A Step-by-Step IVF Timeline: From First Consult to Pregnancy Test
The IVF process is overwhelming; there’s no way around it. So many steps, so much medical terminology, and so many unknowns. It’s a lot to take in—especially when you’re already carrying the emotional weight of infertility. We see you. Understanding the IVF timeline doesn’t make the process easier, but it can help you move through…
Third Trimester Anxiety: Why It Happens and What Actually Helps
You’re in your third trimester. You thought you’d feel excited and calm as you get close to meeting your baby. Instead, you’re anxious. Really anxious. Your mind races at night. You Google things you probably shouldn’t. Every kick makes you hyperaware. Every appointment brings new worries. And you wonder: why now? Why does anxiety feel…
Am I Pregnant? Early Pregnancy Signs to Look Out For
Early pregnancy symptoms can start as soon as a week or two after conception, though some people don’t notice anything until they’ve missed a period. And honestly, early pregnancy symptoms can be exciting, confusing, and even anxiety-inducing… Sometimes all at once. Here’s the thing: everybody is different. The early signs don’t always look the same…
How to Prevent & Treat Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
You’re getting dressed one morning, glance in the mirror, and—wait… were those little squiggly lines there yesterday? Pregnancy comes with its fair share of surprises, but stretch marks have a special way of showing up uninvited, like glitter after a toddler craft project. Stretch marks are one of pregnancy’s most common souvenirs — and also…
From Baby Showers to Support Parties: A Better Way to Celebrate Parenthood
There was a time when “baby shower” meant pastel cakes, a diaper tower, and a room full of loved ones oohing and aahing over tiny onesies and swaddle blankets. I still love a classic baby shower — the joy, the excitement, the way everyone comes together to celebrate new life. But lately, there’s been a…
Sex and Pregnancy: What’s Normal — and How to Stay Connected
Your libido during pregnancy isn’t something you need to “fix,” “force,” or put on your to-do list between choosing baby registry items. It’s not a reflection of your relationship or your commitment to your partner. It’s your body responding to an extraordinary transformation — pregnancy. Pregnancy is a rollercoaster — and your libido might be…
Cholestasis in Pregnancy: What Your Severe Itching Could Actually Mean
Been feeling extra itchy lately? While some itchiness during pregnancy is normal, severe itching may be a cause for concern. So, if you’re experiencing severe itching, it could be a symptom of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), which is a temporary liver condition during pregnancy that can cause intense itching. This condition is more than…
Making Peace with Pregnancy Weight Gain
Your body is changing faster than your closet can keep up. The scale might feel like your enemy—but it doesn’t have to. If you’re feeling anxious about the numbers creeping up, you’re not alone. Weight gain during pregnancy is normal, but that doesn’t make the emotional side any easier to navigate. Perhaps you’re concerned that…
What is Amniocentesis?: Understanding This Diagnostic Test
You’re sitting in your doctor’s office, and they just mentioned something called an amniocentesis. Your curiosity piques, and your heart may skip a beat. Maybe your recent screening showed higher-than-expected numbers. Maybe you’re over 35. Or perhaps there’s a family history that has everyone on edge. Whatever the reason, you’re probably feeling a swirl of…
Anatomy Scan Ultrasound – What to Expect
Your 20-week ultrasound is coming up! For many expectant parents, this appointment stirs up a lot of feelings. Excitement. Curiosity. Maybe some nervousness too. Understanding what this anatomy scan involves can help you feel more prepared. So let’s walk through it together. What is an Anatomy Scan? The anatomy scan ultrasound goes by a few…
Maternal Bonding In Pregnancy – And Why It Counts
You might be wondering… when can a fetus start to hear? And here’s your answer: the inner ear begins forming around 16 weeks… At this stage, your baby begins tuning into the symphony of your body: Your blood rushing, the steady beat of your heart, the rhythm of your digestion. By 23 weeks, babies can…
Hydration During Pregnancy: The Path to a Healthy Pregnancy
Between the belly and the blazing Florida sun, staying hydrated during pregnancy can feel like a full-time job. Here in Florida, our hot and humid climate makes hydration even more crucial when you’re expecting. Your body is working overtime to nourish your growing baby, so staying hydrated isn’t just a suggestion—it’s essential for both your health and…