Mommy Knows Best Lactation Cookies & Mrs. Nipple

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Low Milk Supply & Lactation Cookies 

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Having a low milk supply can be both stressful and frustrating. When I was pregnant with Charlie,  my supply dropped significantly in the first month. I think it was due to the fact that Charlie did not have a good latch as well as during those first few weeks, I was going too long between night feedings. No matter what I tried, Charlie was impossible to wake up for his night feedings. Some nights I was up for an entire hour just trying to get him to feed. Wet wash cloths, undressing him, changing his diaper...nothing seemed to work.  Waiting these long stretches without feeding effected my milk supply. I finally learned about lactation products. I started eating prepackaged lactation bars. However, they were not practical because of how expensive they were and their short shelf life.

This time around I wanted to be prepared. Before Ford was even born, I discovered Mommy Knows Best Lactation Cookies.

THINGS I LOVE ABOUT MOMMY KNOWS BEST LACTATION COOKIES

• They are SO DELICIOUS

• You buy the mix and can make them at home (so easy)

• An entire bag of mix is only $20.00 which is significantly less than other lactation products

• The ingredients include many herbal galactagogues (a substance that increases milk supply)

• They are #mrsnippleapproved

THE GOOD STUFF, GALACTAGOGUES

Mommy Knows Best Lactation Cookie Mix contains a powerful blend of ingredients designed to optimize breast milk production. The combination of Oats, Flax Seed, Brewer's Yeast, and Blessed Thistle Herb, packs a powerful punch when it comes to increasing milk supply. Additionally this cookie mix is a great source of Calcium, and Folic Acid, along with vitamins B6, C, D & A.

OATS are a nutritional powerhouse, providing whole grains, fiber, iron, and an abundance of healthy vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

BLESSED THISTLE is a powerful galactagogue, well known as a common ingredient responsible for milk production.

FLAX SEED provides an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids necessary for baby’s brain development.

BREWERS YEAST is a traditional remedy, rich in B-vitamins and amino acids essential for nursing moms.

• MADE WITH BLESSED THISTLE HERB: The only lactation boosting cookie available with blessed thistle herb baked into each cookie to help boost breast milk quickly.

• PERFECT COMBINATION OF BREWER'S YEAST, FLAXSEED & OATS: Already measured and mixed for you, these ingredients have been used for generations to aid with breastmilk production and replenish key nutrients mothers need.

• EXCELLENT SOURCE OF KEY VITAMINS & MINERALS: Each cookie is jam-packed with healthy amounts of calcium, folic acid, iron, plus vitamins B6, B12, C, D, & A. Enjoy a lactation supplement that you can eat.

• TASTY & EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR LACTATION SUPPORT: These delicious and convenient lactation cookies are a healthy alternative to lactation tea & bars that can help provide the extra nourishment lactating moms need.

• SAFE, CONVENIENT – WON’T UPSET BABY’S SENSITIVE TUMMY: While many lactation tea, lactation bars and breast feeding pill alternatives contain fillers that upset little tummies, this TASTY & EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR LACTATION SUPPORT provide all the nourishment, without the common allergens found in many breast milk pill supplement products.

MY PLAN

In addition to eating the cookies, here are a few other tips to increase that priceless milk supply for your baby:

• Never hesitate to contact a certified Lactation Consultant for advice from a professional.

• Increase frequency of breastfeeding and/or pumping sessions.

• Try pumping for 10 minutes, rest for 10 minutes, for a total of 60 minutes. This can be done a few times a day and will help stimulate milk production.

You can find the Mommy Knows Best Lactation cookie mix, HERE. 

MDW READY

WEEKEND ROUNDUP 

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I've already worn this top twice and I only purchased it a week ago. It's light weight and perfect for the unpredictable weather we are having where you're not too sure if it's going to be hot or cool. Perfect top for MDW and it's also 40 percent off right now! You can find it HERE. It pairs perfectly with my zodiac Asha necklace. I have a bigger charm for me (scorpio) and two smaller signs for the boys. You can shop the necklace, HERE. You can pair the look with my favorite sneakers HERE, my favorite flip flops HERE or mules HERE, HERE & HERE.

I'm slightly obsessed with the pig purse below! It is a Cult Gaia piece. I love it paired with this outfit and could also see it looking awesome with any summer sundress. When you are not using it as a bag it could also make the perfect statement piece in any nursery.

The boys are in these adorable shark sweaters. Shop for them, HERE. You can find another option perfect for MDW HERE. I also got Charlie these very patriotic shoes and linked them HERE. 

Postpartum maternity style tip: You can pair this top with maternity jeans that have the expanders on the sides. This way you can still tuck in the blouse to create a waist which can be very slimming. 

SNEAK PEEK SUMMER PICKS

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SUMMER PICKS

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After living in leggings for the last six weeks I decided to go shopping and purchase some pieces that would flatter my postpartum body. I will be posting pictures of the items along with details in the upcoming weeks but wanted to share them before they sell out. The JCREW items are 40 percent off right now. 

Ford's Newborn Shoot with Classic Kids Greenwich

NEWBORN SHOOT 

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I highly recommend getting newborn photos done with your infant. Having a professional capture those first few weeks is a MUST, they will never be that tiny ever again. Most newborn photographers like to shoot the baby within the first two weeks of life. 

Classic Kids Studio on Greenwich Ave knows how to work with these precious newborns and very calmly captures the miracle of the little ones. I’m happy to report that Ford slept the entire time! A great tip they gave me was to feed Ford right when I got to the studio so he would be as comfortable as possible for the shoot. Michelle from Classic Kids was a baby whisperer. She got Ford into the perfect positions and the few times he almost woke up she gently lulled him back to sleep. She really had the magic touch!

For Ford, this was a piece of cake, but not so much for Charlie.  They had a basket of toys to keep Charlie occupied between shoots.  They also helped distract him and get him into position during picture time. Charlie had never held Ford before the shoot and only interacted with him when Ford was in his rock n' play. I am still shocked they were able to get a few great pictures of the two of them without someone holding Charlie's hands down :) 

I really LOVE how the prints came out. They really softened the photos which is much needed, especially for a newborn that just came through the birth canal. It's also nice for the mamas going through sleep deprivation. I went to the shoot post workout with zero make up on. My plan was to have my mom in a few photos with the babies for Mother's Day. On the other hand, at two weeks postpartum, I wanted to stay as far away form the lens as possible. However, Katie, the head photographer, talked me into getting into a few photos.  I was wearing a bright orange tank top so she found a piece of fabric to wrap around my bodice. With the magic of her photography skills and the softening of the pictures, you’d be hard pressed to guess I had been to a morning workout. I can not ever thank her enough for reminding me to forget about what you look like and just enjoy the moment with your newborn. I'm so happy I did :) 

Here are a few of my favorite photos: 

CHARLIE AND HIS LITTLE BROTHER 

BABY FORD JUST SNOOZING THROUGH THE ENTIRE SHOOT 

SHOWED UP AT THE STUDIO POST WORKOUT. I WAS NOT PLANNING ON JUMPING IN A PHOTO, BUT I'M HAPPY I DID. 

THe BIG FAT lie about breastfeeding

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Breastfeeding & Weight loss

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While reading this post, please keep in mind ALL women are different. Breastfeeding will help many women drop the postpartum weight quickly. However, that was not my experience. That being said, I also want to point out that it might have taken longer to get my post pregnancy body back if I was not breastfeeding. What I do know is that it wasn't until I was done breastfeeding that I dropped the last ten pounds that my body was holding onto.

HERE IS MY STORY... 

After I gave birth to my first son, Charlie, I expected to bounce back to my pre-pregnancy weight in no time at all.  I figured since I had worked out my entire pregnancy and was in great shape, and even more importantly, I was now breastfeeding, those calories should have been burning away!   I've heard it a million times, "Oh, you’re breastfeeding? The weight will melt off."  However,  that was not the case. Though I have friends that were both breastfeeding and eating whatever they wanted with weight melting off their bodies, I am not one of those mamas.

I was shocked that with all my efforts of eating right and excersizing, I was not even dropping the 1 pound a week that I was told I would. I was finding when I would compare my healthy weeks vs. my unhealthy weeks, there was no difference on the scale. 

OVERVIEW OF MY POSTPARTUM BODY WITH BABY #1

Two week check up: My uterus was totally healed and back to its original size which is one of the many benefits of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding releases hormones that trigger your uterus to heal quickly and return to its pre-baby size which is the size of a pear. I got the all clear and was able to start working out. My body heals very fast since the average time for this is around 6 weeks. My first question to the doctor was, "Well, if my uterus is back to its original size, then what's this?", pointing  to my stomach. He answered,  “You can only get rid of that with exercise."

Five weeks: I started working out and eating healthy but nothing was excelerating my weight loss. I was dropping a few pounds here and there but still felt like I was wearing a coat of extra fat. 

Five months: At the 5 month mark, I felt like myself again. I still had not dropped all of my weight since I was holding onto the last 6-10 pounds, but I felt like that coat of extra fat feeling had faded. 

14 months: Interesting enough, I didn't drop that last few pounds until I stopped breastfeeding which was at 14 months. During this time, I was pregnant with my second baby and  still breastfeeding Charlie. Even though I was in my first trimester, I still dropped those pesky pounds. 

I was so confused. I was told all these years that breastfeeding would help me drop weight but in fact it was the exact thing that was preventing me from getting my pre pregnancy body back. So I did some research and it completely makes sense.

First, I want to point out I'm a huge supporter of breastfeeding. Having children is one of the most selfless things you will ever do and breastfeeding/pumping is as well. It's time consuming and breastfeeding really limits how much independence you will have for that first year. However, the benefits for both you and your baby  are endless and well worth it. Some extra weight for some mamas during that first year really sucks, but your baby will benefit from your milk supply for the rest of their life. 

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING? 

"Breastfeeding Does Burn Calories, but….

If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you’ve probably heard that nursing will burn 500 calories a day. This is surely the reason the experts tell us that breastfeeding will help us lose the baby weight, that’s like a killer workout!

However, so many other factors that come into play when discussing ANYONE’S metabolism, but especially a woman during her postpartum period. Including:

• Lack of Sleep: A decrease in sleep, typical of just about every new mom, can cause metabolism to slow by causing a hormonal change that can interfere with your hunger signals, causing you to eat more than you actually need.

• Less Activity, More Eating: In the first few months postpartum, most moms are sitting with baby more and may have less time for regular activity while they adjust to a new routine (even if they’re working out). In addition, the increase in energy needs for milk production can make you feel ravenous, causing you to eat more than normal, and possibly more than needed.

• Not Enough Eating: Some moms are so busy and overwhelmed in the first months of their baby’s life or mistakenly think they need to cut calories severely to lose weight and don’t eat nearly enough, which can cause the body to believe there is famine and actually store fat as an energy reserve.

• Stress: Stress releases cortisol, which slows metabolism, and if you’re also not sleeping much, the cortisol is not being removed from the body at night during restorative sleep. I think we can all agree that even if we are blissfully joyful, most new moms are also highly stressed.

Even with all of these factors at play, studies found that breastfeeding moms tend to start to lose MORE weight around the 4 month mark, and even more when they finally wean. Why is this?

One word: HORMONES

Hormones During Breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, hormones are very different than any other time in life. Breastfeeding mothers experience a drop in testosterone and estrogen, which are both fat burning, and an increase in prolactin.

Prolactin is the hormone that causes your body to produce breastmilk (prolactin = pro-lactation). It is elevated during pregnancy, but is kept in check by progesterone and estrogen levels, which both drop right after the baby is born. This allows the effects of prolactin to begin and the milk to come in for the baby. Prolactin levels rise every single time the baby nurses, signaled by nipple stimulation. So what does this have to do with fat loss?

Prolactin hormone is also linked to fat storage. It makes sense that our bodies would put some sort of safeguard into place to protect baby’s milk supply, and it seems that prolactin may be that safety net. Prolactin seems to keep the nursing mother from mobilizing fat stores, so that there is always an energy reserve in case of famine.

Sometime between the 4-6 month postpartum mark, breastfeeding mothers experience a drop in prolactin. Suddenly, metabolism may begin to increase, and studies show that these mothers will generally start to see more fat loss at this point. Again, once the baby weans, within 24 hours prolactin levels drop again, and this might explain why those stubborn final 5-10 pounds suddenly disappear as fat metabolism returns to pre-lactation/pre-pregnancy levels.

Interestingly enough, prolactin also affects sex drive and fertility, usually causing a low libido, and cessation of periods and ovulation. After the sixth month mark, your periods may return and you might be feeling like your old sexual self – this is a sign that your fertility has returned and prolactin has dropped." - fit to be pregnant 

My Thoughts...

There are so many articles written on this topic and many that contradict one another. I was specifically trying to find answers related to my personal experience. This all makes complete sense to me and aligns with my specific situation. I wrote this post for the women out there who are also struggling to lose weight while breastfeeding.  

I am writing this article five weeks postpartum with baby #2 and have a fun 20 pounds to drop to get down to my pre-pregnancy size. It will be very interesting to see if I still run into the same issues with this postpartum experience. 

I want to point out how important it is to relax for that first month or two after birth and just focus on enjoying your baby. Looking back, I put so much pressure on myself and had a tight timeline in mind to get the weight off. Remember, it takes 10 months for your baby to fully grow in your womb and in many cases that extra weight can take just as long to lose. As long as you are healthy and get outside and move a few times a week your body will hopefully shed the weight when ready. 

15 fun facts about breastfeeding HERE

Sources:

• Body Composition Changes during Lactation Are Highly Variable among Women

• Breastfeeding and Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes in Developed Countries

• Oxytocin and prolactin levels in breast-feeding women. Correlation with milk yield and duration of breast-feeding.

• Hormone Prolactin Reduces Fat Metabolism

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breastfeeding

• Energy metabolism, body composition, and milk production in healthy Swedish women during lactation.

• Breastfeeding and postpartum weight retention in a cohort of Brazilian women

TOP 5 most used baby products during month one

I can't believe it has already been one month of newborn snuggles and sleepless nights with baby Ford. It's funny how you end up blocking this time out in your mind. If we didn't there would be a world filled with 'only child' families. That being said I also blocked out what we actually used during that first month home after the first time around. I'm making sure to put it in writing this time. I'm only listing our most used products and products that make my life significantly easier. All products are linked at the end of the blog post. 

The criteria they have to meet:

We use them everyday 

I could not live without them

I would overpay significantly for this product if I needed to

the list

1) Noisemaker:  Noise makers are at the top of my list. We use them both during sleep time and during periods of fussiness. There are many times I just can not get our baby to settle down and the only thing that works is either white noise or the sound of a running shower. Always try and start with the volume low only raising it when you have to. White noise is a special type of sound signal which is used to mask background noises that can regularly wake up your baby. To get technical, Dr. Ralph Pascualy is the medical director of Northwest Hospital Sleep Center in Seattle. He explained that the brain naturally craves sensory input. That's why people in sensory depravation tanks hallucinate; robbed of any stimulus, the brain creates its own. During sleep in a quiet night, any random noise, whether a passing truck or a creaking floorboard, is likely to activate the restless brain, waking you up. He said, " white noise gives the brain a tonic signal that dampens its own internal systems."

The white noise sound can be very soothing especially in the "4th trimester" because these sounds can remind your baby of their time in the womb. Another thing to point out is when inside the womb all babies are exposed to the sound of whooshing through the arteries which is louder than a vacuum cleaner. When a baby cries, increase sound level for a few minutes to the level of a vacuum cleaner. And, for naps and all night sleeping keep the sound at about the level of a soft shower. You never want to increase the volume too loud, this will prevent any potential harmful damage to your baby's hearing.  

Sound machine- We have a regular sound machine and a portable sound machine for on the go use. Both of our children sleep with white noise every night and I highly recommend starting during the first day home with your baby. Our 19 month old son is an excellent sleeper and goes down easily at 7p.m. every night and sleeps until 7 a.m. I doubt this would be possible without his sound machine. 

FREE: Running the shower- Sometimes the sound machine is just not enough. During really tough times with a newborn I recommend running a cold shower and putting your baby in the rock n' play in the bathroom, NOT in the shower. NEVER leave your baby alone so bring in a computer and get comfortable as the sound of the running water soothes your baby. I always recommend a cold shower so the room does not get too hot.    

FREE: iDream app- This app has saved us many times on the go. When our baby starts getting cranky in the car or out and about we use this free app. I would recommend putting your phone on airplane mode when using it.  I just place the phone right in the stroller with our baby. 

2) The Ollie Swaddle: 

This is a tough one to plan ahead for. Babies have preferences, and those preferences include swaddles. At first it might seem like they hate them all, but after they get comfortable with them, the benefits are endless. This time around my top swaddle pick is the Ollie swaddle, it has been working wonders with our infant. He has been able to break out of every other swaddle. This swaddle has been the only one to keep him both comforted and secure without being able to break out of it. 

3) Dockatot: 

 DockATot® is a multi-functional lounging, playing, chilling, resting and snuggling dock you can take anywhere. If I had to pick ONE yes ONE must have baby item for the first 0-8 months, it would be the Dockatot.  No question. At first glance, it’s just a docking station for your baby, it docks your tot. It’s so much more. Your baby has been living and growing in such a cozy tight space for the last 10 months, and they are thrust into our world, gravity and all. The 4th trimester can be tough on everyone, but the Dockatot makes this time period that much easier. The Dockatot creates a womb like space for your baby to lounge, sleep, get his/her diaper changed and even do tummy time! It’s one of the most versatile products on the market. We use it during the day for lounging and our infant sleeps in it every night. 

4) Fisher-Price Deluxe Newborn Rock ‘n Play: The Rock 'n Play is tried and true and has been around forever because it does what it needs to do. It comforts your baby to give you time to get things done. The Rock 'n Play rocks back and forth and there is also an option to play soothing music.  You can fold it up with a push of a button and it can easily fit in the car. If your baby has reflux this can be an especially useful product because it keeps your baby at the perfect angle to deal with reflux. I also love how it doesn’t scream "baby" with great color selections for the modern mom. I have the model below.

5) Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper: This makes middle of the night feedings much easier and I would imagine is especially important for women who are having C-sections. The Halo pulls up partially over your mattress and the side even drops down for easy baby lifting. This is as close to co-sleeping as you will get without actually co-sleeping.  If you plan on following the American Academy of Pediatrics new sleep guidelines recommending that babies sleep in their parents’ rooms for at least six months but ideally…wait for it….a FULL year then, this would be a smart investment. Charlie slept in our room for six months. I really loved having him close for those early months,  but if you are only planning on keeping your baby that close for the first few weeks, then this product is not for you. The Bassinest seems very large for such a small little person, so I would highly recommend an insert. We placed our Dockatot right into the Halo.  It fit perfectly and did the trick. Using the Dockatot also made sleeping in other locations a breeze because our baby was already so familiar with the DockAtot. Halo came out with the Halo Bassinest Newborn insert after Charlie was born which is another good option,  but only can be used until the baby is 15 pounds. 

To see my full DockAtot review with photos, click HERE

To see my full registry guide for 0-3 months, click HERE 

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Baby products & Month one 

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Fighting Allergies

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Spring & Allergies 

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This week has been miserable for me. I'm fighting a terrible reaction to all of the pollen in the air. I've recently been tracking the conditions and have been trying to stay in during "high" pollen days. I use this tracker HERE.  I spent most of my day on the couch with cold compresses on my eyes. I reached out for advice around fighting allergies through instagram stories and received such great feedback around successful solutions others have actually tried. After doing some of my own research it seems the instagram universe is in tune with what works! I wanted to share, please find the results below. 

Natural remedies 

Essential oils: You can use peppermint oil if you are not nursing but if you are nursing it will affect your milk supply.

A blend of lemon, lavender, and peppermint or cedar wood oil (if you are breastfeeding) is supposed to work wonders! You can apply the oil right onto your pressure points as needed. You can use everyday as a prevention method. 

OR

A blend of lemon, lavender, & peppermint mixed with a carrier oil (grapeseed, avocado, olive oil) To apply just swipe it across your sinuses and down your nose. 

Sabadil: A homeopathic medicine that temporarily relieves one or more of the symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat and nose. You can find it, HERE. 

Neti Pot: Neti pots are a great, natural way to relieve nasal congestion and allergies, as long as you use sterile water and don’t use it too frequently. They have been a part of Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years.  

Local honey: Ingest 1 tsp of LOCAL honey in the AM and PM. When a person eats local honey, they are thought to be ingesting local pollen. Over time, a person may become less sensitive to this pollen. As a result, they may experience fewer seasonal allergy symptoms.

MEDICATIONS 

If you are breastfeeding like I am you can also use Claritin which falls under category L1. There are 4 Lactation Risk Categories L1-L4, L1 being the safest. 

Claritin and Breastfeeding

Claritin – L1: Claritin is considered safe for breastfeeding. Only 0.3-1.2% of the medication will be transferred through the breast milk to the baby. It is important to note that this is for plain Claritin only. Claritin D is not recommended for breastfeeding because of the decongestant that has been added to the allergy medication. If buying the generic brand, look for the active ingredient Loratidine.

Other Allergy Medications and Breastfeeding

Zyrtec – L2: This has a higher risk level than Claritin because there hasn’t been enough research. However, studies done on dogs suggest that 3% is transferred through breast milk. If buying the generic brand, look for the active ingredient Cetirizine.

Allegra – L2: It is believed that 0.5-0.7% is transferred through breast milk. If buying the generic brand, look for the active ingredient Fexofenadine.

Benadryl, Aller Clore, & Dimatapp – These allergy medications are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. They can make you sleepy, which means they are sedating. That sedation can be passed on to the infant and may cause breathing problems.

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MOTHER'S DAY ROUND UP

Mother's Day is a very important day for me. Not because I'm a mom but because I have had such a strong role model to grow up with as my mother. Growing up I couldn't call her my best friend, we hardly got along. All I wanted back then was a "cool" mom, but she knew I needed her as my mother, not as my friend. Though she could be tough at times when it came to boyfriends and late nights, it's because she knew I needed boundaries. It took me years to realize that when I thought she was "against me" during my teenage years, she took the hard road and was the mom she knew I needed. She is such a warm loving person, it's no surprise at all that her Grandkids ask for weekends spent at Nona  & Pop-Pop’s  house. There is never a dull moment whenever you are around Nona, BABS, also known as my mother. Now many years later I'm so proud I get to not only call her my mother and our Nona but my very best friend as well. 

I rounded up somethings that I know she would love and I love as well. 

I hope all of you mamas have a wonderful Mother's Day being pampered and spending some quality time with your loved ones.

I also think every mom deserves what I like to call a TO ME FROM ME gift on Mother's Day :) I think an ASHA piece would be extra special for your mother or a gift to you from your "babies/kids" aka husbands but everything works perfectly for TO ME FROM ME gifts as well :) So go ahead and spoil yourself... an order from Mrs. Nipple!

Xx Happy Mother's Day 

TOP TEN PICKS

Mother's Day Roundup

#1  A piece of meaningful jewelry. I just discovered the brand ASHA and fell in love. Their pieces are timeless, bold, and sophisticated. I was on the hunt for a necklace with a long chain that also was personal in some way and came across Asha by ADM only to discover that their corporate headquarters and showroom are across the street from our home. Here are my two ASHA Mother's Day picks: THIS necklace has a long chain, it comes in an 18 and 30 inch version and has a classic zodiac pendant in mother of pearl hanging on it. I love it paired with the smaller zodiac pendants, one for each of your children's signs, HERE. I just received the Scorpio necklace with Libra and Aries pendants for both of my sons. ASHA also has letter pendants which could be another idea. You can find the letter pendants, HERE and HERE.  Also check out all of my ASHA picks below. If you order from the ASHA website, HERE they are offering a Mother's Day discount: ENJOY 20% OFF FOR MOTHER'S DAY WITH CODE MOM20 AND COMPLIMENTARY GROUND SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $150

#2 Everything is better MOMogrammed: Here are some fun monogrammed picks and there’s still time to order these and have them for Mother’s Day, ends May 8th at 1 a.m. HERE, HERE, and HERE. 

#3 I LOVE these Apolis bags. This one is perfect for Mother's Day HERE and holds up to 135 lbs. If you go to their site, HERE you can completely customize yours. 

#4 I love slip ons, you can find some of my mule and spring shoe picks below. 

#5 My favorite summer sandal pick for under $100 and they come in seven colors. HERE

#6 Every mother needs a strong espresso machine. HERE

#7 Perfect scarf to go with an all white spring look, HERE.

#8 The perfect gym & everything bag for Mother's on the GO, HERE 

#9 My mom is a pretty badass woman and cook. One thing I got her was this MOM BOSS apron, HERE

#10 For all of the fancy mamas, you can never go wrong with a pair of diamond studs, HERE. 

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MOTHER'S DAY IS EVERYDAY

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My love for DockAtot

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My full  Dockatot review 

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 DockATot®

 DockATot® is a multi-functional lounging, playing, chilling, resting and snuggling dock you can take anywhere. If I had to pick ONE yes ONE must have baby item for the first 0-8 months,  it would be the Dockatot.  No question. At first glance, it’s just a docking station for your baby, it docks your tot. It’s so much more. Your baby has been living and growing in such a cozy tight space for the last 10 months, and they are thrust into our world, gravity and all. The 4th trimester can be tough on everyone, but the Dockatot makes this time period that much easier. The Dockatot creates a womb like space for your baby to lounge, sleep, get his/her diaper changed and even do tummy time! It’s one of the most versatile products on the market. Let’s talk about SLEEP. The Dockatot is breathable, it doesn’t harbor heat, it reinvents the womb, and it’s portable. Maternity leave can be tough and we would frequently escape to my parents’ home for some TLC. I never had to worry about Charlie sleeping in new environments because the Dockatot went wherever we would go. We also didn’t have to haul the pack n play for overnighters because the Dockatot is approved for co-sleeping.  I’m not sure if this is proven,  but I also praise the Dockatot for Charlie’s perfectly round dome! Did I mention the very fun prints & accessories? Dockatot offers accessories for their loungers. The toy arches and Toy sets clip right onto the Dockatot and will keep your babies occupied. 

 For $10 off your purchase, click HERE 

To visit Dockatot.com click, HERE 

For a co-sleeping safety review click, HERE 

Overview of the Dockatot:

-DockATot is a multi-functional lounger, co-sleeper and playtime lounger
- Two sizes (Deluxe for 0-8 Months, Grand 9-36 months) 
- Made in Europe, designed in Sweden
- Tested for breathability
- OEKO-TEX certified
- All natural, 100% cotton
- Handmade in Europe
- Ideal micro-climate for babies and tots
- Grand is perfect for toddler bed transitions

REGISTRY GUIDE & SLEEP GEAR

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BABY REGISTRY & EVERYTHING SLEEP

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Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper: This makes middle of the night feedings a little bit easier and I would imagine is a must have for women who are having C-sections. The Halo pulls up partially over your mattress and the side even drops down for easy baby lifting. If you plan on following the American Academy of Pediatrics new sleep guidelines recommending that babies sleep in their parents’ rooms for at least six months but ideally…wait for it….a FULL year then, this would be a smart investment. Charlie slept in our room for six months, though we did have a one bedroom apartment, so our choices were limited. I really loved having him close for those early months,  but if you are only planning on keeping your baby that close for the first few weeks, then this product is not for you. The Bassinest seems very large for such a small little person, so I would highly recommend an insert. Halo came out with the Halo Bassinest Newborn insert after Charlie was born which is another good option,  but only can be used until the baby is 15 pounds.

Dockatot: 

 DockATot® is a multi-functional lounging, playing, chilling, resting and snuggling dock you can take anywhere. If I had to pick ONE yes ONE must have baby item for the first 0-8 months,  it would be the Dockatot.  No question. At first glance, it’s just a docking station for your baby, it docks your tot. It’s so much more. Your baby has been living and growing in such a cozy tight space for the last 10 months, and they are thrust into our world, gravity and all. The 4th trimester can be tough on everyone, but the Dockatot makes this time period that much easier. The Dockatot creates a womb like space for your baby to lounge, sleep, get his/her diaper changed and even do tummy time! It’s one of the most versatile products on the market. 

 For $10 off your purchase, click HERE 

To visit DockAtot.com click, HERE 

To see my full DockAtot review with photos, click HERE

SWADDLES: This is a tough one to plan ahead for. Babies have preferences, and those preferences include swaddles. Yes, at first it might seem like they hate them all, but after they get comfortable with them, they are a God sent. I could go on and on about the importance of a swaddle and a white noise maker, but let’s not waste time.  You need them so buy them.  I would buy a few different kinds and try them out. Charlie used your basic muslin blanket swaddle for the first few weeks but soon started breaking out of them. We transitioned to the Summer Infant velcro swaddle & the Ollie swaddle both worked wonders. When Charlie started rolling over, we transitioned to (what I like to call) the flying squirrel swaddle and now he is in the Halo swaddle with his arms out. 

NEWBORN

Muslin Aden & Anais swaddle blankets

Summer Infant Velcro swaddle & Ollie swaddle

BABY STARTS ROLLING

The Zipadee Zip (The flying Squirrel)  

BABY IS FREQUENTLY STANDING IN CRIB

Halo Sleepsack arms out 

Nest Camera: This is a very reliable camera and is especially convenient for parents that work outside of the home. We purchased a bundle of three cameras, so I’m able to see Charlie sleeping, playing and enjoying meals, all on the same nest app on my iphone. I love being able to see and hear Charlie at any time during the day to make sure all is well at home. If you start out with one camera and have another child in the future it’s easy to add cameras. These cameras are very portable and take 2 minutes to set up while traveling as long as there is wifi. *If you want to look back at what was previously recorded, you have to purchase the monthly plan. (We did not do this) 

Owlet: If you are the type of parents that are going to be up every 5 minutes watching to see if your baby’s chest is moving, then this product is for you. If you are not that type of person, then you might not want to spend the extra money.  GUILTY!  I was that person. I didn’t sleep the first few nights that I was home and when I mean didn’t sleep,  I didn’t even shut my eyes and pretend I was sleeping. We purchased the Owlet on day 5.  I got a rush delivery.  I took a breath and I was able to relax. The sock fits right onto the baby’s foot and uses the same safe hospital pulse oximetry technology. It measures both heart rate and oxygen levels. Though it can be used up to 18 months, I only used it for 6 months. The Owlet Smart Sock gave me the security I needed to get through the first few months and I stopped using it when I felt confident enough without it. We NEVER had a false alarm. 

NURSERY GEAR

Babyletto Crib: I love the Babyletto crib from Land of Nod.  Buying a crib is such a personal choice. One thing to decide before you start looking is if you want a convertible crib. These types of cribs convert into toddler beds and will grow with your child.

Newton Breathable Crib Mattress: I would recommend spending the extra $  for a breathable mattress. Why take any chances?  The Newton Breathable Crib mattress has an innovative design which allows air to flow freely for optimal breathability and temperature regulation.  100 Percent breathable, washable, recyclable and free of toxins!!!  If your child throws up or has a blow out on the mattress, you simply throw the cover in the wash and wash the actual mattress right in the tub. The material is very cool!

Crib fitted sheet:  You do not need sheets if you buy the Newton Mattress. If you do decide to throw a fitted sheet over the mattress, make sure it’s made out of a breathable material.  A muslin sheet is a wonderful option since muslin is a finely woven breathable fabric.  I love the Aden and Anais muslin sheets because they are not only breathable but come in a variety of very fun prints.

Halo SleepSack:  This is a really great swaddle to use as your baby grows. Our son has been using it for the last 4 months. The wrap offers the feeling of security while the option for arms in or out as your baby grows really makes this swaddle last. 

Dockatot Grand:  The Grand can be used from 9-36 months. This is a great product to use for the crib to bed transition. The Dockatot Grand will be a lifesaver when we transition our son from the crib to his toddler bed. For $10 off, click HERE

Natursutten:  Our son did not use a pacifier until he was 3 months old. We decided to wait, so he would satisfy his sucking urges by breastfeeding. He was an underweight infant so any extra calories were welcomed. It is such a personal decision. From around 8 months on, he now only uses it at night and on rare occasions, during the day.  If and when you use a pacifier, I absolutely LOVE Natursutten. They are 100 percent natural, made from pure natural rubber from a Hevea  Brasiliensis tree. They are softer than silicone and are molded into one piece. This is so important because there are no joints or cracks where dirt and bacteria could accumulate. Your little one is going to be sucking on this thing all day and potentially all night long, so I would recommend choosing the brand you use very carefully.

Marpac Dohm Sound Machine:  We have not one but two sound machines in our little ones room.  We use this machine and The HoMedics Sound Spa sound machine. I would not have it any other way and highly recommend using a sound machine for your baby.

For the full Mrs. Nipple Registry guide 0-3 months, click HERE. 3-9 months, click HERE. 

Anti-inflammatory eating plan

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Anti-inflammatory Eating 

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I tried these recipes for the first time over ten years ago. The great thing about this anti-inflammatory diet is that you never feel like you are on a diet. The meals are so delicious, even when I don't stick to this plan I will still cook recipes from this book because they are that good. You will see significant results after 14 days but you will start feeling the mental and physical effects after just three days. Give this eating plan three days and you won't be able to stop! Charlie also loves all of the food so there's no need to make separate dinners for your kids.  I'll add each day onto this post after I complete the day for a total of 7 days. I also will add a line item on the end of each day that goes over what else I ate because I'm breastfeeding and need the extra calories. As always DRINK TONS OF WATER. If you would like to purchase the book you can find it, HERE. 

Slim chai tea:

You are  supposed to drink a slim chai tea upon waking and after lunch every day.

• 2 green tea bags

• 10 whole cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnmaon

• 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom

Bring three cups of water to boil. Remove from the heat, add the tea bags and cloves, and let steep for 3 minutes. Remove the tea bags and cloves. Add the cinnamon & cardamom and mix well. (serves 3) 

EXAMPLE PLAN

Day 1:

Breakfast: Smoked salmon frittata over greens with an orange

Lunch: Cottage cheese bowl with apple, walnuts, cinnamon & lemon

Dinner: Pomegranate chicken over greens with asparagus with red bell peppers & garlic. Dressing for the salad: Extra virgin olive oil & lemon juice

Snacks: Small case of blackberries, grapefruit  & 12 raw almonds

Breastfeeding calories: smoothie & I doubled the breakfast and dinner servings. Serving of dark chocolate after dinner. 

Day 2:

Breakfast: Fresh herb frittata & grapefruit

Lunch: Turkey thai lettuce wraps

Dinner: Ginger infused salmon with garden salad

Snacks: Small case of blueberries, 8 walnuts, orange, & carrot and celery sticks with 1 tablespoon of almond butter

Breastfeeding calories: Smoothie & doubled breakfast. Frozen mango and dark chocolate for dessert. 

Day 3:

Breakfast: Fresh herb frittata: See recipe above

Lunch: Thai Turkey Wraps: See recipe above

Dinner: Grilled sirloin with garlic & herbs and string beans

Snacks: grapefruit, blueberry yogurt cup (1/2 cup blueberries & 1 cup nonfat plain yogurt), 12 almonds

Breastfeeding calories: Protein smoothie & doubled breakfast. 

RECIPES 

FOOD Photos 

POSTPARTUM LEGGINGS

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Leggings for the NEW mamas 

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It is not only important to wear some support around your midsection after delivery,  but it also can do wonders for your confidence. Having clothing that holds you in during those first few weeks and months can make all the difference in the world. I use a variety of items including high-rise underwear with built in support, a belly wrap, and high waisted compression leggings. I linked the underwear below, however I received the belly wrap at the hospital. My leggings are not postpartum specific but just leggings I purchased pre-pregnancy that happen to have a good amount of support in the abdominal region. 

Research is now showing that pretty much every woman will have some degree of diastasis recti (that pooch that doesn't disappear when your baby weight does). It also leads to strangers asking you when you are due... while you are holding your 3 year old!!  Studies show that the first 8 weeks after your baby is born is when any spontaneous healing of the abdominal wall occurs. Beyond the 8 weeks, change can be made with exercise. I believe the abdomen needs some help as it heal and extra support around the stomach offers this. 

Learn more about the dreaded diastasis recti, HERE. 

My Postpartum Go-to Items 

For all of the leggings below, I was wearing my pre-baby size. These are the most comfortable leggings ever. I purchased them before I became pregnant and have worn them through both of my pregnancies and postpartum. I love that they are high waisted. They are supportive but still soft and comfortable. They come in cropped and full length. These are a go to of mine. Shop them, HERE. 

For something with even more support, THESE offer a high waist + zoned compression. They really provide support focusing on all the right areas. I have very similar ones and they really help make me feel more confident during those first few weeks post baby.

Here's a pair of super high rise leggings to give you even more support in the abdominal region. Shop them, HERE. 

Check out other options below that offer high rise support that you will also be able to wear once you get your pre-baby body back. I also added a pair of high rise underwear, a belly wrap, nursing bras, and some beauty products that come in handy during those first few weeks. 

The Uppababy vista

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UPPAbaby & Mrs.Nipple's double stroller pick

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I wasn't always an UPPAbaby mama. I tried the Nuna stroller for the first few months of Charlie's life but I didn't love it. I honestly didn't love the color choices for the UPPAbaby line of strollers. They were bright and bold, but I was looking for an all white or gray look vs. red and yellow. 

Then UPPAbaby upgraded their fabrics and colors and even added leather detailing to their strollers. I bought the Loic UPPAbaby Vista the next day and I've been a huge fan ever since.

THREE THINGS I LOVE:

-The over all look of the stroller. I just love the colors, fabrics, and leather detailing.

-The HUGE storage area beneath the stroller. I didn't realize how important this feature was until shopping with a baby.

-The option to make it a double stroller and you can even carry three kids with the skateboard attachment. 

MY COLOR PICKS 

Loic White

Gregory Blue Melange

Emmett Green

HOW TO MAKE THE UPPABABY VISTA A DOUBLE STROLLER

You do need additional parts to turn your single stroller into a double. You need two sets of attachments that will raise both the bassinet & the seat. When your second baby grows out of the bassinet you will need to purchase an additional toddler seat, the RumbleSeat. If you don't have the UPPAbaby car seat, you will also need carseat attachments. When I raised the UPPAbaby seat that Charlie had been sitting in for months so I could fit Ford in the bassinet, I realized I loved the new height of his seat. I actually wish I had raised the seat when I originally bought the stroller, it gives you even more room for storage. 

UPPAbaby VISTA Lower Adapter HERE

UPPAbaby VISTA upper Adapter HERE

UPPAbaby Rumble seat for 2nd toddler HERE 

UPPAbaby car seat adapter for the Nuna Pipa & Maxi Cosi HERE

Ford William

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WELCOME TO THE WORLD 

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The newest addition of the Ariola clan arrived on Thursday, April 12th at 7:41 pm. He came in very fast, we barely made it to the hospital (more on that later). We decided to take the week as a family, unplug, and soak up these first few early days with our little guy. I wanted to share the exciting news plus some of the first photos we snapped at the hospital. 

Ford William Ariola was born at 8 pounds 5 oz. I still can't believe he was so big at birth. Charlie was born at 6 pounds 14 oz. 

This is the only shot we have where Charlie and Ford look identical. I'm not sure if it's his size but other than the side profile they don't look alike....yet. 

It was a crazy drug free delivery. Ford started breastfeeding like a champ and I was so distracted I had not realized that I broke almost every blood vessel in my face. 

We got a knock on the door and opened it to Charlie just standing there with a baby boy balloon wearing his biggie shirt. My heart melted. 

My mom was over when I started getting contractions. She took Charlie home with her for a few days. She happened to be watching my nieces all weekend so it could not have worked out better. He hung out with his cousins, it was a great distraction and made me feel less guilty about having him meet his new brother and then leaving without us.  

I always thought giving birth would be the most emotional experience in my life. Then my babies met and I can't even put into words the feelings I felt. So much love and so much guilt all at the same time. From the moment I held Ford I'll now never look at Charlie the same. He feels like such a big kid now, I still have mixed emotions about that part. Everyone told me this would happen but I didn't realize how much it would effect me. 

Birth story is coming soon, but for now I'm soaking up all of the newborn snuggles and Charlie time I can get. 

xxx  Mrs. Nipple 

BABYLIST x MRS. NIPPLE

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Baby Registry & Babylist 

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 Start your Babylist registry today and click here get your free Hello Baby Box!

REGISTERING FOR A BABY

Figuring out where to register for your baby can be just as much as a headache as figuring out what items you would like to add to your registry. I really wish I knew about Babylist when I registered for Charlie.

I was very limited to what items I could add to my registry. I could only add the big brand names and all of my favorite items were small brands. Many of these small brand companies are run by actual moms who understand the importance of making life with a new baby easier. They also understand the importance of baby products that don't necessarily look like baby products.  Being able to add these types of items would have made the gifts at my baby shower more personal and unique.

BABYLIST

Babylist makes the journey into parenthood easier and less overwhelming. The Babylist Universal Registry lets you register for everything you need from any store, Yes... ANY STORE. You can even add things to your registry that money can’t buy like home-cooked meals and babysitting help. I could see this being especially helpful if you live far from your extended family. If I had meals set up for the first month after delivery, it would have been a huge weight off of my shoulders. You can even register for cash funds, for something bigger like daycare or nanny expenses. Babylist works like Pinterest. You just use the Add to Babylist browser button to easily add items while you shop. There is also an app for managing your registry on-the-go.

USEFUL RESOURCES

Lifestyle Quiz: Let's talk about the overwhelming part of registering.... what to actually register for. It's not as straightforward as you might think. Not sure where to begin? Babylist offers a lifestyle quiz to get a personalized baby registry checklist.

Best of Guides: Babylist also surveys real parents every year to create The Babylist Best Of guides to help you make informed choices. Plus, additional helpful content like Pregnancy Week by Week and Sample Registries give you even more tips on navigating pregnancy and parenthood.

Other things I love....

• You can add or link your existing registries (if you have one)

• You will receive price change alerts

• Babylist offers free personal registry consulting

• Babylist will send you free registry insert cards for shower invites

• There is free shipping on orders over $25

• Babylist is very easy to use

• You can create private categories for things that you don't want others to see

• 10% registry discount before baby arrives

Added Bonus: The Hello Baby Box

If you register at Babylist you can be eligible for a free Hello Baby Box upon setting up your new registry. The Hello Baby Box is filled with product samples and offers from trusted brands. The content of the Hello Baby Box changes each month. What's really nice about this is sometimes you don't know what your baby will prefer until he/she tests the product out or what you might prefer as a new mom. The Hello Baby Box samples give you the perfect opportunity to try multiple products. The Hello Baby Box is valued up to $160 including offers. The Hello Baby Box is available only while supplies last and it’s for US residents only.

 Start your Babylist registry today and click here get your free Hello Baby Box!

PinkBlush Maternity

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PinkBlush X Mrs.Nipple 

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PinkBlush Maternity Clothing 

PinkBlush has a beautiful selection of maternity clothes. I immediately gravitated towards their off the shoulder tops, maternity robes, and floral prints for spring. PinkBlush has such a wide range of maternity clothing, you will be covered for any occasion. Everything below is between 33-46 dollars. 

Here are three of my top picks:

Light Blue Floral Embroidered Chambray Maternity Top

Navy Striped Tie Front Off Shoulder Maternity Top

Light Pink Striped Lace Trim Delivery/Nursing Maternity Robe

CHARLES EVERETT: WHAT'S IN MY BAG, BABY EDITION

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BABY & BABY PRODUCTS 

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I thought this would be a fun take on the Us Weekly series, What's in my bag?

CHARLES EVERETT : WHAT'S IN MY BAG? 

Bourdreaux's Natural Butt Paste®

I love Bourdreaux's Natural Butt  Paste. Not only is the consistency thick enough for great coverage but it's not so thick you feel like you need to soak your hands to get all of the residue off. Charlie has only had one diaper rash in the last 18 months and I truly do believe this product has helped keep his bum healthy. I'm always very conscious of the type of products I use on Charlies's skin. The natural butt paste uses all natural ingredients including, soothing aloe, beeswax, and Peruvian balsam oil. It is FREE from: dyes, preservatives, parabens and talc. 

Honest Company Soothing Baby Bottom Wash

Have you ever changed your baby's poopy diaper but the smell just won't go away? There were times when my husband and I were actually checking our shoes and wiping Charlie clean 2-3 times because we could not get rid of the smell. Then we started using this soothing bottom wash. I'm not sure why it works so well but it does. It completely takes away the smell which is especially important when you don't have a bath tub handy. It's also all natural made with organic aloe, witch hazel, and botanical extracts, not to mention it has NO: SLS, sulfates, phthalates, parabens, fragrances, dyes, formaldehyde, MEA, DEA, TEA, or most common allergens. However, if your child has a bad diaper rash,  I would NOT recommend spraying this on the area. 

Boogie Wipes

A few friends of mine introduced me to these over Christmas. They swear by them. We tried them out and I can see why. Boogie wipes contain saline. Saline dissolves snot and mucus! When infused into a moist wipe like Boogie Wipes, saline makes mucus easier to wipe away while remaining gentle enough to comfort stuffy noses. Because saline is natural and hypoallergenic, it can soothe even the most delicate skin without irritation. Charlie does not pull away with these wipes like he did when I would use regular wipes on his nose. 

Arnicare

Any boy moms out there? My 18 month old runs through the halls of our home without even looking up. That being said, he has had his share of bumps and bruises. If this sounds like your little boy or girl then Arnicare will be a go to for you. Arnica is the main ingredient and has shown to be one of the most popular homeopathic medicines throughout the world. It is trusted by professional athletes to soothe sore muscles, by prominent cosmetic surgeons to relieve post-procedure pain, and by savvy parents to treat playground bumps and bruises. This stuff works! 

Pamper Swaddlers diapers

I am usually very good at staying organic/all natural but I couldn't find a diaper as good as these guys. I tried a bunch of brands that were just so stiff and non absorbent. These have been the best for our family. I recommend trying out a few different brands to see which ones work the best for your baby. 

Water Wipes

WaterWipes are my favorite wipes. A baby’s skin is much more delicate than your own, so it should be cleaned with only the gentlest and purest elements possible. WaterWipes are the only wipes made with just water, specially purified and softened, with a tiny drop of grapefruit seed extract. WaterWipes have been carefully designed to be gentle on babies’ sensitive skin. They are the only wipes that contain 99.9% water and a drop of grapefruit seed extract – a natural skin conditioner. 

Extra change of clothes

 ALWAYS!!!

BLOOMLIFE CONTRACTION MONITOR

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CONTRACTION TRACKING WITH MODERN CONVENIENCE & THE BLOOMLIFE CONTRACTION MONITOR RENTAL @ $20/week. 

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Bloomlife

(click on any bold wording to be redirected to the Bloomlife website) 

First, I would like to just say I'm a huge fan of innovative products and technology that make women's lives easier. I've only been using the Bloomlife contraction tracker for a few weeks and it's been very helpful in understanding what's going on with my pregnancy. When it comes to something like pregnancy and my body, having information at my fingertips is crucial.  

 

MY EXPERIENCE WITH BLOOMLIFE

I started using Bloomlife at 36 weeks pregnant. With my first delivery, I didn't have any contractions until a day or two before delivery. That hasn't been the case during this pregnancy. I started experiencing tightness and cramping in my stomach around 37 weeks. The tightness would come and go each day. It wasn't painful but was just very uncomfortable. I really didn't feel like dragging my 18 month old to the doctor's office every time I thought this might be it, so I decided to try out Bloomlife. In a matter of minutes, I was able to confirm if what I was feeling were contractions or not. The Bloomlife was kind of like having a validated second opinion to identify what I was feeling were in fact contractions; it really gave me peace of mind. It's also so interesting being able to see your contractions in real time on the Bloomlife app. You will not feel all of your contractions, but the Bloomlife monitor still picks them up and displays them on your phone screen. 

SAFETY 

I try to be very cautious around what monitors or detectors transmit, especially during pregnancy. 

The Bloomlife has been clinically validated for accuracy and safety. The sensor technology is 100% passive and simply listens and decodes the natural electrical chatter of the muscle without sending any energy into the body. It's safer than an ultrasound and doppler. 

HOW IT WORKS

The Bloomlife smart pregnancy sensor automatically tracks and times contractions and then displays them live right on your phone through the Bloomlife app. I conveniently received the product the day I started feeling contractions and it has been such a relief in interpreting what is going on with my body. An amazing and added bonus, there is absolutely no need for all of the tracking and timing. This product is also extremely user friendly!

 

USING THE PRODUCT

There are three parts to the Bloomlife tracker: an app, sensor, and reusable patch. The patch can be taken on and off the body for up to one week. In the rental kit that is shipped to you, you will receive a charger, the sensor, and a pack of reusable patches, each patch lasts around 7 days. All you do is insert the sensor onto the patch and peel back the plastic from the patch to make it sticky. Next, apply the patch at a three finger width below the belly button. Then, download the app which will then calibrate each time you start a reading. You will be able to actually see each contraction in real time. After a one hour session, you can save all of your data right onto the app and store it. For the best readings, it is good to stay seated. Most women order the product for the last six weeks of pregnancy. This is not something you necessarily use for those few hours before delivery. It's really a preparative learning and connecting tool you should use in the weeks leading up to delivery. I use it every night for 1-2 hours. In addition, many women use Bloomlife as a second opinion when they are deciding whether contractions may simply be Braxton Hicks or indicative of early labor. Bloomlife does all the work for you, tracking contractions and timing them, even the ones you can't feel. 

COST

What is great about the Bloomlife pregnancy tracker is that it is a $20 per week rental. The rental fee is low and if you use NIPPLE10 you receive 10 percent off per month.

Click HERE to be redirected to the BLOOMLIFE website. 

PREGNANCY WORKOUT FOR SOMEONE 38 WEEKS or in the third trimester

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workout & pregnancy 

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Staying active in the third trimester is so important. Not only will it help keep your energy up but it will also help with labor and delivery. 

Here is a workout routine you can do in the third trimester. The entire workout will take between 45 min - 1 hour. 

Things I always pay attention to when working out in the third trimester: 

-Make sure you are not too winded to clearly state your entire address

-Never use your mid section to try and avoid diastasis recti at all costs 

ROUTINE

Circuit one: treadmill

(3.0-3.5 mph, 8-10.0 incline) increase or decrease depending on where you are physically 

3 min walk at speed and incline of choice

-Tabata: 20 seconds walk, 10 seconds jump on side rails, 8 rounds

walk as fast as you can on as high of an incline as possible 

Circuit two: cables or resistance band for back

-three sets

15 single arm high row

20 plie squat holding cables with arms straight

20 alternating rows

Circuit three: legs and thighs

-three sets

Lateral squat walk down gym

30/45/50 seconds wall sit (do number of seconds per set)

Lateral squat walk back down gym

Repeat circuit one

Circuit one: treadmill

(3.0-3.5 mph, 8-10.0 incline) increase or decrease depending on where you are physically 

3 min walk at speed and incline of choice

-Tabata: 20 seconds walk, 10 seconds jump on side rails, 8 rounds

walk as fast as you can on as high of an incline as possible 

Circuit four: bench as high as you feel comfortable

-two sets

15 lateral step ups with knee raise

15 single leg planted front knee raise 

-do all on one leg before switching sides

I did this routine in NYC at Courtnay O. Johnson Personal Wellness and Training. I can direct you to Courtnay with any questions you might have. 

You must also not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional health care provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter, you should consult your doctor or any other professional healthcare provider. You should always consult with your doctor before trying anything new. 

HOSPITAL BAG ROUND UP

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HOSPITAL BAG & PREGNANCY

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Hospital checklist for mom

You really don't need much! I overpacked with Charlie and my hospital bag looks much different this time around. Here are my top picks:

• Something personal: Everything at the hospital is very sterile, something you obviously want. Though during such a personal time, it's nice to bring something special of your own. A pretty hospital gown that doesn't make you feel like a giant or a patient is always a good idea. I'm currently loving the Ingrid & Isabel x James Foxx Co. hospital gown. It's so pretty and feminine, it even has an adjustable waist! I think the flower printed one is perfect for those first photos with your baby. You can find the Ingrid & Isabel x James Foxx Co. hospital gown, HERE.

• Electronics: Phone, camera, ipad & chargers. You could be at the hospital for a while even before you deliver. Having some movies downloaded onto an ipad is always a good way to pass the time.

• Toiletries: Make up, blow dryer, body wash, face wash, shampoo/conditioner, lip balm etc. Keep the lip balm handy, your lips can tend to run on the dry side during labor. After deliver, you will want to feel like yourself again. Bringing these items from home will help you feel a little more refreshed after such a physically exhausting experience.

• For the Boobs: A bra without underwire & breastfeeding pads: I hardly wore a bra at the hospital but it's nice to have one, especially if you are leaking. I attached some nursing bras below.

• For your feet: Slippers, flip flops, and cozy socks with treds. Anything that will make you feel as comfortable and cozy as possible post shower after delivery.

• Clothing after delivery: Comfort is key. Bring loose fitting clothing that will keep your upper body as accessible as possible. Nursing tops and robes work best. Cozy sweat pants, pajama pants, leggings, robes and tank tops are a must.

• Birth plan: If you create a birth plan, make sure to review it with your doctor around 30 weeks pregnant and then again closer to delivery. Print several copies and hang on the door. Make sure your doula/midwife, nurses, doctor and anyone else who communicates and cares for you will be certain to see it. This is especially important if you are not finding out the gender ahead of time. I've heard too many stories of doctors or nurses inadvertently revealing the gender of the baby right before delivery.

• Going home outfit: Just remember you will still have a bump and will most likely still be in maternity clothing. Many say your bump will be the size it was when you were around 6 months pregnant. Bring some loose comfy clothes for the ride home.

• Snacks: Not all hospitals have lobster dinners, but believe it or not Greenwich hospital does! In any event, be prepared for hospital food. Unless you have delivery options close by, bring some snacks you enjoy!

• Others: photo ID, Insurance card, credit card, cash. Basically, don't forget your wallet.

MY HOSPITAL CHECK LIST:

• Ingrid & Isabel x James Foxx Co. hospital gown, you can find it, HERE

• Phone, camera, ipad, chargers, memory card

• Make up, blow dryer, body wash, face wash, shampoo/conditioner, lip balm

• Nursing bra & breastfeeding pads

• Car seat with base installed a few weeks before your due date

• Going home outfit for baby

• Warm blanket for the ride home for baby

• Some hospitals offer photography. Don’t forget a nice blanket and hat for photos

• cozy socks with treds X2

• flip flops for the shower

• slippers to wear post delivery

• nursing tank top X2

• Robe/pajama pants set

• nursing top

• leggings

• going home outfit

• you can also just bring sweat pants and a zip up sweatshirt (whatever YOU feel most comfortable in)

Hospital checklist for baby

1. Your baby's car seat. Make sure your base is installed ahead of time. The hospital will not let you leave without a properly installed car seat.

2. A nice blanket and hat for photos. I personally love the classic hospital hat and receiving blanket. However, some hospitals have professional photographers, in which case you may want to pack some personal baby items.

3. A going home outfit. Make sure to bring both a Newborn size and a 0-3 size. Many doctors predictions of the babies weight can be off.

4. Packed diaper bag that you can leave in the car for the ride home.

A few things to point out:

The hospital gave me a HUGE bag of recovery items which lasted weeks. Don't be afraid to ask for extra items. 

The disposable underwear at the hospital are so comfortable, no need to bring your own

I wouldn't bring any of your baby products, nursing pillow, etc. because you will have to wash everything when you get home and you can live without those items for a few days.