water with you and drink from it as much as you can. Hydration is important to keep your digestive system moving. Also, MerrillNach says, the calcium in prenatal vitamins can, um, stop you up. Ask your OB to recommend a vitamin that contains a stool softener, which could get things going again.

from left: THinkstock; shutterstock (3)

The symptom

what to eat

In general, acidic foods bring on the burn, making low-acidic fruit, such as bananas and melons, a good choice to lessen heartburn symptoms. Avoiding acidic foods can help, but in pregnancy, it’s not so much about trigger foods. In other words, you might sometimes be able to say that the chili you ate at lunch caused your heartburn, but in general, you can just chalk it up to being pregnant.

It’s common to become iron-deficient or anemic in pregnancy, making you even more tired (if that’s possible). If you’ve had pregnancies close together or if you follow a vegetarian diet, you can probably count yourself among that group, says Merrill-Nach. Vegetarians tend to have lower levels of vitamin B-12 and iron. Adding more iron-rich foods may help boost energy. That includes red meats, beans, leafy green vegetables like spinach and fortified breakfast cereals. Ask your doctor if you should also be taking an iron supplement.

heartburn bananas

what else you can do

Pay attention to what you eat and when you eat it. You might want to skip spicy foods and not nosh too close to bedtime, which can cause heartburn. Also, don’t lie down for at least an hour or so after eating a meal. If you do, Johnson recommends using lots of pillows to prop yourself up in a comfortable position and keep an antacid on your nightstand, Merrill-Nach suggests.

fatigue

spinach

what else you can do

You might not realize it, but staying hydrated is key to keeping your energy level up. “When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes a bit sluggish moving through your body—making you sluggish too,” explains Johnson. Besides sipping water, you can eat soup, fruits and veggies to increase your fluid intake. But remember, you’re pregnant: Feeling tired is a given in the first trimester—no matter what you do. Rest as much as you can for now. And know that in the second trimester, you’ll get back some of your energy.

comfort The symptom

sleeplessness what to drink

decaf tea

A cup of decaffeinated tea or warm milk (plain or flavored) before bed helps some moms-to-be drift off to dreamland, says Johnson. But skip the hot cocoa if you’re sensitive to caffeine—it has a small amount of it, so you’re better off sipping just plain milk. Caffeine, in general, should be limited in preg nancy to less than 200 milligrams (about the amount in a 12-ounce cup of coffee) per day. And avoiding it may help you get the Z’s you need. If you can’t kick your caffeinated-coffee or -tea habit completely, try not to drink it late in the day, when it’s more likely to interfere with sleep. what else you can do

Supporting yourself with extra pillows at night can make you more comfortable and help you snooze better. You can use a big pregnancy body pillow or place a cushion between your knees to alleviate any back pain that may be keeping you up.

Know what you shouldn’t eat at TheBump.com/foodstoavoid

glow Stretch mark cream, darker nipples, prenatal massage and more…

I’m so confused about what fish is okay to have. Can I eat shrimp? Yes you can. The seafood that pregnant women should avoid completely are the high-mercury ones, such as shark, tilefish, swordfish and king mackerel. Shrimp is safe to eat because it falls into the category of low-mercury seafood, which also includes salmon, pollack, sardines and catfish. But you should still limit your intake of these fish to no more than 12 ounces per week, says Laura Riley, MD, director of labor and delivery at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of You & Your Baby: Pregnancy. “Go to a place where you know you’ll get well-prepared food,” says Riley. “You don’t want to get bad shrimp.” And avoid raw or undercooked shrimp, so you don’t get sick while pregnant. Which healthy beverages, other than water, can drink while pregnant? “Putting anything and everything over ice will increase the hydration that you get,” says Riley. Sure, juice and ginger ale have a lot of sugar, but if you’re not drinking a lot of them and you’re watering them down with ice, they’re perfectly acceptable. Other healthy choices include skim milk and sparkling water (we like to squeeze in fresh citrus fruit). But don’t feel guilty if you

thebump.com

indulge in something you should be cutting back on. “One cup of coffee isn’t going to do any harm,” says Riley. “Just keep it to less than 200 milligrams of caffeine a day.” My nipples are getting darker. What’s up with that? No one knows why the nipples tend to darken during pregnancy. It might be that pregnancy hormones cause the cells that give our skin its pigmentation to become more active, says Myra Wick, MD, ob-gyn, medical coeditor of Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. In fact, darker nipples might have been one of the first signs of pregnancy you noticed, once those hormones started raging. Your nipples may keep darkening as you get closer to delivery (maybe that’s nature’s way of making sure baby can find them to breastfeed?). Whatever the reason, having darkened nipples is perfectly normal, and after childbirth your nips will typically fade to the pre-pregnancy shade. Are all stretch-mark products safe to use during pregnancy? If you found that stretch-mark product on an OTC drugstore shelf, it’s probably just fine to use. “For the most part, people making stretch-mark creams are thinking of safety for pregnant women,” says Riley. >

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Help—I’m constipated! Is there anything I can eat that will get things moving? Actually, it’s not just eat. Drink! Getting plenty of water and other fluids can really help if you’re a little, um, stopped up, says Riley. “The usual suspects, like prune juice and raisins, can help,” she says. “Fiber is good, but don’t have too much of it, because it can give you gas.” Exercise is really helpful for getting things going, too.

(

I heard that perineal massage can help get my body ready for delivery. True? Your perineum is the area of skin and tissue that separates the vagina and the anus. Some women massage this region in the weeks leading up to delivery to reduce the need for an episiotomy or tearing during delivery. There’s not a lot of research to prove that this is helpful, and some

What should I know before I get a prenatal massage? There’s some safety stuff you should watch out for. Clear it with your OB If you have a high-risk condition, your doctor may put the kibosh on it. Many spas don’t offer pregnancy massage for women in their first trimester, since the miscarriage risk is higher then, says Melissa Schweiger, coauthor of Belli Beautiful, so ask in advance. Get a prenatal pro Your massage therapist should be experienced and certified in prenatal massage—and always know that you are expecting. That way, she can make sure to choose products that are less likely to irritate your skin (it’s probably a lot more sensitive these days) and will know the ins and outs of dealing with swollen ankles, tender legs and other issues. Don’t lie on your back If you lie flat on your back after 18 weeks, you could compress a blood vessel that may lower your blood pressure dangerously. Some spas have a special table with a cutout for your belly. If your spa doesn’t, then lie on your side, propped up with pillows, which can be super-comfortable too.

(

If you have any questions about a product, bring it to your OB to okay. Right now you definitely want to stay away from products such as Retin-A and other topical retinoids (which are prescription creams), as well as laser skin treatments, says Glenn Kolansky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. “But those treatments can be effective for some women after pregnancy,” he says. As for the OTC creams, while they’re likely safe, no one product has been clinically proven to stave off stretch marks. “The things that might help prevent stretch marks are eating well, not gaining more than the recommended amount of weight, exercising and keeping the skin moist,” says Kolansky. So rub on cream, but make healthy lifestyle choices too.

doctors think it can actually thicken the tissue, says Michele Hakakha, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist in private practice in Beverly Hills, California. So it’s up to you whether or not you want to give it a go.

Get health and nutrition answers at TheBump.com/healthy

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nest

get inspired Amazing nursery ideas you'll want to steal. by Brooke Showell

thebump.com

hipster

Kristin Eldridge Photography

Think minimalist, clean and cool. A few key items—quirky artwork, a reupholstered rocker and graphic bedding—give baby’s room instant hipster cred. “The most unique pieces have history,” says Nina Bassett of Bassett Baby Planning in Houston. “When your pieces feel collected and curated, the look is less cookie-cutter.” >

Houston thebump.com

nest

turn it into a safari

thebump.com

worldly

projectnursery.com

Bright and internationally inspired details like maps, an exotic stuffed animal and a whimsical hot-air-balloon mobile all say global. Rotate favorite family locales. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Keep the walls and furniture somewhat neutral so you can change bedding, window treatments and accessories as your baby grows,â&#x20AC;? Bassett says. >

Houston thebump.com

nest

modern

Nursery design is getting more refined, Bassett saysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;integrate quality, timeless pieces to blend with your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall style. For instance, adding a sophisticated, classic crib in a dark, rich wood warms up a colorful and contemporary room.

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Full Spectrum Photography; Nursery Design: Little Crown Interiors

chevron is totally current!

a happy sea theme will grow with baby

mark lund

playful

A cool chair, glider or rocker is key for a well-styled bedroom, Bassett says. Another must: a fun motif. Even a classic choice like animals need not be overtly babyish. Artistic, abstract fish, turtles or sheep are perfect playmates well into toddlerhood.

Find inspiration for every style at TheBump.com/nursery

nest

high-tech

space saver

4moms Origami It collapses with the push of a button; an LCD screen tells how fast you’re pushing, how far you’ve walked and the temperature. You can even charge your cell. $850, 4moms.com

Britax B-Agile Using just one hand, you can fold it completely flat and lock it into place, making grocery trips a breeze. $250, BritaxUSA.com

top 5

strollers Our list of the latest and greatest wheels for baby.

lightweight

travel-friendly

quinny yezz So light you can carry it on your back! Weighing about 11 pounds, its carry straps and easy-to-fold design make for easier toting once baby gets bigger. $279, Quinny.com

maclaren triumph This umbrella stroller weighs only 13.6 pounds (most strollers are about 17 pounds), and the washable seat comes in bright colors. $185, ShopMaclarenBaby.com

convertible

mamas & papas armadillo They don’t call it the “big little stroller” for nothing! Roomy and compact, the easyfolding Armadillo is car-seat-compatible, but still offers plenty of wiggle room for your growing tot. $280, MamasandPapas.com

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Find baby’s ride at TheBump.com/stroller

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furniture/bedding

health/safety

feeding

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

thebump.com

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

Start your registry at TheBump.com/registry

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nest

space saver

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easy to use

graco snugride click connect 35 Take advantage of the convenience of popping it out of the car base (which is included) and into the stroller—and back again—without waking up baby. $180, GracoBaby.com for stores

top 5

car seats Your child’s safety is riding on your making the right pick.

super-safe

high-tech features

britax marathon 70 Special technology lowers baby’s center of gravity so she’s less likely to propel forward in a crash (very high-tech). $290, BritaxUSA.com for stores

summer infant prodigy “Smart screen technology” means a screen located on the car seat’s base will guide you through the installation process. $180, BabiesRUs.com

grows with baby

Maxi-Cosi Pria With its upright (good for older kids) and 45-degree recline (good for newborns) adjustable positions, it can accommodate your baby from birth until age four. $290, giggle.com

thebump.com

Search for more of the best gear at TheBump.com/gear

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nest Getting your partner excited about registering, choosing a glider, washing cloth diapers and more…

Register? We’re having a baby, not a wedding! Should we, really? The short answer: yes. Creating a registry gives you and your partner control over what people buy for you (basically the last control you’ll have before baby arrives). You’ll be able to designate brand, size, color and the number you need of each item— details that go a lot further than hints do. Plus, some stores, such as Bed Bath & Beyond and Buybuy Baby, offer a discount on the items left over on your registry. And if you want to return any gifts, you need go to only one store to exchange them. When is a good time to start setting up my nursery? Most of our pregnant pals say they’re aiming for the second trimester. This is the time in pregnancy when you’ll feel most up to it, and decorating plans may become clearer if you’re peeking at baby’s sex (you can usually tell around 20 weeks). Even if you aren’t quite ready to start painting, go ahead and pick out the major furniture by month six or so—it can take several weeks to arrive. Measure your nursery before you head out to shop and bring the tape measure with you to the store just in case there are no measurements on the furniture box. You’ll want to make sure the things you pick out will fit in the room.

thebump.com

There are so many feeding pillows at the store. How do I choose? Head to a store that has samples and try them out. You want something that fits comfortably around your waist and will stay in place as you feed baby. Remember: A newborn should lie with her neck straight, facing your breast. If it seems like baby would rest too high or sink too low, it might be wrong. Some moms love curved breastfeeding pillows, like the Boppy; others are into the firmer, flatter ones, like My Brest Friend. It depends on your body type and favorite feeding position. As for features, some pillows strap around your waist, while others don’t. My Brest Friend makes one for twins, Leachco Natural Boost props baby up into a semi-upright position (which can be help avoid reflux), and Boppy makes a travel pillow that fits into a portable bag. The choices depend on your wants and needs. Do I need a bottle warmer? Need? No. But want? Yeah, maybe. The bottle warmer is one of those things that some parents never touch and others rely on, and you might not know whether you’re the former or the latter until after baby arrives. The reason being, a bottle of formula or breast milk can be warmed in other, simpler ways than with a fancy >

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nest contraption—namely, by putting it in a bowl of warmed water or running warm tap water over its sides. But some parents swear by their bottle warmers, because some babies are more particular than others about having their meals at the right temperature. These devices make it easy to get things thoroughly and evenly warmed quickly. Plus, there are no dishes to wash afterward. If you plan to breastfeed, be careful. Some bottle warmers may not be approved for breast milk, as they may change the properties of the milk. Others, like the Kiinde Kozii, were made for breast milk, but you might find you’re just fine going the warm-water route. (Remember: Never microwave breast milk.) Our recommendation? Register for a bottle warmer if you think you’ll use it. Look for one that also heats baby food, so you get double-duty out of it and make sure all the bottles you plan to use fit in it. And save the receipt just in case you don’t take it out of the box. What’s the difference between a rocking chair and a glider? How do I choose a good one? The big distinction is the way they move. Rockers rock in an arc, while gliders move forward and back (and some swivel too). Gliders tend to offer a smoother

thebump.com

ride; plus, they’re designed not to trap toes underneath, like a rocker can. A matching ottoman is often available too. Sit in the glider. Does it give you and baby plenty of support? Is there enough room to wiggle around? Do your feet rest comfortably on the floor and on the ottoman? Check how easily it reclines and locks (if you want those features) and whether the motion feels smooth to you. Does the fabric feel comfy against your skin? Also, opt for a woven fabric that won’t fray and is a breeze to clean.

How exactly do I wash cloth diapers? Hot water will set in stains and soils (ick), so first give dirty diapers a quick cold rinse sans detergent, to flush away poop and How can I interest my partner (and encourage excitement) urine. Then wash in our baby registry? them on hot with It’s good to get him involved in a cloth-friendly all the products you’ll be buying. detergent. For It will help him feel essential, extra sanitizing, plus he’ll be using them and he add an oxygenated needs to know how they work. bleach. Check your Don’t overwhelm him Plan to detergent’s label take a few short trips instead of for enzymes and a marathon registry run. Maybe fragrances—they check out strollers online together before you go to the can leave residue. store, so you’re on the same Many parents use page. He’ll feel much more eco-friendly soaps. prepared and less stressed. Liz Turrigiano, Hype up the things he’ll love cofounder of What are his interests? Sports, Diaperkind, likes maybe? Mention that there’s a Biokleen, Planet baby Texans jersey at the store. Music? A Pink Floyd lullaby CD. and Charlie’s Soap.

Techie stuff? There’s a stroller that folds by itself and charges your smartphone. Hand him the scanner gun Let him have control, and he’ll feel involved in the process, which will leave him more invested in getting it done right.

Plan baby’s nursery at TheBump.com/nursery

Nursing bras, stretch marks, and delivery roomsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;oh my! NeW From the bump! the only pregnancy guide that tells it like it really is.

is it ok to have sex?

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Do i really need a birth plan?

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delivery

labor day

The day you deliver your baby will be one of the , most days of your life.

unpredictable

craziest

photograph by elizabeth messina

stage 1

labor (aka holy crap, this kid is coming!) Labor lasts from the first signs baby’s coming (see “Signs of Labor,” below right) until your cervix is fully dilated and you’re ready to deliver.

real contractions

You’ll know you’re in labor when you start to have regular contractions, which feel like a strong tightening in your belly and could be super-painful or just a little uncomfortable (it all depends on the mom-to-be). You’ll know they’re real contractions, because the pressure usually starts in your back and moves forward to your lower belly, instead of just being in your belly. They’ll be frequent, usually starting about 15 minutes apart and then speeding up to about 5 minutes apart.

the countdown

Start watching the clock (use our Contraction Counter at TheBump.com/contractions to keep track). Call your OB’s office and let them know what’s happening. The doctor will tell you at what point to head to the hospital, but be warned: It might not be right away. You may be told to wait a few hours before you can be admitted.

your to-dos

So what do you do at home? Finish packing your bag and relax. Staying calm and breathing deeply can help your body work its dilation magic, as can changing positions. Take a walk, nap, shower, listen to music, ask your partner for a massage— whatever you feel like doing.

active labor

When your body shifts into active labor, the contractions will come on stronger. Now, you might not be able to walk or talk during a contraction. At this point, you’ll likely be in the hospital (if not, go ASAP) and lying in bed, walking around, or sitting in a birthing tub or on a birthing ball. This is when things start to really hurt—and when most momsto-be opt for pain relief. These strong contractions dilate your cervix from 4 centimeters to 7 centimeters.

the transition

The transition phase is when your cervix dilates from 7 centimeters to 10 centimeters, and it’s pretty intense. The contractions come even faster and more furiously than before, lasting 60 to 90 seconds each. And because it’s an overwhelming sensation, some women feel like giving up. Just know that the “I can’t do it anymore” feeling is completely normal, and you most definitely can do it.

the urge to push

You’ll start to feel the need to push (like having to go number two badly), but you shouldn’t push until your doctor says your cervix is fully dilated (don’t risk injury). >

signs of labor How will you know it’s time? Look for these clues that labor is coming: Loss of the mucus plug This thick mucus (like a glob of snot) might exit your body. Broken water It may be a trickle, as opposed to a gush. If your water breaks, call the doctor. Regular contractions If they’re five minutes apart, it’s probably time! urge to clean Many women find the nesting instinct kicks in just before.

Houston thebump.com

101

delivery

stage 2

stage 3

(aka why you did kegels)

(aka sorry, but you’re not done)

delivery

the placenta

Once you’re fully dilated and you get the go-ahead to push...push! You’ll get coached as you bear down at each contraction. For some women, especially second- or third- (or more) time moms, the pushing stage may last only a few minutes. For others, it can take a few hours. Then there’s the ultimate reward: your baby!

After baby’s born, you’ve got to deliver the placenta. Your uterus continues to contract. (Don’t worry—this normally doesn’t hurt.) This causes the placenta to separate from the uterus and leave the body. Usually, this takes less than half an hour. Then you’re (finally) done. Woo-hoo! Now enjoy that baby and try to rest. >

yowch!

pain relief

Whether you go all natural or get drugs, there are ways to hurt less. t it i wha

breathing

relaxation techniques

epidural

systemic medication

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h ow

it’s

don

sh you

oul

d kn

To deal with the ouchies, it’s using the same breathing techniques that chill you out when you’re stressed.

At the start of each contraction, take a really deep “cleansing” breath, like at the beginning of a yoga class.

Get more guidance and plenty of practice by taking a childbirth class. See page 104 for options.

Operating under the idea that pain is a state of mind; trying to get more comfortable and distract yourself.

Imagine yourself in a happy place. Play calming songs. Get a massage from your partner. Stuff like that.

It’s hard to know exactly what’s going to work once you get there, so have a whole bag of tricks to try.

Usually a combo of meds that block your brain from feeling pain and (mostly) numb your lower half.

It’s given throughout labor and delivery through a tube inserted into your back.

You’ll be stuck in bed, since you’ll be hooked up to an IV and a fetal monitor to track baby’s heart rate.

Medications like morphine, Demerol, Stadol and Nubain, which are all narcotics.

Systemic meds are injected into the bloodstream or a muscle and affect the entire body.

They only really take the edge off. You may get nauseated, and baby can be exposed to them.

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delivery

delivery-room tools forceps These are generally used to try to shift baby’s position and may also help guide the head out.

scissors Just in case you (sorry. really!) need an episiotomy.

vacuum If pushing is

proving ineffective, your doc will use this to pull the baby out with suction.

amniotic hook It looks a lot scarier than it feels, we promise. This long crochet-like hook is used to break your water if it hasn’t yet.

hemostat This clamp is used for containing a bleed and clamping the umbilical cord for cutting.

scalpel This will probably only

be used if you have a c-section.

want to know more? Take a childbirth class. These are among the top choices for birthing methods. Lamaze Used by one-fourth of mothers, Lamaze is the most popular method. You learn simple, natural strategies to use during labor, like rhythmic breathing, hydrotherapy, massage, position changes and walking. Your partner will learn to encourage and support you.

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Bradley Natural childbirth is the goal of this method—about 90 percent of class participants end up delivering without meds. The Bradley Method focuses on self-awareness and trusting your body and emphasizes relaxation (not distraction) for dealing with pain and stress.

Alexander This method teaches posture and movement techniques to ease muscle tension and improve balance, coordination, back pain and digestion. With it, you’ll learn to coordinate your breathing and strengthen your pelvic muscles in preparation for delivery.

HypnoBirthing No, not like that guy you saw in Vegas. HypnoBirthing relies on the power of suggestion to help you relax and let your muscles work to give birth. Affirmations and visualizations are used to guide thoughts and breathing and to decrease stress and fear.

See amazing birth photos at TheBump.com/birthpics

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delivery

my birth

story

Houston mom Channing Lobpries gets a big surprise before delivering baby number 3.

round three

just practice?

I went home and made dinner. As we sat down to eat, the contractions got stronger. I was worried, but Eric had to get to work. I told him to go and that I would lie down. So there I was with two kids and—without knowing it—in labor. I labored throughout the night, but contractions seemed to come and go. The next morning, I woke up and nothing was better. I called the doctor and knew I would have to go to the office. When I got there, I was monitored to see what was happening: The contractions were consistent, so off to the hospital I went. Eric met me at the hospital, and we thought I’d be cleared and sent home. But I had to be monitored overnight.

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a big surprise

The morning of May 2, my doctor checked on me and said the baby’s heart rate was dropping. They only had minutes to deliver her! I was told they had to do an emergency c-section, and I was quickly wheeled into the operating room.

she’s here!

I have no idea how long the surgery took. All I know is that my doctor got the baby out in time. Elle Nicole was born! She went immediately to the NICU. I couldn’t see her for several hours, but when I did, it was one of the greatest moments of my life. She was the most perfect, tiniest little thing I had ever seen. Elle stayed in the NICU for six weeks. She’s had some health problems, but overall, she’s doing fabulously well. Our family is complete with our little girl in our lives.

birth stats baby’s name Elle Nicole size at birth 4 pounds, 11 ounces hospital The Women’s Hospital of Texas

Learn what to pack for the hospital at TheBump.com/bag

thinkstock

This was my third pregnancy. On April 30, when I was 32 weeks pregnant, my husband, Eric, and I picked up our oldest child from school and decided to go for a walk. I felt really great that day, but, after a while, I needed to take a break from walking. Then after another lap, I suddenly felt contractions coming on. I didn’t panic. I thought they were Braxton Hicks contractions.

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delivery

top 10 things googled

from the delivery room

Some things can come up during labor that you’d never expect, and you just might ask your partner to do a quick search. By Elena Donovan Mauer

how much longer?

induction medications

We asked women to reveal the most burning questions they had in the delivery room, and by far, the most popular response was, “How long...” “How long will I be in labor?” “How long will I push?” “How long do inductions take?” Your body and brain are programmed to get that baby out, and (obviously) because labor hurts, you’ll be pretty impatient. Plus, there’s a very wide range of how long things can take, from a few hours to days (sorry), so it can feel like longer than it’s supposed to. Unfortunately, there’s no perfect answer in minutes or hours to “How much longer?” They may have mentioned induction in your childbirth class, but maybe they glossed over the details—and may not have brought up things like Pitocin, Cervidil or a Foley bulb. So if you find yourself being induced, you’re liable to have plenty of last-minute questions.

epidural details

Opting for pain meds? Christine M. was surprised that the medicine worked only on one side. Erin P. was shocked that getting an epidural meant having a catheter. Epidurals can also be a big question mark, because some women don’t plan to get them, then change their mind in the thick of it. So read up on them, even if you opt not to have one.

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is this normal?

“I Googled ‘mucus plug’ because mine came out, and I wanted to know if it looked the way it should,” says TheBump.com user Bridebylaw. “It did, so everything was fine.” It might not be a mucus plug that you’re worried about. It could be about how your water broke or that your labor isn’t progressing or that baby’s heart rate lowered. And while we’re fans of doing research and gaining knowledge, in most cases, your doctor or midwife will probably have a more reliable answer than your phone will—this one’s personal.

5 c-section scenarios

A mom-to-be who has a planned c-section is sure to have peppered her doctor with questions in advance, but if it’s something that comes as a surprise, she might find herself pretty unprepared for the surgery. That’s why every prospective mom should bone up on c-sections.

shutterstock

6 aches and pains

Labor pains in your thighs? A “ring of fire” as you push? There are some labor sensations that might be total shockers to you—and we can’t prepare you for all of them, as every woman experiences labor slightly differently. If anything feels too weird, definitely consult your doctor. (It’s probably normal, but it’s smart to check.)

what’s going on with my butt?

Not to totally freak you out or anything, but one of the strangest sensations, say Bumpies, is pain in your, um, rectal area. “It felt like my butt was going to explode,” says Anna S. “I asked, ‘Are you sure it’s not going to explode?’ ” No, it won’t explode, but it might be sore for a while during recovery, because of all the pressure and strain from pushing. (Take the stool softeners they’ll likely offer at the hospital.)

shutterstock

music and entertainment

Surprise, surprise. Some Bumpies found themselves with a little unexpected time on their hands in the delivery room. “The only thing I Googled in labor was Netflix,” says Pitterpatter129. “We watched reruns of The Office.” And even if you don’t think you’re the kind of mom-to-be who wants calming music during delivery, you could prove yourself wrong. “My husband looked up Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons for me when I asked him to,” says Anna W. “He hates classical music but muscled through it, since I was in labor.” Bring your iPod just in case.

episiotomies and tearing

One of the biggest delivery fears is having any tearing or cutting down there. So it’s understandable that you’d be so worried about having either that you might have been feverishly looking them up on your phone. But try to relax, forget about the worst-case scenarios and focus on giving birth to a healthy baby. Remember: Plenty of moms have had episiotomies and stitches and lived to tell about them. And if you happen to be one of them, your OB will help you through the procedure, and you should heal within a few weeks.

happens after…? 10 what “I wanted more postpartum info,”

says Diana C. Some women are so focused on getting through labor—and so eager to care for baby—that they forget about what they need to do to care for themselves. You can brush up on postpartum-care basics at TheBump .com/postbirth. Ultimately, though, it’s important to get personalized advice for you and the kind of birth you have. That’s why your OB, midwife, doula or postpartum nurses are such valuable resources. Don’t be afraid to ask them your most probing questions, while you’ve got their attention.

Get all your delivery questions answered at TheBump.com/birth

delivery

birth plan Use this checklist to prepare you (and your doctor) for labor. full name:

partner’s name:

today’s date:

due date/induction date:

doctor’s name :

hospital name:

My delivery is planned as:

During labor, I’d like:

Vaginal C-section Water birth VBAC

Music played (which I’ll provide) The lights dimmed The room to be as quiet as possible As few interruptions as possible As few vaginal exams as possible Hospital staff to be limited to my own doctor and nurses (no students, residents or interns present) To wear my own clothes To wear my contact lenses My partner to film and/or take pictures My partner to be present the entire time To stay hydrated with clear liquids and ice chips To eat and drink as approved

I’d like my present during labor. Partner Parents Other children Doula Other

I’d like my present after delivery. Partner Parents Other children Doula Other

For pain relief, I’d like to use: Acupressure Acupuncture Breathing techniques Cold therapy Distraction Epidural Hot therapy Hypnosis Massage Meditation Reflexology Systemic medication TENS Nothing Only what I request at the time Whatever is suggested

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As baby is delivered, I’d like to: Push spontaneously Push as directed Push with no time limits, as long as baby and I aren’t at risk Use a mirror to see baby crown Touch the head as it crowns Avoid forceps usage Avoid vacuum extraction Use whatever methods my doctor deems necessary Help catch baby Let my partner catch baby Let my partner suction baby

I’d like to hold baby: Immediately after delivery After suctioning After weighing After being wiped clean and swaddled Before eyedrops/ointment is given

Learn your birth options at TheBump.com/birth

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delivery Sex before labor, DIY inductions, water birth and more…

I heard that drinking castor oil can help induce labor. Really? Probably not—but it will give you diarrhea! That’s because castor oil is basically a laxative, and when ingested, it can trigger cramping in your bowels, says Michele Hakakha, MD, an ob-gyn in private practice in Beverly Hills, California. This “home remedy” has been popular for decades as a way to bring on labor. But research found that women who took castor oil after 40 weeks of pregnancy delivered no faster than the women who didn’t try it. And the cramping and loose stool associated with the oil isn’t worth it. So skip the castor oil. We know it can be tough getting through those last weeks of pregnancy, but eventually you—and baby—will get there. My mucus plug already came out, but I’m not in labor yet. Can I have sex? Yes, probably. There are exceptions, such as if you’ve tested positive for group B strep, since there’s an increased risk of infection once the mucus plug falls out, says Robert Wool, MD. But otherwise, sex is usually A-OK. It’s not proven that having an orgasm can nudge your body into labor. But, hey, it’s worth a shot, and at least you and your partner will have a good time.

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What is bloody show? It may sound like the latest Quentin Tarantino movie, but bloody show is really just nature’s way of telling you labor is about to begin. During pregnancy, your cervix stands guard to your uterus by holding in a thick plug of mucus. The plug operates like a cork and prevents harmful bacteria from reaching your uterus. When your cervix starts to thin and relax to get ready for baby’s trip down the birth canal, the plug starts to liquefy. Due to some of the surrounding blood vessels that burst, the mucus plug can often appear reddish in color, though it’s some times pinkish or even clear. Bloody show can appear within minutes or up to days before labor starts, says Hakakha. But some women never even notice when it appears, so don’t worry if you’re one of them. I keep hearing about Pitocin and oxytocin. What’s the difference? Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone in your body. Pitocin is the synthetic drug created to mimic one of this hormone’s primary actions: bringing about labor. But, to make things more confusing, Pitocin is the drug’s brand name, and there’s also a generic version that is called oxytocin. >

you said

3 things you can’t wait to do after baby

“ 1. Drink. 2. Run. 3. Wear normalpeople clothing.”

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delivery Your doctor may suggest using Pitocin to induce labor if you’re significantly past your delivery date, if your water has broken but you still haven’t begun contractions or if an epidural has slowed your labor down, says Wool. The medication is typically given via an intravenous (IV) pump. If possible, talk to your doctor well in advance of your due date to help determine her stance on it, when you may require this medication and what to expect if you do. I’m thinking about having a water birth. Is there anything I should consider first? A water birth—typically giving birth in a tub of warm water—sounds lovely and relaxing, both for you and baby (who doesn’t enjoy a warm bath?). In fact, proponents say that having your baby go from the uterus, where she’s surrounded by warm amniotic fluid, to a tub filled with water at a similar temperature is gentler and less stressful than a traditional open-air birth. But according to Hakakha, there’s one big drawback: When a baby takes her first full breath of air, it fills her lungs, closing off certain blood vessels while opening others. In short, that first cry you hear is a sign that your

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baby has started breathing through her lungs. When a baby is born in water, it takes longer for that circulation of air to occur and therefore delays the baby breathing on her own. This situation increases the risk of delivery complications. Women pregnant with multiples, those in preterm labor (more than two weeks before the due date), those who have herpes or excessive bleeding, or those having a breech delivery should talk with their health care providers before considering a water birth. How long does it take to heal from an episiotomy? It all depends on how severe the incision is, as there are degrees of lacerations. first-degree is usually just through the vaginal mucus and heals in a day or two. second-degree involves both the mucosa and submucosa (a deeper layer of tissue); this typically heals in a week or two. third-degree covers the muscle near the rectal sphincter. Recovery may take six weeks or longer. fourth-degree goes straight through to the rectum (ouch). As with third-degree tears, this may call for a six-week or longer healing time. The good news is that it’s fairly uncommon for a doctor to perform an episiotomy, and even if you tear naturally, the vast majority of them are still either first- or seconddegree lacerations that mend relatively quickly (we promise).

Can I go into labor without contractions? Nope. The definition of going into labor, from a doctor’s point of view, is based on having uterine contractions, says Hakakha. When contractions occur at regular intervals and are paired with changes in the cervix, you can bet your bump you’re about to have a baby. Believe us, you’ll know you’re in labor unless you have an unusually high pain threshold. It’s really uncomfortable.

Learn more about delivery at TheBump.com/delivery

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basics

new-parent survival Babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finally coming home! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered on everything you need to know. By Nina Carbone photograph by Erin McFarland

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head home what to wear

Take the approach of less is more when packing going-home attire. A simple T-shirt, diaper and baby blanket for wrapping work in warm weather; colder weather calls for a warm sleeper and some extra blankets for bundling.

how to travel

Get ready for the car ride home. Hospitals won’t even let you leave without an approved car seat—it should be rear-facing and strapped in the backseat.

know the basics

there are two soft spots One is on the

top of the head and the other is on the back. These are points on the head where baby’s bones haven’t grown together yet. Sounds scary but, in fact, there’s a tough membrane covering the opening in the skull. So there’s actually no real risk of puncturing baby’s head while you’re holding him.

nails grow fast

Trim her nails with infantsize clippers while she’s sleeping. Because nails are so small and grow quickly, early on, you may need to trim them up to twice a week. Smooth rough edges with a soft emery board.

acne happens

Baby has your hormones to thank for all those red bumps on his chin, cheeks and forehead. There’s just no way to prevent them, but never ever treat them like you would normally deal with your own acne. In other words: no picking or popping. Wash his face up to three times a day with warm water and then gently pat dry.

eyes can look crossed For about

the first six months, baby’s eyes tend to drift and wander, especially when she’s exhausted or focusing on something very close. Talk to the doctor if her eyes get stuck or make any odd windshieldwiper-like motions.

earwax builds up

Don’t stick anything into baby’s ear canal. If you’re concerned about buildup, talk to baby’s doctor.

birthmarks pop up Often called

a “stork bite,” such a mark can appear on a baby’s nose, forehead, eyelids, upper lip or on the back of his neck. It’s just a patch of dilated and stretched capillaries or blood vessels under the skin. If baby is crying or there’s a change in temperature, the spot may darken. Most disappear within 18 months, so if the doctor isn’t concerned, don’t worry.

skin needs moisturizing

Dry skin or eczema looks like red patches and can cover baby’s body and cheeks. Limit baths and slather on petroleum-based creams for relief. If it’s serious, the doctor may suggest low-dose, antiinflammatory ointments.

keep baby comfy

do tummy time

Babies spend a lot of time on their backs, but they need to develop other muscles too. Put baby on her stomach and on your chest, and then have her squirm toward your face.

decode cries Watch

and listen so you’ll be able to learn what’s wrong with baby. “I’m hungry” sounds rhythmic and repetitive. But “I’m in pain” is louder and more intense.

hold him right

Place his head in the crook of one arm and either wrap your other arm around baby or hold the original arm with the second arm. Keep his head supported.

lose layers Newborns

don’t sweat or shiver the way adults do. Pick lightweight, soft, breathable clothes in cotton and jersey knit. Throw on a cotton undershirt, if you dress baby in synthetic fibers. >

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basics

get the poop first poops are dark Those first few

diapers will most likely contain stool that’s black in color and is referred to as meconium. Why is it so dark? It’s the result of all the nutrients that she received in utero. Don’t stress. In the beginning, this is normal and healthy.

color and smell change The shade of

baby’s poop depends on what you feed him. If you breastfeed, for example, it’ll be a shade of mustard yellow with what looks like seeds. The plus is that it doesn’t have much of an odor. Formula-fed babies, though, tend to produce poop which ranges anywhere from a shade of yellow to brown to green. Sorry, but this batch is much more stinky.

it gets animated

Because grunting, crying or turning red is normal when baby poops, there’s no reason to be alarmed. And once your newborn gets used to how his body works, he won’t be quite as loud about it. Remember that this is all new for him too.

color gives a clue

Certain bowel movements aren’t normal, but they’re fairly easy to spot. Poop in shades of red (this could mean blood), black (with the exception of the first few) or white should raise a flag, so take note.

diaper-bag must-haves In

those first few months, you probably won’t be straying too far from home. If you do decide to venture out, though, here’s what you need: • diapers (pack one for every hour and a few extras to have on hand) • changing mat • plastic baggies for any dirty diapers • baby wipes • sample-size tubes of barrier cream for quick diaper changes • extra onesie or T-shirt

of dirty diapers varies from baby to baby. Some go a few times a day, while others only need to poop once. Typically, babies have an easier time digesting breast milk, so many breastfed babies will poop after almost every feeding. Be prepared for lots of changes, and keep in mind that most babies poop less as they grow (sometimes even skipping an entire day, which is usually normal).

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erin mcfarland

frequency is personal The number

“Let baby sleep. Most wake up when they’re hungry.”

m aster s leep time

don’t wake her

Let baby snooze. If you’re deciding between waking up baby for a scheduled feeding or letting her sleep, you should leave her to get her z’s. Most babies wake up when they’re hungry.

burn the midnight oil A

adriana klas photography

majority of babies don’t sleep through the night until they’re about three months old. Because their stomachs are so small, they need to wake up every three to four hours to eat.

remove bumpers

Studies have shown that the hazards of bumpers in a bassinet or crib far outweigh their benefits. Avoid putting pillows, stuffed animals or thick

blankets in there as well. All you need is a firm mattress and fitted sheet.

enjoy shut-eye

Newborns may sleep as much as 16 hours a day or more. It’s usually in three- to four-hour chunks.

dim the lights

Typically infants don’t mind the dark until they’re 18 months old. The room doesn’t have to be pitchblack, but the darker the better, since light signals day, which means baby will want to be awake.

don’t share a bed

Baby should have his own crib. It’s tempting to bring him into bed with you, but studies have shown there’s a higher risk of SIDS in homes where baby shared a bed with mom and dad. Instead, establish a routine.

m ark m ilestones 2 weeks old Your

little one may start to focus on faces a bit more.

3 weeks old Be

attentive to baby’s incessant crying. This is the point to watch for signs of colic. We’re talking nonstop cries that last at least three hours a day, three days a week. If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor.

4 weeks old Welcome all the new sounds, such as dove-like coos. This is also the time when baby may begin lifting and holding her head slightly off the floor all on her own. 6 weeks old If baby

was grinning before, it was definitely gas. Now he’s happily smiling. >

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d eal with f eelings

down in the dumps You’re at baby’s

beck-and-call 24 hours a day, and you haven’t gotten a smile in return (yet). To say life has changed is an understatement. It’s normal to be down and it’s smart to acknowledge your feelings. Talk with your obgyn, so she can figure out if you’re stressed or if it’s more serious.

always exhausted

A sporadic sleep schedule (or no sleep) takes a toll. In one survey, 62 percent of parents said they had moments of wanting to run away from home, even just for a night.

having crazy thoughts What if I let

go of the stroller on this hill? What if I walk out while baby is in the bath? Sleep deprivation makes anyone slightly batty. It’s an overwhelming time because you’re realizing that you have such a huge responsibility on your plate. Consult a doc if your thoughts don’t change. And get out of the house. Groups like Mommy & Me will help you connect with other moms who may also be experiencing these same changes and emotions.

feeling far from maternal Did you

think once you gave birth you’d transform into instant mom? Just because you

don’t feel different and super-close to baby right away certainly doesn’t make you a bad mother. About 20 percent of women studied felt no bond with their baby in those first few weeks. Give it time; things will change and you’ll be feeling that mommy-baby bond.

disinterested in sex No, the totally

unsexy feeling is not going to last forever. Between the fatigue, soreness, dryness and new responsibilities, most women (and their partners too) have a nonexistent libido for at least a little while. Don’t panic, because you’ll both be getting back into the groove before you know it.

a class act You’ve made it a threesome. Now adjust to life with baby at one of these helpful local classes. baby basics In this three-hour in-home session, a doula instructs new parents on the most essential aspects of day-to-day care of their newborn, offers coaching on any feeding issues and encourages moms and dads. TAKE IT AT Motherhood Center, $250, (713) 963-8880 infant massage Relax along with your newborn. Certified infant-massage instructors teach the art of massaging infants. Use your newfound techniques to create a blissed-out baby. TAKE IT AT Texas Children’s Hospital Pavilion for Women, $45, (832) 825-3276

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infant CPR Every parent should know the basics. This class teaches essential life-saving techniques, based on American Heart Association standards. TAKE IT AT Memorial Hermann Memorial City, $15 per person, (713) 222-2273 the first five During the first five years of life, 90 percent of a little one’s brain develops. Learn appropriate activities and games to teach baby socialization and self-discipline skills. TAKE IT AT ESCAPE Family Resource Center, $100 for 10 two-hour classes, (713) 942-9500

Find more newborn-care advice at TheBump.com/newborn

Providing quality care for your child when the pediatrician’s office is closed. School Year Hours (September - May) M - F: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM • Weekends & Holidays: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Summer Hours (June - August) M - F: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM • Weekends & Holidays: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Connect with Us:

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basics

biggest mistakes new moms make

No, it’s not the obvious “What were they thinking?” mishaps we’re talking about here. These are probably things you’re doing right now— without even realizing it. By Elena Donovan Mauer

You’ve got this brand-new, very small and vulnerable person whose health you’ve got to watch out for. But you are also recovering from childbirth, which is no walk in the park—especially if you had complications, like tearing or a c-section. You really do need extra rest, lots of water, nutritious food (with plenty of fiber) and TLC. Sure, you want to do it all, but try to take it easy and take care of yourself.

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becoming a hermit

Right now, it’s a big deal to put on real clothes, pack up the diaper bag (oh yeah, and the baby too) and head out the door. You and baby could definitely use some fresh air. If you hole up in the house, you’re going to feel even more frumpy, isolated, exhausted and down. Who cares if you haven’t showered since Sunday? No one will smell you. Go out and walk around the block—at the very least. >

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not focusing on healing

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basics

You swore you’d go drug-free but then begged for an epidural. You really wanted a water birth but had to get a c-section. It might not have happened the way you wanted it, but you and baby made it through childbirth and are A-OK— that is what’s really important. Let your regrets go and enjoy that baby.

not getting help with breastfeeding issues

One study suggests that only a third of women who want to breastfeed do it for as long as they had originally intended. We blame it on the fact that, well, breastfeeding can be a lot harder than some of us ever expected. If you’re having any issues, request help from a lactation consultant,

baby’s pediatrician or even an experienced friend or relative. Figuring out problems right away can keep you from being frustrated, and the sooner you’re back on track, the more successful you are likely to be.

stressing about every little thing

“Am I giving baby enough stimulation?” “Too much stimulation?” “Should I have gotten him the stroller that can face him toward me?” “What about that other carrier?” You name it, and a new mom worries excessively about it. But other than legitimate safety and health concerns, you’re pretty much just making yourself crazy. Most parents learn that by the time baby number two rolls around, they should stress less—or that they just don’t have the time to stress and they realize it’s okay. >

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I giving baby “Amenough stimulation?

“

stewing about breaking the birth plan

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basics

not saying yes to offers of help

Someone volunteers to watch baby? Do a load of laundry? Get you some water? We know that in your prebaby life, you probably chalked up offers like these to good manners and, just as politely, turned them down. But everything’s changed now. Accept their assistance. This is the time when you need a salon trip, a nap and some good old-fashioned nourishment and hydration to make you feel normal again. And feeling normal is one more thing that helps you be a great mom.

taking advice that goes against your gut

Everyone from your mother to strangers in the supermarket is bound to give you advice. Their suggestion, for example,

to ignore that weird rash or rub rum on baby’s gums, just doesn’t sound right. Well, it probably isn’t. It doesn’t matter if you’re afraid of offending someone or if that person is supposed to know better than you—you’re the mom. Trust your instincts and follow them.

comparing your baby with your friends’

Your pal’s kid might be crawling and cruising, while your baby is still figuring out how to roll back to his stomach. It’s easy to get nervous and think something’s wrong, but every kid tackles milestones at his own pace. As long as baby’s pediatrician says baby is progressing normally and there are no red flags for developmental delays, don’t sweat it.

Figure out this new-mom thing at TheBump.com/mom

when’s baby coming? You can’t know for sure unless it’s a scheduled delivery, but check out these recent stats.

10% early

of babies were born (week 42 and after)

arrived (before week 37)

late

84%on time

showed up (between weeks 37 and 41)

Count down to delivery at TheBump.com/calendar

basics

jessica alba

gets honest We bet you didn’t know these 5 things about Jessica Alba. by elena donovan mauer photography by Justin Coit

When a popular baby detergent gave her a rash, Jessica Alba didn’t ignore it. She got passionate about it—and started The Honest Company, a line of nontoxic, eco-friendly products. Now, the actress-turned-businesswoman has added a new credit to her résumé: author. Her book, The Honest Life, is packed with Jessica’s healthy and green secrets, from fashion and beauty to cleaning and planning baby’s nursery. She has also got these surprises up her sleeve.

Jessica’s go-green advice is actually realistic.

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she sometimes struggles with things (yes, really)

Doesn’t it seem like everything would come easily to Jessica? Not so. “Writing a book for the first time was challenging— and it wasn’t just because I was trying to juggle everything I’m doing,” she says. “Because the book includes all the naturalliving tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years, I found it difficult to hone in on the most relevant content.” Her savior? Her husband, Cash. He took over baby duty on those mornings she needed to sleep in after late nights spent writing.

she admits she’s not perfect—and no one else is either

We asked Jessica for her best parenting advice. And no, it’s not to be organic-food-obsessed or to own all the right products. It’s to give yourself a break. “We all want to do the best we can for our families, but we can’t be superheroes all the time while balancing everything we need to,” she says.

she’s realistic about going green

Afraid Jessica’s book is only applicable to rich celebs? Anyone can use her advice. “Natural living isn’t about a huge lifestyle overhaul,” she says. “It’s about doing what you can and focusing on small, attainable steps that make the most sense for you and your family.” For example, buy vintage items instead of new ones.

she practices what she preaches

Jessica says she and Cash don’t just recycle and drink filtered tap water, they also make playtime into lessons about sustainability. “With my daughter, Honor, I love to do arts and crafts where we really focus on upcycling items and giving them new life.”

she has good advice for momtrepreneurs

There are many women interested in starting their own business, and Jessica is passionate about offering advice to them. “Surround yourself with experts in your field and learn from them,” she says. “Ask plenty of questions.” Starting your own business takes selfawareness. “Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses and build a team that complements your skill set,” she says. “Stick to your guns. If someone can persuade you to depart from your idea, it’s a sign the business might not be the right fit for you.”

Check out our favorite eco-friendly products at TheBump.com/greenproducts

basics Growth spurts, tummy time, gripe water and more…

What exactly is in baby formula? Most formula makers do their very best to imitate breast milk (although many experts say formula is still no substitute for the real thing). About 80 percent of the formulas sold today have proteins derived from cow’s milk. Others are made from soy and can be used for babies with an allergy to milk proteins. Read the ingredients label to make sure baby’s formula is fortified with iron (most are), since infants don’t usually have enough iron in their bloodstream to meet all their developmental needs, says Diane Bloomfield, MD, attending pediatrician at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in Bronx, New York. Also, look for formula fortified with essential fatty acids like DHA or ARA, which can play an important role in both brain and eye development. If baby is allergic to both cow’s milk and soy, you can try formula made with predigested proteins, which are usually hypoallergenic. How do I know when my baby’s going through a growth spurt? He’ll have an insatiable appetite or seem excessively fussy or sleepy, says Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at Seattle Children’s Hospital, Everett Clinic. If baby just can’t seem to get enough of

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the bottle or the breast, simply feed on demand and follow his cues. Forget about trying to stick to your “usual schedule.” Monitor baby’s diapers to see if there’s a noticeable change in wetness or stool to make sure there isn’t some other explanation. And if baby is acting strangely in some other way, call the pediatrician for personalized advice. My baby hates tummy time! What should I do? Don’t give up. Most babies are at least a little resistant to tummy time, but it’s important for a few reasons. For one, although we want babies to sleep on their backs to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), they shouldn’t spend all their time facing the ceiling. That can cause positional plagiocephaly, aka flat head syndrome, because an infant’s soft bones (which help accommodate brain growth) can become molded in a flattened shape. The other reason tummy time is so great is that it helps babies acquire new developmental milestones by giving them the chance to build the head control and core strength they need to move around, says Swanson. Babies who receive more tummy time are able to pick their heads up for longer periods of time and can begin doing some early rolling from tummy to back. >

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basics

How do I give my baby a massage? Massage can calm baby; may relieve colic, constipation and teething problems; and can help you two bond, says Gayle Berry, founder of Blossom & Berry, which provides babymassage-training classes. Start by rubbing some baby-

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Things are a lot, um, bigger down there since I gave birth. Will it get back to normal? Yes! It’s just vaginal swelling from the trauma of pushing baby’s head through. Give your body time to heal—and don’t skimp with the ice packs. They’re key for bringing swelling down. Stat.

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Does gripe water work? There’s not a lot of good evidence that shows gripe water, an herbal supplement meant to help with upset stomach and colic, can reduce crying, says Swanson. Research suggests it has a minimal effect on helping colicky babies cry less. The good news is, if you want to try gripe water, there’s not a lot of risks to it—as long as you use it in small amounts, as the directions state.

Breastfeeding is hurting my sex life. Help! What you’re going through is totally normal. There are ways to get back on track— you just might have to change things a bit, depending on what’s causing your dry spell. Decreased sex drive We get it: You’re stressed and tired. Explore nonsexual ways to be intimate, whether it’s a sensual massage or a candlelit dinner, says Dawn Cedrone, lactation consultant and director of NewBornMom Breastfeeding Solutions. A little romance can really go a long way. Breast leakage Ask your partner to keep hands off for a little while, or leave your bra on (with absorbent breast pads). You can also have a towel handy while you’re intimate. Your best bet is to use your sense of humor. Don’t be embarrassed—just laugh! Vaginal dryness This problem’s easily resolved with some sexual lubricant.

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Ideally, your baby should spend 40 to 60 minutes each day on her tummy—but it doesn’t have to be all at once. Even just a few seconds to a few minutes of time throughout the day adds up. Get on the floor with your baby or use a soft, flexible mirror or bright toys as incentives for her to reach or lift her head up. You can also put your baby on your chest or prop her up on a nursing pillow to give her a better view.

massage oil on your hands (try California Baby massage, almond or olive oil). Next, gently knead baby’s legs, feet, back and hands—and belly if you want. Some experts believe rubbing baby’s belly helps reduce gas pains. Don’t apply too much pressure when massaging, but a slightly firm grasp can be soothing to baby. If baby doesn’t like what you’re doing, he’ll probably be squirmy and agitated. If it’s a no-go, try again when he’s alert and in a better mood.

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first birthday

basics

Baby has only one first birthday—and that means a lot of pressure to do the party right. We’ve got your step-by-step planning guide here. By Sarah Yang photography By story by mia

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when to throw it

Of course, you want your friends and family to be able to attend the party, so the weekend before or after baby’s birthday is a good bet. If baby has a sleep schedule, plan the party for after naptime, so she’s wellrested (and slightly less likely to be in a bad mood). As for how long you should extend the bash, make it just a couple of hours, rather than an all-day affair—parties can be overwhelming for small children, especially if there are a lot of guests. Hold the party in a venue that has a private quiet space, so if baby gets fussy or needs a breather, you can take her there.

how many people to invite

If it’s going to be intimate, the party might include grandparents, aunts and uncles, and a few baby friends from mommy-and-me classes. If you want to go all out and have a huge bash, invite extended family, friends, coworkers who have kids and so on. It ultimately depends on your own preferences. Your budget also plays a role in the size of your party—obviously the more people you have, the more food, beverages and space you’re going to need. Start with your must-invite list: the people you wouldn’t celebrate without. If you can add to your head count, keep going.

where to have it

If you host the event at home, your guests can hang out longer and baby has a place to nap if she gets tired (her room!). Plus, baby might be more comfortable in familiar surroundings. Having it at a restaurant or even a children’s play space could get costly, but the big advantage is that you won’t get stuck with cleanup. There’s also no prep to deal with beforehand, and you won’t have to entertain guests as much. If you live in an apartment or a house with space to spare, that setting may be ideal. Otherwise, why not head to your favorite park? You can set up food and decorations at a picnic table (some parks even have grills for barbecuing). And there’s already a play structure there to occupy the kids—just make sure that you have enough adults to keep an eye on them. Check with the local parks department to see if you need a permit or have to make a reservation for the space.

how to choose a theme

If your baby has a beloved giraffe toy that she sleeps with every night, try zoo animals as a birthday theme. If your favorite part of the day is reading to her at night, pepper the party with books. You can take inspiration from the season whether you’re having an indoor or outdoor party. >

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beyond

If you don’t want to spend a fortune on baby’s birthday party, DIY is your best bet. Bake your own cake, have the party at home and shop at closeout stores (they often have great toys and stuffed animals for low prices). If you’re making your own cupcakes or treats, you can turn decorating them into an activity for guests. For invites, it’s fine to go paperless, which also includes RSVP tracking.

what to serve

If baby has a favorite food, serve it. Foods and snacks that are healthy and can be eaten on the go are good choices. For kid guests, serve things like mini grilledcheese sandwiches, chicken fingers or single-serve boxes of raisins. For adults, try sandwiches, wraps, and veggies and dip. Double-check if anyone has eating restrictions or food allergies.

party favors

You can give away fancy swag bags or keep it small with little harmonicas or a bath toy. Or have a favor that the whole family can take home, like a photo frame complete with a picture snapped and printed at the party. When it’s time to hand out the favors, give the goodies to parents first just in case they want to remove a few items or candies.

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party on Ready to celebrate? Check out these local birthday-party hot spots. Monkey Bizness

Get silly in the large playroom filled with colorful interactive structures, climbing walls and games. (832) 237-0100, MonkeyBizness.com Old MacDonald’s Farm

Train rides, pony rides, a petting zoo—what could be more fun? Then, relax with a picnic lunch in a private gazebo. (281) 446-4001, OldMacDonaldsHumble.com Pigtails & Crewcuts

Choose from kid-tested themes like luau, princess or superhero and play dress-up, sing karaoke or go on a treasure hunt at the salon. (281) 492-6061, PigtailsandCrewcuts.com Pump It Up

Inflatable fun! Kids will jump, climb and play on giant blow-up slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses in a private arena. (713) 686-7867, PumpItUpParty.com

Get birthday cake ideas at TheBump.com/bdaycakes

event planning, Styling and flowers: Cana’s Miracle LLC; Invitations: MKL Studio; cake and cupcakes: Christine NY; Cake and cupcake toppers: Mimicafe Union; venue: the modern

how to budget and diy

Do You Need HELP Soothing Your Baby? Sometimes babies cry for unknown reasons. This crying can cause caregivers stress and sadness. Colicky babies tend to cry more than 3 hours, more than 3 days per week, for more than 3 weeks. It may seem like everything you do doesn’t calm them…

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toddler Whining, potty training, tooth brushing and more…

How do I keep my toddler busy (and well-behaved) when there’s a wait? In addition to the usual snacks and toys, there’s at least one other important thing to have on hand: your sense of adventure. If you act excited or curious about your environment, your toddler will, too, says Jeanette Sawyer Cohen, PhD, clinical assistant professor of psychology in pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City. So turn your environment into a game: If you’re in the car, see who can spot the red car or blue house first; if you’re waiting in line, search your surroundings for “I Spy” material. Remember, your toddler naturally lives in the moment. The more you can do to make the atmosphere fun, the faster the time passes. My child’s whining is starting to drive me crazy! How can I handle it? Consider his whining just another form of toddler communication. After all, even a highly verbal two-year-old doesn’t have access to all the words and phrases that you do, says Cohen. If he’s feeling frustrated, angry, sad or simply overwhelmed in the moment, your child may rely on some heavy-duty whining to get his point across. Whining usually gets worse when a kid is hungry or tired, so don’t plan anything demanding (like a play date or trip to Home

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Depot) close to naptime or for when he hasn’t eaten in a while. Schedule play dates after he has napped and had a snack, and don’t expect a complaint-free shopping excursion in the late afternoon. The whining will pass as he continues to develop more verbal skills—at least until he’s a teenager! What’s the best way to brush my toddler’s teeth? Below the age of two, simply use water and a small soft toothbrush twice a day (ideally after breakfast and before bedtime) to clean along the teeth up to the gumline, on top and both inside and outside, says Diane Bloomfield, MD, attending pediatrician at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in Bronx, New York. If he’s not keen on using a toothbrush, you can also try a clean washcloth. After age two (or once he learns to spit) you can use a small, pea-size smear of fluoride toothpaste. Trust us—this will be fun. What two-year-old doesn’t love practicing spitting in the sink? How can I help my child get ready for preschool? Don’t stress too much, Mama. Even though it’s got school in its name, preschool isn’t meant to be a vigorous academic environment. In fact, most kids aren’t expected to >

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toddler

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Is my child ready to give up naps? (Please say no!) There’s no magical age at which naptime disappears, says Bloomfield. Most two-year-olds do still need an afternoon nap, and even a three-year-old may rely on one to get through the afternoon without a meltdown. Remember that young children need lots and lots of sleep—up to 14 hours in most cases—to keep up their emotional and physical development.

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My toddler is resisting potty training. How can I move things along? If your child is saying no to potty training, she could just be telling you that she’s not ready. Most children younger than 18 months won’t sit long enough or follow directions as needed to be properly potty-

My toddler is constipated. What can I do? Find some creative ways to increase the amount of fiber in her diet—switch to whole-grain choices, such as whole wheat crackers, whole-grain cereals and brown rice, says Bloomfield. Also, cut back on the clear juice and whole milk and add in fiber-rich beverages, such as smoothies made with fruit (leave the apple skin on). Know that toddlers are able to control when they poop, so it may be that she’s not going as often as she used to, says Bloomfield. But if she hasn’t had a bowel movement in more than four days, there’s blood in her stool or she’s uncomfortable, consult her pediatrician.

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know their ABC’s from their 1, 2, 3’s when they get there. It’s really about giving your child a place to develop independence while interacting with other kids. So don’t worry about drilling those alphabet flash cards. What’s more important is getting your child comfortable with a few simple things. One of the biggest is spending time apart from you, says Cohen. Leave her with a babysitter or a grandparent while you run errands so she gets used to separation. Another important step is to be able to follow simple instructions. You can start this at home by giving her easy directions, such as hanging up her coat on a low hook and putting away her toys when she’s done playing. It’s also important that she has some basic social skills, which is where play dates and playgroups come in. Beyond that, use your time together to enjoy each other’s company: She’ll be exposed to plenty of academics in the school years ahead.

trained, says Cohen. To really be ready, she should be able to stay dry for a couple of hours during the day or after her nap, have predictable, regular bowel movements and be aware when she’s peeing or pooping. Start slow. Introduce the potty and let her get comfortable, but don’t expect her to use it right away. Then have her sit on it with her pants off but without necessarily going. Gradually move things along, but take it back a notch if she shows signs of protest. And remember that if you have some big changes going on at home—you’ve moved, there’s a new baby in the house, she just started preschool or has a new babysitter—you may encounter more resistance along the way. So take a step back and give her time to adjust.

Get your toddler questions answered at TheBump.com/toddler

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how much sleep does baby need? All babies are different, of course, but here are some general guidelines.

age

illustrations: kate larsen

0 to 1 month

daytime sleep

nighttime sleep

total

10 hours (various naps)

10 hours

20 hours

1 to 3 months

7 hours (three naps)

8½ hours

15½ hours

3 to 6 months

5 hours (three naps)

10 hours

15 hours

6 to 9 months

3½ hours (two naps)

11 hours

14 ½ hours

3 hours (two naps)

11 hours

14 hours

9 to 12 months

Track baby’s sleep at TheBump.com/sleeptracker

mommy deals

index

It pays to be a mommy! Get in on fabulous freebies, discounts and savings—just for you!

Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) is happy to offer a $100 gift card

to our medical spas to anyone who has a consultation for a mommy makeover with one of our surgeons. No purchase is required. Offer expires 12/31/14. MyBeautifulBody.com

Alisa Murray Photography All new clients receive our “First Year of Life” sessions for $600 (valued at $1500) and our New Mommy Signature Box filled with goodies and 50 complimentary birth announcements. AlisaMurray.com Anderson Photography Like us on

Facebook and receive 20% off your session. Also, get three 8x10s, three 5x7s and five wallets free. As a bonus, you’ll receive a photo disc with full print rights to use as you wish. MyAPV.com

The Axelrad Clinic For a prenatal or

postpartum issue or if you’re stressed, try our Mommy Rejuvenation special—25% off your intake appointment, which includes holistic diagnosis, treatment plan and first

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treatment (if opting for acupuncture). AxelradClinic.com baby, go green Receive 10% off your first in-store purchase by mentioning The Bump at checkout or off your first online purchase with code: BUMP10. Offer excludes furniture. Shopbabygogreen.com Baby’s And Kid’s 1st Furniture 20% off any second regularly priced item with The Bump Mommy Deals. One per customer, and not valid with other promotional offers. Discount taken off second most expensive item. Certain manufacturers restrictions may apply. Babys1st.com BabySteps 3D and 4D Ultrasound Take $25 off any 3D/4D ultrasound package. Not to be combined with other offers. BabySteps4D.com Bassett Baby Planning Mention this ad

for 15% off on any purchase. New clients only. BassettBabyPlanning.com

Beautifly Photography Mention The Bump and receive a free 8x6 or 6x8 brag book with the purchase of a From Bump to Baby Collection. BeautiflyPhotography.com Belli Skincare Expect beautiful skin and enjoy peace of mind during and after your

pregnancy with Belli Skincare products. Save 25% on a purchase at BelliSkincare .com. Use coupon code: BUMP25MD. Not to be combined with any other offer. Belly to Baby Studios Mention The Bump when you schedule your session and receive $25 off your maternity or newborn session fee. Visit BellytoBabyStudios.com or call (713) 461-2862 to schedule. Body After Baby™ Save 20% on all orders

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Bratt Decor We offer a special deal to

every mommy of The Bump who calls (888) 24-BRATT to help design their dream nursery. Receive a free “fresh” mattress with every crib purchase. BrattDecor.com

Brilliantly Baby Take 15% off an infant care/CPR party or a private workshop with our newborn RN consultants! Use coupon code: Stork8. Brilliantly-Baby.com THE CHILDREN’S COURTYARD Ask about

our free registration offer available to newly enrolled families! ChildrensCourtyard.com

CHRISTINE MEEKER Pictures Get a free

print up to 11x14 from your first session at Christine Meeker Pictures. A $275 value, it’s yours free with your first regular priced session. MeekerPictures.com

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help you find high-quality child care using QualiFind™ Child Care Database! Call (713) 600-1234 to receive a free, oneon-one child care consult and access to helpful resources to use when making this important decision. CollabforChildren.org

Coway Celebrate a good night’s sleep

with our Mommy Special! Receive a free

filter, value of $29.99, when you purchase Coway’s Air + Sound Purifier. Use coupon code: THEBUMP. Not to be combined with any other offer. BuyHappier.com/cowayair-and-sound.html Crane USA Get free shipping when you

purchase a Crane humidifier at CraneUSA.com. Enter coupon code: BUMPDEAL at checkout.

DaddyScrubs® From Mommy to Daddy: Save 15% on our full line of DaddyScrubs® logo wear, gifts and accessories, including the ultimate Daddy Diaper Pack™. Congratulations! Available online only with promo code: bump15. DaddyScrubs.com Denise Cowan Photography Get a free

16x24 canvas, or product of equal value, with the purchase of your first session. Visit DeniseCowanPhotography.com or Facebook.com/denisecowanphotography.

Designs by Lynn/Cutie Pa Tootie Receive

a 20% discount when you mention The Bump. DesignsbyLynn.net

Dry Baby Cloth Diaper Service Get a free week of diaper rental service with code: DSF2013. Restrictions apply. Minimum purchase of two months of service required to receive the free week. Discount given in second or succeeding months. DryBabyClothDiaperService.com Eastern Harmony Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic Get 20% off your first visit

when you mention The Bump. EasternHarmonyClinic.com

Evolution Kids Emporium Enjoy 25%

off your purchase! Use promo code: EKE25 for the online and in-store discount. EvolutionKidsEmporium.com

Float Baby Your first class is free. Sign up for a six-week package and receive 10% off. FloatBabies.com Gifts For You Now Receive 15% off your purchase. Offer cannot be combined with other offers, sale priced or clearance priced

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items, or applied to previous or pending orders. Some exclusions apply. Promo code: BUMP15. GiftsForYouNow.com

$20 off custom birth announcements. Visit MindyHarmon.com and PoshPetitesBaby .com. (281) 296-2067

Gymboree Play & Music The two of you for $22 for your first month! Plus, no new member fee, and a free class on us! Must enroll by nine months of age. New families only. Not redeemable toward birthday parties. GymboreeClasses.com

The Mom EXPO It’s a mommy play date at The Mom EXPO. It’s buy one, get one, so bring a friend for free! TheMomEXPO.com

Haute Mommies & Bella Babies Come

and check out Houston’s newest source for unique maternity, baby clothing and gifts. Enjoy 10% off any regular priced item or 20% off a holiday item. Cannot be combined with other offers. HMandBB.com

JME Portraits Mention The Bump when

you book and receive a free 11x14 canvas with each session—maternity and newborn! JMEPortraits.com

Katie O’Neill Portrait Design Celebrate your newborn from your womb to her nursery! Get a 5x5 mounted portrait of your favorite image and a stand to display it on baby’s nursery dresser. (281) 482-9696 KatieONeillPhotography.com Kidville The Woodlands Receive $50 off your first semester of classes. Mention The Bump when registering by phone or enter promo code: BUMP when registering online. Call for a free trial class today! Kidville.com/thewoodlands Lakewood photography LLC Mention

The Bump for a free 8x10 from your next session! LakewoodPhotography.com

The Little Gym Just for babies 0-12

months: Receive the gift of membership, which will save $40 upon enrollment. This is for new families only and may not be combined with any other offer. Valid until child’s first birthday. TheLittleGym.com

Mindy Harmon Photography Mention

The Bump when scheduling your pregnancy portraits to receive a 50% discount on Posh Petites Baby Club enrollment and

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Monkey Tree Photography Get 25 extra

birth announcements! Mention our Bump Up offer when booking baby’s newborn portrait session. Monkey-Tree.com

Motherhood Center welcomes you

by offering you a free first-time prenatal yoga class as well as 30% off your first 60-minute prenatal massage. For more information or to schedule your massage: (713) 963-8880. MotherhoodCenter.com

Music Together Receive free registration when you mention code: BUMP at any participating center in the Houston area. MusicTogether.com/houston Natural Expressions Photography

Receive an extra 8x10 from each of the four sessions when you sign up for a Baby’s 1st Year package. Just mention The Bump! NaturalExpressionsHouston.com New Life Ultrasound Studio Take $20 Off Platinum or Platinum Plus packages! Please visit our website for details. Not to be combined with other offers. NewLife4D.com Nicole Denae Photography Tell us The Bump sent you, and you will receive a $100 print credit toward your first, newborn, toddler or family portrait session. Schedule your complimentary portrait consultation by calling (713) 202-0087. NicoleDenae.com NINE Maternity Bring in your guide and

receive 10% off your total purchase of $75.00 or more. May not be combined with any other offer. Does not include sale items. Not valid on prior purchases. No adjustments. NineMaternity.com

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our newsletter at NurturedFamily.com/ mailinglist.aspx to receive your coupon that is redeemable either in the boutique or online. NurturedFamily.com Pearl Studios Photography

Mention this ad for a free 11x14 when you book a Maternity, Newborn or Baby’s 1st Year photography package. PearlStudiosPhotography.com

Pediped Footwear Join the pediped

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Pickles & Ice Cream Mention The

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Poncho Baby™ Cover Receive free shipping on your order when you enter discount code: BUMPHOUSTON13. PonchoBaby.com Posh Baby Co. Come shop with us and

you will receive 20% off your first in-stock purchase. PoshBaby.co prk products inc. Save 20 percent and get free shipping at PRKProductsInc.com with code: BUMP20. Bring order to cabinets and countertops with clever organizing products designed for all stages of your life. Products are BPA- and phthalate-free. SHRINkX belly Shrink your belly and hips

fees! This offer cannot be combined with other offers. StemCyte.com Sticky Bellies Milestone Stickers

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Tate Designs Photography Mention

this ad and receive 25% off your session! Visit our website for more information and to book your session today! TateDesignsPhotography.com

True Expressions Photography

Mention The Bump and get a free additional session ($150 value) with any booked Baby Collection. Visit TrueExpressionsPhotography.com or call (832) 797-7472. Ultrasound Services of Texas 3D/4D baby ultrasounds are now offered in our Katy office! Bring your entire family and share this precious moment. Save 20-40% off a gender check or 3D/4D baby ultrasound with code: 3D4D. UltrasoundServicesofTexas.com USA Baby of houston Sign up online for

coupons sales! Moms get 20% off any one Baby Appleseed furniture piece and $25 off any glider purchase! See store for details. Restrictions apply. New orders only. Mention ad for discount. Expires 7/31/14. USABabyHouston.com

after baby. Save 20 percent on Shrinkx Belly and Shrinkx Hips postpartum wraps or C-Panty postpartum panty to speed recovery and slim after a c-section. Use promo code: BUMP at Shrinkx.com.

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STEMCYTE, INC. Sign up with StemCyte

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Windel, the diaper cabinet Receive $10

*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.

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index

from

k�

houston resources baby gear, toys & clothing

USA Baby of Houston USABabyHouston.com

baby, go green Shopbabygogreen.com

baby products & services

Baby’s And Kid’s 1st Furniture Babys1st.com

baby, go green Shopbabygogreen.com

Designs by Lynn/Cutie Pa Tootie DesignsbyLynn.net

Blue Willow Bookshop BlueWillowBookshop.com

Evolution Kids Emporium EvolutionKidsEmporium.com

Brilliantly Baby Brilliantly-Baby.com

Just Between Friends JBFSale.com

The Clinic For Colic Ped1.Med.Uth.Tmc.edu/divisions/ gastroenterology/colic-clinic.html

Nurtured Family NurturedFamily.com pediped Footwear pediped.com

Collaborative for Children CollabforChildren.org Coway Coway-USA.com

Posh Baby Co. PoshBaby.co

Crane USA Crane-USA.com

PRK Products Inc. PRKProductsInc.com

DaddyScrubs® DaddyScrubs.com

SnoozeShade SnoozeShadeUSA.com

Dry Baby Cloth Diaper Service DryBabyClothDiaperService.com

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GiftsForYouNow.com GiftsForYouNow.com Haute Mommies & Bella Babies HMandBB.com Kidville The Woodlands Kidville.com/thewoodlands The Little Gym TheLittleGym.com The Mom EXPO TheMomEXPO.com Motherhood Center MotherhoodCenter.com Nurtured Family NurturedFamily.com Sticky Bellies Milestone Stickers StickyBellies.com

birthing centers & hospitals Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital Childrens.MemorialHermann .org/maternity

breastfeeding Nurtured Family NurturedFamily.com Pickles & Ice Cream PicklesandIceCream.com Poncho Baby™ Cover PonchoBaby.com

child care & nanny services The Children’s Courtyard ChildrensCourtyard.com Collaborative for Children CollabforChildren.org Motherhood Center MotherhoodCenter.com

cord blood banking Cord Blood Registry CordBlood.com StemCyte, Inc. StemCyte.com

doulas & midwives

Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women Women.TexasChildrens.org

Bassett Baby Planning BassettBabyPlanning.com

The Woman’s Hospital of Texas WomansHospital.com

Motherhood Center MotherhoodCenter.com

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index

family & lifestyle Blue Willow Bookshop BlueWillowBookshop.com

fertility services The Axelrad Clinic AxelradClinic.com

health & wellness Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) MyBeautifulBody.com The Axelrad Clinic AxelradClinic.com Bao Bei Maternity BaoBeiMaternity.com

Float Baby FloatBabies.com New Living | The Green Painter NewLiving.net NightLight Pediatric Urgent Care NightLightPediatrics.com Psi Bands PsiBands.com Shrinkx Belly Shrinkx.com Sugar Mill Chiropractic & Acupuncture SugarMillChiro.com VIPediatRx VIPediatRx.com

Belli Skincare BelliSkincare.com

nursery furniture & décor

Bio-Oil® Bio-OilUSA.com

Baby’s and Kid’s 1st Furniture Babys1st.com

Body After Baby™ MyBodyAfterBaby.com

Bratt Decor BrattDecor.com

Coway Coway-USA.com

Designs by Lynn/Cutie Pa Tootie DesignsbyLynn.net

Crane USA Crane-USA.com Eastern Harmony Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic EasternHarmonyClinic.com

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Haute Mommies & Bella Babies HMandBB.com New Living | The Green Painter NewLiving.net

Posh Baby Co. PoshBaby.co

Denise Cowan Photography DeniseCowanPhotography.com

USA Baby of Houston USABabyHouston.com

JME Portraits JMEPortraits.com

Windel, the diaper cabinet Upscale-Mom.com

Katie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill Portrait Design KatieONeillPhotography.com

pediatric services

Lakewood Photography LLC LakewoodPhotography.com

The Clinic For Colic Ped1.Med.Uth.Tmc.edu/divisions/ gastroenterology/colic-clinic.html

Mindy Harmon Photography MindyHarmon.com

NightLight Pediatric Urgent Care NightLightPediatrics.com

Monkey Tree Photography Monkey-Tree.com

VIPediatRx VIPediatRx.com

Motherhood Center MotherhoodCenter.com

photographers & videographers

Natural Expressions Photography NaturalExpressionsHouston.com

Alisa Murray Photography AlisaMurray.com

Nicole Denae Photography NicoleDenae.com

Anderson Photography MyAPV.com

Pearl Studios Photography PearlStudiosPhotography.com

Beautifly Photography BeautiflyPhotography.com

Recollection Road Photography RecollectionRoad.com

Belly to Baby Studios BellytoBabyStudios.com

Tate Designs Photography TateDesignsPhotography.com

Christine Meeker Pictures MeekerPictures.com

True Expressions Photography TrueExpressionsPhotography.com

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play & parties Gymboree Play & Music GymboreeClasses.com Kidville The Woodlands Kidville.com/thewoodlands The Little Gym TheLittleGym.com Music Together MusicTogether.com/houston SwimJim SwimJim.com

Brilliantly Baby Brilliantly-Baby.com Haute Mommies & Bella Babies HMandBB.com Motherhood Center MotherhoodCenter.com Motherhood® Maternity Motherhood.com New Life Ultrasound Studio NewLife4D.com Nine Maternity NineMaternity.com

prenatal products & services

Pickles & Ice Cream PicklesandIceCream.com

BabySteps 3D and 4D Ultrasound BabySteps4D.com

Poncho Baby™ Cover PonchoBaby.com

Bassett Baby Planning BassettBabyPlanning.com

Sugar Mill Chiropractic & Acupuncture SugarMillChiro.com

Belli Skincare BelliSkincare.com

Ultrasound Services of Texas UltrasoundServicesofTexas.com

Bio-Oil® Bio-OilUSA.com

preschools & education

Body After Baby™ MyBodyAfterBaby.com

The Children’s Courtyard ChildrensCourtyard.com

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Now Welcoming Little Ones. Enroll now and get free registration!*

At The Children’s Courtyard®, we love babies. More than providing a safe and loving environment, our highly-trained teachers encourage and support your child as they grow and develop. • • • • •

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mommy deals

Schedule a tour today! (866) 961-5216 ChildrensCourtyard.com *Programs and hours of operation may vary by school. New enrollees only. Offer is for free registration with full weekly tuition paid in advance by check or ACH. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Child must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations only and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. The Children’s Courtyard, Inc is an equal opportunity provider and employer. © 2013 The Children’s Courtyard, Inc. Offer expires December 31, 2014. Offer code: 2014FreeReg

We’re known for delivering Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women is the place to be for women and their babies at every stage of pregnancy and delivery. Our Family Fertility Center can help women conceive, even when circumstances seem difficult. Our OB/GYN practices offer excellent prenatal care and screening, especially for multiples and other high risk pregnancies. And when it comes to the big moment, our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced staff support you in having your baby according to your wishes. Should unexpected complications arise, our Newborn Center is only steps away to provide the best possible care.

Visit women.texaschildrens.org to learn more about our expertise in delivering.