Vaginal Exams. Are They Necessary?

 The months leading up to those final few weeks of pregnancy can seem like they are fooooorever. The first few months fly by and then suddenly you are in your final few weeks that just seem to drag by. The emotions are high, you are so excited to meet your baby, and you are probably wondering when you will go into labor. Your provider might bring up checking your cervix for dilation around 36-37 weeks. During this time, your provider will check to see if your cervix has dilated, effaced, and they also can get a better gauge of what station baby is (how high or low baby is in the pelvis). This can be exciting, but it can also be disappointing. Imagine feeling all the contractions and pains towards the end of your pregnancy and you are feeling like possibly there is some changes going on down there. Your provider comes in the room and asks if you want your cervix checked. You get excited and say “Yes!”. All those contractions and pains should have done some changes to your cervix by now, right? The excitement is everything BUT- your provider tells you that you are only 1cm dilated. This is where disappointment can set in. It can be very discouraging to have someone tell you that you are ONLY 1cm dilated or maybe not even dilated at all. That disappointment can also hinder your body’s natural ability to labor. 

What happens if you don’t do anything and deny any cervical checks? Absolutely nothing. Cervical dilation is NOT an indication of when labor will begin. You can be 40 weeks with zero cervical change and go into labor the very next day. OR you can be sitting at 4-5cm dilated for weeks with labor not beginning. There really is no telling when you will go into labor. Cervical checks can also be invasive on yourself and sometimes baby, especially during labor. There really is no need to continuously check the cervix, unless you want it checked of course. 

Basically, wrapping it up, cervical checks are NOT super necessary. They can be declined at any time, even during labor. If you feel like you are unsure of the decision to decline or even consent to a cervical check, talk to your provider, or reach out to a birth professional! And lastly, always remember to be patient with yourself, your body, and your baby. Your body and baby know how and when to be born and I promise the uncomfortable doesn’t last forever! 

Written by: Natalie Story

Alternatives to Glucola for Diabetes Testing

Of all the tests pregnant women go through, the Glucose Challenge Test is arguably the one you hear about most often. Down an electric orange drink, wait, and have your blood drawn...sounds fun, right? Some people don’t mind the drink (called Glucola) while others search for alternatives. There are alternate options for both what you consume and how you test.

Guidelines currently call for a glucose challenge test around 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. The test is typically drinking a sweet drink and then having a blood test done an hour later to determine blood sugar levels. This test is used to help determine the occurrence of Gestational Diabetes which can pose a host of issues to both mom and baby during pregnancy.

If the pregnant person passes this test, they won’t be re-tested. Should they fail it, they’ll have to pass a longer test that involves a higher level of glucose.

Rates of GD have risen in recent decades so it is important to get tested. It’s estimated that anywhere from 5-10% of pregnant people have Gestational Diabetes and it’s important that those people be identified and treated to avoid complications.

Some people just hate the way Glucola tastes, some take issue with the ingredients...for whatever reason, there are definitely people searching for alternatives. The research put out found that the important part of the test was the 50g of sugar, not the source, and concluded that results were the same when a group of women given Glucola was compared to a group of women given Jelly Beans. The tests were the same.

It’s important to always refer back to your OB or Midwife when considering alternatives.

Common alternatives include:

6 oz Orange Juice and 1 Banana

28 Jelly Beans

A Soda with 50g Sugar

16 oz Orange Juice

These are options used by doctors and midwives around the country and definitely worth exploring.

Alternate ways of testing include Blood Sugar Monitoring as well as Hemoglobin A1C Testing. These both require much more testing, more time, and more involvement for you and your healthcare provider and it’s important to consult them on your options.

Blood Sugar Monitoring is exactly what it sounds like. You’ll monitor your own blood sugar levels by pricking your finger multiple times a day for a week and using a blood sugar testing unit.

Hemoglobin A1C Testing is a draw that monitors blood sugar levels over a three month period. It has been used as an alternative to the normal Glucose testing and is routinely used for those with Diabetes outside of pregnancy.

It’s also important to remember that the GD testing is a screening process and not an actual diagnostic. If you happen to fail the first screening, don’t panic immediately. It’s possible that you’ll be fine with the more extended testing!

Gestational Diabetes is something we should definitely monitor and treat but there are alternatives to the traditional screening. By working together with your provider to create a plan for you, you’ll find the perfect way to monitor and ensure your health is optimal and your baby is thriving through your whole pregnancy.

It's Time: Foods that (Maybe) Induce Labor

You’ve reached it. 38 Weeks. Technically full-term.

And you’re mis-er-a-ble.

You’re also probably hungry.

(Same.)

What to do when you’re waiting for baby and hungry? Try some foods that allegedly induce induction, of course.

Let’s serve that baby an eviction notice with these 4 super delicious and possibly-labor-inducing foods!

1. Pineapple

Pineapple contains an enzyme called Bromelain which is supposedly responsible for sending people into labor. Ideally eat it fresh, but canned works too if it’s too cold for Pineapple season!

BONUS: you can make a tea out of the rind that extracts the Bromelain as well. (If you prefer organics, definitely do so here so your tea doesn’t end up with non-organic pesticides in it.)

2 Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

This tea is actually very helpful all through pregnancy for toning the Uterus. It can bring on contractions so make sure that’s okay with your provider (it usually is in low-risk pregnancies). Generally speaking, if you’re able to have sex, you’re able to have this tea.

Try brewing double strength (two tea bags or two tablespoons of loose tea per 8 oz of water), sweeten it with a bit of honey, and keep it in the fridge for a refreshing possible way to help bring labor on.

3 Basil & Oregano

It’s not known why but these herbs are supposed to be miracle workers when it comes to getting baby out the natural way. For this reason, many pregnant women have turned to Eggplant Parmesan to induce labor. Honestly, this one’s worth a shot because yum. (Here’s a simple baked version!)

4 Spicy Foods

Spicy foods have long been a standby for moms who have HAD IT with being pregnant and want to get the show on the road. While there isn’t a lot of science behind it, it’s thought to induce a laxative effect that stimulates the uterus to contract.

Lucky for us here in Charlotte, we can pop over to Hawthorne Pizza and try the nationally-known spicy pizza dubbed “The Inducer”. A buffalo chicken pizza featured on Food & Wine, Fox News, and even Live! With Kelly Ripa, this pizza has reported magic in it that helps mothers who eat it go into labor.

No matter what you’re craving you can likely find something delicious that may, in fact, get that baby to make their appearance. Regardless, you may as well have some fun trying, right?

Sick and Pregnant: Safe Cold and Flu Remedies

With cold and flu season upon us, we’re all taking precautions. Vitamin C, soup, supplements...anything we can do to avoid catching the nasties floating around.

When you’re pregnant, your immune system is actually slightly lowered. Pregnancy also doesn’t allow for most common remedies. What’s an expectant person to do if they catch the dreaded bug? We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves to help ease the struggle of being sick and get you back to normal.

While the old adage is to drink Orange Juice or pop some Vitamin C, Zinc is actually the supplement you want. It’s been clinically proven effective at shortening the length of colds. Ideally it should be taken within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms. Options include capsules and even kind of delicious lozenges and it’s completely safe for pregnancy. Some foods rich in Zinc are lamb or beef, Yogurt, and Dark Chocolate. So the next time you get a craving, grab some dark chocolate and tell yourself it’s for your immune system.

 If you find yourself with a cough, the best recommendation (even from doctors) is honey. Dark honey is generally regarded as best but any honey will do. If you’re looking for some soothing for a sore throat, add some honey and lemon into some hot water. For a kick of flavor and a natural antibiotic add a slice of ginger root as well. Kick up your feet, turn on a movie, and enjoy some honey and lemon tea. You deserve it.

When it comes to medication, some of them are actually considered low-risk for pregnancy. Generally speaking, it’s recommended to avoid all medication if possible before 12 weeks of pregnancy and caution is advised after week 28. Common ones that are generally regarded as safe are Acetaminophen (for aches and pains), plain cough syrup (not multi-symptom ones), and cough drops. It’s very, very important to check with your doctor before taking any medication.

Hot Tip: Download the app MommyMeds for a quick reference of meds you can take that are GRAS (Generally regarded as safe) for both pregnancy and for breastfeeding.

We’re hoping you stay healthy this season but should you find yourself with the dreaded cough or flu, never fear! There is hope!

Pregnancy Dreams and Why They're So Screwy

You are walking down the street on a normal fall day. As you walk, you notice the breeze pick up and leaves start to swirl more than usual. You look behind you and then turn back to face front only to see a huge purple and yellow cow standing in your path. The cow stand on its back two legs and asks you for a breath mint. As you hand the cow a breath mint, you realize you’re carrying a Star Wars lunch box as a purse.

Dreams during pregnancy can be absolutely wild and downright scary sometimes! Women who are pregnant often experience changes that include more frequent dreaming, nightmares, anxiety-based dreams, and the ability to remember dreams. Since your body is going through so many changes, it’s not shocking that you experience these changes!

Since our mental, physical, and emotional states are all intertwined, as your body changes so does your mind. One likely cause is due to the increase in hormone production. Pregnancy hormones (like Progesterone) often have the ability to affect and increase emotional distress as well as Anxiety. They also impact the way your brain takes in information and processes it. It’s very possible those strange dreams have something to do with that! (This also may be an explanation why a lot of pregnant women find themselves having sexual dreams.)

During pregnancy our sleep schedule is also disrupted. Whether it’s due to an inability to fall asleep, physical discomfort from an expanding body, or just needing to pee in the middle of the night (a million times…) this changes our sleep cycles and disrupts what is known as REM sleep. The REM or Rapid Eye Movement stage of sleep is the stage in which dreaming happens. When this is disrupted it can affect the length, frequency, or even ability to remember the dreams. This may sometimes be the cause of the more vivid or easily remembered dreams.

Some experts also believe that pregnancy dreams are a way of your unconscious mind dealing with the increased stress or anxiety that accompanies bringing a new life into the world.

While there is no actual scientific answer for why dreams during pregnancy are so weird, there are many contributing factors that definitely make sense! If your dreams aren’t bothering you, simply return back to sleep and visit the purple and yellow cow again. If they’re a bit disturbing or unnerving, consider keeping a dream journal either on your phone or in a notebook by your bed. It may be your unconscious mind trying to process something important! If your dreams, however, veer into dangerous or scary territory frequently, it may be a good idea to talk with a counselor, therapist, or friend to check in and make sure everything is okay.

No matter what crazy, alarming, or sexual dreams you’re having at night, make sure you’re still doing your best to rest as much as possible! We do a lot of healing and growing at night and your body is literally making a human being. Relax, take a deep breath, and dive back into some REM sleep.

Sweet (or slightly weird) dreams!

Top 5 Books for New Big Siblings

Becoming a big sibling can bring a range of emotions from excitement to fear. An incredible way to help kids talk about those things? Books! Read your littles stories of big brothers and big sisters to help them understand and relate to what the characters are going through. We’ve gathered 5 great options for your bedtime stories to add to your library.

1. Lola Reads to Leo by Anna McQuinn :

This sweet book highlights the main character, Lola, and her love of reading. She, of course, wants to introduce that love to her new baby brother. From bringing a soft book to her new brother’s crib to reading him a book in the evening, she thinks being a big sister is the “best gift of all”. This story promotes a love of reading and a love of sharing with the new baby, making it the perfect addition to your library.

2. The New Small Person by Lauren Child :

This story is a very familiar tale for many families. An older sibling and an unwelcome change to their dynamic. Elmore Green takes to calling his new sibling “it” and recounts the tale of how “it” licks his jelly bean collection! The shift from only child to older brother can be a tricky one and this book does a beautiful job of combining a common struggle with beautiful imagery and finally reaching the resolution of a new small person being a friend.

3. Once Upon a Baby Brother by Sarah Sullivan:

Older siblings can have very conflicting thoughts about a new baby joining their family. They have typically been the sole focus of their parents for their whole lives! With that shift comes a new dynamic. Sarah Sullivan tells this story from Lizzie, a celebrated and gifted storyteller’s perspective. It’s a sweet and helpful way to introduce the concept of a baby to a sibling who might be old enough to understand just what’s going on.

4. Outside Over There by Maurice Sendak :

A strange fantasy tale, this book is one full of differing emotions from love to resentment. When goblins steal Ida’s baby sister to make her a goblin bride, Ida must go “outside over there” to get her back. This may seem a weird addition to this list but everything that a new sibling goes through, emotion-wise.

5. Ish by Peter H Reynolds :

This book makes the list for the middle siblings. A story about Ramon and his love of drawing, his hopes, dreams, and joy are all dashed in a split second by a comment made by his older brother. When he realizes his art isn’t perfect, he plans to destroy it all until his younger sister steps in and helps him see that art doesn’t have to be perfect, it can be “-ish”. This story highlights both the importance of celebrating imperfections and the bond between siblings.

How to Induce Labor Naturally: A Doula's Guide to Natural Induction

37...38...39...weeks keep passing and your baby is still hanging out? We’ve heard it said before that the first part of pregnancy goes so quickly and the last month lasts a year. It totally feels that way. Between a baby that has grown to nearing the size of a watermelon to your shifting center of gravity and ligaments stretching and loosening, there is often a lot of anticipation and discomfort that comes with the final days of pregnancy.

As doulas, we’re often asked about natural induction techniques.

Now, while anything involving induction is clearly some sort of augmentation of normal labor, there are some home remedies that have been suggested to begin or help labor progress. Bear in mind, each person is different and not every technique will work for every person. Some of them are kind of funny and some of them have an origin of scientific evidence. No matter which you choose, always be sure to check in with your doctor and pay close attention to how you’re feeling.

1. Pineapple Juice/Spicy Foods

One of the widest known (and easiest techniques is eating or drinking something to help bring on labor. Pineapple juice is a very common suggestion (and a pretty delicious one). It’s said that the enzymes it contains can help jump-start labor. Honestly, this one is probably worth a shot. If nothing else, it’s a nice, fruity pick-me-up.

Another edible option is spicy food. Wives tales tell us spicy food can help naturally induce labor. The two main theories why this may work are that the spicy foods may stimulate the digestive tract, bringing on contractions. Another is it may stimulate Prostaglandin, one of the things known to help soften the cervix. Regardless, this is a great excuse to grab yourself some Indian food or chips and salsa.

2. Chiro Care

This is a big one! While Chiropractors don’t claim to be able to start labor, Chiropractic care has been known to help get baby into a good position in the pelvis. In order for your cervix to dilate, thin, and efface, baby’s head must be against it. It’s not too far-fetched to think that getting baby positioned properly may help bring on labor. The other main benefit of Chiropractic care is increased comfort throughout pregnancy. Make sure you seek out a Webster Certified Chiropractor, which is one that works specifically with expectant parents.

3. Massage

There is both scientific and anecdotal evidence to back this one up. Anecdotally, there are some pressure points that may help bring on contractions. This is why people often have to be careful when getting pedicures and often seek out acupuncture or acupressure to bring baby out. Scientifically, touch stimulates the production of Oxytocin in our brains. This hormone (also called the “love hormone”) is responsible for the progression of labor. When you get a massage, you’re spending an hour or so stimulating Oxytocin in your brain.

This is also a great opportunity to help your partner connect with you through the process (and spoil you a little bit).

4. Sex

Ah, yes. Sex. We’ve often heard it said that you get baby out the same way you got baby in. Frankly, there’s some truth to that. Semen contains Prostaglandin, the same hormone found in Cervidil which is often used to help induce labor in the hospital. The gel is placed against the cervix in hopes of helping it soften. The DIY version of this is to...well...get it on. In addition, sex and, more specifically, orgasms produce a lot of Oxytocin in our brains. The combo of Prostaglandin and Oxytocin may just be exactly what you need to send you into labor. And, honestly, it’s a fun way to pass the time even if it doesn’t.

Natural Induction of Labor is a highly searched term on Google and a frequently asked question from our clients. We’re often walking people through exactly how they can serve their baby an eviction notice. The last month or so of pregnancy can often drag on so sometimes even just giving these methods a try can help you get through.

Have you tried a Natural Induction? What methods have you heard of? Let us know in the comments!

The Best-Kept Not-So-Secret in Pregnancy: Webster Technique

The best-kept not-so-secret in Pregnancy comfort is within reach.

Chiropractic care has long been a controversial subject when it comes to treating pregnant individuals. While there is some truth to the fact that expectant mothers shouldn’t see any chiropractor, the benefits of seeing a Chiropractor with additional training in the Webster technique is clear.

Overall, most patients report a decrease in their discomfort. If that’s not worth it, there is also anecdotal evidence that suggests alignment of the pelvis can help your baby get into a good position for birth and some patients have even begun labor soon after seeing their chiropractor!

Want to give Natural Induction a try? A Chiropractor may just be your answer!

The Webster Technique is a highly specialized method of treating those carrying a baby. By using modified positions, avoiding some areas, and adjusting the pelvis, your Chiropractor may be able to help you ease things like sciatic pain and general discomfort as your baby grows.

Your little one grows through your entire pregnancy.

(Yes, this is an obvious statement).

This combined with the hormone Relaxin can wreak havoc on your body. Relaxin is the hormone responsible for telling your joints and ligaments to loosen and allow for movement as your baby gets bigger and bigger. It’s responsible for incredibly fun things like your hips spreading but can also lend itself to the “unstable” feeling pregnant individuals often feel.

Bearing this in mind, Webster Certified Chiropractors know just how to work with your ever-changing joints and ligaments to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Now, there is a community that would have you believe that Chiro care is “snake oil” and there’s no reason you need it. If that’s you, fine. We’re all entitled to our own opinions, right?

However, Uptown Doula doesn’t subscribe to that. We love Chiropractors for quite a few reasons, including the fact that our clients have seen awesome results by seeing one regularly. Chiropractors are real-life doctors!

Yes, that type of doctorate.

In order to become a Chiropractor one must complete around 3 years of undergraduate education before entering a program to receive their Doctorate. They typically take 4 years to complete on top of the 3 years of undergrad. A Chiropractic degree requires education in anatomy, physiology, and biology as well as business practices and finance. They’re also supervised in a clinical setting before graduating.

Then…

They have to sit for a licensing exam! Not all Chiropractors are created equal and they aren’t legally allowed to treat patients until they’re both educated and licensed.

Basically what we’re saying is this: Chiropractors are legit.

They’re also not all created equally which is why we make sure to let our clients know that it’s important to seek out one who is specifically trained in the Webster Technique. The training involves ongoing reporting of findings as well as tests to maintain membership and ensure that everyone practicing the technique are up-to-date on new developments and the latest safety procedures.

Feeling the struggle of pregnancy wearing on your body? Can you guess what we’re going to recommend?

Seek Chiropractic care!

Oh, you’re looking for a recommendation?

Never fear! We have an amazing one.

Dr. Stefanie Gross is the one you want to see. Not only is she an ICPA Certified Chiropractor (meaning she can see you and your baby), she’s also a doula. You can probably imagine why we love that. Between growing up under chiropractic care and training extensively to promote wellness in families and children, she’s the perfect match for yours.

And, no, we’re not being paid to say this. We just love her!

If you’d like more information or to contact her, reach out to Adjusting the World Chiropractic in Huntersville, NC. You can find them at www.adjustingtheworld.com

All-in-all, we’ve seen excellent results in reduction of pain and facilitation of labor through the Webster Technique. Whether you’re looking for Natural Induction options or just a way to keep your active mom lifestyle, Chiro care may be a great fit for you.

Coping with Prodromal Labor

Early labor, Active Labor and Transition make up the three stages of labor.

While most mothers go through all three phases of labor, there is a possible fourth phase known as prodromal labor. This phase is one that is rarely spoken about, but commonly experienced by first time mothers.

Prodromal labor certainly deserves attention.

Although prodromal labor is totally normal, pregnant mothers who experience this do not always think so. Prodromal labor (AKA False Labor) is an elongated period of time that can last days of hard labor type contractions and discomfort but doesn't progress into a "normal labor pattern". Prodromal labor can be very intense, however, your uterus is NOT broken and medical intervention is NOT the only way out.

Actually, what prodromal labor absolutely means is that you’re nearing the end of pregnancy you’re your baby will soon be in your arms.

While you may not find many articles on this topic, the new mom blogs, the community boards are flooded with experiences. All of them say the same thing. Make rest, hydration, and nourishment your number one priority; add a little patience and you will get through this.  I Promise!

The prodromal phase can typically last anywhere from 24-72 hours.

Yes, this early phase of labor is considered to be extremely uncomfortable, and may even become painful but the intensity usually wavers throughout the day. This phase of labor starts with regular elongated contractions. These contractions usually do not progress, become stronger, or closer together for some time.

Mothers who have previously had a baby may only experience prodromal labor during the night.

Rest is your key to getting through this. Endurance may seem impossible because these contractions are STRONG and consistent, which is quite disruptive to rest. Your doula will have some incredible comfort measures and supportive suggestions for you to get power through.

Truth is, the only way to end prodromal labor is to move on to the next phase… delivering your baby.