Holistic Pregnancy (Sect. 2)

Getting movement has been super crucial at about 17 weeks. The mornings we find to go hiking make for so much more of a smooth day. Excess mucus and facial congestion are reduced and elimination becomes more regular. (Include extra water during gentle exercise.) Prenatal yoga and belly-dancing are also ways to stay toned, strengthen core, and prepare for the marathon of labor. We’ll tell you for sure, the beginning of July, how well this all worked 🙂 But so far, Shadae Has felt well and excited! We’ve had our difficult days and uncomfortable days, for the most part though—just happy and peaceful…so excited for our little bundle of joy!

We cut out gluten and cow-dairy. I’m joining her in support because it’s hard to go without those, but I know it’s healthier and my body feels better. We’ve had our cheat days, because let’s be practical and balanced when those cravings hit. (Sheep and goat dairy are a lot easier to digest.)

If expecting, remember not to stress the things that don’t immediately matter. The only crucial thing is momma’s happiness, and she should be smothered in love and body/mind/soul nourishment. And when she wants to be left alone, you disappear, but stand close by and be available for your queen.

This is her time, and as the man, your most important project and job is to be supportive and listen. Be thoughtful and do some research. Know your options and let the woman decide.

The US is third from the bottom in developed countries for infant mortality. Every other developed county uses midwives with a lot higher success. The US default plan for pregnancy is: go see your doctor and go to the hospital once you’re in labor. Just know that it’s not the only way, and every other country does it more naturally. Women have been delivering babies since time immemorial with the help of midwives and without drugs. Hospitals are a business as well as a place for emergencies. Giving birth is a natural event, that should not require much intervention if momma is provided everything she needs. Hospitals exist if there are complications, but they need not be the default choice for women. Going to a hospital increases your risk for cesarean and if you want a natural birth, better have a doula standing by if you choose the hospital, or the doctor will turn to drugs first, before considering natural means.