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Decorating a Small Nursery on a Budget

decorating a nurseyr on a small budget
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Decorating a baby’s nursery can be so much fun, although with the pressures of trying to compete for the best nursery and extravagant ideas, it can get expensive. Today, we’re giving you some tips on decorating a small nursery on a budget. 

We’ve all been there, scrolling down Pinterest for numerous hours a day, you’ve seen loads of amazing ideas for your baby’s nursery. You’ve searched everything that has caught your eye and you’ve got a total figure, only…your bank account doesn’t agree. 

The truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to decorate the perfect nursery for your baby. 

Decorate the Nursery yourself

You don’t need to hire a decorator to come and paint the walls in your baby’s new room, you can do it yourself! If you aren’t the arty and creative type, why not have a look around for some nice wallpaper that might be easier for you to fit? Many people think they have to spend lots of money on something for it to look good, but that’s not always the case. Choose some paint or wallpaper that you like and take your time with it, you might really enjoy it and you’ll feel extremely proud of yourself by the end of it. 

Top quality, low price

Bedding can be expensive, but when you’re buying bedding for your new baby, it’s almost certainly not going to last very long. So, we suggest getting down to your local town centre and choosing some high quality, inexpensive bedding. Try to pick a pattern that you’d like to use throughout the whole room, or, if you’ve already sorted the wall decorations, try to match the bedding with that. 

Long lasting furniture

When you’re expecting a baby, you always want to buy the cutest pieces of furniture, however, if you’re on a budget, this might not be the best choice for you. Instead, try purchasing furniture that you can tell will last for years to come. Your baby will need a dresser and perhaps a wardrobe, but there’s no need for these to have a baby themed design on them. It will save you money in the long term if you don’t have to update their furniture when they’ve decided they’ve grown out of it all. Why not have a look on your local Facebook page for people giving away furniture? This would save you lots of money!!!

Bursts of colour

Trying to add a bit of flair to a room can feel like a tough task when you’re trying to decorate a nursery on a budget, but one really easy and inexpensive way to do this is to buy a brightly coloured doorknob or a couple of bright photo frames to go up on the wall. These bursts of colour will make a massive difference to the room. Like we said earlier, just try to stick to a certain colour scheme and you won’t go far wrong. 

Saving time

Shopping online can be really helpful when you’re purchasing new furniture on a budget, not only do we have second hand selling shops but you can also compare various products on price and quality quite easily before you make any decisions. This can save you a lot of time, so you can shortlist a few products that you definitely want to see in person before you buy them. 

Shop Second Hand

Don’t be afraid to buy some things second hand, such as dressers or decorative photos. A lot of the time, these products are still in fantastic condition with a lot of life still in them. Or, if they need a bit of work putting into them, why not take them on as a small project? They might only require a couple of layers of paint and they’ll be like brand new again. 

Decorating your baby’s nursery doesn’t need to drain your bank account. You can find everything you need at certain shops, that are high quality and don’t break the bank. Just make sure you shop around and follow a simple design, there are plenty of extras you can include that will provide bursts of character in your baby’s nursery.

6 of Netflix’s “Must Sees” for Pregnant Mums

6 netflix must sees for pregnant mums
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We know how rare a movie night can be in a house with children, so you need to make the most out of the time you have now if this is your first, if its not you deserve chilled nights watching netflix and eating your favourite sweet treats. Taking time out of your schedule is really important, it allows you to relax and can give you some quality time with your significant other. We’ve compiled this list of 6 of Netflix’s “Must Sees” for pregnant mums, so that you don’t have to waste any more time scrolling through Netflix. 

6 netflix must sees for pregnant mums

6 of Netflix’s “Must Sees” for pregnant mum’s 

“What To Expect When You’re Expecting”

This one is an emotional rollercoaster, it’ll have you laughing and crying in the same minute! This amazing story follows a number of couples and single people through their journey of having a baby, whether that be through pregnancy or adoption. There are a number of twists and turns, as you’d expect, life as a pregnant woman doesn’t exactly go as planned. This is a great film, definitely one to watch when you’re expecting. 

“Baby Mama”

This is an emotional and funny storyline, we follow Amy Poehler and Tina Fey through their journey of surrogacy. The women struggle at first to find anything in common, but after a long and hard struggle, they end up being friends. This storyline has so many unexpected twists that you’ll never guess what’s coming next. A truly happy and emotional ending for everyone involved. 

“Are We Done Yet?”

This film is perfect for the expectant parents. With Ice Cube as the main character, this one is full of humour, a follow on from ‘Are We There Yet?’. Follow this family move their whole lives for their new additions to the family. They have to deal with a lot of issues in their new house, which causes a devastating split. In the end they realise the importance of family and everyone works together to build a happy life. 

“The Notebook”

This is the perfect throwback, romantic film. We follow Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams through the ultimate love story. This one came out in 2004, but follows the journey as if they’re living in the 1940s. It tells the love story that we all desire. This is an honest and powerful story, showing their separation and the struggles of living with Alzheimers. 

“P.S. I love you”

You’ll be sobbing from the get go, this one really is emotional! You follow Hilary Swank trying to live a normal life after the loss of her husband, played by Gerard Butler. He leaves her letters with heartfelt and inspirational words, along with ‘P.S. I love you’. These letters make the widow feel stronger and as if her husband is still with her through her journey of life. 

“Knocked Up”

This one definitely doesn’t begin as a romance, it is definitely more of a comedy. When Seth Rogan and Katherine Heigl meet, they end up having a one night stand, leading to pregnancy. Neither of them are ready to be parents, this story follows them trying to become accustomed to parenting in a funny way. This film does get rather emotional, but it’ll definitely make you laugh. 

So, grab yourself some popcorn, a nice warm drink and laugh and cry along with these heartfelt, emotional films. 

7 Podcasts Every Mum Needs to Listen to

7 podcasts every mum needs to listen to
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As a Mum, time alone is quite a rare occurrence, so when you do get those bliss few minutes, how do you like to spend them? Many parents on MyBump2Baby love podcasts and we can see why. Podcasts are a fantastic way to multitask and feel less alone. Podcasts are great because you can listen while you walk, run, hang the washing out, during the night feeds  or in your car whilst your little one sleeps.

7 podcasts every mum needs to listen to

The podcasts mentioned are all fantastic for different ways and we want to share our favourites with you, so here are our 7 podcasts that every mum needs to listen to.

Happy Place – Ferne Cotton

This podcast features some amazing people chatting to Ferne Cotton about the ups and downs of life. It is an uplifting and honest podcast that appreciates that life can be tough. Some special guests include – Jessica Ennis-Hill, Katie Piper and George Ezra.

Fifty Shades of Motherhood

This hilarious yet tear jerking podcast is real, raw and uncensored mum chats launched by our founder Carla Lett. It’s all about  sharing motherhood journeys and struggles and giggling alone the way. This honest podcast embraces imperfection when it comes to parenting. This podcast is described as uncensored, unhinged and unapologetic and those 3 words sum this podcast up perfectly.

Happy Mum, Happy Baby – Giovanna Fletcher

Giovanna Fletcher’s podcast explains that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. She chats to high profile parents about the benefits and challenges of life as a parent. This podcast offers support for parents, they will discuss anything.

Here We Go Again – Stacey Soloman

Stacey Solomon is a well known Mum and TV presenter, her podcast reflects this. She talks about life as a Mum in the spotlight and how things have changed since she’s had a second child. The Loose Women presenter is funny and honest in her chats, making them more enjoyable.

MyBump2Baby Expert

This podcast is a really helpful one for  pregnancy – pre-school parents. This podcast shares advice from the experts. If you’re struggling or just need a bit of advice with any aspect of parenting then this is the one for you. This is a library of pregnancy to preschool experts sharing helpful tips on various areas of parenthood. Parents can easily select the specific episodes they would like to listen to.

The Therapy Edit – Anna Mathur

These quick podcasts are delivered by Anna Mathur, a psychotherapist. Each episode lasts for
just 10 minutes, so they’re really easy to keep up with and the tips she offers can be learnt quickly. This podcast is a really positive way to improve your mental health.

Mum Talk – Emma Jaulin

If you want a laugh then this one is great, Emma Jaulin shares her experiences in a hilarious way. Emma chats to everyone, Mums, Dads, midwives and all of her listeners. This podcast is perfect for when you’re feeling a little low, it’ll cheer you up.

 

We hope you get a chance to listen to these great podcasts, let us know what you think in the comment section below.

The Best Prams in 2020

the best prams of 2020
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A new pram is an essential for all new parents and finding the perfect one can often be a long process. There are lots of factors that must be considered when purchasing a new pram, such as the size, colour, weight, comfort and of course the safety of your little one! MyBump2Baby has compiled a list of the best prams in 2020 to help you make your decision. 

The Best Prams in 2020

Work out what you need

The first step to finding the perfect pram is to work out exactly what you need from it;

DO you want the pram to be front facing or do you want the option of having your child both facing you and looking out the front?

How much room do you have in your boot to store the pram?

What about inside your house?

Is the pram for one baby or more?

What is your budget?

Prams aren’t usually cheap, so you’ll want to make sure you take your time to consider all of your options to find the one that works for you. If you take time to consider all of these key options then you’ll be able to start filtering your results so you can find the perfect pram to suit you and your family.

You will have to purchase new prams as your baby grows, we’ve compiled this list of our best prams of 2020!

Our Best Prams of 2020

Silver Cross Wave

Silver Cross are a fantastic brand, they have been around for a long time, and have proved their durability and safety for children and parents who use their products. Their great reputation is reflected in their pricing, but for a great quality pram, it’s worth it. This Silver Cross Wave pram has the amazing feature of being able to easily transform into a double pram by just adding another car seat to it, perfect for those expecting twins or another child in the near future. This product also allows parents to choose whether their child faces them or the world, it’s incredibly versatile and stylish! 

Baby Jogger City Tour 2

This pram is perfect for wherever you’re heading out for the day! It’s wheel formation allows for full swivel, so you can easily get around obstacles. This pram is long lasting, it is advertised that it can be used for children up to 3 years. Baby Jogger have thought of everything with the City Tour pram, it’s lightweight feature along with carrying straps, meaning that you can carry the pram hands free on your back when it’s not in use. This pram is just front facing, meaning your child can enjoy watching the rest of the world in a comfortable pram. 

Besrey Baby Stroller

An affordable, lightweight and simple pram. This pram is perfect from newborn, it features many different seating settings, so that you can recline both the seat and the footrest to suit your baby’s position. Besrey has put safety first by including a reflective strip to ensure higher safety and visibility at night, so you can feel safe at all times. The pram is completely collapsible, making it an easy and good choice for family trips when the car’s full. An amazing price for a reliable, safe and lightweight pram. 

Joie Mytrax 

Joie has brought another fantastic pram with this one! The Mytrax pram is stylish and comfortable for both parents and baby. It is compatible with a range of different carrycots, giving parents more options for which one they would like. This pram is suitable from birth and has a reclining seat which can go flat, perfect for when you’re out and your baby wants to sleep. Its automatic locking system makes it easy to collapse this pram and its high quality brakes means that it’s easy to use just about anywhere. 

Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V4

This brightly coloured pram is perfect if you’re expecting two little ones! This pram is long lasting, it is advertised as suitable from birth up to approximately the age of 4. It features a 5 point safety harness, so you know your babies will be safe in this one. The seats recline to a number of different positions, to ensure comfort. The Nipper Double V4 is a 3 wheel pram, so even though you’d expect it to be much heavier carrying two children instead of one, the difference is not too vast. This front facing pram has an adjustable handle so that parents can be comfortable as well. It’s a durable pram, perfect for family days out and your little ones can bond being sat just next to each other.

 

BabyStyle Hybrid Edge 

BabyStyle strikes again with their beautifully designed prams, available in a range of stunning colours. This pram is suitable for babies over 6 months up to 3 years. It’s high quality seat can be easily removed to parent or front facing, depending on your personal preference. Its safety harness is durable and comfortable, so you can rest assured that your baby is safe. This compact pram is perfect for a city walk or a countryside stroll. This pram is great for parents, it has hooks for your shopping bags along with a 12 point adjustable handlebar, so you can ensure peak comfort for you too. 

 

 

 

ABC Pepper Design Travel System 

This pram has won awards for its stylish look and durable features. The adjustments available on this pram are incredible, it almost looks like 2 different prams! This pram is advertised as suitable from birth up to 15 kg. Its safety harness is high quality, with an attachment available for a dummy, so you won’t lose them as much. This pram is handmade with luxurious leather, adding to its beautiful design. This pram from ABC has been crafted with travel in mind, it can be folded completely flat, making it easy to store and take on day trips in the car. 

 

We hope that our guide is helpful when you’re choosing the perfect pram for your baby.

Gemma Atkinson’s Maternal Health Story

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At MyBump2Baby, we recognise that maternal health is extremely important and something that everyone should be aware of. Today we want to share this article with you, Gemma Atkinson’s Maternal Health Story, which she recently shared online with her fans. 

Gemma Atkinson’s Maternal Health Story

The pregnancy journey can be tough, many women experience motherhood in different ways. Some women manage to wake up early to practice their pregnancy yoga, while some women feel so tired or sick that they don’t want to get out of bed – every motherhood journey is different. Each pregnancy is unique. NEVER JUDGE.

Today we’re talking about soap star, Gemma Atkinson, who recently shared her labour experience and maternal health story online.

The labour experience didn’t go to plan

Gemma revealed to fans that whilst pregnant she did everything in her power to be her “strongest, healthiest, happiest self,” for her new baby.

The radio DJ received a glowing reception for her honesty, after admitting she “mentally struggled” after welcoming Mia into the world.

“Mentally after Mia I struggled a little with how she arrived,” she confessed.

“Now though, I’ve processed it, dealt with it, released it and I mentally feel strong again. Ready for anything thrown at me!”

Experiencing an unexpected caesarean is a traumatic experience for any woman, Gemma was honest with her story, revealing the truths behind a caesarean birth. This procedure took its toll on Gemma’s mental health and her body strength. 

It can be so hard as a new mum, whether it’s your first time or not, when you have elaborate plans for your birth. Women often spend weeks researching and planning for the way they wish to give birth and often these plans are not possible to ensure the safety of mother and baby. Not only is this disheartening, it can also be traumatic.

A powerful message

The star shared her story with a lengthy Instagram post, where she wrote about women taking care of their bodies and loving themselves. She encouraged women to take 5 minutes out of their day to appreciate the things around them. It was a powerful message to show people that many of the things we worry about, such as stretch marks, loose skin and the number on the scales, don’t matter if we aren’t happy. 

Gemma stressed the importance of getting back into exercise after pregnancy. Exercise not only helps to strengthen your body again but also helps to improve mental well-being, She did warn fellow mums not to look at the number on the scales, due to its lack of importance. 

 

Healing yourself

The aim of Gemma sharing her story is to encourage other women who have experienced an unexpected caesarean birth to find the strength within themselves to heal, both physically and mentally. Having positive mental health is not a competition, it’s about being kind to yourself and allowing yourself time to feel better about things that have affected you. 

Gemma documents motherhood in an honest and appropriate way, she isn’t scared to tell her followers how she feels. Fans and followers of Gemma have taken very well to her post, labelling her as an inspiration to other women.

“My Smear test could have Saved my Life” Fifty Shades of Motherhood Host Speaks out

smear test saved my life
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As GPS urge people to have their cervical smear tests after a temporary halt in services due to Covid 19, two mums share what happens in the unlikely event of an “abnormal” test result ahead of Cervical Screening Week 2020 which takes place next week.

Many women are already fearful of cervical smear tests despite the fact that cervical cancer is mostly preventable with screening tests. Bur with added confusion and understandable concerns due to the pandemic, delays to a lot of tests, a new unfiltered podcast has been launched by a popular parenting blogger sharing how she believes that a simple smear test “saved her life.”

33-year-old Carla Lett from Lytham St Annes, who suffers from health anxiety felt like her “worst nightmare” had come true when she got the letter following her smear test saying her cells were “abnormal.”  She said: “I already think worst case scenario and more with all health matters but I wasn’t prepared to actually face an abnormal test result. “That said after nervously waiting for a further tests it showed abnormal again but mildly so.

“I later found out I was pregnant but they still wanted to see me for another test which showed I had ‘minor’ abnormalities due to HPV virus (human papillomavirus is a common group of viruses which most people get it their lifetime).”

About 1 in 20 women receive a cervical screening test result that shows some changes in the cells of the cervix an ‘abnormal result’ (NHS Cancer Screening Programme – Cervical screening ‘The Facts’ 2015). Nearly all abnormal results show no more than small changes in the cells of the cervix. Carla, who runs MyBump2Baby the popular parenting (pregnancy – preschool) directory and blog, then had to wait until she had had her first child George before going for another test. “I was petrified and worst still it came back abnormal but moderate this time.” But as Carla had kept up to date with screening tests, it was a simple procedure of burning some of the cells away.

Carla now speaks openly about her experience to encourage other mums to attend their smear tests. She said: “It is not comfortable or something I enjoy but it is over with so quickly and even if you get an abnormal result by going to your screening test cervical cancer is almost always preventable.” Carla has recently launched her first podcast called Fifty Shades of Motherhood and she has dedicated the first episode to talk all thing cervical screening from the funny moments to the scary times and everything in between. She said: “It’s important we have an open dialogue. And I am very open!

I wanted to use my platform to help other mums nervous about going.” Carla invited fellow blogger and vlogger Sophie Mei Lan from mental health and wellbeing site Mama Mei, to chat openly about their smear tests ahead of Cervical Screening Awareness week on 15th June – 22nd June 2020.

Sophie, 32, who lives in Yorkshire, also had an abnormal test result, said: “It’s important that we share our experiences, warts and all! No pun intended! “It’s great that there are so many campaigns to prompt women to have their test and we wanted to add authentic unfiltered voices to that so women can be comforted that no matter what their concerns are, there are other women in the same boat and that even with the dreaded ‘abnormal’ test result… knowledge is power and there is so much that can normally be done.”

In Episode One of Fifty Shades of Motherhood podcast, available to download now, Carla and Sophie share their own experiences after having abnormal smears, their views about having to wait until your 25 to be tested and some highly amusing thoughts and quotes to keep you giggling from start to finish whilst raising awareness and encouraging woman to attend their appointments.

To find out more about Cervical Screening click here and to find out more about the podcast set to show the weird and wonderful world of motherhood, go to: www.mybump2baby.com/podcasts/fiftyshadesofmotherhood

 

You can find out more about Fifty Shades of Motherhood, here:

https://www.instagram.com/fiftyshadesofmotherhoodpodcast/

http://www.twitter.com/fiftyshadespod www.facebook.com/fiftyshadesofmotherhoodpodcast

MyBump2Baby

https://www.mybump2baby.com

www.instagram.com/mybump2baby

www.twitter.com/mybump2baby

www.facebook.com/mybump2babyuk

You can find Sophie Mei Lan via the links below:

https://mamamei.co.uk

https://twitter.com/MamaMeiBlog

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN4nwFkGBwFCefz9RKSVKsQ

https://www.instagram.com/mamameiblog

Vegan Skin Protection for Babies and Toddlers – Toddle Adventure Kit Review

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Disclosure: This is a sponsored post but all opinions are our own.

Vegan Skin Protection for Babies and Toddlers

We are extremely fortunate to live in a country that is peppered with countless beauty spots and nature walks for us all to enjoy. It is no surprise that scenic walks are one of the most popular things for UK families to do. Our little ones love to explore and go on new adventures and we love tiring them out whilst creating beautiful memories in the open air.

Taking the whole family out anywhere can often be a little “stressful” even on our most patient days and remembering everything (including the children) can be difficult enough, without worrying about the necessary skin protection for our babies and toddlers. The weather in the UK is very unpredictable, it can look dull and windy when you set off on a walk but within an instant the weather changes and the sun comes out which is lovely but not so lovely when your sun cream is still sat home in the cupboard.

 

We are really excited to introduce you to Toddle’s Adventure Kit – A Natural Vegan Skincare Protection Range for Children

 The perfect kit to protect our children’s skin with natural ingredients come rain, wind or shine

This kit is perfect for all forecasts! Whether you’re taking the kids out for a wet walk in their wellies or you’re off to the beach for a picnic, Toddle has got you covered and it comes in a beautiful kit, an exciting gift for any young explorer. Toddle Adventure kit is the perfect way to be prepared whatever the weather with the 3 essential items that every parent needs.

 

Toddler Adventure Kit Review

First Impressions of the Adventure Kit

When George received his adventure kit, he was very excited. The kit came beautifully wrapped and it was clear to see that a lot of effort and thought had gone in to the kit, something you don’t get from “regular” high street brands.

The design of the adventure kit and its products is beautiful, everything has been well thought out to provide parents with confidence that they really are protecting their children from all weathers! We love this kit because it is not targeted to one particular type of weather, it can be used on a sunny day as well as in the rain, you don’t often find that with skin protectors.

The Sun and Wind Balm

Sun & Wind Balm, which is highly protective with an SPF of 50! This suncream is organic, vegan and great for all skin types including sensitive. This suncream is water resistant, so you don’t need to worry about having to re-apply it every 5 minutes when you’re out and about.

Our Review of the Sun and Wind Balm for babies and toddlers

 We have tested this out throughout spring including the hottest day of the year so far and with the paddling pool in full force and the windiest days too (even our garden fences took the brunt that day) but not Georges skin which was a relief. This sun and wind balm is thick in texture, smells lovely and definitely a future purchase for us. George reminds me to put it on each day as it is part of his “adventure” clothing which is much better than our usual morning wrestle to protect his skin. This major benefit of using this is suncream above many others I have tried is that it DOESN’T STAIN CLOTHES and if that is not reason enough – I don’t know what is.

 

Happy Germ Hand Gel

Happy Germ Hand Gel, the world’s most natural probiotic hand gel! Children’s hands are sensitive and regular hand gels contain lots of chemicals to clean the skin. Toddle prefers to use more natural and healthy ingredients, along with essential oils that have natural antibiotic properties. Hand gel has become increasingly popular since covid19 and having a child friendly version is highly recommended for any parent.

Our Review of the Happy Germ Hand Gel

 If there was a time to test a family hand gel, during a pandemic 2020 was it!!! Initially, before we received this hand gel our hands were red raw from washing and anti-bacterial hand gels so this was definitely a welcome review. Since using this all of our hands including Georges have remained soft and moisturised – we were really impressed with this product.

 

Dribble Proof Lip Balm

Lip Balm, not only is it vegan, but it’s also dribble proof! This balm has been specially designed with babies and toddlers in mind, it’s full of natural ingredients, such as olive oil, jojoba and shea butter. This kit is great for your little ones and also the environment, it is sold in a glass jar and is bigger than most lip balms available on the market, meaning it lasts longer and there’s less waste.

Our Review of the Dripple Proof Lip Balm

Toddle really has thought of everything when it comes to protecting our little one’s skin. George suffers with chap lips and this last month before we received the kit they chapped up badly. Trying to tell a toddler not to lick his lips after applying a strawberry lip balm is virtually impossible and other lip products didn’t seem to work. We tried this and we were really impressed at how quickly Georges lips improved. We did apply it 3 times a day and then before bed but this is definitely something I would opt to use in the future.

 

Our overall review of Toddle’s Adventure Kit

This adventure kit is amazing, it includes some really important products that really protect children’s skin! It gives me peace of mind having this kit around, not only is it easy to gather up and take on a family day trip but my child does NOT allow me to forget it. It is now part of his explorer backpack with his compass, torch and all the other equipment he needs to be the best explorer.

 

We have awarded this fabulous brand with our recommended on mybump2baby badge.

 

Read other reviews here

If you would like to purchase this adventure click here or to buy any of the products separately click here.

What New Mothers Think About the NHS Birth Experience

What New Mothers Think About the NHS Birth Experience
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By Eddie Jones, Head of Clinical Negligence at JMW Solicitors.

Giving birth is a life-changing experience that can be extremely distressing if it follows a course that was unexpected or unwanted. JMW Solicitors’ clinical negligence team questioned more than 600 women with children about their birth experience in an NHS hospital and this is what they found.

The survey results highlighted vast differences in the type of experience that women have faced. Some 51% of women giving birth in NHS hospitals rated their overall care as ‘excellent’ and 35% said it was ‘good’.

Women’s experience of birth in an NHS hospital

Almost a quarter (24%) of women giving birth in NHS hospitals had a good experience, describing it as ‘extremely positive’, while 41% said it was ‘positive’. Only 9% of women said their experience was ‘extremely negative’, while 11% said it was ‘negative’. Some 16% of respondents said their experience of giving birth was neither ‘positive or negative’.

A new mother who had a positive experience said: “The staff were brilliant in a really traumatic situation. We were well looked after and, ultimately, they saved my life.”

When asked what aspects of their birth could have been improved, the majority (31%) said ‘nothing’, while others made the following suggestions:

  • Improvements to the treatment received by members of staff – 19%
  • The number of staff present at the birth – 15%
  • Not having to ‘share’ a ward – 15%
  • Improved waiting times – 8%

Were you offered any mental health support?

JMW also asked survey participants if they felt like the hospital had offered adequate mental health support before, during and after birth, with almost two-fifths (38%) saying ‘no’ – 30% said they were offered adequate mental health support, while 19% said ‘I don’t know’ and 14% said ‘maybe’.

Here are three women’s stories who experienced a lack of mental health support:

“My notes said that counselling or support was not required – I was never offered it and it was never discussed.”

“I asked for help on the postnatal ward as I knew I was not okay, but was told there was no help available until I visited my GP.”

“I was very shocked and traumatised after my birthing experience and this was not recognised at all. Although I was deeply upset by everything that happened, it was brushed over as it was just part of a ‘normal day at the office’. I have since been diagnosed with a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).”

Did a birthing plan adequately prepare you for birth?

Almost half of women who gave birth in a NHS hospital had a birthing plan for their most recent birth, with 53% of these saying their birth experience had met expectations outlined in the plan, and 47% saying it hadn’t.

One respondent whose birthing plan didn’t meet the expectations of the delivery said: “I was not aware of the risks of instrumental delivery so my birth plan was flawed – I never considered scenarios where instruments would be needed. I was led to believe that it was always best to avoid a caesarean section. Now I know otherwise.

“All this meant that my consent was assumed and the risks of instruments were never explained to me. The aftermath of my birth is how I found out.”

Treatment before, during and after birth

Regarding the care they received while on the maternity ward, the survey data suggested most new mothers had a positive experience. The results revealed that 51% of women rated their care as ‘excellent’, 35% said it was ‘good’, 14% said ‘average’, 7% said ‘bad’, and 4% said ‘extremely bad’.

One respondent had this to say about her treatment: “My midwife was someone we had grown to know throughout my pregnancy. I trusted her, and she was happy to listen to what I wanted, balanced with the needs of the pregnancy, because, of course, all pregnancies develop differently, as do all births.”

In relation to the information provided regarding physical recovery, 60% of mothers believed they were given enough information following the birth of their baby, while 30% said it was inadequate.

A new mother who described the information as inadequate said: “I was given no support in getting mobile again after surgery. I was told to get up and get my own breakfast the following day, even though my epidural had not fully worn off. When I asked for help at night, my baby was taken away to a nursery so I couldn’t attempt to breastfeed.”

 

What can I do if mistakes are made?

Giving birth is a life-changing experience that can take a huge physical and emotional toll on the mother. Of course, all births are different and there can be no way of predicting what can happen, but it is vital that the standard of care given is consistent.

When accidents occur during pregnancy or birth due to the negligence of the doctors and midwives providing the care, the injuries caused can have a devastating impact on both mother and child. If you have experienced negligence during pregnancy or birth, and you or your baby have suffered avoidable injuries, you are entitled to challenge these failures through legal action

Bringing a medical negligence claim is not just about receiving compensation, although this can be vital if long-term care is required and independence has been lost. It can help to ensure that other families don’t have to go through the trauma that you’ve experienced by helping to ensure that lessons are learned. For more information on making a claim, visit the JMW Solicitors website.

Keep Calm and Smell Great by Laura Ripley

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Disclosure: Some of the links within this article may contain affiliate links, meaning at no cost to you, we may get commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of the links within the article.

We are living through some crazy times at the moment and if we can help just one person feel a bit more at ease then that’s great. Today’s blog is how to Keep Calm & Smell Great written by Laura Ripley. Don’t forget that now more than ever you might need some time to yourself. Follow these fab tips to make lockdown life that little bit more glamorous. 

Keep Calm & Smell Great

Picture this…

Friday morning, the end of a busy week of homeschooling and social distancing and you’d really rather not have to get up….  well this is how I was feeling until recently.

Now, however, I have changed my mindset and start the day a different way.

Try this…

Take just two minutes before you get up to do a simple breathing exercise:

Close your eyes and take 5 deep breaths in and out and repeat 5 times. If you have an essential oil that calms you, add this to your hands and breath it in whilst doing this exercise.

Then before you get up, jot down quickly on your phone or piece of paper, 3 things you are grateful for and 3 goals for the day (these DON’T have to be big things).

Once you are up, I find a few gentle stretches to the sky really helps me.

Now for the big thing that’s changed me during lockdown… I make sure that even though I’m only at home I make sure I put perfume on!!!!!

“Smell good – feel good!”#

 

 

It might sound crazy but it’s massively helped improve my mindset and the way I feel throughout the day. We don’t think twice about wearing it on a night out, or to the office, but so many ladies I’ve been speaking to during lockdown have said they have stopped wearing perfume, make up, doing their hair and putting on ‘nice clothes’, because what’s the point???

The point is, by not doing these things we are making ourselves feel down before we even start the day! I’m not saying go crazy like you might for a night out or to go to work, but honestly it’s changed my view of lockdown and of home schooling to, just to feel like a woman, rather than just a mum trying to be all things to all people (especially a teacher which I don’t know about you but, I never signed up for that!!).

So my big thing is perfume, I’ve realised (especially during lockdown) that it identifies me as a woman. It also identifies me in other ways, as a wife when I wear a perfume my husband comments on, or when my daughter says “Mummy, you smell lovely”.

“Nothing in the world smells as good as the person you love”

I’ve always loved fragrances, for me they bring back memories about those in my life I care about, my first date with my now husband, what perfume I had on when I went into labour and on my wedding day.

There is evidence to suggest that perfumes can reduce your stress levels and boost your morale – they certainly have done for me!!

It’s a super easy thing to do when you get up, as a spray of perfume only takes a few moments to apply. The wrists, inside elbows, neck and hair are great places to apply a fragrance.

Remember the quote by Coco Chanel – “Spray perfume wherever one wants to be kissed!”

This leads me onto not stopping with just wearing perfume during the day, at home with the kids….

 

Picture this…

Friday night, kids in bed and takeaway on order.

Now give yourself half an hour of YOU time, for a soak in the bath with a glass of something, a good book or maybe an inspiring podcast. Honestly we deserve this time, especially now, so don’t feel guilty about taking it and make the time to ensure you get it.

When the craziness of the day has at least somewhat drifted away, take a bit of time to step out, put a bit of lippy on (mascara is personally my thing, so whatever is your go to) and importantly, add a fragrance! Maybe try one you haven’t used before, or a firm favourite, either way, even if you put your loungewear on, having a scent on you will honestly change your mindset.

My online business

It changed mine so much that a few weeks after lockdown I started up my own online business selling fragrances and I would love to help you on your fragrance mindset journey. So if there’s a fragrance you love, or one you’d like to try, contact me. I run Sincerely Scents, which sells designer inspired fragrances at such amazing prices, but that smell just like the real thing. I’d love to offer you a free tester sample if you’d like one. Just send me a message through my Facebook Group – @SincerelyScents.

So in signing off – “a fragrance is like a signature, so that even after a woman leaves the room, her fragrance should reveal she’s been there.”

Sincerely, Laura xx

Vitamins You Should Take During Pregnancy

Vitamins you should take during pregnancy
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Disclosure: Some of the links within this article may contain affiliate links, meaning at no cost to you, we may get commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of the links within the article.

MyBump2Baby loves to give advice to expecting parents, as we know how tough it can be to find reliable and honest information. Today’s blog is all about the vitamins you should take during pregnancy. 

Vitamins you should take during pregnancy

Vitamins You Should Take During Pregnancy

For a woman, motherhood cements her legacy as an individual capable of nurturing a person to live. Every woman reacts differently when a pregnancy is detected. Some are anxious, doubtful, and clueless. But, all of them (like you) rejoice to have a miracle in their lives.

This is one of the mains reasons why being healthy during your pregnancy is crucial. Not only for the baby but your sake as well. With this in mind, we’re going to discuss prenatal vitamins and which ones are great for your pregnancy.

Vitamin D

As the experts would recommend, 600 IU of Vitamin D per day is needed by the body. However, pregnant ladies need more as they are partaking not only for themselves but for their babies too.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for bone health, cell division, and boosting the immune system. But, as a precautionary measure, a woman should consult with her ob-gyn for Vitamin D deficiency as abnormal amounts have adverse effects on the pregnancy.

Folic Acid

A staggering number of congenital disabilities because of folic acid deficiency occur in the first trimester of pregnancy. Most women weren’t aware of the pregnancy and aren’t eating folate-rich meals, which lead to this seemingly avoidable incident.

Folic acid is integral to a woman’s nutrition because this vitamin is responsible for red blood cell production, baby’s growth and development, and DNA synthesis. Moreover, recommended intake levels of folic acid have been proven to minimise the risks of cleft palate, heart defects, and neural tube defects.

Iron

It doesn’t matter if you’re anemic or not; pregnant women require elevated iron levels for herself and the baby. A recent study discovered that in the United States alone, 18% of pregnant women are diagnosed with iron deficiency.

As per recommendation, 27 mg of iron is needed per day. But, you need to have a consultation with your ob-gyn as pregnancy can require more than what is recommended. Iron is essential for the development of the placenta, oxygen transport, and overall growth of the foetus.

Calcium

Since birth, calcium plays an essential role in growth and development. From strong bones, teeth, and healthy muscles, calcium is your body’s natural builder. As a mum-to-be, you must know that your body can’t make calcium. You need to eat or drink calcium-rich foods to prepare you and the baby for optimal health.

Probiotics

Speaking of mum-belly, research has shown that probiotics help in benefiting your digestive system. Probiotics reduce the risk of infant eczema, dermatitis, gestational diabetes, and postpartum depression.

Magnesium

Unknown to many, this mineral is essential for nerve function, muscle development, and strengthening the immune system. Some researches proved magnesium deficiency increases the risk of premature labor and chronic hypertension.

As our final note to mums-to-be, it is essential to consult with your ob-gyn for supplements and nutritional intake. Pregnancy is not a one-size-fits-all where one advice works for you. We want you to be aware and to practice responsibility because pregnancy is a miraculous event that you must take care of and cherish.

We hope this article helps and if it does, don’t forget to share your experiences below as we’d love to read them. Take care, mum-to-be!

Click here to access our list of vitamins for pregnancy.

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