Hi there,

I can't believe its a month today little Poppy Elizabeth arrived into the world, the time has flown by, some of it good , some of it desperate, all of it done in a haze of semi-consciousness caused by major sleep deprivation. A period of time has passed me by where normal professional people turn into zombies overnight!

Turn back the clock 4 weeks, Sunday 12th July....

I went into early labour on the Friday morning so remained at home and used techniques taught in my Ante-natal classes; using a birthing ball to lean against and bounce on is great when pain gets a little intense, a Ten's machine is fantastic for administering your own natural pain relief when contractions get closer together, by the time i arrived at the hospital 48 hours later my finger was permanently on the pain relief button! I had been practicing 'hypnosis for childbirth' which worked for me well at the beginning, helping me remain calm but towards the end it actually slowed my contractions down so i stopped using it and relied more on my natural instinct, which was to call out for an epidural!

Thankfully my husband Nick and the midwife both knew this is not what i wanted from my birth plan and suggested we try the water birthing pool (which is what i had intended using before the contractions kicked in). I wasn't convinced but said i'd try it anyway. Alleluia...the minute i stepped into the warm pool the intensity of the the pain subsided, it was like a magic drug, i'd anticipated water helping me as i love the water and feel very relaxed in it, but never this good. The water birth unit is great, lights are dimmed and it feels very private and cosy rather than the bright lights of the labour ward which personally terrified me. A water birth is only recommended for women who are low risk, its also not for everyone but was the right one for me.

The final stage of labour seemed to go on forever, for me, 6 hours, so i guess it was quite a long time! Entonox (Gas and Air) helps a lot at keeping your breathing regulated and keeping you calm, helping release oxytocin rather than adrenalin (which slows down labour) by the time Poppy arrived i reckon i'd sucked and puffed a few canisters worth of the stuff.

I'll save you the gory details but worth a mention and a massive thank-you to Danny for kicking me into shape (which helped me endure the never ending labour and insisting upon endless pelvic floor exercises, which is turn saved me from any penireum tearing as i was able to control the delivery of the head simply by holding my pelvic floor tight and releasing when the midwife instructed me to do so). Also to Liz and her fantastic perineum massage oil, weeks of massage did the trick and i left the delivery suite in tact - BIG THANK-YOU.

The hospital post natal stay isn't a particularly pleasant one, the noise is the worst. You are exhausted and overwhelmed and there are crying babies, crying mums, even crying dads but all in all it's a magical experience and my mum was right, you really do forget the pain of labour quite quickly. One little glance at your newborn quickly dismiss' alot of the pain. Now it's onto the task in hand....being a mummy.....scary and exciting but ultimately its going to be the most rewarding and challenging things i ever did.

5 days after she was born we were able to go home. The first week post birth was a magical time, hanging out with Poppy, getting to know her little faces, cry's and getting to grips with breast feeding. We're doing ok, took some time getting used to it but were getting there. The 'heal nipple balm' from blooming babe has saved my nipples from near extinction, they were so painful after 3 days of Poppy constantly sucking from them. I rubbed a little of the balm in throughout the first few days to stop them cracking and getting sore. Unlike many other nipple creams, this one doesn't contain any harmful ingredients and allows you to rub on before the baby feeds. The breast feeding has also helped me regain my shape, the first few days of feeding i noticed a contraction like pain in my abdomen, this is the uterus reducing in size, over the first few days of feeding it gradually gets smaller and smaller. By the time i'd left the hospital i'm pleased to say my tummy is pretty much flat again, be it not quite so firm but definitely moving in the right direction. I have also come out of pregnancy with no stretchmarks, delighted to say the least. I have been using the 'Prevent stretch marks' lotion from Blooming Babe since i was 3 months pregnant, it's not only easy to apply but has worked wonders on the quality of my skin. It has retained its texture and tone and is mark free. In 6 weeks time i can start exercising again and i'm confident i'll be feeling like me again. I am breast feeding so technically i'm classed as still pregnant (in terms of exercising ) so there are some exercises i can't do but i'll speak to Danny and take direction from him

Life as i knew it has definitely moved on, but in a really good way. Yes i'm permanently tired and it's usually lunchtime by the time i get round to having a shower and getting dressed, i now do everything one handed whilst Poppy is in the other, my multi-tasking skills have been perfected, i've lost count on the number of times Nick and I have crept up to the cot and peered in to check she's still breathing, Nicks arms are now super toned from all the late night rocking he's done (thats baby rocking not him rocking out of delirium!). My friends with children say 6 weeks is the turning point, when things just 'fall into place', i have 2 weeks to go then and am hoping that maybe things will get a little easier, although we're doing ok. A good friend said to me the other day; 'Jo honey, that's it now until they leave home and go to University, you will be constantly checking on them and will always sleep with one eye open'....that's in 18 years time and i figure i will still be checking on her then!

Until next time,

xJo

Hi All,
 
I am now on maternity leave, which has allowed me to properly focus on the pending arrival of my baby. There has been the obvious 'nesting' instinct, which has kicked in with vengeance, much to my husband’s amusement, he is now on first name terms with the local Parcel Force deliveryman. I have also been looking into what type of birthing experience I would like.

As a first time mother, it is only natural that I am filled with a sense of sheer excitement at meeting my new baby but also rather anxious anticipating the labour itself, so I wanted to learn some relaxation techniques that could help me remain calm and in control of labor whilst at home and in hospital. I spoke to a girlfriend and new mum about this and she suggested I look at Hypnosis for childbirth. She had practiced it and had found it really helpful so I took her contact and made the call. A week later, Jenny Mearns from The Birth Centre (www.birthcentre.com), was sat on my sofa teaching me the simple breathing techniques that   would help me endure the mammoth task of labour.

The foundations of Hypnosis for childbirth lies in teaching simple but specific self hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques to enable you to focus on having a better birth. The techniques taught won't mean you'll be in a trance or a sleep. Rather, you'll be able to chat, and be and in good spirits - totally relaxed, but fully in control. You'll always be aware of what is happening to you, and around you. It will also allow you to discover and experience the joy and magic of birth, rather than the horrific stories friends feel compelled to tell you. Through breathing exercises and visualization you are taught how to remain calm and collected throughout, releasing the natural 'feel-good' chemical oxytocin which helps facilitate birth. I read an article last week on how hypnosis had helped a women release so much Oxytocin she said she had an orgasm during labor - I guess you can only live in hope!

Most importantly, you'll learn how to put yourself back in control of your birth - rather than blindly turning your birthing experience over to your doctor or midwife. In short, Hypnosis for Childbirth allows you to experience birth in an atmosphere of calm relaxation, free of the fear and tension that prevents the birthing muscles of your body from functioning as Nature intended them to.It takes a lot of practice but I’m hopeful it will help me remain calm on the big day. My husband is practicing with me and I have to say I’ve noticed he is a lot less stressed than he was a month ago, I’m not sure if this is the hypnosis or just relief that the nursery is finally finished and I have stopped spending!

With only weeks to go I have also begun perineal massage.  Perineal massage is a technique, which, by encouraging blood flow to the area, increases the elasticity of the perineum for birth. The perineum is the area of skin between your vagina and rectum, which can be cut (episiotomy) or can tear during delivery. The 'From Here to Eternity' supple Perineum massage oil by Blooming Babe is luxurious to use, a lovely combination of olive oil, sunflower oil and sweet almond oil delivers a non-greasy texture which makes massage easier. Its handy 100ml size makes it convenient to pop into a makeup bag, so if you're on the move a lot, you've always got it with you!

Perineal massage has many benefits which all help to reduce trauma during birth.
    * It stimulates the blood supply to the perineum and helps speed the healing process after the birth
    * It helps prepare you for the feeling of pressure and stretching that comes as your baby's head is born
    * It helps to familiarize you with some of the sensations such as tingling or burning so you are less likely to tense up
    * It can help you to relax when you have a vaginal examination

How is it done?
It is advised that you start perineal massage about 4 to 6 weeks before your due date, and while there are different ways to perform it, they generally all follow the same techniques - I got my tips from Baby World:

   1. Wash your hands.
   2. Find a private, comfortable place and sit or lean back in a comfortable position. Some women lie on their side and bring their hand round the back. Use cushions to support your legs.
   3. Using 'From here to Eternity' supple Perineum massage oil, massage a small amount into the area.
   4. Place one or two thumbs (or fingers if you can't reach) about 1 inch (2-3cms) inside your vagina. Press downwards and to the sides at the same time. Gently and firmly keep stretching until you feel a slight burning, tingling or stinging sensation.
   5. Hold the pressure steady at that point with your thumbs for about 2 minutes until the area becomes a little numb and you don't feel the tingling as much.
   6. Keep pressing with your thumbs. Slowly and gently massage back and forth over the lower half of your vagina. Do this for 3-4 minutes. Remember to avoid the urinary opening. You can start with very gentle massage, increasing the pressure as sensitivity is reduced.
   7. As you massage, pull gently outwards (forwards) on the lower part of the vagina with your thumb(s) hooked inside. This helps stretch the skin as the baby's head will stretch it during birth.

You can also ask your partner to perform the massage, especially as you near your due date and become less mobile. Personally, this area has become sacred to me, I know in a few weeks my personal privacy is going to be completely invaded so for now, my perineum and I remain soul mates, no-one except me is going near it!

Take Care
Jo xx

Hi there

As Jo is nearing her D-day, she has also decided to try perineal massage to reduce vaginal tearing or the need for an episiotomy during delivery - see Video of what an Episiotomy is.  My own personal philosophy here is  “an once of prevention is always better than a pound of cure”.  Childbirth is a very personal experience and a time when a woman should be encouraged to make individual choices that feel good to her.  Embarking on delivery with a relaxed mind and body is essential to ensuring a good experience and a positive outcome.  Perineal massage when done correctly is calming and relaxing and empowers a woman with a sense of preparedness and control.  However, some women are put off by the notion of massaging this area, and this is also o.k!  There is no point in engaging in anything that causes you to stress or feel uncomfortable.  Remember!  This is YOUR BODY and YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Perineal massage is safe for both mother and baby.  However, we at Blooming Babe recommend that it should only be done with the advice and guidance of your healthcare provider.  Also, it is important to follow the instructions correctly to in order to avoid the urinary opening causing possible urinary infections.  It is also important to avoid perineal massage altogether if you have an infection of any kind, especially if you suffer from active herpes, thrush or have a yeast infection.  Our Supple Perineum Massage Oil is 100% natural, chemical free & non-toxic.  It is formulated with a blend of rich emollient oils specifically chosen for Perineal massage.  
Liz X

Hi There

Because delivery is the ultimate goal of a healthy pregnancy it is extremely important to prepare for this Herculean task as best as possible. ”I mean you wouldn't dream of running a marathon without training first!” Of course all training should be with the approval of your health care provider and if possible under the guidance of a certified fitness expert. Our Blooming Babe fitness guru is Daniel Chicano and he has been training Jo has throughout her pregnancy.  Recently I asked Daniel, who is a Corrective & Performance Exercise Specialist with 7 yrs experience as a Specialist Trainer working with celebs, athletes & mums who come both during & after pregnancy, to share some of his expert tips with us (see below).

BB Tip:
When choosing any prenatal fitness programme be sure to check the workout follows the guidelines for exercising in pregnancy as advised by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) or The Royal College of Obstrecians and Gynecologists (RCOG).

All the best & good luck
Elizabeth

Daniel's Strategy for working with Jo:

Jo says she wants to feel like her body is still hers!

• Using foam roll for massage of lower body, de-stress body before training
• Focusing on obliques to support Diastasis Recti (DR)
• Stability exercise as centre of gravity changes
• Kegels or Pelvic floor exercises - strong muscles are more flexible, good for childbirth
• Focusing on posture, strong bum & mid / lower trapizeus to supporrt lower back & give neck relief
• 12 week land based pregnancy program for last trimester

Daniel has listed the benefits of prenatal exercise:

• Increased Energy and Improve circulation
• Enjoy Better Sleep (Relieve stress and tension through exercise).
• Increase muscle tone and maintain flexibility 
• Maximize muscle memory (Increase your bodies ability to recover its pre pregnancy shape).
• Prepare under-used muscles for the challenges of labour.
• Be Happy! Boost your serotonin levels through exercise and enjoy a healthy mind and body! 

To contact Daniel directly please email him at info@bloomingbabe.co.uk

This was written by Elizabeth Salter-Green the Director of Chemtrust the organisation that sponsored the research carried out by Dr. Sharpe in the Daily Mail article - 'Gender-bending chemical timebomb fear for boys' fertility'.

During pregnancy and breast feeding the baby is particularly sensitive to chemical exposures. During this period pregnant mothers should, therefore, pay special attention to chemicals to which they and their child are exposed.  The following are tips for pregnant and nursing mothers (and people generally), regarding chemicals in consumer products including personal care products, cosmetics, products for children and toys.

Following these tips, you will be on the right track in reducing unwanted chemical exposures for you and for your child.

Specifically for Pregnant Women
1.  Reduce personal care product and cosmetics use to a minimum
2.  Choose unscented products and stop using perfume
3.  Avoid colouring hair
4.  Avoid using products that come in spray cans and do not do DIY.  Avoid painting during this period and be sure to air out newly painted rooms properly.

General tips for Everyone
1. Chose natural floorings over synthetic where possible
2. Don’t dry-clean clothes
3. Dust and vacuum (with well-sealed unit) your home regularly
4. Avoid soft plastics 
5. Avoid non-stick cook wear 
6. Avoid stain repellents
7. Avoid easy-iron clothing
8. Avoid fungicide-treated socks foot wear and other clothing
9. Avoid areas that have been recently sprayed with pesticides – eg local parks and farm land 14. Avoid microwaving in plastic
10. Use herbal remedies for pet flea infestations
11. Use herbal remedies for head lice infestations in children
12. Eat organic food if possible
13. Prepare food from fresh ingredients as opposed to processed and pre-packaged food
14. Avoid canned food

For Babies:
1. Wash everything before using it for your baby, including clothes and toys made of cloth.  This will help remove unwanted chemical residues.
2. Avoid the use of baby lotions and soaps as much as possible.  Bathe the baby in clean water and limit the use of lotions after bathing and after nappy changes.
3. Always buy unscented products for your baby, including toys.
4. Only use toys especially designed for babies. Toys for older children (6+) may contain phthalates.

The general advice above is not only good for pregnant mothers but for everybody! 

Many thanks
Elizabeth Salter-Green

Dear readers,

Early Wednesday morning I had just taken my seat on the 6:55 flight to Manchester (where our Lab is located) when the flight attendant handed me a copy of the Daily Mail.  As the mum of two young boys 5 and 7years respectively, I was blown away by the above headline!  I had been first emailed a copy of Dr. Sharpe’s previous report a few months back, that report stated that he was doing research in to the possibility that there might be a link to chemical exposure and foetal abnormalities etc. 

However, this latest report was a bit more emphatic in its findings.  We at Blooming Babe feel that this article and the research it presents, needs to be read by all people not just pregnant women.  It is in keeping with our ethos and philosophy to respect our customers by creating a forum such as this blog to openly discuss such issues.  It also reminded me of my own personal journey-the breast cancer scare, two pregnancies and the untimely and unfair death of one of my dearest friends to breast cancer.  This article reminded me of the real reason I created a chemical-free & non-toxic skin care range in the first place.  Please read this
and forward to those you love.

For further information on this subject please visit:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1180957

http://www.chemtrust.org.uk

take care

Liz x

Hi all,
 
I learnt something over the recent Easter holidays, pregnant women should by-pass Easter! Quietly sitting at the kitchen table reading the papers I scoffed an entire chocolate rabbit, enough to feed 3 small children. At any other time I would have nibbled the ears and kept some for later or I would have felt very sick, but being 29 weeks pregnant I happily polished of the entire bunny and felt great.

Needless to say, I felt guilt ridden on Monday, worrying that the mass of sugar would have had my baby spinning for hours. That was, until I spoke to a girlfriend who assured me this was nothing, when she was pregnant she ate an entire cheesecake, enough for 6 guests! From bunnies to cheese wedge shaped cushions....ummmm, there seems to be a food-link to this weeks blog...Purchased from Mothercare for £9.99, the sleep wedge cushion has saved
me from acute aches and pains. My baby bump now needs a little support during the night and the cushion simply wedges under my belly to support me and keeps me straight whilst I sleep. During the day, I tuck it behind the base of my back which helps alleviate the irritating back ache that has set in this week.

There are loads of support cushions on the market but most seem to take up half the bed, so unless you want a disgruntled partner, my advice is to keep it simple. I even contemplated popping it in my handbag when I went for dinner last night but figured I still have 11 weeks to go and in the aim of trying to retain an element of pre-pregnant chic, a cheese wedge shaped cushion sticking out of a Marc Jacobs handbag isn’t a good look....not yet anyway! This week also saw me enter week 5 on my personal training sessions with Danny. I’m really happy with my progress and definitely find having one-to-one training more inspiring. The mornings are hard now as I feel tired a lot the time, left to my own devices I would probably by-pass the workouts so knowing Danny is waiting for me is all the incentive I need. It also helps kick start the day. We continue to work on the obliques and pelvic floor and I'm chuffed to see that I still have some upper arm definition. Knowing i’ll be able to bare my arms with confidence this summer is a good feeling.
 
 Jo x

OK!  So I've been using the Blooming Babe Pregnancy Skincare Survival kit for a couple of weeks now.  As Liz explained the kit is intended to treat the various skin issues that arise over the nine months of pregnancy, so i started with The "Feed your face" Harmonise Facial Moisturiser(see below) is a light & soothing consistency which means my skin doesn't feel over loaded with product, important at a time when the rest of my body feels like a ton weight, at least my face feels light and refreshed! I had typical combination skin before pregnancy but now into my 6th month my skin does feel more sensitive and i have areas of dryness, noticeably on my cheeks and on my forehead. The sesame seed oil and Goji berry extract has really helped minimise this dryness, helping my skins elasticity and tone. It isn't heavily scented, so at the times when that lovely pregnancy nausea kicks in, it is tolerable.

I have tried various different oils and creams in a bid to help minimise stretch marks. Into my 3rd trimester it's ever more important. Unlike other creams which i found generally left a greasy residue or i was confused as to how much to rub in (when the word stretch mark is in the forefront of your mind, you do tend to rub for your life, invariably rubbing it all of!), it was lovely to try a lotion that when applied felt like it was really soaking into the skin. The "Prepare to Bare" Prevent Stretch Mark lotion (see below) on application, the immediate whiteness of the lotion is a great guide to how it is being absorbed, when the whiteness disappears you know it's time to stop rubbing. The ingredients, Gotu Kola encourages good circulation, which is great when everything at the moment feels like its come to a stand still. It's fragranced with Ylang Ylang which is subtle and has a calming effect.

Over the past few months, I have been blinded by the different types of oils on offer for pregnancy use. Generally i found the scents of most of them over-powering or too greasy. I have really enjoyed using the "To the Moon and Back" - Serenity Body Oil (see below), its fresh scent and light weight consistency leaves my skin feeling hydrated, nourished and relaxed. Its a lovely oil to use for massage so not only is my body now beautifully soft and hydrated so are my husbands hands!

Other points -Love the soothing colours of the lotions and oils, a soft palette of cream, taupes and peach look lovely on the bathroom shelf! The natural hesian bag with the hot coral coloured wording  is a good balance of modern and bohemian. Its suggests chic organic with style