Do you ever ponder the concept of love at first sight? Once, I flirted with the notion that this immediate, breathtaking bond could exist. Love at first sight is often portrayed as an effortless encounter—an overwhelming emotion that seemingly sweeps you off your feet. It is like a jolt of electricity, instant and potent. It
giving birth
When a baby enters the world, they are not just greeted by fresh air and loving arms; they are also exposed to a plethora of microorganisms that will help shape their developing immune system and microbiome. Traditionally, vaginal births have allowed infants to channel the beneficial bacteria from their mothers during delivery. Conversely, babies born
While progress has been made in various healthcare sectors, maternal health remains a daunting challenge in the United States, particularly for marginalized groups. The journey of women like Mimi Evans highlights a grim reality: many are compelled to take extreme measures just to secure a safe and dignified birthing experience. Evans’ story not only reflects
The journey of childbirth is a profound and transformative experience not just for mothers, but also for fathers. While the spotlight often shines on women during labor—highlighting their immense strength and resilience—fathers occupy a unique yet crucial role that deserves recognition and exploration. Their presence, although frequently understated, forms an integral part of the birthing
As I prepared to bring my first child into the world, the initial notion of labor felt both exhilarating and overwhelming. The conversation with my midwife quickly turned to my preferences for delivery, where I instinctively declared, “I don’t want an epidural.” This response stemmed from a cascade of societal expectations and a deep-rooted fear
In a significant shift in maternal healthcare, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel has concluded that Makena, a progesterone injection touted as the sole approved preventive treatment for preterm birth, is ineffective. This announcement has led Covis Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Makena, to voluntarily withdraw the drug from the market after more than
The path to motherhood is often lined with excitement and dreams of a perfect delivery. For many, this ideal doesn’t always match reality, as illustrated in the experience of those who undergo C-sections. I find myself grappling with a complex relationship to my C-section scar, one that embodies both the joy of motherhood and the
The experience of pregnancy is often idealized and romanticized, depicting glowing mothers-to-be enjoying every moment of their journey to motherhood. Yet, the reality can be far more complex, especially when faced with the unexpected challenges of extended gestation. One mother’s story highlights the rollercoaster of emotions and physical tribulations that can accompany an unusually long
Childbirth is an extraordinary and intense experience that can be marred by instances of mistreatment. A recent 2023 CDC report accentuates a critical issue: one in five women report facing some form of mistreatment during labor. This underlines the urgent need to address the experiences of women who encounter disrespect or lack of autonomy in
Pregnancy can feel like a marathon, particularly as the due date meanders closer and closer without bringing forth the anticipated arrival of a newborn. For expectant mothers who find themselves in the throes of late pregnancy, the desire to encourage labor intensifies, prompting a quest for natural induction methods. Among various strategies that range from