Top parenting stories this week
Kegel Exercises
Learn how to do Kegel exercises and why Kegels are important during and after pregnancy.
by: Nancy Ripton
Kegel exercises
- Kegel exercises condition the pelvic floor muscles.
- To do a Kegel exercise: Contract your pelvic floor muscles as if you are trying to stop peeing; then hold, and release.
- Do different Kegel exercises for strength, speed and endurance.
- Aim to do at least 100 Kegels a day.
- Start slowly with Kegel exercises after giving birth.
egel exercises are one of the best ways to get your body prepared for labor and help restore pelvic health after giving birth. Not sure how to do Kegel exercises? Here’s how to get started: To view the full story click here.
What Happens to Your Body During Pregnancy
From excess saliva to changing shoe sizes–five pregnancy side effects you may not know about.
by: Sydney Loney
Pregnancy Side Effects
- Sucking on hard candy can help you deal with the excess saliva common during early pregnancy.
- You may be more congested than usual, but just remember to blow your nose gently to avoid nosebleeds, which often occur during pregnancy because the blood vessels in your nose expand and rupture more easily.
- Many women experience round ligament pain near their abdomens, especially during the second trimester.
- Constipation is a common pregnancy problem as your hormones slow the process of food through your digestive tract.
ou may have expected the nausea, sore breasts and backache, but what about the nosebleeds, excess saliva and constipation? Here are five common pregnancy-related symptoms most new moms-to-be don't know about: To view the full story click here.
Pregnancy Spa Safety
How to choose the safest spa treatments to soothe your pregnancy aches and pains
by: Sydney Loney
Pregnancy Spa Treatments
- Avoid saunas and wraps that could raise your core body temperature and put your fetus at risk.
- Lemon and rosewood are two essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy.
- Make sure you aren't lying flat on your back for any spa treatment after your pregnancy reaches the four-month mark.
- If you're worried about exposing yourself to unnecessary chemicals, many spas offer nail polishes that are toluene, formaldehyde and DBP (dibutyl phthalate) free.
othing feels better than a trip to the spa when you're pregnant, but it's important that you know how to indulge safely as a mom-to-be. Some spa treatments are completely safe, while others could be harmful for you and your baby. Here's what you should know before you book your next spa appointment. To view the full story click here.




