mommymedia : pregnancy

Prenatal Yoga with Shiva Rea

Satya — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:15:00 GMT

This is a great prenatal yoga practice. It is equally challenging for both beginners and advanced yoga practitioners. The DVD is visually beautiful and engaging, the music is calming and Shiva Rea’s soothing voice helps the pregnant yogi sink deeper into a relaxed state.

There are three women practicing for the viewer to follow: Poppy is the furthest along, Britta is in her second trimester and Shiva is performing yoga as if she is in her first trimester. Even though Shiva is not pregnant, she has been a yoga teacher for a long time and is a mother herself, so understands pregnancy and childbirth. Every pose is modified for each trimester of pregnancy. There are three sections of poses: the warm up, standing poses and floor work. Each section is a workout in itself, or you can practice all three in a row. They work seamlessly with each other and lead you gently into a deeper state of relaxation. The practice is followed by a guided meditation in a resting pose that is guaranteed to leave you completely relaxed.

Some women who bought this DVD and practiced it found it annoying to have to fast-forward through the rather long introduction. Other than that, though, this is a perfect prenatal practice for any stage of pregnancy. Shiva Rea goes slowly and explains the benefits of each pose. She reminds you to breathe constantly, which contributes to your deepening state of relaxation. What more could you want? Well, some versions of the DVD offer an extra video, instructing partners in prenatal massage. You’ll drool watching it and if you can get your partner to do it, what a lucky girl you would be. So make sure you get one with the extra video! An essential DVD for any pregnant woman’s collection, to be passed on to pregnant friends and relatives as the need arises. Pick up a copy here.

Your Developing Baby: Conception to Birth

Satya — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:22:00 GMT

By Peter M. Doubilet, MD, PhD, Carol B. Benson, MD and Roanne Weisman

Your Developing Baby is filled with pictures of 3D, 2D, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler ultrasound images. Authors Doubilet and Benson are both parents as well as professors of radiology at Harvard Medical School and their book is written with a sweet and personal tone. The information is reminiscent of a beginner’s guide to reading ultrasounds and once you read through the book, you will be able to look at ultrasound pictures and point to the kidneys, heart chambers, umbilical cord, and many more parts of a developing baby.

The book features images from every stage of pregnancy. You’ll be fascinated to learn the exact week the brain begins developing and to see photos of babies showing emotions in the womb. The book also covers twin and other multiple pregnancies and gives the reader a good lesson on how to identify them on an ultrasound. Lastly, the book covers pregnancies that were saved through ultrasound technology, such as one baby who was found to be anemic through ultrasound and given blood transfusions while still in the womb. Unfortunately, information about the risks associated with many procedures such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling are completely absent.

Every expectant parent who reads this will feel confident looking at ultrasound pictures and have a general idea of what is what. Even before an ultrasound, the book provides a mental image of how your unborn child is growing, providing a great bonding experience in the earliest weeks. Pick up a copy here.

The Business of Being Born- DVD

Satya — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:03:00 GMT

The Business of Being Born turns society’s expectation of birth on its head by refuting the common belief that birth must be done in a hospital with an OB-GYN. Any industry knows that gaining new customers is the key to flourishing and the medical industry is no exception. The c-section epidemic in this country has become the poster child for a more fundamental issue in the birthing industry.

The DVD features talk show host Rikki Lake and renowned midwife Ina May Gaskin who shine a spotlight on the unfortunate state of childbirth in the United States today. The US has the second highest infant mortality rate in the world and the most medicalized birth process. As the film reveals, more interventions during birth bring more risks. The film uses facts and figures to back up their opinion that women are treated like a commodity in a hospital; to be serviced in the quickest manner and then sent on her way.

While the producers do the viewer a disservice by making such blanket statements that herald homebirths and demonize OB-GYNs as such a wide-range of experiences is possible, even in the hospital, the real message of the movie is one that all women in America should hear: play an active role in your child’s birth. According to the film, childbirth is an experience, not a medical emergency. After watching the videos of homebirths included in the film, you will surely see how powerful an experience it can be (and might even find yourself in tears). The film is truly convincing and well made, but one wonders if it is overly dramatized and exaggerated for shock value or really accurate. Either way, it is one strong view that many women hold and the general message is a good one. Overall, it is a strong case for women to empower themselves and take control of the most life-changing event of their life: the day they give birth. Pick up a copy here.

Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Therapy

Satya — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:09:00 GMT

David SteenBlock, M.S., D.O. and Anthony G. Payne, Ph. D. wrote this short book for the average person looking for answers about stem cells. Vivid stories of miraculous healing fill the majority of the pages but the reader will also find a first-rate science lesson about how stem cells work as well as a deeper look into nutrition and lifestyle choices.

The authors begin by providing a basic lesson on stem cells derived from embryos, umbilical cord blood, and those residing in each living thing. The reader learns how stem cells work and how doctors have harnessed their ability to transform. It’s fascinating to learn that stem cells have been under investigation for about 100 years, although it is just within the last few years that they have been used as treatment for disease and disorders.

The bulk of the book will convince any reader of the benefits of using stem cell therapy. Stories of otherwise normal lives devastated by neurological diseases, stroke, and accidents will give the reader a small view into what it might be like to cling to hope against every doctor’s negative prognosis. Stem cells arrive in each of the stories as a miracle treatment for people who physically could not swallow, walk or hold up their head. It’s interesting to note that most of the stories don’t seem to have been in the mainstream media as these patients were getting treatments in Mexico where federal regulations do not apply. The most recent anecdote featured in the book took place in 2005 and the political landscape today is more accommodating of these still-experimental treatments.

Rest assured the authors are not trying to get you to pay to bank your cord blood. Not one of the stories includes someone using their own or family members cord blood. However, after reading the benefits that people have derived from publicly-banked stem cells, you may be compelled to look again at the possibility of banking a matching stem cell for yourself and your children. On the whole, this book will help any expectant mother make an educated decision about what to do with her baby’s umbilical cord blood. Pick up a copy here.

The Practical Encyclopedia of Pregnancy, Babycare and Nutrition for Babies and Toddlers

Satya — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:04:00 GMT

This is a great reference book for pregnant women and parents of children up to 18 months of age. It covers all the basics that mom and dad will need to know and includes valuable information on feeding a newborn, recipes, fussy-eaters guides, nutritional information and more.

The largest section features homemade baby food recipes. The recipes range from simple purees for babies just beginning to eat solids to thicker styles for older babies, as wells as more well-rounded recipes for toddlers. Each recipe includes nutritional information for easy reference.

This book may leave the reader wanting more information as it tends to cover topics broadly without delving into too much detail. However, it is a great starting point for expecting and new parents. Pick up a copy here.

NOVA: The Miracle of Life

Satya — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:25:00 GMT

The Miracle of Life is the first filmed record of human conception. This movie may seem like it’s going to show the development of a fetus. Unfortunately, it better resembles a sexual education class from the seventies. However, this film does serve as a good introduction to how conception happens for those who have no prior knowledge, such as adolescents.

It begins with a world view of how life transitioned from the sea to dry land before getting into the basics of human conception. The viewer is taken on the journey of the sperm and the egg in graphic detail. The most educated person will still probably learn a few things they didn’t know and at the very least be amazed at how the whole process really looks.

The last few minutes are the most fruitful for expectant parents. The growing fetus is shown in different stages with factual narration about what the fetus goes through. The film ends after showing a live birth in a hospital setting, which makes childbirth look easy as pie.

Overall, the movie is mildly educational, slightly entertaining, but probably not what an expectant mother is looking to watch. Pick up a copy here.

Life in the Womb: The Origin of Health and Disease

Satya — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:04:00 GMT

This book takes a scientific look at how the nine months spent in the womb affects a person’s health throughout the rest of their life. I would specifically recommend this book to first-time mothers and those especially fascinated by pregnancy or science in general. It is a coldly scientific look at studies that claim to reveal so-called “programming” in the womb. The information may make many mothers feel guilty for any issues their children are born with or develop later in life.

Dr. Nathanielsz argues against the highly popular concept that genetics determine our overall health; instead he points to environmental factors, particularly at the very sensitive developmental time when we are in the womb. It is not so much what an expectant mother does during pregnancy that affects her unborn baby, but when she does it that can be harmful. There are small developmental windows during pregnancy when the baby is particularly vulnerable and can be affected for the rest of their lives.

The book examines the effects of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, stress and nutrition on the baby, and analyzes how a baby will respond to varying stages of malnutrition or starvation. It also explains how a compromised pregnancy can actually affect a female fetus’s subsequent pregnancy during adulthood, and even affect her daughter’s pregnancy, and on and on for generations.

Some of the studies sited have only been conducted on animals while others seem limited in scope, leading the reader to question the veracity of some of the conclusions. However, the general information about environmental factors’ influence on a fetus is interesting and valuable for any expectant mother.

Unfortunately, one is left with the overwhelming feeling that we still have much to learn about our time spent in the womb and its long-term affects. However, the book is truly fascinating to those who are interested in the origins of health and disease or who are looking to give their baby the best start possible. Pick up a copy here.

Spiritual Midwifery

Satya — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:37:00 GMT

If you’ve ever wondered how birth occurs when conducted with a hands-off approach, this book is for you. Ina May Gaskin describes many exhilarating birth stories, most of them at home and with little medical intervention. Gaskin, a renowned midwife in the birthing community, has a resilient belief in a woman’s natural ability to give birth and has spent her life devoted to helping women have safer, more enjoyable birthing experiences.

Though it is written as a guide for midwives, the information is valuable to any expecting parent. After getting a firm view of how a natural birth can occur in a variety of circumstances you’ll be left feeling empowered to deliver without fear. The book also covers common pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, breech birth, multiple births, stillborns, genetic deformities, stalled labor, cord prolapse and much more.

The book is a gem of birth stories that evoke the whole spectrum of emotions. You’ll read birth stories that have heavy partner involvement and are filled with love and a sense of the divine, even when things take a turn for the worse.

Surely though, there are some parts that will leave the reader with raised eyebrows, like the woman who was told to drink alcohol to prevent early labor. Some may have heard of this author and may feel it’s too “earthy, crunchy” for them or simply unbelievable, but to so easily dismiss this book would be a mistake. This book is refreshing for its heart-open approach of letting nature take its course and contains basic lessons about birth that every pregnant woman should know but is rarely ever told. Pick up a copy here.

The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book

Satya — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 16:47:00 GMT

If you just read the title of this book and pass it over, assuming it is written only for working moms, you would be sorely mistaken and miss out on a thoroughly informative and enjoyable book. The book covers everything you need to know about preconception, pregnancy and caring for your newborn. In addition, Greenfield covers working while pregnant, maternity leave, breastfeeding and other topics thoroughly and offers lots of helpful information and tips.

Greenfield is a medical doctor but reading this book is like having a conversation with your best friend who happens to have a lot of experience having babies. She writes in such a way that you really feel like you are being guided and supported through each point. To add to this abundant feeling of camaraderie, she peppers the book with quotes from other women who juggle career with motherhood. These quotes were one of my favorite features of this book, giving the reader a view into a variety of experiences, making you feel as if you are among a strong sisterhood of on-the-job pregnant women.

The book is a long but enjoyable read and Greenfield presents every woman’s experience with respect and fairness. Whether you are getting ready for your homebirth or are scheduling your c-section, this book can help you prepare for all aspects of having a baby. A must read!

Pick up a copy here.

Body, Soul, and Baby: A Doctor's Guide to the Complete Pregnancy Experience, From Preconception to Postpartum

Satya — Tue, 26 May 2009 16:53:00 GMT

This is a wonderful book for any pregnant woman, whether you are in your first or your third. Ms. Gaudet challenges the reader to step out of the norm and experience her pregnancy as a journey.

Gaudent teaches the reader to check in with her body, soul and her baby through journaling, imagery and other devices. The stories of other moms-to-be using these tools are remarkable and demonstrate their power and importance.

Gaudet doesn’t preach radicalism and believes in hospital births; but more fervently, she pushes the reader to make conscious decisions every step of the way. She explains that women who are educated about what to expect as well as what “can” happen will have better outcomes overall. She urges the reader to question themselves over and over again to be sure that they are making the right decision for themselves.

Beyond her understanding of the pregnant mind and spirit, she gives wonderful descriptions of what is going on biologically. She identifies which hormones cause what symptom, what the baby is going through, and what to look and listen for on a daily basis. She also provides insight into what doctors commonly recommend and why.

She truly understands the relationship of the mind to the body and encourages women to embrace how they are feeling, no matter the circumstance. She speaks not only as an experienced doctor but as a fellow woman. Women could save themselves a lot of grief by reading this book thoroughly and practicing the tools mentioned. It is a great companion throughout pregnancy and early postpartum. Pick up a copy here.

The Mother of All Pregnancy Organizers

Satya — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:58:00 GMT

Staying on top of doctor's visits, ultrasound tests, Lamaze classes, baby supplies, birth announcements, and all the other day-to-day realities of pregnancy can be understandably overwhelming. Ann Douglas, author of the bestselling “The Mother of All Pregnancy Books,” is a familiar name among pregnant women, but you don’t have to have read her work previously to find plenty of use for this fabulous pregnancy organizer. Laminated for durability, wire-bound to lay flat, and featuring section dividers for easy access and rounded corners to reduce wear and tear, it includes helpful checklists, handy reminders about key events and milestones, space to record important details every week, guidance on every prenatal healthcare visit and tips and advice on all things pregnancy. What more could a girl want in an organizer? One mommy-to-be was drawn to it because of its attractive design and the fact that it is small enough to carry around in a purse. Our favorite feature is the “Complaint Department,” a section of the book where you can record any and all of your pregnancy symptoms. We also think you’ll appreciate that “The Mother of All Pregnancy Organizers” is full of essentials without being bogged down by a lot of extra information. So go ahead, get organized! Pick up a copy here.

40 Weeks +: The Essential Pregnancy Organizer

Satya — Mon, 04 May 2009 16:52:00 GMT

If you’re the kind of woman who likes to be organized, you’ll need one place to record everything important that has to do with your baby, from doctor’s appointments and phone numbers to diaper records and feeding schedules. Enter “40 Weeks +,” the well researched, easy-to-use organizer designed specifically for you, the mommy-to-be. We love its clean, sophisticated design geared toward the modern mom – there are no ducks or bunny rabbits on the pages of this organizer. Created by two busy mothers, this sleek and elegant journal-sized organizer is also durable enough to travel with you wherever you go. A great addition to any practical pregnancy or parenting guide, this helpful tool can really simplify the process of preparing for a baby. Tabs separate checklists, forms and questionnaires designed to help manage the details of your pregnancy and the first few months at home with your baby. Amazon.com even offers multiple views of different pages of the organizer so you can look inside before you buy. Contents include a detailed timeline and calendar; interview questions for obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, and daycares; a practical shopping list; ways to save time around the house; a guide to formulate a birth plan; a helpful resource section; and much more. Pick up a copy here.

Babies and Other Hazards of Sex: How to Make a Tiny Person in Only 9 Months With Tools You Probably Have Around the Home

Satya — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:53:00 GMT

Dave Barry has an impressive following. Not only is he the author of more than 20 books, but he is also a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist whose articles appear in hundreds of newspapers every week. What draws millions of readers to Barry’s work is his uncanny ability to see everyday things from a uniquely humorous perspective. In “Babies and Other Hazards of Sex,” Barry shares these perspectives on everything from sex to childbirth to parenting, referring to natural childbirth as “a pop phenomenon of the 1960s that, along with paisley bell-bottoms and creative sideburns, deserves a rest.” This book is a fun and entertaining read for everyone, whether you’re a parent, non-parent or parent-to-be. While its comical exaggerations will make you laugh until your sides hurt, as all of Barry’s books do, “Babies and Other Hazards of Sex” also provides an accurate description of pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood. One reader says “Dave Barry hits the nail right on the head” with his advice to adults about dirty diapers, burping bibs and other not-so-pleasant baby behaviors. We think you’ll find Barry’s candid and humorous approach refreshing, especially if you’ve read other baby books that may have led you to believe that a baby will bring you nothing but joy and wonder. Basically, as this book tells you, be prepared for the gross stuff, too! Pick up a copy here.

Twins! (2nd Edition): Pregnancy, Birth and the First Year of Life

Satya — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:15:00 GMT

Since 1980, the increasing use of fertility treatments and the advancing age of many mothers in the United States has increased the birth rate of twins by nearly 45 percent. For mothers-to-be who are part of this rapidly growing group, it can still be difficult to find helpful, thorough information to guide them on their journey of carrying, delivering and raising twins. “Twins!” is a must-have pregnancy book made specifically for parents of – what else? – twins! Authors Connie Agnew, M.D., and Alan Klein, M.D., refer to the voyage from pregnancy through a lifetime of parenting twins as a “truly epic journey,” incorporating in their book a combination of helpful facts, educated opinion and candid discussions between the authors and a panel of twins' parents, which nicely outlines the journey’s first course for expectant parents of multiples. The format of “Twins!” is similar to the ever-popular “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” breaking information down into chapters of gestational weeks, outlining basic fetal development, mom’s changing body and other transitional issues. Chapters are further enhanced by illustrations of a mother’s pregnant body and her developing twins. One reader says, “The resource guide for parents [of twins] is excellent,” as, she says, is the information about immunizations and supplemental medicine. The other half of “Twins!” focuses on the first year of parenting twins, the challenges you might face in your relationships with you children and with each other. If you’re having twins, read this book! Pick up a copy here.

They Lied! True Tales of Pregnancy, Childbirth and Breastfeeding

Satya — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:39:00 GMT

In a compilation of true-life stories submitted by parents around the world, co-creators of the book They Lied! True Tales of Pregnancy, Childbirth and Breastfeeding Theresa Kane and Tamara Talbot provide an outlet for mothers everywhere to share their funny, priceless, offbeat and often touching stories of pregnancy and parenthood. Filled from page to page with real-life experiences that celebrate the entire childbearing experience, from pre-conception gymnastics to infants dancing while they nurse, They Lied! is truly a delightful read.

With a heavy dose of humor and an equal touch of candor, an hour reading this book is like an hour spent with a pregnancy and parenting support group. One reader says, “You can’t understand the total experience of pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding without reading this book.” If you’re looking for a break from all the medical information you’ve received from your doctor and other pregnancy books, consider adding They Lied! to your baby shower gift registry. After experiencing countless uninvited belly rubs and “leaking” breasts, you’re sure to find relief in knowing that many women before you have survived uncomfortable and often embarrassing situations. Hilarious and heartwarming, They Lied! does a wonderful job of enlightening a topic that sometimes seems overwhelming, and helps expectant mothers realize they’re not in it alone. Pick up a copy here.