I did NOT want to give birth in the hospital.
It wasn't always like this for me. I used to think, “Sign me up for anything that removes all pain and hurries this up. Bonus for instant pre-baby body!” Obviously, some of that is just not really possible, and other aspects might be for certain women, BUT...
The reason I decided against it was because nearly 60% of women at hospital births receive at least one medical intervention during labor, such as induction, epidural anesthesia, or C-section, even though many of these interventions are not always medically necessary. This high rate of intervention can often lead to a cascade of additional procedures and potential complications, making the birthing process more medicalized than it might need to be.
Why does this matter? For me, it was about wanting to have more control over my birthing experience. I wanted to avoid unnecessary interventions that might complicate things further. I wanted a birth that felt natural, empowering, and tailored to my body’s needs.
Here’s the deal: every single body is different, but there are some fairly compelling numbers when it comes to the birthing system. For instance, women who have continuous support during labor, such as a midwife or doula, are less likely to need pain medication or other interventions. They also report a higher satisfaction with their birth experience.
Choosing not to give birth in a hospital was about staying empowered, staying informed, and advocating for the birth experience I deserved. Here are a few tips if you’re considering a similar path:
- Do Your Research: Understand the pros and cons of hospital births versus home or birthing center options. Look at the statistics and decide what feels right for you.
- Find a Supportive Team: Whether it’s a midwife, doula, or supportive family members, having a team that respects your birth plan is crucial.
- Prepare for Flexibility: While it’s great to have a plan, remember that birth can be unpredictable. Be open to changes if they’re truly necessary for your and your baby’s health.
- Trust Your Body: Your body was made for this. Trust in its ability to birth your baby. Stay in tune with what feels right for you.
Every birth experience is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to stay informed and make the choices that are best for you and your baby.
Short story, stay empowered, stay informed, and advocate for the birth experience you deserve.
Your birthing experience is just that—yours. Make it a story you’ll look back on with pride and empowerment. You’ve got this!
Did you know there are foods that can significantly enhance your focus, cognitive abilities, and overall brain health? Things like blueberries, fatty fish, leafy greens, avocados and more. This is a great dinner to add to your nightly routine because it is packed with all of these different foods!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 10 ozs Canned Wild Salmon (firm, cut into slices)
- 1 tsp Steak Spice Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Vegan Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 4 leaves Romaine (chopped)
- 1 Avocado (medium, sliced)
- 1/2 Cucumber (medium, chopped)
- 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds (toasted)
- 2 stalks Green Onion (chopped)
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick pan over high heat. Once hot, add the canned salmon. Cook for two minutes then flip. Season with steak spice. Cook for another two minutes then set aside to cool.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and vinegar.
- Divide the lettuce, avocado, cucumber, and pumpkin seeds evenly between plates. Top with salmon and green onions. Drizzle with the dressing and enjoy
The postpartum experience is a wild ride, and there's one aspect that often gets overlooked: that first bleed after having a baby. It’s tricky.
For me, I was blessed with my cycle returning after about eight months and staying very regular ever since. But I know that’s not everyone’s story. There are so many factors that influence when your period will return postpartum!
Let’s break it down:
- Hormones and Breastfeeding: Your period might not come back right away, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Lactation suppresses the hormones that trigger ovulation, which can delay the return of your menstrual cycle.
- Changes in Your Cycle: When your period does return, it might be different than it was before. Heavier, lighter, longer, shorter—your body is readjusting. The changes are typically temporary, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them.
- Track Your Cycle: Keeping track of your cycle is crucial. Not only does it help you understand what’s happening with your body, but it also allows you to discuss any concerns with your doctor effectively.
Let’s be real—there are a lot of emotions around this. Depending on when your cycle returns, you might have been without a bleed for almost two years! That’s a long time, and getting back into the monthly flow (pun intended) with a little one attached to you can look very different.
Before my baby, I was in tune with my cycle. I knew exactly what phase I was in and supported my body with the right foods, essential oils, specific movements, and more. Now? Without my app to help me track, I’d be lost.
So, here’s what I’m focusing on to get back on track:
- Using a Cycle Tracking App: This is a lifesaver. It helps me keep tabs on where I am in my cycle and what my body needs at each phase.
- Supporting My Body: I’m getting back into the rhythm of eating foods that support my cycle, using essential oils, and engaging in the right kind of movement for each phase.
- Self-Care and Awareness: Understanding these aspects of my cycle helps me navigate postpartum recovery with more confidence and clarity.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s okay if yours doesn’t look like anyone else’s. The important thing is to listen to your body and give yourself grace as you navigate this new chapter.
Finding easy and delicious weeknight meals can be quite the task. Let alone finding ones that nourish your body, your gut and leave you feeling good when you finish. This recipe meets all those requirements and is a staple!
I love finding recipes like this because I used to suffer a lot of issues from having poor gut health. My hands had such a horrible rash that I had to cover them in ointment and wear gloves to help alleviate the pain (talk about embarrassing!). It wasn’t until I learned how to properly care for my gut that my rash healed.
My favorite thing about this recipe is hands down the ease of it. I mean yes, it tastes good too but, it's got some great nutrient components and something you can just cut up and throw in a pan-for me two of the best things you can have when making a meal choice.
This recipe has three ingredients that play a huge role in supporting your gut and helping you feel good.
The first one is parsnips! The fiber moves through your gastrointestinal tract undigested, helping to get things moving and optimizing digestive health.
Another underrated ingredient is parsley! Parsley helps lower your risk of conditions, including colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Lastly, are cremini mushrooms, which are not only delicious, but packed with goodness too! Mushrooms can have a lot of different really good aspects about them but by far the coolest thing I learned was that in pregnant women they can reduce certain pregnant related troubles such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and unhealthy weight gain.
Bottom line, having gut healthy recipes on hand can be a game changer!
Creamy Mushroom and Parsnip Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 Parsnip (large, roughly chopped)
- 8 1/16 oz Lean Ground Beef
- 1 1/2 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Yellow Onion (chopped)
- 8 Cremini Mushrooms (medium, sliced thin)
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt (divided)
- 4 fl oz Bone Broth
- 1/2 cup Canned Coconut Milk
- 1/4 cup Parsley (chopped, plus more for serving)
Instructions:
- Add the chopped parsnip to a blender or food processor and process until it resembles a rice-like texture. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the beef to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it is cooked through and no longer pink, transfer to a bowl and set aside. Drain any excess drippings from the pan.
- Add the oil to the pan. Add the mushrooms and onion and cook for five to seven minutes or until the mushrooms have softened and onions are translucent. Season with half of the salt.
- Add the parsnip rice and cooked beef to the pan. Stir in the bone broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer and continue to cook for eight to 10 minutes or until the parsnip rice is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in the parsley and season with the remaining salt.
- Divide between plates, top with additional parsley if desired and season with additional salt to taste. Enjoy!
Gain access to my Gut Health Made Easy Guide HERE for this recipe and more to support your gut!
Hey there, mama! Whether you're expecting, just had a baby, or are deep in the trenches of breastfeeding, I want to talk about something we all love: food! And if you're like me, your appetite has probably gone through the roof since having your little one. I mean, breastfeeding is no joke!
I want to share one of my favorite recipes from those early postpartum days. It was a lifesaver when I was in the middle of new baby chaos and needed something delicious, comforting, and, most importantly, nourishing. The best part? This recipe has eggs, which are high in choline. Why does choline matter? I'm glad you asked!
Choline is a powerhouse nutrient for both you and your baby, and here's why:
- Brain Development: Choline plays a huge role in your baby's brain development, setting the groundwork for cognitive function and memory.
- Cell Membranes: It helps produce phosphatidylcholine, a key component of cell membranes. This is super important for keeping your breast tissue healthy and supporting optimal milk production.
- Nurturing Your Little One: By getting choline in your diet, you're making sure your baby is getting the good stuff through your milk. This is crucial for their growth and development.
- Liver Health: Choline also supports liver health, which means efficient nutrient metabolism and overall well-being for both you and your baby. Who wouldn't want that?
- Emotional Balance: With all the hormonal ups and downs, choline can help support your emotional well-being. It's a little extra comfort during those sleepless nights.
Now, onto that recipe I promised! It's a warming dish that became my go-to during those early days when my little guy was nursing around the clock. Trust me, this is one you're going to want to keep in your meal rotation.
If you want the more recipes and breastfeeding-friendly tips, grab my guide here! It's packed with all sorts of recipes, tips, and tricks to keep you nourished and thriving during this special time.
I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites too, and that the choline benefits give you even more reasons to enjoy it. Keep rocking it, mama, and remember to take care of yourself while you're taking care of that beautiful baby of yours!
