Pregnancy and postpartum are transformative experiences, full of joy, anticipation, and change. But while you focus on preparing for your baby, it’s just as important to protect your own health. Recognizing warning signs early—during pregnancy and after birth—can be life-saving. Many complications can be treated when caught in time. Let this post serve as your guide to understanding the symptoms you should never ignore, and what to do if they appear.

​1. Vision Problems & Dizziness
Sudden changes in vision—like blurriness, seeing spots, or light sensitivity—along with dizziness can be signs of preeclampsia, a dangerous condition characterized by high blood pressure.
What to do: Call your healthcare provider immediately or go to the ER. These symptoms require urgent medical attention.

2. Persistent Headache
If you experience a headache that doesn't go away with rest or medication, it could also indicate preeclampsia or even a more serious neurological issue.
What to do: Notify your provider, especially if the headache is severe or paired with vision changes or swelling.

3. Fever Over 100.4°F (Pregnancy) or 100°F+ (Postpartum)
A fever may be a sign of infection—either systemic or localized (like mastitis or a uterine infection).
What to do: Don’t wait. Contact your provider to rule out infection or other underlying issues.

4. Swelling in Hands and Face
While some swelling is normal in pregnancy, sudden or severe swelling, especially in the hands and face, is a red flag for preeclampsia.
What to do: Contact your provider immediately for evaluation.

5. Vomiting or Diarrhea Lasting More Than 24 Hours
Persistent gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration and may signal infection or other complications.
What to do: Stay hydrated and contact your provider to assess the need for testing or treatment.

6. Vaginal Bleeding
During pregnancy, bleeding could indicate miscarriage, placental issues, or preterm labor. Excessive bleeding in postpartum may signal hemorrhage.
What to do: Call 911 or go to the ER if you're soaking a maxi pad in an hour or less or passing clots larger than a lemon. For lighter but concerning bleeding, contact your provider.

7. Elevated Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can threaten your life and your baby’s. It’s a hallmark of preeclampsia.
What to do: Regular monitoring is crucial. If you notice consistently high readings, call your provider immediately.

8. Abdominal Cramps or Pain (Not Contractions)
Persistent or sharp pain could be caused by placental abruption, preterm labor, or other serious concerns.
What to do: Don’t try to "wait it out." Call your provider for an evaluation.

9. Urinary Discomfort
Burning, blood in urine, or inability to urinate may be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can lead to complications if untreated.
What to do: Contact your provider for a urine test and treatment plan.

10. Change in Vaginal Discharge
A sudden change in smell, color, or consistency, especially a foul, fishy odor, may point to an infection like bacterial vaginosis.
What to do: Make an appointment with your OB/midwife to get it checked.

11. Pelvic Pressure
A sensation of the baby pushing down too early could indicate preterm labor.
What to do: Call your provider, especially if accompanied by back pain or regular contractions before 37 weeks.

12. Water Breaks Before 37 Weeks
Preterm rupture of membranes can lead to infection or preterm birth.
What to do: Head to the hospital right away. This is considered a medical emergency.

13. Decreased Fetal Movement
If you notice fewer kicks or movement patterns shift drastically after 28 weeks, it may be a sign your baby is in distress.
What to do: Perform a kick count. If movements are fewer than 10 in two hours, contact your provider or go to labor and delivery.

14. Swollen, Red, Painful Area on the Leg
This could be a blood clot and is especially dangerous if it travels to your lungs.
What to do: Go to the emergency room immediately.

15. Severe Headache That Improves When Lying Down
This may be a sign of a spinal headache (often after an epidural) or an issue with cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
What to do: Contact your provider. Treatment may include a blood patch or other interventions.

16. Painful Breast with Redness and Flu-like Symptoms
This may indicate mastitis, a breast infection common in breastfeeding parents.
What to do: Keep nursing or pumping, apply warm compresses, and call your provider. You may need antibiotics.

17. Bleeding That Soaks a Pad in an Hour or Clots Larger Than a Lemon
These are classic signs of postpartum hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening.
What to do: Call 911 or go to the ER immediately.

18. Thoughts of Harming Yourself or Your Baby
Intrusive thoughts in the postpartum period can indicate depression, anxiety or another Perinatal Mental Health Disorder.
What to do: Tell your partner or someone you trust. Call your provider and get a referral to a mental health specialist. You may also consider contacting a crisis hotline if you are alone.

It can feel overwhelming to sort through which symptoms are "normal" and which are not, but you are your own best advocate. If something feels off, it’s always better to call your provider and be reassured than to ignore it and risk your health.
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Remember:

• Trust your instincts.
• Don’t downplay your symptoms.
• Make sure your support system knows these warning signs, too.

You deserve to feel safe, supported, and informed throughout your pregnancy and postpartum journey. Stay vigilant (not fearful) and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. Protect your peace, protect your body, and above all, know that your wellbeing matters.

​Welcoming a new baby is an exciting milestone—but for older siblings, it can be a mix of curiosity, excitement, confusion, and even jealousy. While your heart grows to accommodate another child, your firstborn (or older kids) may be trying to understand where they now fit in this changing family dynamic. Preparing siblings for the arrival of a new baby is essential in helping them feel included, secure, and loved.

​Here’s how to help siblings transition smoothly into their new role:

1. Start the Conversation Early- Children thrive on routine and predictability. As soon as you’re comfortable sharing the news, begin age-appropriate conversations about the baby.

• Toddlers (1-3 years): Keep it simple—explain that a baby is growing in your belly and will come home in a few months.
• Preschoolers (3-5 years): Read books about becoming a big brother or sister, and use dolls or stuffed animals to explain how babies are fed, changed, and comforted.
• School-aged kids (6+): Involve them in discussions about what it means to be a sibling and how they can help. Be open to their questions and feelings.

2. Involve Them in the Pregnancy- Giving children a role in the baby’s preparation helps them feel included and valued.

• Let them help choose baby clothes, toys, or nursery decor.
• Show them ultrasound pictures or let them feel the baby kick.
• Take them to a prenatal visit (if your provider allows), so they can hear the baby’s heartbeat.

3. Validate Their Feelings- Not every child will be thrilled right away and that’s okay. They might feel anxious about losing attention or having to share their parents.

• Encourage open conversations: “How do you feel about the baby coming?”
• Avoid dismissing negative emotions. Instead, respond with empathy: “It’s okay to feel upset. Things will be different, and that can be hard.”

4. Read Together- Books can be powerful tools for helping younger kids understand what to expect. A few favorites include:

• I’m a Big Sister/I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole
• The New Baby by Mercer Mayer
• Hello in There! by Jo Witek

These stories normalize sibling experiences and create space for questions.

5. Practice Baby Care with Them- Role play can make the abstract idea of a baby more tangible.

• Let them practice diapering a doll.
• Talk about how babies cry, sleep, and feed.
• Remind them that babies can’t play right away and that doesn’t mean they don’t like their siblings.

6. Plan for Their Care During Labor- Talk about what will happen when it’s time for the baby to be born. Let them know:

• Who will be taking care of them (e.g., grandparents or a babysitter)
• When they’ll get to meet the baby
• That you will come back as soon as it’s safe to

This preparation helps reduce uncertainty and fear.

7. Make the First Meeting Special- The first impression matters. Plan the sibling introduction thoughtfully:

• Try to hold the baby in a bassinet or crib when the sibling enters, so your arms are free to hug them.
• Have a “big sibling” gift from the baby ready to present.
• Let them interact at their own pace.

8. Give Them a Job- Assign a special “big sibling” job, like being the diaper fetcher, lullaby singer, or book reader. This gives them purpose and pride in their new role.

9. Schedule One-on-One Time- After the baby arrives, it’s easy for the older child to feel overlooked. Carve out intentional one-on-one time with them, even just 10 minutes a day, to remind them they’re still a priority.

10. Be Patient with Regressions- Your potty-trained preschooler might suddenly have accidents. Your independent child may become clingy. These are normal responses to a big life change. Offer reassurance and patience as they adjust.

11. Other Considerations- Speak with your older children about their birth. Allow them to ask questions and review your birth plan with them. You may also want to schedule maternity or newborn photos and allow them to celebrate their new role as a big sister/brother. When preparing for baby's arrival, you can have some fun in the kitchen. Let your children pick out some recipes for freezer meals and prepare them together. Lastly, plan a trip to take as a family before the new baby is born.

Bringing a new baby into the family is a journey for everyone—not just parents. With preparation, empathy, and love, older siblings can feel secure and excited in their new role. Remember: the bond between siblings is one of the most lasting and meaningful relationships they will have. Your guidance helps lay the foundation for that connection to grow.

​Motherhood is a beautiful, challenging, and often exhausting journey. Between managing schedules, wiping noses, juggling work, and making sure everyone eats something green once in a while, it's easy to lose sight of your own needs—and your worth. Today, let’s take a breath together and focus on six powerful things every mom should do not just once in a while, but regularly. These aren't just self-care tips—they are mindset shifts that can help you show up for your family and yourself in the best way possible.

1. Cut Yourself Some Slack and Give Yourself More Credit- You are doing more than you think, and it’s time to acknowledge that. Did the kids eat? Did you show them love today? Did you survive another Monday? That counts. You don't have to be perfect to be an amazing mom. Give yourself permission to let go of the impossible standards. The laundry might pile up, you might forget spirit day, but your love and presence are what matter most. Celebrate the small wins—because they are big.

2. Slow Down and Be Present- Life as a mom can feel like a race from sunrise to bedtime. But rushing through the days means missing the little moments—the giggles, the messy art projects, the bedtime chats. Try to slow down, even just for a few minutes. Put down your phone, look into your child’s eyes, and listen. Presence over perfection is what creates connection.

3. Say "No"- You do not have to say yes to every bake sale, playdate, committee, or favor. Protecting your time and energy is not selfish—it’s essential. Learning to say no allows you to say yes to what matters most. Boundaries make room for peace, and peace makes space for joy.

4. Have Regular “Me Time”- You cannot pour from an empty cup. Whether it's 10 minutes with coffee and a book, a solo Target run, a hobby you love, or even just silence in the car after school drop-off—carve out space for yourself. “Me time” is not a luxury; it's a necessity. It refreshes your spirit and reminds you of the person you are outside of motherhood. Want to take it a step further? Plan a solo trip or weekend staycation where you can have the house all to yourself.

5. Write Down Your Goals and Pursue Them- I know that you still have dreams. Don’t tuck them away just because you're raising children. Writing down your goals makes them real. Whether it’s a fitness milestone, a career shift, or learning a new skill, you are allowed to grow alongside your kids. You’re not just raising future adults—you’re still becoming the woman you were made to be.

6. Pray for Your Children- There’s power in a praying mom. When you feel helpless, when your child is struggling, or when you’re unsure what to do—pray. Covering your children in prayer invites peace, wisdom, and strength into your parenting. It’s not about having all the answers, but about entrusting the journey to Someone who does.

Motherhood is a constant evolution, and the best thing you can do for your family is to take care of you—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. These six small shifts can make a world of difference in how you feel, how you love, and how you lead your family. You’ve got this, mama. And on the days you feel like you don’t—remember that grace, growth, and prayer go a long way.

As parents—especially as moms—there's a lot of talk about self-care. But what does it really mean? Self-care is a deliberate and self-initiated practice that helps regulate our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, filled with constant demands and endless responsibilities, taking time to care for ourselves isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.

Did you know that self-care aligns with preventive medicine?

When you prioritize your own health and wellness, you’re not just improving your mood or energy—you’re actively investing in your long-term health and resilience. It’s like putting on your own oxygen mask first so you can better care for those who depend on you.
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The Hardest Part? Making Time for It.
Let’s be honest: making time for self-care can feel like an impossible task when you're managing a household, working, parenting, and trying to be everything for everyone. But here’s the truth—if you don’t make time, time won’t make itself.

I recommend planning ahead and even blocking time off in your calendar—just like you would for a meeting or your child’s soccer game. Consider it an appointment with yourself that you deserve to keep.

Tips for Creating a Manageable Self-Care Routine

1. Start small
   Don’t overwhelm yourself with expensive spa days or complicated routines. Self-care can begin right at home. Brew a cup of herbal tea, give yourself a manicure or pedicure, take a bubble bath (when was the last time you did that?), or try a new beauty treatment. Step outside for fresh air, soak in the sun for 10 minutes, or unwind with a favorite show. Even ordering takeout instead of cooking counts—remember, the small things add up.
2. Do one thing just for you each day
   I know your to-do list is never-ending, but try to do one thing daily that’s purely for you. It could be as simple as putting on a favorite lipstick, listening to your favorite podcast, or grabbing a fancy coffee from Starbucks. This small act of self-kindness helps build consistency and signals that you are a priority too.
3. Communicate with your family
   When planning your self-care time, let your family know in advance. Clear communication sets expectations and helps minimize interruptions. Teach your kids and partner to respect your "me time"—it models healthy boundaries and self-respect.
4. Incorporate wellness into your routine
   • Prayer or meditation: A few quiet minutes can ground your day and reduce stress.
   • See your doctor regularly: Stay on top of health checkups and don’t ignore symptoms.
   • Move your body: Whether it's yoga, a brisk walk, or a dance session in the kitchen, physical activity releases endorphins and boosts energy.
   • Eat nourishing foods: Fuel your body with what makes you feel good.
5. Stay social
   Spend time with friends who uplift you. A coffee date, phone call, or girls’ night out can be incredibly restorative. Let your village pour into you for a change.
6. Try something new
   A new hobby, workout, or skill can spark joy and help you rediscover parts of yourself that might have been buried under the responsibilities of motherhood.
7. Journal or write
   Writing things down can be therapeutic. Whether it’s gratitude journaling, venting after a rough day, or setting goals, journaling creates space to process your thoughts and feelings.

Mom, it’s okay to put yourself first every once in a while. You give so much of yourself to your family, and in order to continue doing that with love and energy, you must refill your own cup. Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. Be in the moment, listen to what your body and mind are telling you, and honor your needs. You are worth it.

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, filled with anticipation and change—including your wardrobe. As your body transforms to support new life, so does your need for comfort, flexibility, and style. Knowing when and how to transition your clothing can make all the difference in how confident and comfortable you feel throughout your pregnancy.

Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, here’s a guide to navigating maternity fashion with ease and style.

When to Transition Your Wardrobe

There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for switching to maternity wear, but most women start to notice changes in their bodies during the first trimester. However, the need to change your wardrobe typically starts between weeks 12 and 16.

Signs It’s Time to Transition:

• Your jeans no longer button comfortably
• You’re constantly tugging or adjusting your tops
• Your bump is starting to show
• You’re experiencing bloating or sensitivity around the waistline
• Your bras feel tighter and less supportive

Tip: Don’t wait until you’re bursting at the seams. Transitioning gradually makes the process more manageable and enjoyable.

How to Transition Your Wardrobe
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1. Start with Basics
Begin with the essentials you wear most often. These staples will serve as the foundation of your maternity wardrobe:

• Maternity leggings or yoga pants
• Stretchy camisoles and tanks
• Supportive maternity bras
• Soft, adjustable waistband jeans

Look for pieces labeled “maternity,” but also consider regular clothing with stretch or forgiving cuts—think empire-waist dresses, tunics, or oversized button-downs.

2. Invest in Versatile Pieces
Choose items that grow with you and can be styled multiple ways:

• Wrap dresses and bodycon dresses with stretch
• Long cardigans or dusters
• Belly bands to extend the wear of your pre-pregnancy pants
• Convertible items that double for nursing/postpartum wear

You don’t need to overhaul your entire closet, Just blend maternity-friendly pieces into your existing style.

3. Prioritize Comfort and Support
Pregnancy comes with physical changes like backaches, swelling, and tenderness. Choose clothes that prioritize:

• Breathable fabrics like cotton and modal
• Seamless underwear and support belts
• Low-heel or supportive shoes (your feet may swell)

Comfort doesn't mean compromising on style—it just means finding smarter options that support your body.

4. Plan for Each Trimester
First Trimester: Use what you have, layering with loose tops and stretchy bottoms. If anything, you might want to consider purchasing a few key pieces to help ease your transition, like a belly band or stretchy pants that can accommodate your growing belly.

Second Trimester: Look for elasticized waistbands, stretchy fabrics, and tops with plenty of room in the bust and belly. You don’t need to overhaul your entire closet right away, Invest in a few basics like maternity jeans, leggings, and tops that are easy to pair with your pre-pregnancy items and a few key dresses.

Third Trimester: At this point, it’s a good idea to invest in a few more maternity essentials such as dresses, bras, and outerwear that will keep you cozy and stylish during the final months of pregnancy. Focus on comfort and fit. You might size up in some items or opt for more breathable, flowy silhouettes.

Bonus Tips:

• Buy in stages: Don’t buy everything at once. Your body will change month-to-month.
• Thrift or borrow: Maternity clothes are worn for a short time. Consider secondhand or sharing with friends.
• "Shop" in your partner's closet: Menswear is my favorite "maternity wear". You don't have to leave the house to shop and it's budget friendly! Plus, it makes you feel closer to your partner and makes for great keepsake photos.
• Keep your style: Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to abandon your fashion sense. Look for maternity options that reflect your personal taste.
• ​Show off that baby bump: Don’t hide your baby bump—celebrate it! Form-fitting clothes like maternity dresses or tops that hug the bump are not only flattering but also show off the miracle growing inside you. Bodycon dresses and fitted tunics are a great option for accentuating your shape and feeling confident.
• Comfortable shoes are a must: Your feet and ankles may swell as your pregnancy progresses, so it’s important to choose shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. Look for shoes with arch support and cushioned soles, and avoid anything too tight or high-heeled. Ballet flats, slip-on sneakers, and low-heeled boots can be perfect options to stay stylish without compromising on comfort.
• Don’t forget about lingerie: Maternity bras are a must-have for most women as their bodies change during pregnancy. As your breasts enlarge and become more sensitive, you’ll want to wear bras that provide more support and comfort than regular bras. Invest in a few quality maternity bras that are breathable and stretchy to accommodate your growing bust.

Your maternity wardrobe is about more than just clothes—it’s about feeling like yourself during a time of major change. With the right pieces and a little planning, you can feel stylish, comfortable, and confident throughout your pregnancy. Embrace the bump, wear what feels good, and remember: fashion should always support the stage of life you're in.