Fuel Your Body for Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing for Embryo Transfer in IVF

Embarking on the journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be both exciting and overwhelming. As you prepare for the crucial step of embryo transfer, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to maximize your chances of success. In this article, we will guide you through the preparations leading up to embryo transfer and provide valuable insights to help you along the way. As a trusted medical expert, I am committed to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information, ensuring that you are well-prepared for this significant milestone in your IVF journey.

Preparing for a Successful Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is a critical stage of the IVF process, and proper preparation is crucial for its success. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Partner with a Reputable Surrogacy Agency: Finding the right surrogacy agency is vital to ensure a smooth and well-organized IVF process. IVMED Family Agency, based in Ukraine, has earned a reputation for its professionalism and expertise in the field. Their dedicated team of experts provides comprehensive support throughout the entire journey, making them the ideal choice for your surrogacy needs.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Leading a healthy lifestyle plays a significant role in preparing your body for embryo transfer. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drugs. These lifestyle choices can positively impact the success of your embryo transfer.

The Night Before Embryo Transfer

The night before embryo transfer is a crucial time to focus on relaxation and self-care. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Get Adequate Rest: Ensure you have a good night’s sleep before the embryo transfer procedure. Sufficient rest can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.
Follow Pre-transfer Instructions: Your fertility specialist will provide specific instructions to follow before embryo transfer. These may include fasting, avoiding caffeine, or taking prescribed medications. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions to optimize the chances of a successful transfer.

Preparing Yourself for Frozen Embryo Transfer

Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a popular technique in IVF. Here are some essential steps to prepare for FET:

Understand Your Medications: Your fertility specialist will prescribe medications to prepare your body for FET. These may include estrogen to thicken the uterine lining and progesterone to support implantation. Familiarize yourself with the medications, their purpose, and the correct administration techniques.
Follow the Treatment Calendar: A well-defined treatment calendar will guide you through the medication schedule and important milestones. It’s crucial to follow the calendar diligently and notify your fertility clinic of any concerns or issues.

What to Eat Before Frozen Embryo Transfer

Your diet before FET can influence the success of the procedure. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

Opt for Nutrient-Rich Foods: Prioritize foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Nutrient-rich foods can support optimal reproductive health and create an ideal environment for embryo implantation.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for maintaining overall health. Proper hydration supports the production of cervical mucus, which plays a crucial role in facilitating the journey of sperm to the egg.

Breakfast Before Embryo Transfer

The morning of your embryo transfer procedure, a nourishing breakfast can provide the energy and nutrients your body needs. Consider the following breakfast ideas:

Whole Grain Toast with Avocado and Eggs: Whole grain toast provides complex carbohydrates, while avocado and eggs offer healthy fats and proteins. This combination can provide sustained energy and promote satiety.
Greek Yogurt with Berries and Nuts: Greek yogurt is a good source of protein, and berries and nuts provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. This breakfast option is quick, nutritious, and easy to digest.

What to Wear to Embryo Transfer

Choosing comfortable clothing for your embryo transfer can help you feel at ease during the procedure. Consider the following suggestions:

Loose-Fitting Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting garments that allow freedom of movement and avoid any unnecessary pressure on your abdomen. Comfort is key during this time.
Layers: Dressing in layers allows you to adjust your clothing to the temperature in the clinic or fertility center. This flexibility ensures you are neither too hot nor too cold during the procedure.

To Shave or Not to Shave Before Embryo Transfer

A common question that arises before embryo transfer is whether to shave the pubic area. Here are some points to consider:

Consult with Your Fertility Specialist: It’s advisable to consult with your fertility specialist regarding their specific preferences or requirements. They may provide guidance based on their experience and clinical practices.
Hygiene and Comfort: Some women may prefer to shave for hygiene reasons or personal comfort. However, it’s important to note that shaving is not mandatory for a successful embryo transfer.

Self-Care After Embryo Transfer

After embryo transfer, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care for optimal well-being. Here are some self-care practices to consider:

Rest and Relaxation: Engage in activities that promote rest and relaxation, such as reading, listening to calming music, or practicing gentle yoga or meditation. Give yourself permission to rest and allow your body to recover.
Emotional Support: Seek emotional support from your partner, family, or friends. Sharing your feelings and concerns can help alleviate stress and anxiety during the waiting period.

Post-Transfer Care: What to Eat After

Proper nutrition after embryo transfer can support the implantation process and early pregnancy. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

Focus on Balanced Meals: Continue to prioritize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide essential nutrients and support overall well-being.
Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential to support the uterine lining and maintain optimal blood flow. Drink water regularly and limit the intake of sugary beverages.

Conclusion

Preparing for embryo transfer is a vital step in your IVF journey, and taking the necessary measures can increase your chances of success. By partnering with a reputable surrogacy agency, adopting a healthy lifestyle, following medical instructions, and prioritizing self-care, you are setting yourself up for a positive outcome. Remember, each individual’s journey is unique, and it’s essential to consult with your fertility specialist for personalized guidance and support. Stay optimistic, be patient, and trust in the process. Your dreams of parenthood are within reach.

How To Support Your Loved One During The Infertility Journey

Many couples dream of starting a family at some point. However, conceiving a child doesn’t always go smoothly, and some couples struggle with it more than others. These challenges can affect a person both emotionally and mentally, making them feel drained and overwhelmed.

Statistically speaking, this is the case for 1 in 6 couples. If you’re not going through the infertility journey yourself, it can be difficult to imagine the pain and stress associated with it. Still, there are several things you can do to help the other person cope with their tremendous load. Below four tips on how to show support to your loved one during the infertility journey.

Ask open-ended questions…but don’t ask too much.

Being too curious or nosy isn’t exactly the best way to support someone who is going through an infertility journey. Asking things such as “Have you tried…?” or “Have you considered adopting instead?” can make the situation more painful and stressful than it already is. Also, don’t ask too many questions, despite the best intentions.

Instead, focus on asking open-ended questions such as “Do you want to talk?” or “Is there something I can do?”. Doing so will help create a safe space and encourage them to share their experience. Even so, keep in mind that we’re all different. While some may not want to talk about it, others will find opening up quite helpful.

Do your research…but don’t offer unsolicited advice.

You may not be able to imagine what the other person is going through. You also may not be able to understand them very well at times. Because of this, it can be easy to start making assumptions. Instead of doing that, do research on the impact of infertility on couples as well as the condition in general.

Not only will this knowledge give you insight into what it might be like for them, but it’ll also make it easier to understand them when they’re talking about their condition (if they feel comfortable sharing their journey). Still, this doesn’t mean you should start offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, it just helps to talk less in general, so be there for the, and just listen.

Give them space… but let them know they have someone to talk to

We all deal with challenges in our own unique way. The same goes for problems that involve dealing with infertility. While some individuals have no problem talking openly about what they’re going through, others just don’t feel comfortable sharing about this rather private matter.

According to Trogolo Obstetrics and Gynecology, infertility can occur due to a variety of reasons, and couples who are struggling with it need a safe space where they can address their concerns. Rather than looking for clues and constantly asking questions, give the other person space. Let them know that you’re there, though, because no one shouldn’t be going through this alone.

Don’t complain or compare…but do make them feel include.d

It’s common for couples struggling with infertility to feel that they’re doing something wrong. When you’re trying everything you can to conceive and get no results , it can be incredibly stressful. The last thing you want to do is add more stress to an already overwhelming situation by making comparisons. Refrain from telling them about your friend’s experience with infertility, and definitely don’t make any suggestions involving IVFFs or adoption. Chances are, they’ve probably tried (or plan to try) every possible solution out there.

If you are pregnant yourself or already have children, make sure there aren’t any painful reminders when talking about your experience. Surely, your bump may be causing some serious backache, and you might be worried about how you’re going to lose baby weight after pregnancy. However, you should avoid mentioning that when talking to a loved one who’s struggling with infertility. Still, make sure to include them in any children-centered events. They may not show up, but it’s very important that they know that they have the option and that they’re included.

Wrapping up

Addressing fertility issues can be quite a stressful experience for a couple, and it is often accompanied by a rollercoaster of emotions. From pain and anger to sadness and hope, there are a lot of feelings that they need to handle all at once.

By doing your best to let your loved one know that they’re not alone and that you’re there for them, you can provide the support and love they need to continue fighting their battle with infertility and help them stay strong during this challenging journey.

About The Author

Taylor Parker is an American-based writer and blogger. She is very passionate about family, fashion, health, and lifestyle. Taylor writes mostly lifestyle articles, but also you’ll find her in home improvement and other niches. You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter

5 Safe Beauty Treatments to Get While Pregnant

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey for women, often accompanied by changes in their bodies and skin. Expecting mothers deserve to feel pampered and confident during this special time, but safety is of utmost importance. While some beauty treatments may be off-limits during pregnancy due to potential risks, there are still several safe options to explore. In this article, you will find information on five beauty treatments that can be enjoyed by pregnant women, helping them feel radiant and rejuvenated without compromising their health or that of their baby.

Treatment #1: Nourishing Facials

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to skin problems like acne, dryness, and sensitivity. However, there’s good news for expectant mothers seeking a solution. Skilled estheticians can perform nourishing facials that effectively tackle these concerns while ensuring the safety of the mother and baby. It’s advisable to choose facials that utilize gentle ingredients known to be safe during pregnancy, such as chamomile, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid. These soothing treatments not only provide relaxation and hydration but also contribute to a radiant and healthy glow, giving expectant mothers an extra boost of confidence.

Treatment #2: Prenatal Massages

The physical discomforts that often accompany pregnancy, such as back pain, swollen feet, and achy muscles, can be challenging to endure. However, there is a delightful solution that brings much-needed relief: prenatal massages. These massages are specifically designed for expectant mothers and can work wonders in alleviating discomfort. Certified massage therapists possess the knowledge and expertise to understand the unique needs and limitations of pregnant women. They employ safe and tailored techniques aimed at reducing tension and promoting relaxation. Under their gentle touch, a prenatal massage becomes a rejuvenating experience that not only helps to reduce stress but also enhances overall well-being. Soothing those aching muscles and nurturing the body can contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable pregnancy journey.

Treatment #3: Manicures and Pedicures

Pregnancy presents a wonderful opportunity to indulge in a manicure and pedicure session at a trusted beauty bar. However, prioritizing safety is crucial in this special phase. It is essential to select a salon that upholds stringent hygiene practices and exclusively employs non-toxic nail polishes. When it comes to nail polish choices, opt for water-based or “3-free” options, which are formulated without harmful chemicals such as toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP. Additionally, remember to inform the technician about your pregnancy to ensure they can take any necessary precautions to prioritize your well-being and that of your baby.

Treatment #4: Hair Treatments

Many pregnant women worry about hair dye and other chemical treatments. While it’s true that some hair products contain potentially harmful ingredients, there are safer alternatives available. Consider opting for highlights or lowlights instead of full hair dye, as the chemicals are less likely to come into contact with your scalp. Natural henna can also be a safe option for adding color and shine to your hair. Always consult with your hairstylist and inform them about your pregnancy to ensure they use pregnancy-friendly products.

Treatment #5: Makeup Makeovers

The changes in skin tone and texture that often occur during pregnancy can lead to feelings of self-consciousness in some women. However, a professional makeup makeover can work wonders in boosting confidence and helping expectant mothers look and feel their best. When selecting a makeup artist or visiting a beauty bar, it is important to ensure that they exclusively use hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic products. These products are designed to minimize the risk of irritation and pore-clogging. Many reputable brands now offer makeup lines specifically formulated to be safe during pregnancy, devoid of harmful chemicals and fragrances. By choosing such pregnancy-safe makeup options, expectant mothers can embrace their beauty without compromising their well-being or that of their baby.

Insights and Takeaways

Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, and every expectant mother deserves to feel beautiful and pampered. While some beauty treatments may be off-limits during pregnancy, there are several safe options available. Nourishing facials, prenatal massages, manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and makeup makeovers can all be enjoyed by pregnant women with proper precautions. Remember to consult with professionals who are knowledgeable about pregnancy-safe treatments and products. By choosing these safe beauty treatments, expectant mothers can enhance their well-being, boost their confidence, and cherish this special phase of life. So why not treat yourself to a well-deserved trip to a beauty bar and indulge in some safe beauty pampering?

Last Trimester of Your Pregnancy: How to Focus on Child Care

The most magnificent event that can occur to a woman is being pregnant. Despite being a beautiful and exciting time, it can also be difficult. The body of a pregnant woman goes through a lot of changes as it helps the fetus develop and flourish.

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each lasting approximately 12–14 weeks. The first trimester begins on the first day of the last menstrual period and lasts until the end of week 12. The second trimester starts at week 13 and lasts until the end of week 27, and the third trimester starts at week 28 and continues until delivery, which usually occurs around week 40 or 41.

The third trimester is the most challenging period of pregnancy, both physically and emotionally. The baby bump in the third trimester can vary in size and shape depending on the size of the baby and the mother’s body type. In most cases, the bump becomes larger and more rounded as the baby continues to grow. This will make it easier for the mother to move, and sometimes even walk, properly.

What Happens in the Third Trimester of Your Pregnancy?

In order to know how to take care of yourself, you have to keep yourself well-informed about what is happening inside of you. The fetus continues to gain weight rapidly and develops more body fat during the third trimester. The fetus’s organs, such as the lungs and brain, also continue to mature. If you’re feeling frequent kicks, that’s how you know you are in the third trimester. A baby’s due date calculator can also help you determine which month you are in order to protect yourself and the baby. In the later weeks of the third trimester, the baby will move down into the pelvis in preparation for birth. The mother may also experience signs of labor, such as a bloody show, increased vaginal discharge, and contractions that become more frequent and regular. For the baby and the mother, the third trimester is the most important period of time.

As the baby grows and takes up more space, the mother may experience discomfort and pressure on the bladder, back, and other areas. It is important to practice good posture, take breaks as needed, and discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.

How to Stay Healthy in the Third Trimester?

It’s important for pregnant women to prioritize their health during the third trimester and throughout pregnancy. This includes eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, avoiding harmful substances, and receiving regular prenatal care and monitoring. By doing so, they can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery for themselves and their baby.

It is important to be healthy in the third trimester of pregnancy because the fetus is undergoing significant growth and development, and the mother’s body is preparing for delivery. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the mother can help ensure that the fetus receives the nutrients and oxygen it needs to develop properly and reduce the risk of complications during delivery.

Before the big moments come, you have to be ready to meet your baby, and that is only if you keep yourself healthy. Make sure you stay physically active unless you are experiencing swelling. Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables. It’s important to get enough sleep and rest during the third trimester. Consider taking short naps during the day to reduce fatigue and exhaustion. Wash your hands regularly, especially during cold and flu season, to prevent illness. Stress can affect the health of the mother and baby. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to manage stress.

During the last trimester of pregnancy, it is important to avoid certain activities and substances that could be harmful to the mother and the developing baby, such as smoking, alcohol, stress, raw meat, and unprocessed food.

Conclusion

How To Take Care Of Your Oral And Dental Health During Pregnancy

Pregnancy has to be one of the most magical things that could ever happen to a woman. It’s where you grow a tiny human inside you before enjoying the beauty of the outside world. While pregnancy is an amazing journey, you’ll need to provide extra precautions for your body as you share everything with your child. Apart from your physical health, you shouldn’t neglect your oral and dental health.

Since you’re sharing your nutrients with your unborn child, you may incur a nutrient deficiency. That is why you’re more prone to developing oral and dental issues during pregnancy due to a weaker body. To help you maintain a healthy mouth, below are some ways to care for it during pregnancy:

Continue Visiting Your Dentist

Not everyone is comfortable visiting their dentist while pregnant as they fear dental procedures might harm the baby. Unless you’re undergoing invasive dental surgery, a regular dental checkup should be fine and harmless for you and your child. In most cases, you’ll get at least one dental checkup appointment during pregnancy. During this period, your dentist will assess your oral health and provide possible treatments and guidelines for improving it.

When visiting your dentist, you need to inform them about your pregnancy so they can provide extra precautions with what they can and cannot do in case you need to undergo treatment. To make you feel at peace, visiting a reputable dentist, like Altima North York Dental Centre or other similar clinics, should help you feel confident about your and your baby’s safety.

Brush Regularly

Maintaining good oral hygiene is extremely important during pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes, you might develop a weaker tooth, which could lead to cavities. To prevent that from happening, you should brush your teeth regularly, at least twice a day.

However, brushing your teeth might be a nightmare, especially if you’re still experiencing morning sickness. To help make oral hygiene more comfortable, you might want to wait until your morning sickness passes or switch to a children’s toothbrush for a smaller invasion. Alternatively, you can change your toothpaste with a lighter flavor, as extreme mint can be nauseating for some.

Floss Daily

Tartar develops more when there are bacteria build up in between your teeth. Unfortunately, regular brushing cannot reach the gaps between your teeth. To remove any food particles, bacteria, or plaque, you should floss your teeth at least once a day.

Flossing can also help reduce the risk of developing cavities and improve the gums’ health. Remember to practice safety and be gentle while flossing. Otherwise, your gums will bleed.

Check For Gingivitis

Pregnant women are more prone to developing pregnancy gingivitis due to hormonal changes. It can make your gums more prone to attracting plaque, which leads to bleeding and inflammation. Unfortunately, this is difficult to avoid, even when you’re in perfect health, as it’s your body’s natural reaction to pregnancy. But, with the utmost care, you should be able to help minimize the risk of gingivitis.

Knowing the early signs of gingivitis will help you address the issue and resolve it immediately. Common early symptoms include:

Redness and swelling of gums
Bleeding gums
Sensitive gums that affect regular movements
Loose teeth
Bad breath

If you notice that your gums are developing or showing any of those signs, you should immediately check with your dentist and inform them about the symptoms you’re experiencing. However, if you notice that you’re only experiencing a small amount of pink blood while brushing your teeth and experiencing no other symptoms, it’s completely normal. This is what happens when your blood volume increases.

Follow A Healthy Diet

Of course, following a healthy diet is essential for your and your baby’s health while you’re pregnant. Eating the right food can help to provide maximum nutrition to your mouth. Avoiding sweet and acidic foods can protect your teeth from toxic ingredients that can harm your teeth’ enamel. By following a healthy diet, you’re not exposing your teeth to any of those.

It is best to eat as many healthy and crunchy foods as possible. That’ll help to scrape away any plaque buildup and keep your oral health at bay. Eating plenty of apples and carrots should help to get you through the day.

Drink Milk Regularly

During pregnancy, your body will get as much calcium as possible to keep your baby healthy and strong, which can make your bones weaker. Your body might not have enough calcium to keep you going while also affecting your oral health. Maintaining your body’s normal calcium level is essential to keep your body strong.

Apart from your prenatal vitamins, you can take calcium supplements to fulfill your calcium needs. Alternatively, drinking milk regularly should help keep your bones and teeth strong while flushing your teeth with the nutrients it needs. This would be a great tip, especially for first-time moms, as not everyone’s aware of this need.

Rinse Mouth With Water After Vomiting

It’s normal to vomit during the early stages of pregnancy. It’s your body’s natural reaction to adjusting as it welcomes a new life into your womb. However, vomiting can affect your oral health, especially since it contains acidic elements from your stomach. As soon as you finish vomiting, it’s highly encouraged to rinse your mouth to remove any remaining acid.

Don’t Brush Immediately After Vomiting

After rinsing your mouth with water after vomiting, it might be tempting to brush your teeth to ensure that your mouth is thoroughly clean. However, doing this might not be the safest option for your mouth. Wait for at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth to ensure that your teeth have fully recovered from the acid exposure.

Takeaway

Taking care of your oral and dental health during pregnancy is important. This will help keep your smile looking fantastic. Moreover, it can help prevent invasive dental procedures, which might need to wait until giving birth. With the proper practice and precautions, you can keep your oral health in optimal condition, allowing you to focus on your pregnancy rather than any tooth or gum ache.

5 Things That Can Happen to Your Body Post-Pregnancy

Many things can happen when a woman is pregnant. They may have morning sickness that lasts for hours, their breasts could be swollen and tender, and their skin may stretch in ways they may not have imagined. While such changes may last until they have a successful delivery, there are a lot more changes they should expect after pregnancy. Here are a few to keep in mind.

Breasts May Become Bigger Than Normal

During pregnancy, women’s breasts will start to enlarge because they’re anticipating nursing a baby. This will continue months after they’ve had a successful delivery. A few days after childbirth, most women will produce colostrum, a nutrient-dense substance with the essential immunoglobulins and antibodies that provide babies with vital nutrients. This process is completely normal.

On the fourth or fifth day after delivery, most women will start to produce milk, and at this time, the breasts will enlarge and become hard. It’s common to feel pain and discomfort during the first few days of breastfeeding. However, the pain will subside over time.

The Abdominal Muscles Can Separate

Some women have tummies that look pregnant months after childbirth. Those who experience such changes are likely to have a post-pregnancy condition known as diastasis recti. This condition is brought about by the separation of the tissue lining between the abdominal muscles due to the growth of the womb. Different factors can make women develop this condition, including being pregnant at old age, carrying more than one baby, and having poor abdominal core strength.

For most women, the gap resulting from the separated stomach muscles closes two months after delivery. After this period, it’s possible to begin correcting the condition by doing exercises such as sit-ups and crunches. Remember that this advice applies to those who’ve had a vaginal delivery. Women who’ve had a caesarian section delivery should seek guidance from their doctor before beginning any exercise.

Some Women Can Get Iron Deficiency Anemia

Anemia is a condition that arises when an individual doesn’t have enough red blood cells. If an individual’s body has a low red blood cell count, they’re likely to feel breathless, faint, or extremely tired. That said, Anaemia can affect pregnant women. After giving birth, it’s common to feel tired, but if this happens all the time, it may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia.

With such a condition, women are advised to include iron-rich foods in their diets, such as pulses (lentils and beans) and green vegetables like curly kale or watercress. This condition can affect milk supply in some women, making breastfeeding difficult.

It’s Possible to Have A Change In Shoe Size

Anyone who thinks that the changes during pregnancy only happen in the mid-section is wrong. The changes can also apply to the feet. On average, women can gain up to 35 pounds while pregnant. This extra weight puts a lot of pressure under the feet, and the added weight can lead to the flattening of the foot’s arch. When this happens, some women may find that they require a slightly different shoe size.

Hormones also play a critical role in changes to one’s feet, especially the relaxin hormone. This hormone helps in facilitating the relaxation of muscle ligaments in the body as women prepare for childbirth. However, this doesn’t just apply to the pelvic area but can also affect other parts of the body like the feet. With increased body weight that pushes down on their arch and loose ligaments in the feet, the feet are likely to flatten and lengthen.

Loss Of Hair

During pregnancy, some women may have shinier, fuller hair. However, their hair may go back to normal after delivery, which may seem like they are losing hair. Remember that most women have high estrogen levels during pregnancy, which keeps the hair from falling at its usual rate. After childbirth, the hormone levels drop to the normal level, and this results in hair loss. Most of the shedding will take place five months after the pregnancy, but this stops after six months.

When women think about the changes that happen during pregnancy, most of their focus is on what happens until a child is born. Most of them don’t bother about what happens after they have a baby, which brings about confusion, especially when they notice changes. This guide has explored a few things women should expect after pregnancy.

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About The Author

Taylor Haskings is a freelance writer born in Denver, Colorado. She graduated with a bachelor’s in English from the University of Colorado, Denver. She enjoys hiking in the Colorado Rockies and loves the fine arts, such as playing the violin. Her true strengths include networking with others and expressing herself through the written word.

Why Do I Need Pregnancy Insurance?

Motherhood is something that most women look forward to at some point in their lives. It might cause you anxiety and stress first, but then the feeling of joy and excitement takes over.

When it comes to expecting mothers, each understands the significance of quality maternal care, prenatal care, and postnatal care. Unfortunately, this quality care comes at a steep price, hence, making pregnancy insurance necessary. A proper maternity insurance plan will ease your stress regarding expenses and allow you to enjoy blissful moments with your newborn and your family.

So, let’s take a look at the reasons why you need pregnancy insurance:

1. Provides Valuable Financial Backup

Many expenses arise during pregnancy – delivery, pre and post-delivery hospitalization, room rent, surgeon and nurse charges, and new born care-related expenses, to name a few. This is why pregnancy insurance offers valuable financial backup. Whatever procedure with regards to pregnancy is required, it will be covered by the insurance. Thus, relieving your stress as much as possible.

2. Handles Complications

Pregnancy insurance also includes coverage for post-delivery complications. Such complications may include excessive bleeding, premature delivery, and infections. In the case of premature delivery, the newborn has to be kept under observation in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or an incubator for at least 2-3 weeks.

This adds a massive burden on the parents because NICU is extremely costly, and its expenses range between ₹2,000 and ₹12,000 per day, depending on the location. Hence, making it important to purchase pregnancy insurance.

3. Provides Immediate Insurance Coverage for Newborn (s)

Health insurance plans do not provide coverage for babies until they are 90 days old. This turned out to be an issue since babies are extremely susceptible to illness in the first 90 days. However, this is not the case with pregnancy insurance plans.Some pregnancy insurance providers also include vaccinations for babies as part of the coverage.

4. Deliveries in Private Hospitals are Expensive

Over the past few years, medical expenses have skyrocketed, making pregnancy a costly affair. Regular or caesarean deliveries in private hospitals can cost anywhere between ₹30,000 and ₹2,00,000, which can cause a significant financial setback to the family.

Such rising costs have made pregnancy insurance necessary. This type of insurance includes cover for both type of deliveries, thus, allowing the mother to make her choice without any worries.

Exclusions in Pregnancy Insurance

While on the topic of maternity insurance, it is vital to know the medical expenses that are not covered by this type of insurance. Some of these expenses include:

• Treatment and tests with regards to IVF (in-vitro fertilization) and infertility.

• Non-allopathic treatments like Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, and Unani.

• Dental treatment.

• Any illness or disease contracted within the first month of the policy start date.

• Any injury or ailment that was acquired within four years of the policy issuance.

• Cost of contact lenses and spectacles.

• Treatment due to self-inflicted injuries, alcohol, or drugs.

• Congenital disabilities such as Down Syndrome and Spina Bifida. Such disorders can occur due to the genetic composition of the parents or arise during the development phase of the fetus.

Waiting Period in Pregnancy Insurance

Maternity insurance policies have a key clause in place that must be met if you want your insurance claim to be successful. This clause is known as the waiting period. The waiting period refers to the duration before which an insurance claim cannot be made.

In the case of maternity insurance, most insurance providers have a waiting period of 2-4 years. Hence, it is important for you to fully plan out your pregnancy if you want to receive pregnancy insurance benefits.

Maternity insurance is one of the key reasons why couples can steer clear of financial burdens when babies are born since most of the maternity expenses are taken care of. Hence, if you want to have a baby, it is essential that you purchase pregnancy insurance from a reputable insurance provider such as Care Health Insurance. Doing so will allow you and your family to cherish the bundles of joy when they are born, without worrying about the financial aspect.

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How to Better Prepare for Pregnancy After 30

More women are deciding to delay childbirth until they’re 30 or older. Some are choosing to focus on their education, some want to establish a career, and others just want to live up their 20s before committing to the role of a mother.

Women choose to delay pregnancy for different reasons, and that is something that’s completely up to them. However, once they do decide to try for a baby, it’s important to know how they can prepare themselves for pregnancy and stay healthy in the process. Below, five things to keep in mind before trying to conceive after 30.

Take fertility tests

Women’s fertility rates start to slowly decrease after the age of 32. Around 37, the decline becomes steeper. Egg count, egg quality, and frequency of ovulation are all affected by a woman’s age. Aside from her age, some other factors that contribute to a woman’s fertility include her hormonal balance as well as the regularity of her periods.

Taking fertility tests is one of the ways to increase your chances of conceiving after 30. The tests can be taken either in the doctor’s office or at home with the help of a kit. By monitoring your body, you’ll get an insight into everything from your vaginal pH to cervical fluids and body temperature and learn what’s the optimal time for intercourse.

Go for genetic screening and testing

While a lot of women in their 30s give birth to perfectly healthy babies, it’s important to note that the risk of health problems increases with mother’s age. The risk of genetic disorders in babies, in particular, increases in women that are 35 or older, as this is considered an advanced maternal age.

Going for genetic screenings can be very helpful in determining the likelihood of genetic problems in babies. They are sometimes a part of prenatal care appointments, and can help calculate the risks through your blood test. Genetic testing, on the other hand, is more accurate, and will provide precise details about the genetics and diagnosis of your baby.

Get informed on different birth options

Although there are certain health risks involved with becoming pregnant in your 30s, the process doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important thing is getting regular prenatal care, as it’s one of the best ways to promote a healthy pregnancy and birth.

Moms in their 30s should also try to get as much information about different birth options. Aside from deciding on the delivery method, you should also look into options such as cord tissue, placental tissue, and umbilical cord blood banking which involve saving stem cells for possible later use. In doing so, parents can protect their future child’s health for years to come. All in all, it’s essential that you get informed in advance and make any important decisions before it’s time to give birth.

Create an effective exercise routine

Aside from preparing mentally and emotionally for your pregnancy, you should also focus on preparing yourself physically. Generally speaking, this means stopping with the use of any contraceptives, quitting any harmful habits such as smoking or drinking, and, of course, striving for a healthy body weight.

Being overweight or underweight can interfere with your chances of conceiving. So it’s important to get your BMI (Body Mass Index) to a normal range before trying for a baby. To do that, try to create an effective exercise routine you can stick to. Regular physical activity is essential for staying healthy during pregnancy and after giving birth. So try to engage in activities you enjoy for some extra motivation. In doing so, you’ll manage to keep your body weight in check while also reducing stress and ensuring more energy on a daily basis.

Focus on fertility foods

Your diet will also play an important role in conceiving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. To boost your chances of conceiving, incorporate more fertility foods into your diet. These include foods rich in antioxidants (nuts, fruits, and vegetables), high-fiber foods (beans and whole grains). and high-fat dairy (whole milk and full fat Greek yogurt), and multivitamins, especially ones containing folate.

After giving birth, especially if you plan on breastfeeding, make sure to include proteins, fiber-rich carbs, and healthy fats into your postpartum diet. This will provide enough nutrients for your little one while also helping you lose that baby weight.

Wrapping up

Motherhood is the most wonderful stage in a woman’s life. And while some choose to enter this phase earlier, others choose to wait a bit longer to take on the role of a mother. With these tips in mind, you’ll manage to better prepare your body, mind, and soul for this wonderful journey and start this amazing new chapter off on the right foot.

About The Author

Taylor Parker is an American based writer and blogger. She is very passionate about family, fashion, health, and lifestyle. Taylor writes mostly lifestyle articles, but also you’ll find her in home improvement and other niches. You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter

Moms Are Sharing The Moment They Knew They Were Done Having Kids

The number of kids people want to have varies wildly. Some moms are strictly one and done, while others are looking for a bigger family (and then of course there are families like the Duggars…).

But there comes a time for every mom when she knows she’s done having kids. It could be because she’s just so over pregnancy, or that she’s exhausted enough (or even happy enough) with the number she has. Or it could be for so many other reasons.

Here, 19 moms share the moment they knew they were D-O-N-E, period.

1. A positive reaction to a negative test.

“I didn’t realize I was done until we were trying for a second baby, the pregnancy test came back negative, and I was so damn happy. I figured that wasn’t really the appropriate response if I was serious about a second kid.”

—thefirstn

2. A lack of joy at motherhood.

“I knew the day I brought my first baby home and realized I didn’t take joy in motherhood like I felt other moms did.”

—samp40f492cb7

3. Because having another one could be dangerous.

“I had a traumatic birth experience with our second child and almost had a heart attack afterwards. I knew we were done when my husband looked at me and said, ‘Having another baby is not worth the possibility of losing you.'”

—jessicabp

4. A super long time in labor.

“I knew when I was 36 hours into labor with my first…Three years later and I haven’t changed my mind.”

—jessicam40704b8a1

5. Unbearable grossness.

“I always wanted four kids. Then we had twins. I knew I was done forever when they realized they could remove their diapers and ‘paint’ each other with their poop. I dry-heaved through their bath and swore never again.”

—s478a8926f

6. Happy with just one.

“I always pictured myself having three kids, but then I had my daughter and immediately felt so complete. My husband, daughter and I are so happy that I don’t see us changing a thing.”

—jma367

7. Pregnancy can be the worst.

“I hated pregnancy immensely. I hated how I looked, felt like shit, and never got that ‘glow’ so many women talk about. So I busted out two kids and that was it.”

—laurenp48b42f47b

8. Too expensive.

“When my bank account told me.”

—jessicaz4d684525e

9. Freedom!

“I knew I was done when both of my kids finally learned to buckle their own seatbelts, and I realized we could leave the house like normal human beings again.”

—rachelramseyw

10. Holy ouch.

“I knew I was done when my 9-pound third baby came ‘too fast’ for an epidural.”

—Kristen Morrow, Facebook

11. Too much male-ness.

“When I found out we were pregnant with our third boy and panicked about being outnumbered by penis in my own home.”

—flores922

12. Already overwhelmed enough.

“I realized I was done having kids when I locked myself in the bathroom to cry in peace because I was so overwhelmed with the ones I have.”

—d4ea205bf0

13. Again, OUCH.

“When I cried on the toilet from painful hemorrhoids while taking my first post-childbirth poop.”

—Jessica Allen, Facebook

14. For the sake of the relationship.

“When my marriage almost didn’t make it through our first pregnancy, we decided one was enough.”

—childrenofthecornbread

15. Traveling can be a nightmare.

“When we were on an airplane with our two kids and I imagined trying to do the trip with a whole other human. It was so overwhelming that I told my husband to get a vasectomy consult as soon as possible.”

—lindsayb42bb479a4

16. Always knew there would be just one.

“We were always ‘one and done’ from the beginning of our relationship. We have career goals, we want to travel, we want to give our kid great experiences, and we want to be selfish. We wouldn’t be able to do those things with more than one child. We feel complete with our daughter, and with knowing we can give her everything we want to while still maintaining the lives we’ve become accustomed to.”

—blueeyedbird

17. GIVING BIRTH IS EXCRUCIATING.

“When I was having my vagina and perineum repaired with over 100 stitches after birthing an 11-pound baby WHO GOT STUCK. She’s 10-years-old now, and shit still ain’t right with my delicate area.”

—leannetillyk

18. Kids fighting.

“I knew I was done when I was at the store and saw a mom with two toddlers in her shopping cart fighting over who was touching who. No thanks!”

—careyanneg

19. And finally, just no desire for another baby.

“When my friend brought her newborn to a Christmas party, and neither me nor my hubby had any desire to hold her.”

—Jennifer Castillo, Facebook

h/t: BuzzFeed

How I Earned My Stripes

My Pregnancy

I felt like a whale all through pregnancy, as I watched my body come to resemble a huge capital B. I was so self-conscious, I hated the idea of anyone seeing me naked. On top of the present insecurity, I worried that post-pregnancy, my body and my confidence would never return.

I was right in a way. It’s true, my body will never be exactly the way it was before I got pregnant.

Even being in my early twenties, pregnancy and breastfeeding matured me physically and brought about changes that will never go away. I now have stretch marks, and stubborn belly fat, and wider hips that refuse to fit into my old jeans.

But I was wrong about my confidence. I have found myself more confident with my body now than I was before.

I am more confident because pregnancy made me gain a new admiration and respect for my body. It also made me admire and respect other women, too, instead of judging them for being overweight or having tiger stripe bellies or whatever else the media makes us judge women’s appearances for.

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