A resource to support expecting moms (and partners, too!) with evidence-based information to navigate the awesome adventure of pregnancy, birth, and being a new...
Q&A: Are Ultrasounds Accurate for Predicting Baby’s Size?
Ultrasounds are a key tool for estimating your baby’s weight and size during pregnancy, but how accurate are these measurements? In this episode, we respond to a listener whose baby is measuring in the 97th percentile and address concerns about giving birth to a larger baby. We explain how ultrasounds calculate weight, explore their reliability, and discuss what it means for babies who are small or large for their gestational age. Learn about the potential risks and what interventions your doctor or midwife might recommend based on ultrasound results. Whether your baby is measuring small, large, or somewhere in between, this episode will give you the confidence to navigate your options. Thank you to our sponsor Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. That’s a $48 value for FREE! Just one daily scoop provides whole-body benefits like gut, immune, and stress support. AG1 sources bioavailable ingredients that actually work with your body. Plus, their formula has all non-GMO ingredients and contains no added sugar. With AG1, I know I am filling any nutrient gaps and supporting my gut for healthy digestion. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.) Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
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What to Expect in the First Weeks with Your Newborn
Bringing your baby home is a joyous milestone but can also feel overwhelming. In this episode, we explore what to expect during the first few weeks at home with your newborn. Gain practical tips for essential tasks like breastfeeding, diapering, umbilical cord care, soothing techniques, and bathing basics. We also cover critical topics, including postpartum recovery, SIDS prevention, and strategies to keep your baby healthy. Whether you’re a first-time parent or welcoming another child, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to navigate these early weeks confidently. Thank you to our sponsors VTech is the most trusted choice for baby monitors and North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor has every feature you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and have peace of mind that they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon. 10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Sleepy Lotion from 8 Sheep is specially formulated to help pregnant moms sleep better. This is the #1 lotion for pregnancy aches and pains like lower back pain, hip pain, leg cramps, restless legs, and general insomnia. The sleepy lotion is made only with six organic ingredients and is safe for mom and baby. Looking for a way to share baby photos and stay connected to family who are far away? I've got the perfect gift for you! Skylight Frame is the touchscreen digital photo frame your whole family will love. Skylight has over a million happy customers and thousands of 5-star reviews. They are confident you will love this frame and offer free 120-day returns. And now, as a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $20 off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/PREGNANCYPOD. Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
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41:02
The Science Behind Heartburn in Pregnancy and How to Treat It
Heartburn is a common symptom during pregnancy, affecting up to 80% of expecting mothers. While it can be uncomfortable, the good news is that it resolves after you have your baby. In the meantime, there are many safe and effective ways to manage heartburn during pregnancy. Discover why heartburn is more prevalent during this time and the foods and behaviors that can trigger it. Learn about evidence-based interventions for relief, ranging from dietary and lifestyle adjustments to over-the-counter and prescription medications. Explore the evidence on the safety of heartburn medicines during pregnancy, including antacids, histamine 2 (H2) blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Plus, hear about the fascinating evidence that may link heartburn to how much hair your baby has. Thank you to our sponsors VTech is the most trusted choice for baby monitors and North America's leading #1 baby monitor brand. The Vtech V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor has every feature you could want in a monitor to keep an eye on your baby and have peace of mind that they are safely sleeping. The V-Care has built-in intelligence to alert you if your baby's face is covered or has rolled over on their stomach, full high-definition video, infrared night vision technology, and even analysis of sleep patterns and quality. The V-Care Over the Crib Smart Nursery Baby Monitor is exclusively available on Amazon. Looking for a way to share baby photos and stay connected to family who are far away? I've got the perfect gift for you! Skylight Frame is the touchscreen digital photo frame your whole family will love. Skylight has over a million happy customers and thousands of 5-star reviews. They are confident you will love this frame and offer free 120-day returns. And now, as a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $20 off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/PREGNANCYPOD. Treat yourself or surprise your loved ones this holiday season with gifts that illuminate them with Fount Society's clean, luxurious skincare and body care. During pregnancy, you are more cautious about the ingredients in your skincare. The Fount Society Water Cream uses clean and hydrating ingredients to transform dry winter skin into a healthy, dewy complexion. Plus, it is free of parabens, and phthalates, so you get to nourish your skin without the toxins. Visit Fount Society, your one-stop shop for every skincare lover on your list, and use code PREGNANCYPOD to get an exclusive 30% off! Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website. https://pregnancypodcast.com
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29:56
Q&A: Is Gratitude the Key to a Happier Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a time of significant emotional and physical changes. You may be coping with challenging symptoms like morning sickness or feeling anxious about giving birth and stepping into motherhood. Amid these challenges, there is also so much to be grateful for. Taking a moment to focus on the positive aspects can help provide balance and perspective and make your journey a little easier to navigate. This episode explores what gratitude is, the scientific evidence on its effects, and practical advice to help you cultivate more gratitude during pregnancy and beyond. Thank you to our sponsor Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. That’s a $48 value for FREE! Just one daily scoop provides whole-body benefits like gut, immune, and stress support. AG1 sources bioavailable ingredients that actually work with your body. Plus, their formula has all non-GMO ingredients and contains no added sugar. With AG1, I know I am filling any nutrient gaps and supporting my gut for healthy digestion. (As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.) Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
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16:20
Guide to Navigating the Holidays During Pregnancy
Whether you are continuing family traditions or starting new ones as your family grows, the holiday season is a special time to celebrate. While pregnancy can add extra joy and meaning to the festivities, it can also bring unique challenges. From managing pregnancy symptoms to juggling holiday events and expectations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Plus, you’re preparing for birth and a new baby, which adds another layer to an already busy season. Whether you’re feeling excited, stressed, or a mix of both, this episode guides you through navigating the holidays while pregnant. Thank you to our sponsors The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother has every feature you could possibly want to transform any room into a sleep sanctuary. Create ideal sleep patterns and environments for your baby so your whole family gets better and longer sleep. The V-Hush Pro has built-in sleep programs and sleep tips from WeeSleep experts, over 200 pre-programmed stories, classical music, lullabies, and natural sounds. You can even record and upload your own voice, songs, or stories using the subscription-free app. The VTech V-Hush Pro Baby Sleep Soother is available at Walmart and Amazon. 10% off 8 Sheep Organics with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The True Belly Serum from 8 Sheep is specially formulated with clinically proven ingredients that penetrate deep into the skin to effectively prevent stretch marks. You can try it risk-free for 3 months. If you feel the serum has not worked for you, or if you’re not 100% happy with your purchase, simply send them an email and they will get you a refund within a day, no questions asked! Treat yourself or surprise your loved ones this holiday season with gifts that illuminate them with Fount Society's clean, luxurious skincare and body care. During pregnancy, you are more cautious about the ingredients in your skincare. The Fount Society body butter feels amazing, leaving my skin super hydrated all day. Plus, it is free of fragrances, parabens, and phthalates, so you get to nourish your skin without the toxins. Visit Fount Society, your one-stop shop for every skincare lover on your list, and use code PREGNANCYPOD to get an exclusive 30% off! Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
A resource to support expecting moms (and partners, too!) with evidence-based information to navigate the awesome adventure of pregnancy, birth, and being a new parent. Vanessa Merten provides evidence based info that goes way beyond the typical “pregnancy instruction manual”. Every episode is designed to give you all of the evidence, research, pros, cons, risks, and benefits – all so you decide what the best option is for YOU and feel confident about your decisions during your pregnancy and beyond. The show covers everything from pregnancy to caring for a newborn. Topics include prenatal care, labor, natural birth, hospital birth, cesarean birth, preparing for your baby, breastfeeding, postpartum, and caring for a new baby. This is your evidence-based resource to help you make informed decisions about your pregnancy and your baby.