Pregnancy & baby sitemap

Pregnancy & Baby
The iVillage Pregnancy channel is for you if you're pregnant planning a pregnancy or a new parent; includes ovulation fertility and pregnancy
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/channel/pregnancy-and-baby

Childcare
Childcare information and advice for parents grandparents and child carers including details about daycare nuseries and babysitting
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/childcare

Baby
Your long for baby has finally arrived but if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed don't panic. You and your baby are doing great but we've got tons of advice on feeding sleeping health and development for when you need a helping hand.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/baby

Fertility
Get the latest news on infertility treatments find out how to boost your chances of conception get up-to-date on contraception and learn about adoption
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/fertility

Pregnancy
Find out what to expect from your pregnancy during each trimester follow your baby's development and have your questions and concerns answered
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/pregnancy

Toddler
Information and advice on all aspects of your toddler and pre-school children
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/toddler

Promotions
Promotional content on the topic of Pregnancy and Baby.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/pregnancy-and-baby-promotions

Features
Features on the topics of pregnancy and baby.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/pregnancy-and-baby-features

A lady of leisure (for now, at least)...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-lady-leisure-now-least/167269

Baby and Me review: BMW Maclaren buggy

Single mum blogger Lucy reviews the buggy of the moment - the limited edition BMW Maclaren buggy, complete with bucket seat, BMW buckle and heaps of optional extras to make life easier and so much more stylish!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-bmw-maclaren-buggy/167256

Baby and Me review: Mia Tui's Minnie Amelie bag

Lucy and Olivia review the Minnie Amelie bag from award-winning changing bag brand Mai Tui

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-mia-tuis-minnie-amelie-bag/167222

3 of the best...travel pushcairs

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-besttravel-pushcairs/167225

Baby and Me review: Brother Max Carry and Hang Nightlight

Lucy and Olivia review the Carry and Hang Nightlight from innovative and stylish baby brand Brother Max...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-brother-max-carry-and-hang-nightlight/167221

The final countdown...

With less than a month to go it's all about the impending arrival in our house. Hubby is getting nagged to do various DIY tasks and chores, while I finally sort out my bags for the hospital and get organised for the new arrival. I am a master of the list so sticky yellow notes are popping up everywhere - most with illegible scrawls that came to mind in the middle of the night.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-final-countdown/167216

Are mums targeted too aggressively by retailers?

For most mums, pregnancy triggers an endless need for knowledge and reassurance, and while you still have time on your hands it's likely you'll spend at least some of it researching everything from pregnancy complications to nappies and nipple cream.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/are-mums-targeted-too-aggressively-by-retailers/167155

Baby and Me review: Snoodie dribble bibs

Single mum blogger Lucy reviews the Snoodie dribble bib, from award-winning mum-founded Mama Designs

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-snoodie-dribble-bibs/167141

Why do we undervalue midwives?

They regularly work 12-hour shifts through weekends and bank holidays, quietly deal with blood and gore, and hold your hand through one of the most vulnerable times of your life. Oh, and they’re not in it for the money. It may sound too good to be true, but every day midwives play an essential role in supporting women when they need it most.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/why-do-we-undervalue-midwives/166858

Countdown to maternity leave

10…9…8… The countdown of my final shifts until I start maternity leave has commenced. And I cannot wait to not be getting up at 3.30am, at least until the baby arrives and then I’ll be getting up at all sorts of hours. But I won’t have to dress up, slap on some make-up or do my hair, plus I can get in some good reading time on my Kindle while breastfeeding, so right now I’m looking forward to the newborn bonding time. Feel free to remind me of this when I’m moaning about lack of sleep and sore boobies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/countdown-maternity-leave/166853

Win the perfect baby shower gift

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-the-perfect-baby-shower-gift/166835

3 of the best...forward facing car seats

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason reviews three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at forward facing car seats.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestforward-facing-car-seats/166799

The Baby Show is coming to Birmingham!

The Baby Show, the UK’s leading pregnancy & parenting event, returns to ExCeL, London from 22nd - 24th February 2013. Here is a flavour of what you can expect to find at the show, from the best baby products on the market to expert advice. And this year, iVillage.co.uk will be there too, so why not pop in and say hello!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-baby-show-coming-birmingham/165017

Decorate your baby bump and win fabulous prizes!

Get creative with your baby bump and enter our brand new competition - upload a picture of your decorated bump for your chance to win one of our fabulous prizes!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/decorate-your-baby-bump-and-win-fabulous-prizes/166754

It's snow fun being pregnant in 'spring'

Before Christmas, I had visions that by this point in my pregnancy I’d be swanning around in the spring sunshine wearing light floaty summery dresses and flip flops. Of course, I was forgetting the great British weather and the fact we’ve just had one of the coldest Easter weekends on record.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/its-snow-fun-being-pregnant-in-spring/166696

36 embarrassing pregnancy pictures

Some the most cringeworthy pregnancy photos from Awkward Family Photos

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/36-embarrassing-pregnancy-pictures/131697

Best pregnancy and baby products: editor's picks

Shopping for pregnancy and baby products can be confusing with the huge range of options available these days. We have made things easier by doing the hard work for you and selecting our favourite tried and tested equipment, clothing and accessories.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/best-pregnancy-and-baby-products-editors-picks/166647

Does too much pregnancy advice help or hinder?

During pregnancy the need to know has never been stronger, but with endless guides, forums and apps on offer are we in danger of information overload?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/does-too-much-pregnancy-advice-help-or-hinder/166520

38 ways to guess your baby's sex

Have fun guessing your baby' sex with these old-wives' tales: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/38-ways-guess-your-babys-sex/81912

Life as a single mum flies by

Single mum Lucy is so busy keeping the plates spinning she can't believe where the time is going. From preparing for her return to study and getting Olivia into a good nursery to planning Olivia's first birthday, there seems little room to think about other things - like that diet plan or whether she even fancies her latest date...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/life-a-single-mum-flies-by/166463

Best dressed celebrity bumps

For a lesson in fashionable maternity wear, there are certain celebrities to turn to for inspiration. Dressing for new curves and an ever-growing bump isn't easy, but some celebs still manage to achieve effortless glamour. Take a look at these stylish mum-to-be's, who look more radiant than ever.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/best-dressed-celebrity-bumps/166420

Baby and Me review: me&i dresses

Baby and Me's Lucy Locket reviews Swedish clothing brand Me & I - who create bright and funky, skin-friendly, Scandi-style clothes for both women and children, which means you can shop for yourself as well as the kids. Well, it'd be rude not to...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-mei-dresses/166460

Everything you need to know about vaginal birth after cesarean

Everything you need to know about vaginal birth after cesarean. Just because you had a c-section doesn't mean you have to deliver that way the next time around. Here's what you need to know if you're interested in having a vaginal birth after cesarean.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/everything-you-need-know-about-vaginal-birth-after-cesarean/156199

First time mum syndrome?

Finding a nursery can be tough, and blogger Lucy Locket is having no luck with her first viewing. But is it all that bad or is she just a victim of 'first time mum syndrome'?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/first-time-mum-syndrome/166381

3 of the best...Daily Deal websites

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason reviews three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at Daily Deal websites.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestdaily-deal-websites/166410

Kate & Wills' Royal baby watch

The iVillage UK team keep track of all things royal baby related with a blog dedicated to the latest news, commentary and images surrounding the first baby of Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge - better known as Kate and Wills...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/kate-wills-royal-baby-watch/166384

Royal baby traditions: will William & Kate follow them?

Royal baby traditions. With a new Royal baby on its way, we take a look at the traditions followed and bucked by the British monarchy, which tends to act accordingly with old-fashioned customs. Looking at traditions of the past and present, what new ones can be expected for the future of the newest Royal addition?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/royal-baby-traditions-will-william-kate-follow-them/166288

The logistics of getting into a nursery school

Katharine Merry shares her firt-time experience of getting the right nursery. When the place you're after has a 900 METRE radius catchment area that can mean some drastic action. Oh, and she's only just discovered highstreet staple Oasis (Katharine, where have you been?)...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-logistics-getting-a-nursery-school/166274

Baby and Me review: BabyBlooms pyjama cupcakes

Lucy Locket and her baby daughter try Babyblooms cupcakes for size. The beautifully presented box of 'cupcakes' is in facts pyjama sets for baby in a tasty disguise. These sweet treats are made to be given away!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-babyblooms-pyjama-cupcakes/166254

10 ingenious baby products

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ingenious-baby-products/166184

10 common child misbehaviours and how to tackle them

‘Kids don’t come with a manual’ may be a bit of a cliché, but there will be times when you really wish they did. Challenging the boundaries is a normal part of childhood development and, as infuriating as it can be, we parents have to accept this to an extent. What we don’t have to do is let our kids get away with it time after time. Knowing the best way to handle a defiant child is a bit of a minefield, but we’ve got some ‘positive parenting’ strategies that should soon have the most unruly pre-schooler eating out of your hand.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-common-child-misbehaviours-and-how-tackle-them/165716

The joys of heartburn and swollen feet

With just two months to go (plus or minus however many weeks, depending on when the baby actually arrives) I'm already dreaming of the end-point of pregnancy – and quite frankly I can't wait to meet the new arrival – as long as we can skip that whole painful labour bit, please.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-joys-heartburn-and-swollen-feet/166109

Bad dating and emotional eating

Single mum Lucy brings us up to speed on how things are going with the dating (awfully) and dieting (not very well at all) and a trip back to the city has her hankering for the old days...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bad-dating-and-emotional-eating/165921

10 things our mothers put up with during pregnancy

Told to eat liver, kept in hospital and strapped to a bed for the birth – 30 years is a long time when it comes to pregnancy advice. Here are a few things that were different back then. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-our-mothers-put-during-pregnancy/165933

3 of the best...rear carriers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at rear carriers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestrear-carriers/165922

The older he gets, the more I miss him!

Flying back to England from the European Athletics Indoor Championships in Sweden, Katharine Merry reflects on how much she misses two-year-old Lucas, the older he gets and the more they do together. When does it get easier for working mums?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-older-he-gets-the-more-i-miss-him/165912

10 tips for choosing a baby name

Are you looking for traditional ‘with a twist’ or thinking of something altogether more unique? Whichever route you go down, a third of couples fall out over choosing a name, so here are a few things to consider before you begin. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-tips-choosing-a-baby-name/165697

Partying while I can...

I appear to have turned into a social butterfly of late, albeit a rather sober social butterfly given I’m seven months pregnant and get up at stupid o’clock for work (that’s 3.40am if you really want to know). Not to mention the proud owner of a toddler who isn’t going to win any Best Sleeper of the Year awards…

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/partying-while-i-can/165863

Baby and me review: MAM Night Soothers

Single mum blogger Lucy Locket reviews the glow-in-the-dark nighttime dummies: the Night Soother from MAM - the leading design brand in baby products.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-mam-night-soothers/165720

Celeb mums and sticky fingers - our big weekend at The Baby Show

You might be familiar with our articles, quizzes and galleries on pregnancy and parenting, but on the last weekend of February iVillage UK left the virtual arena and took our passion for all things baby to London's Baby Show to meet the women, men and children who share our interest. We'd like to say a big thanks to everyone who stopped by 'the iVillage green' to reveal their mummy confessions and chat with our celebrity ambassadors, Cherry Healey and Katy Hill.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/celeb-mums-and-sticky-fingers-our-big-weekend-the-baby-show/165585

The baby poo has hit the proverbial fan

Things have turned super sour between Lucy and baby daddy (and his girlfriend) and the serious post-baby diet regime has been enforced. Change is in the air!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-baby-poo-has-hit-the-proverbial-fan/165594

Has pregnancy changed your personality?

Having a child is a life-changing experience but how much has being pregnant changed the way you act and interract with others? Take this quiz to find out if your personality has changed. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/has-pregnancy-changed-your-personality/165589

Comical capers at The Baby Show

Compared to the previous weekend which was spent nursing my two sick boys, last weekend was jam-packed. It all started on Friday when my toddler, Ethan, and I attended our first film premiere together to see the screening of Disney’s Sofia the First. At the grand old age of two this was his first outing to a cinema and despite nibbling on far too many cake pops beforehand he managed to stay more or less in his seat!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/comical-capers-the-baby-show/165576

Win OXO Tot feeding equipment worth £50

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-oxo-tot-feeding-equipment-worth-%C2%A350/165560

3 of the best...car seat accessories

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at car seat accessories.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestcar-seat-accessories/165500

Yes, I'm pregnant, now bugger off!

'So, when are you due?' It's a simple enough question but unless you're wearing a helmet and flak jacket, one it might be better not to ask.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/yes-im-pregnant-now-bugger/165205

Ovulation and Fertility Calculator

Need help getting pregnant? This ovulation calculator will help you identify the days of the month when you are most fertile.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tool/ovulation-and-fertility-calculator

Win a Bando and BellyBelt

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-bando-and-bellybelt/165070

Due Date Calculator

Enter the first day of your last period. If you don't know the exact date, calculate as close as possible. The calculator will show you your estimated date of ovulation and the expected due date of your baby. Keep in mind that this is an estimate based on your last menstrual period and estimated date of conception. Always consult your doctor to determine your correct due date.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tool/due-date-calculator

Revived memories of life with a newborn

It’s not often these days that a young gentleman asks me to go for a late night drink. Even so I had to turn down last night’s request from my two-year-old to go into the living room and drink milk at 1.30am. Mainly because I was due to get up at 3.40am for work (the joys of breakfast telly), and also because quite frankly it was the middle of the night! A fact not totally unobserved by Ethan who did comment on how dark it was…

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/revived-memories-life-a-newborn/165399

It's my blog and I'll complain if I want to!

Single mum blogger Lucy Locket doesn't mind making some noise when things annoy her, and complaining - to the right people - can really pay off. So why do other people have such a problem with it?...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/its-my-blog-and-ill-complain-if-i-want/165375

Win a Samsung SEW-3036W baby monitor

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-samsung-sew-3036w-baby-monitor/165254

Blimey, moving house is stressful!

Katharine Merry has to cope with the stress moving house in not much time with a baby - while working up in Glasgow. It's going to be tough!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/blimey-moving-house-stressful/165369

Baby and Me review: BabyPing video monitor

iVillage.co.uk's single mum blogger Lucy Locket reviews the BabyPing - a video baby monitor which live streams to an app on your iPhone or iPad. Is this the future of baby monitoring?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-babyping-video-monitor/165367

Win a My Carry Potty

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-my-carry-potty/165067

Baby Monitor review: Philips Avent Eco

Baby monitors are one of the big purchases mums and dads make during pregnancy. They are not a safety device in that nothing beats you being present with your baby and lots of regular checks, but they offer peace of mind, and some models such as the Philips Avent Eco DECT SCD535/00 also offer a host of other invaluable features too.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-monitor-review-philips-avent-eco/165248

Win a BuggyBoard Maxi

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-buggyboard-maxi/165066

Since becoming a mummy…

Blogger Lucy realises that becoming a mother has made her become the person she never thought she would be... good and bad.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/becoming-a-mummy%E2%80%A6/165183

Sorry Michael MacIntyre, we're here to stay...

My second trimester is coming to an end, and according to one of my many pregnancy smart phone apps I'm now carrying a cauliflower. It is starting to look and feel that way…something I really noticed when I decided to quickly shave my legs in the shower followed by a DIY pedicure.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sorry-michael-macintyre-were-here-stay/165192

Win a Manduca baby carrier

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-manduca-baby-carrier/165050

Win a Love to Dream 50/50 swaddle-style sleep suit

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-love-dream-5050-swaddle-style-sleep-suit/165049

Get your baby reading on the go

I recently read how a crazy percentage of parents read classic books like Pride and Prejudice to their newborn babies. At first, I was like, 'oh my, what a bunch of nut jobs'. But as I read on and understood how it's supposed to make tots cleverer, I promptly picked up my copy of Oliver Twist and Sense and Sensibility and lay down on the bed with The Boy for storytime. I mean, after reading any information on ideas on making your baby smarter, it brings out the neurotic Asian mother in me which quite frankly isn't on because the poor chap is only four months old, but you can hardly blame me can you?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/get-your-baby-reading-the-go/165090

Win a KiddyGuard Accent stairgate

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-kiddyguard-accent-stairgate/165032

Exclusive review: Bugaboo Chameleon 3 travel system

I'm so thrilled I'm doing this review. In fact so thrilled, I'm going to treat the review as my own Jeremy Clarkson-style-car review, only instead of a top of the range motor vehicle, I'm reviewing a top-of-the-range baby transportation vehicle. One which The Boy loves, and which has become an absolutely essential part of his daily lifestyle.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/exclusive-review-bugaboo-chameleon-3-travel-system/165044

Can you see me?

The diet is going well, 'baby daddy' has gone AWOL and Lucy asks why is is that as soon as you have a baby you lose your identity. But it's okay, there's a holiday afoot!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-you-see-me/164942

The ever-changing face of pregnancy advice

The ever-changing face of pregnancy advice. Fancy a cigarette to de-stress now you’re pregnant? What about a Guinness - purely ‘for the iron’ of course? We look at how pregnancy advice has changed over the decades.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-ever-changing-face-pregnancy-advice/164982

3 of the best...nursery interior collections

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at nursery interior collections.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestnursery-interior-collections/164967

Old wives' tales and baby brain

There are times I love being pregnant – and when everyone in the office is on a fasting diet and you're busy munching biscuits is definitely one of them! Granted, I do feel a little bit more padded than I did when pregnant with Ethan, but given how cold it feels right now that's no bad thing. And now I'm nearly six months there's no mistaking it's a baby bump responsible for my expanding girth. I hope!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/old-wives-tales-and-baby-brain/164954

Join us at The Baby Show 2013!

iVillage.co.uk are delighted to announce that we will be at The Baby Show ExCeL, London from 22nd - 24th February 2013 and you can be there too at a fraction of the on-the-door price. Simply follow this link, visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk or call 0871 231 0844 and quote code IV100 when booking to get a 40 per cent discount on your ticket.*

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/join-us-the-baby-show-2013/164958

Essentials and nice-to-haves

I was looking forward to doing most of my blog and my baby reviews during the pregnancy and writing about how much I liked certain products and why. Also, I thought writing the reviews then would help me - and you lovely dolls - to make choices over what essentials and nice-to-haves, (especially when it came to sleeping) we should spend our hard-earned moolah on.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/essentials-and-nice-haves/164945

Baby and Me review: theBabaSling

iVillage.co.uk's single mum blogger Lucy Locket reviews the Baba Sling as they expend their collection with 2013's hot colour - teal green.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-and-me-review-thebabasling/164678

Rock on Tommy's

This week didn’t start off particularly well, after a nasty stomach bug floored me on Sunday night and Monday. And of course, being pregnant means you have to be a bit more careful about these things. Naturally, my first step (after a night spent dashing to and from the loo) was to hit the Internet and Google whether I needed to see a doctor or midwife.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/rock-tommys/164762

Pregnancy must-haves: The Dreamgenii pillow

One of the most common things I'm told as I approach the birth of my child is to get as much sleep as I can while I can. Being the size of a house isn't always conducive to restful sleep but my discovery of the Dreamgenii pregnancy pillow has seen my sleep pattern improve dramatically.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnancy-must-haves-the-dreamgenii-pillow/164749

Going antenatal with the NCT

I attended NCT Antenatal classes to help support me on my journey into parenthood when I was in my 7th month of pregnancy back in July. It was the best thing I ever did. Not simply because of what the classes taught me, but because of the friendships I've struck up with the other ladies on the course ever since. We have become an amazing support system, good friends who are always a phone call away and who try to meet once a week, and our babies have a ready-made friends circle.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/going-antenatal-the-nct/164690

One of those days...

Single mum Lucy's having one of those days - or one of those weeks - where she can't help but wallow in a little self pity. The house is a mess, the exercise regime's gone a little awry and the weather's been pants! In more positive news, baby daddy's family have been overly welcoming and, despite the lack of exercise, Lucy's lost more weight. And could coffee with an old school friend turn into something romantic?...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/one-those-days/164674

5 top tips for expectant Dads

Whether you have just found out you are expecting, or you are counting down the days till your little one's arrival, here are some top tips for making sure you are prepared.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/5-top-tips-expectant-dads/164676

50 finger foods your baby will love

Learning how to feed a baby can be harder than you expect. Here are fresh ideas that your hungry tot will be excited to pick up.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/50-finger-foods-your-baby-will-love/164547

Home sweet home

Fresh off holiday single mum Lucy realises how much Olivia is growing up and we find out how well her diet is going.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/home-sweet-home/164238

On-screen maternity wear dilemmas

I'm back up in Glasgow this week, presenting the weather on BBC Scotland. So, following a fantastic time at BBC South, I've gone from one end of the country to the other! But after a few weeks off over Christmas and a much more noticeable bump, deciding what to wear on-screen is no easy task.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/screen-maternity-wear-dilemmas/164344

10 pregnancy peer pressures you should ignore

Worried about how you'll give birth without drugs or afford the latest buggy for your tot? Ignore the hype – here are a few things not to worry about during pregnancy... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-pregnancy-peer-pressures-you-should-ignore/164305

2013 fitness regime

Katharine Merry is back after Christmas and New year to tell us about what's been going on so far, from moving house to getting engaged to ramping up her fitness... It seems Katharine's been a busy bee.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/2013-fitness-regime/164205

3 of the best...nursing covers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby and child products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at nursing covers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestnursing-covers/164203

Winter pregnancy survival guide

From skincare advice to keeping warm in style, here’s how to stay happy and healthy with bump through the winter months. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/winter-pregnancy-survival-guide/143883

Our first holiday and I've got my hands full!

Single mum and blogger Lucy Locket takes us through her first experience of holidaying with baby and her baby daddy's parents seem a little over-keen.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/our-first-holiday-and-ive-got-my-hands-full/163990

A different kind of pregnancy scan

One of the trickiest things about being pregnant is keeping up with what you should or shouldn't do, especially when it comes to food. I'm pretty sure smoked salmon was a no-no when I was pregnant two years ago, but this time apparently it's OK (at least in the UK). Although I've never quite gotten over finding out about the small worms that can live in the fish and that the smoking process doesn’t always kill them off...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-different-kind-pregnancy-scan/164086

The ride of a newborn's life

It was when I had the Maxi-Cosi Pebble car seat delivered back in August 2012 that suddenly this whole I'm-bringing-a-baby-home thing became properly real for me. As much as I had quite a few baby 'essentials' in terms of what new mums put on their checklists, there really isn't much a newborn needs right away except a mother’s loving arms, milk (either via bottle or breast), clothes, a Moses basket or cot to sleep in and a car seat.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-ride-a-newborns-life/164087

I’m like a woman possessed with my pregnancy sex drive

A woman who is four months pregnant sex drive has sky rocketed and she is worried that he husband, although keeping up, may be a little freaked out.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i%E2%80%99m-a-woman-possessed-my-pregnancy-sex-drive/163948

10 things all pregnant women fear

Do you have something on your mind? A little worry goes with the territory when you're pregnant. Here are a few things likely to send your anxiety levels soaring. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-all-pregnant-women-fear/163961

Confessions of a pregnant lady

To the outside world you're a model mum-to-be – you eat well, take regular exercise and always, always tell the truth. Don’t you? Here are a few ways your halo might slip during pregnancy. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/confessions-a-pregnant-lady/163784

Online dating and sharing baby

Lucy tells us about the pain of sharing her child with the 'baby daddy' at Christmas and the issues and annoyances of internet dating.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/online-dating-and-sharing-baby/163603

Emerging from the chaos

Hello and welcome to my first iVillage.co.uk blog! I thought I'd start with a little bit about me. I've been a TV and radio weather presenter for nearly a decade, both on the BBC and ITV. Some of you may remember me from breakfast weather broadcasts on GMTV and Daybreak, where years of 3.30am alarm calls put me in good stead for coping with a newborn! My little boy, Ethan, is now two years old and about to become a big brother as my husband Renato and I are expecting a new arrival in May.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/emerging-the-chaos/163799

Kirsty's pregnancy forecast

Kirsty McCabe is a meteorologist and TV presenter, who has presented weather forecasts across the entire range of BBC television and radio channels, including Breakfast, BBC One, BBC News and World News, Radio 4 and Radio 5Live. She has also presented on GMTV and Daybreak and is currently weather presenter for BBC Scotland. She lives in South London with her husband and their baby boy, Ethan, and is pregnant with her second child.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/kirstys-pregnancy-forecast/163798

Baby name finder

Find a name for your baby-to-be or to learn what your baby's name means

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tool/baby-name-finder

Expert advice for dealing with baby colds

Expert tips for looking after babies suffering from the common cold virus, provided by Lisa Cree, paediatric nurse at Spire Bristol Hospital.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/expert-advice-dealing-baby-colds/163623

From career girl to single mum

A candid new blog from a 27-year-old single mum to a baby girl who has a difficult dad and jealous 'stepmum'...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/career-girl-single-mum/163570

Being pregnant at Christmas - a survival guide

The festive season can be stressful at the best of times, and if you’re pregnant you’ll need a few strategies to see you through. From avoiding the high street to keeping your cool at the office party – here’s our Christmas pregnancy survival guide.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/being-pregnant-christmas-a-survival-guide/155072

8 early signs of labour

As the big day approaches every twinge can leave you wondering ‘am I in labour?’ Here are a few signs to help you know when it’s the real thing. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/8-early-signs-labour/144511

3 of the best...travel systems

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at travel systems.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-besttravel-systems/156603

A new miracle

First up, mahoosive apologies for the long hiatus in updating the blog. As you remember, I was pregnant when I started this thing. I seriously thought I'd be able to work throughout my pregnancy but alas, mother nature had other plans.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-new-miracle/156632

Expert travel advice for expectant mums

With the announcement of a royal baby on the way in 2013, the issues surrounding travelling when pregnant have been brought into sharp focus. It is wise to be cautious, as no expecting mum wants to put themselves at risk. However, with a bit of help and advice, travelling can be no problem at all. We take a look at what you need to be aware of if you’re pregnant and are thinking of taking a holiday.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/expert-travel-advice-expectant-mums/156580

20 labour and delivery surprises

There goes the birth plan! No matter how much you prepare, the labour and delivery process can still hold a lot of surprises. Read on to learn 21 of the most common ones

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/20-labour-and-delivery-surprises/156492

Time for the truth about Kate Middleton and Hyperemesis Gravidarum

I'm sure you've all seen the news. The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been admitted to hospital with Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). I'm also sure that if you've never heard of this, the fact that the media are calling it 'acute morning sickness' isn't really helping.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/time-the-truth-about-kate-middleton-and-hyperemesis-gravidarum/156396

Easy steps to getting in shape post-baby

On average pregnant women put on between 17 and 30lb in total. You may have been witnessing these changes in amazement or you may be worrying how you’re going to lose all that extra weight once the baby is born. The good news is that if you’ve managed to keep active throughout pregnancy and were fit and well beforehand it shouldn’t be too much of a challenge, as long as you’re realistic about what you want to achieve.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/easy-steps-getting-in-shape-post-baby/156320

3 of the best...maternity ranges

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at maternity ranges.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestmaternity-ranges/156275

Miscarriage: answers to your 10 most-asked questions

Miscarriage: from miscarriage symptons to recovery, answers to your 10 most-asked questions. A miscarriage is the loss of a baby before the 20th week of pregnancy - most occurring during the first 12 weeks. Miscarriages occur in about 15 per cent of recognised pregnancies. About 85 per cent of women who miscarry go on to have a healthy pregnancy the next time. Get support from women who have also experienced pregnancy loss, as well as the expert answers you need as you cope with miscarriage.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/miscarriage-answers-your-10-most-asked-questions/156170

Expecting? Watch that blood sugar

Expecting? Watch that blood sugar. If you are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant, recent research indicates that it's in your baby's best interest to keep your blood sugar levels below 95 mg/dl, especially in the second and third trimesters of your pregnancy.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/expecting-watch-blood-sugar/156178

Preterm delivery

Preterm delivery. One out of every ten pregnant women gives birth before term - the end of the 37th week. Only 30 per cent of these deliveries involve more than one baby. Another 20 per cent have risk factors, such as previous preterm labour and bleeding during the second trimester. However, half of those who deliver prematurely lack any major risk factor. There are still many unanswered questions about why preterm delivery occurs.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/preterm-delivery/156165

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is a condition unique to pregnancy in which a mother develops hypertension often associated with signs such as water retention and protein in the urine. The mother may have symptoms such as headache, edema and visual disturbances such as blurred vision, tunnel vision or sparkles of light in her visual field. In advanced cases, she may experience pain in the upper outer quadrant of the abdomen which signifies liver involvement.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-are-the-symptoms-preeclampsia/156164

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GD) simply means elevated blood sugar during pregnancy. To understand it, you must first understand the normal changes in pregnancy metabolism (34). When you are pregnant, certain hormones make your insulin less effective at transporting glucose, the body’s fuel, out of your bloodstream into your cells. This increases the amount of circulating glucose, making it available to your baby for growth and development. This 'insulin resistance' increases as pregnancy advances. As a result, your blood glucose levels after eating rise linearly throughout pregnancy. By the third trimester, you will tend to have higher blood glucose levels after eating than nonpregnant women (hyperglycemia), despite secreting normal and above normal amounts of insulin. During overnight sleep, the excess insulin has a chance to mop up, which causes morning glucose levels to be lower on average than in nonpregnant women (hypoglycemia).

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/gestational-diabetes/156108

Group B Strep in pregnancy: what you need to know

What Is Group B Strep? Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most common cause of sepsis (blood infection) and meningitis (infection of the fluid and lining surrounding the brain) in newborns. Between 10 and 35 per cent of women carry this bacteria within the vagina and or the lower intestine. Most of the time, the bacteria does not cause any symptoms in the pregnant woman, although it can cause bladder and uterine infections (amnionitis, endometritis). It is a different story in the newborn infant. Usually, babies are exposed to Group B Strep during labor and delivery, becoming infected when they swallow or inhale the bacteria. There is also evidence that GBS may cross intact membranes to expose the baby while it is still in the womb. Exposure to GBS can cause life-threatening infection of the blood (sepsis) or infection of the fluid and lining surrounding the brain (meningitis). The majority of infections in newborns occur within the first week of life and most infections become evident in the baby's first three months of life.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/group-b-strep-in-pregnancy-what-you-need-know/156109

Pregnancy: does age really matter?

Some people believe that waiting until after the age of 35 to become pregnant may increase a woman's risk of complications. Is this true? Conceiving a baby at either extreme of reproductive life presents risks and challenges. Today, larger numbers of women are having babies at an older age, so the increasing 'incidence' of certain problems does not tell the whole story.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnancy-does-age-really-matter/156105

How to explain IVF to your child

I'm grateful every day for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), since that's how I was able to conceive my stunningly smart 6-year-old. I think a lot about what my husband and I are going to tell our son (if anything) about his 'petri dish' origins. With IVF, there's a lot to be proud of - I see it as one of the most incredible miracles of our time. But the birds and the bees are tough enough to explain to a kid; getting conceived with the help of technology seems even more awkward.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-explain-ivf-your-child/156104

Can yoga and acupuncture help you get pregnant?

Anyone who’s struggled to get pregnant has heard (and inwardly steamed over) the advice to 'just relax.' But as a recent New York Times article pointed out, there may be a grain of truth to that old adage -- and many women around the country are looking to alternative approaches like 'yoga for fertility' classes, meditation and acupuncture to add to (and aid in) their assisted reproductive plans.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-yoga-and-acupuncture-help-you-get-pregnant/156095

Christmas central

Whether you're looking for something pretty for her or failsafe for him, or your stuck for ideas of what to get the kids this year. Look no further than our comprehensive gift guide

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/christmas-central/93308

10 budgeting tips to help you through maternity leave

Maternity pay will help keep the wolf from the door, but even the best packages could leave you feeling the pinch after the first few weeks of leave. Here are a few simple strategies to help make your money go further.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-budgeting-tips-help-you-through-maternity-leave/155967

10 products to ease you through pregnancy

There’s not always an easy way to put it – pregnancy can be hard work, and labour, unfortunately is just that! Ultimately the joy of a new child overweighs any hardship during pregnancy, however to help you on your way there are some top products that can make life that little easier during those nine months....

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-products-ease-you-through-pregnancy/155877

3 of the best...trikes

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at trikes.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-besttrikes/155654

Christmas prep!

As Christmas approaches fast on our blogger Katharine Merry she what life's all about with a toddler during the lead up to the big day and what her make-up secret is.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/christmas-prep/155725

10 things to do before the baby arrives

Nine months seems like an eternity when you first discover you’re pregnant, but the weeks fly by, and before you know it you’ll have a newborn on your hands. Here are our top 10 things to do while you still have time.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-do-the-baby-arrives/155724

10 of the best Christmas gifts for new mums

Welcoming a new baby is always a delightful time however that’s no excuse to leave mum’s out! Here’s a run through of some of the top gifts for new mothers this Christmas....

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-the-best-christmas-gifts-new-mums/155532

Could your lifestyle be harming your unborn child?

You know a healthy lifestyle is good for your developing baby, but what matters most when it comes to pregnancy health? Take our quiz to find out how healthy you really are, and discover how a few simple changes could reduce the risk of complications and help improve your baby's chances. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/could-your-lifestyle-be-harming-your-unborn-child/155348

Birth defects: the key questions answered

There are a number of anxieties associated with pregnancy, one of which is the fear that your child will suffer from a birth defect. We cover some of the most frequently asked questions mothers-to-be have. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/birth-defects-the-key-questions-answered/155286

3 of the best...night lights

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at night lights.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestnight-lights/155240

10 pregnancy symptoms you should never ignore

Your pregnant body changes so often it can be hard to tell what’s normal. Especially when symptoms of a normal pregnancy could be a sign of something more serious. So when should you worry? Here are 10 symptoms you should never ignore….

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-pregnancy-symptoms-you-should-never-ignore/154892

3 of the best...nursing bras

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at nursing bras.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestnursing-bras/154760

Twinkle togs and a twinkle in mum's eye

Katherine Merry finds the perfect solution for babies who just can't stay under the cover in bed and talks about having more kids...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/twinkle-togs-and-a-twinkle-in-mums-eye/154714

iat check

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/iat-check/154696

10 reasons to feel good about your pregnant body

Pregnancy guides come with dire warnings about pregnancy niggles and discomforts. But while a few aches and pains may be par for the course, it’s not all heartburn and constipation. Here are the top 10 reasons to feel good about your pregnant body.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-reasons-feel-good-about-your-pregnant-body/154457

Stuff we love: new mum gifts

Being a new mum can be hard work but there are a growing number of products out there designed to soften the blow and give mums a taste of relaxation. Here is our pick of the best new mum gifts available.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/stuff-we-love-new-mum-gifts/154374

What's your pregnancy personality?

So you think pregnancy won’t change you? You might be surprised. Even the most go-getting career women can become blissed-out earth mothers, while the normally laid-back find themselves nervous wrecks when it comes to the 12 week scan. Take our quiz to discover your pregnancy personality.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/whats-your-pregnancy-personality/154278

The lowdown on pregnancy and vaginal health

While bringing a new life into the world is a glorious thing, it can be difficult to cope with all the changes that happen to your body during pregnancy. Nothing can prepare you for the experience of carrying a child, and many of us will wonder whether the changes we experience are ‘normal’ – particularly when it comes to the intimate area.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-lowdown-pregnancy-and-vaginal-health/154198

3 of the best...starter bottles

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at starter bottles.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-beststarter-bottles/154164

When you smoke, your baby smokes too

We all know that smoking is bad for our health, when we have a baby on board it is even more of a threat. Cigarettes are among the most toxic substances you can put into your body, and when you breathe in that smoke, you are inhaling poisonous carbon monoxide and inviting it into your bloodstream, where it stops your blood from delivering oxygen efficiently around your body.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-you-smoke-your-baby-smokes-too/154732

Clever ways to save money on baby costs

The cost of raising a child from birth to his/her 21st birthday has risen to £218,000. That's a lot of money to many of us. There are some costs that will always be unavoidable, however there are also great ways of lessening the amount you spend in your child's early years.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/clever-ways-save-money-baby-costs/153651

At a glance: your pregnancy step by step

Pregnancy is a leap into the unknown, so here’s a look at what to expect each step of the way. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-glance-your-pregnancy-step-by-step/153575

test bedwetting

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/test-bedwetting/153562

3 of the best...play mats

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at play mats.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestplay-mats/153439

10 ways your body will change during pregnancy

It’s not just your waistline that changes during pregnancy. Breasts, skin, teeth – even your hands and feet will behave in ways you didn’t expect. Here are 10 physical changes to look out for. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ways-your-body-will-change-during-pregnancy/153316

10 top tips to help Dads survive pregnancy

There is a plethora of information and advice available for Mums to be, from books to magazines and online forums such as the iVilage.co.uk Message Boards. But what about Dads? Mark Woods, author of Pregnancy for Men - 101 tips, offers his pearls of wisdom for expectant fathers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-top-tips-help-dads-survive-pregnancy/153365

Morning sickness fact check

Morning sickness affects up to 80 per cent of women during pregnancy and can be miserable while it lasts. We look at why it happens, who is most at risk, and how to cope if it happens to you. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/morning-sickness-fact-check/153123

Is it bigger than a teacup?

Despite being a natural and healthy process, the experience of being pregnant and growing another person inside you can feel very strange, unless you read round the subject a little. Test your foetal growth knowledge with this 10-question quiz, and discover the joy of knowing your baby intimately. By Michelle Shinseki

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/it-bigger-a-teacup/93264

10 things that will get on your nerves during pregnancy

Mood swings are part and parcel of pregnancy but some things seem tailor-made to annoy you. From tactless friends to the size of your bump, here are 10 irritations guaranteed to make your blood boil. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-will-get-your-nerves-during-pregnancy/152945

3 of the best...baby foods

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby foods.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-foods/152914

Keep calm and carry on, and on - double time for twins!

Naomi Hill mum of three kids, two of which are twins, shares her must have's and must do tips for mum and babies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/keep-calm-and-carry-and-double-time-twins/152543

How strong is your support network?

The first few weeks with a newborn can be overwhelming. You’ll have more questions than answers, and be more tired than you ever thought possible. A strong support network can make all the difference – try our quiz to discover how you can improve yours.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-strong-your-support-network/150378

The first time I ever saw your face

So I went for my first 4D private scan today. I booked myself in at Peekaboo 4D Scans in Crawley during my 27th week gestation, mainly because I wanted further reassurance regarding baby’s growth, health and to check there was enough amniotic fluid around baby, and also because it would give me a further opportunity to bond as a mama-to-be.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-first-time-i-ever-saw-your-face/152496

12 ways to beat morning sickness

You're pregnant! Then it hits...morning sickness, such an ungracious way to start what should be one of the best experiences of your life. But there are ways to ease the sick feeling - and here are 15 of them.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/12-ways-beat-morning-sickness/152401

3 of the best...baby bouncers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby bouncers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-bouncers/152456

Look who's talking - hilarious baby memes

Here we've got some of the craziest and cutest baby memes around. Check out the 16 most hilarious (and surprisingly accurate) meme photos!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/look-whos-talking-hilarious-baby-memes/152093

13 maternity style tips

Being an expectant mum presents a lot of challenges when it comes to staying stylish - what is appropriate, comfortable and flattering at a time when your body shape is constantly changing? Celebrity stylist Alex Longmore gives our Community mums some expert tips on how to look fabulous with that bump!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/13-maternity-style-tips/152141

3 of the best...ride-on cars

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at ride-on cars.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestride-cars/151820

Potty training: is your child ready?

How do you know when your child is ready to ditch the nappies and head for the potty or toilet? There are some signs to watch out for, so take this quiz and find out whether your little darling is ready for 'big boy (or girl) pants'!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/potty-training-your-child-ready/74112

The baby and Cosatto

Our youngest child is one very lucky lady indeed. She has developed quite a taste for the cheekiest baby brand in town (see how I’m blaming her) and has had the great fortune to lounge around in both the Yo! Giggle Golightly stroller and the amazing Trof highchair. And where to begin?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-baby-and-cosatto/151613

Everyday things that will change once you're a mum

When you're pregnant, many people - even those who have never had kids - will tell you having your baby will be 'a life-changing experience'. But what, exactly, does change? Here are 10 of the big ones... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/everyday-things-will-change-once-youre-a-mum/151544

Toilet training tantrums

Each day with my son is a learning curve. He is like chalk to his sister’s cheese. We have never encountered a child like him before, and neither has my mum. We are often left scratching our heads, looking for answers to his behaviour, his health issues and his tantrums.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/toilet-training-tantrums/151549

Could Name it Labels be the answer?

Those who know me really well know that I am not exactly the world’s most organised person. I’m a lot better than I used to be but now I have three children, sometimes I feel as though my brain might explode with all their different appointments and so on. Our calendar is the most looked-at piece of equipment after the television and yet I still manage to miss things. Can I still blame baby brain five months down the line?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/could-name-it-labels-be-the-answer/151385

Funky baby fashion

I got used to cooing over baby clothes about five years ago when two of my eldest cousins brought their adorable daughters into this world. Since then, I’ve become someone who can’t resist going gaga over a funky and gorgeous baby grow.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/funky-baby-fashion/151331

3 of the best...double pushchairs

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at double pushchairs.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestdouble-pushchairs/151268

The most common new mum fears and how to overcome them

Worry is part and parcel of parenthood, from development anxiety to whether you’ll be a good enough mum. Here are the most common fears keeping new mums awake at night - and some advice on how to put them to one side. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-most-common-new-mum-fears-and-how-overcome-them/151289

Does anyone want to be me for the night?

The title of this post is only half serious. Honest. It’s just that I’ve reached that point where five months of intense breastfeeding has started to become a little arduous, if I can be so blunt, and I’d quite like a night off now please.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/does-anyone-want-be-me-the-night/151258

14 things they don't tell you about the delivery process

There are many things if you're pregnant you will be learning about, what to eat, what good and bad things you can do, what you can expect of labour...but there are still some things people neglect to tell you. So here are 14 of them to help you through the delivery process.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/14-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-the-delivery-process/151132

Mama look good

I have a two friends who are expecting their first babies this year. One of them is a glamorous singer, the other is a fitness expert.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mama-look-good/151044

10 pregnancy beauty best buys

Who says you can’t be glamorous when you’re pregnant? Get your glow on for those nine months and beyond with our favourite beauty buys - can you and your bump live without them? By Rebecca Barnes

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-pregnancy-beauty-best-buys/150981

The dos and don'ts of long journeys with babies

Taking a long trip with a baby, whether by car or plane, doesn’t have to be a headache if you’re well organised and make some clever preparations. Here are 10 dos and don’ts of travelling with your baby.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-dos-and-donts-long-journeys-babies/149476

10 ways to entertain your baby

Nothing beats hearing those chuckles of delight or shrieks of joy when your baby is in a happy mood. Stuck for ways to keep your little one jolly? Here are ten easy ideas from mum-of-two Tara King.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ways-entertain-your-baby/82095

Tips for flying with babies

An in-flight survival guide for harassed parents coping with babies on plane: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tips-flying-babies/81804

Seven ways to bond with your baby

Bonding is not a single magic event in the relationship between parent and child. It's a growing feeling that happens as two people fall in love and deepen their relationship over time

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/seven-ways-bond-your-baby/82049

10 steps to developing an effective support network

Life with a new baby can be daunting and no matter how well you can cope there will be times when you need all the help you can get. Here’s where to find the support you need.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-steps-developing-effective-support-network/150714

What's your baby name style?

Are you a stickler for tradition, or set to give your baby a name that’s all their own? Take our quiz to find out what kind of namer you are.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/whats-your-baby-name-style/127185

3 of the best...high chairs

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at high chairs.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-besthigh-chairs/150517

Nurturing creativity

We’re trying something new at the moment. It’s called no-nap time. It was all the toddler’s idea and I have to say that I am not completely sold on it yet. It goes like this:

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/nurturing-creativity/150291

Cherie Blair: you're wrong on working mums

I’m not sure quite what Cherie Blair was trying to do when she recently ‘launched an attack’ on so-called Yummy Mummies. The ex Prime Minister’s wife apparently called for all stay-at-home mums to get a grip and get back to work, or else been seen as unable to cope without a rich husband.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/cherie-blair-youre-wrong-working-mums/150162

10 coping strategies for sleepless nights

Broken nights are part and parcel of parenthood, but too little sleep can leave you feeling low, irritable or unable to cope. Here are a few tips to help make it easier. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-coping-strategies-sleepless-nights/149923

Breastfeeding - 19 weeks on

I can hardly believe Isobel is 19 weeks old! It only feels like yesterday writing about her impending birth and all the emotions I was feeling whilst heavily pregnant with her. Oh, how our lives have changed! I already knew from experience that having a baby changes your life so much but I still wasn’t prepared for this!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-19-weeks/149884

Do you have celebrity mum envy?

Slick, sexy and super-rich - no wonder those high-profile yummy mummies can make us mere mortals feel sadly lacking. So do you crave a little celebrity mum sparkle?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/do-you-have-celebrity-mum-envy/122857

10 of the most unusual pregnancy cravings

Ice, chilli, chalk and...cigarette ash are just a few of the most unusual cravings among pregnant women, according to a new survey. The poll, carried out by ECigaretteDirect.co.uk asked 400 women what their strangest cravings had been whilst pregnant. Here are the top 10...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-the-most-unusual-pregnancy-cravings/149862

3 of the best...baby sleeping bags

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby sleeping bags.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-sleeping-bags/149723

Feed the pregnant woman!

In most cultures, it’s considered good luck to feed a pregnant woman. By that I mean help her satisfy her food cravings by offering to eat out, cooking for her or rushing to the 24-hour local garage for late night snacks.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/feed-the-pregnant-woman/149722

My pregnancy week-by-week

This week by week pregnancy calendar provides you with information about your pregnancy and describes how your baby is developing.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tool/my-pregnancy-week-by-week

10 drug-free coping techniques during labour

Pain is a normal part of childbirth, but if you want to avoid medication there are a number of methods available to help you cope. Here are 10 drug-free ways to deal with pain during labour.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-drug-free-coping-techniques-during-labour/149466

Breastfeeding – a feminist issue?

Breast or bottle? It’s a simple enough question, yet how you choose to feed your baby could throw you headlong into an emotionally-charged debate that shows no sign of fizzling out any time soon.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-%E2%80%93-a-feminist-issue/149071

10 reasons why you should attend antenatal classes

Antenatal classes aren’t just about the breathing exercises. A good class will teach you everything from the pros and cons of pain relief to what happens if things don’t to plan. Here’s why it’s worth going... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-reasons-why-you-should-attend-antenatal-classes/149260

All hail the changing bag!

As a woman obsessed with bags, you can only imagine my delight when I learned there’s a whole new sort of bag involved in becoming a mummy – a changing bag! I’ve a feeling I’m going to be totally addicted to them and so will be shopping around for a few in the coming months.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/all-hail-the-changing-bag/149236

3 of the best...travel cots

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at travel cots.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-besttravel-cots/149234

My must-have pregnancy books

I found out I was pregnant over a weekend where I was so ill I couldn’t get out of bed. But the first thing I rushed out to buy as soon as I was up and about again was a truck load of magazines and pregnancy books. I wanted to be as informed and prepared as I could ever be.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/my-must-have-pregnancy-books/148859

Leave our maternity leave alone!

In the UK, we new mums are currently very lucky when it comes to paid maternity leave allowance. As it stands, we can take up to nine months off work with an additional three months unpaid should we feel so inclined. In comparison to other countries, this is a very generous allowance and one that has taken many years to evolve. In my own mother’s day, women were given just 12 weeks at home and were required to take six of those before the baby’s due date. Thank goodness times have changed…or have they? It seems the government wants to return to the ‘good old days’ with a proposed reduction of maternity leave to just 18 weeks, in contrast to the current nine months. Surely this is a backwards step with regards to encouraging more women to return to work?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/leave-our-maternity-leave-alone/148793

3 of the best...Group 1 car seats

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at Group 1 car seats.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestgroup-1-car-seats/148736

How will you cope with labour?

Every woman’s experience of labour is different, but how well will you cope? Take the quiz to find out. By Hilary Pereira

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-will-you-cope-labour/148648

No, she isn’t sleeping through yet

My baby isn’t sleeping through the night. There, I said it. Happy now? Well I am. I honestly do noy give it as much thought as random strangers seem to be giving it. I’m just perplexed as to why people feel the need to keep asking me if she is sleeping through the night yet. The answer is no. And I am fine with that!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/no-she-isn%E2%80%99t-sleeping-through-yet/148647

10 benefits of baby swimming

Baby swimming has increased in popularity over the last decade with thousands of young children all over the world taking to the water each week.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-benefits-baby-swimming/148450

Introducing me…plus my plus one

I always thought pregnancy would be my excuse to one day eat whatever the hell I wanted, safe in the knowledge nobody could wave a chubby finger at me for fear I might bite it off and digest it. I didn’t bank on pregnancy – at least for the first four months – being a time when my body would dictate exactly what it wanted me to fill it up with, and my really having no choice in the matter.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/introducing-me%E2%80%A6plus-my-plus-one/148858

14 weeks old

I don’t know where the time went; the hours just flew away. I looked, and you had grown in so many ways. You smiled. You laughed. You almost rolled over. You out-grew clothes, you held up your head. You clutched my hand and you caught my eye for the longest moment.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/14-weeks-old/148641

To work or not to work?

I’ve worked in one way or another since I was about ten years old. I started with babysitting, paper rounds and washing up. I moved on to waitressing, bar work and office work. I studied and I trained and I sacrificed a lot to become a teacher. And then I had children.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/work-or-not-work/148581

10 common pregnancy concerns and why not to worry

Pregnancy comes with a host of aches and pains you might not have expected. Most are normal, but some could be the sign of something more serious. We tell you what to expect, why not to worry and when to call a doctor. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-common-pregnancy-concerns-and-why-not-worry/148431

3 of the best...Breast pumps

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at breast pumps.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbreast-pumps/148240

10 ways pregnancy affects your skin and hair

Are you wondering if you’ll ever get that pregnancy glow you’ve heard so much about? Pregnancy hormones can play havoc with your hair and skin - here are a few changes you may not have expected. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ways-pregnancy-affects-your-skin-and-hair/148237

Parenting tips from DryNites

Bedwetting can be an upsetting experience both for parents and children. Your child's distress, wet sheets and interrupted sleep can make a miserable night for all the family. It’s essential though not to let your child know that you're frustrated and instead reassure and support them through their bedwetting journey.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/parenting-tips-drynites/147750

10 common pregnancy myths busted

Can spicy food bring on labour? And will having sex really harm your baby? Old wives tales abound when it comes to pregnancy – here are a few of the more common ones. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-common-pregnancy-myths-busted/147972

Hasn't he grown!

Katharine Merry has been off the blog radar for a while and now baby Lucas looks like a real little man! Kath brings us up to date with her son's progress and shares memories and images from his christening

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hasnt-he-grown/147822

Where did my waist go?

Okay, own up. Who took my waist? It was here around 12 months ago so I know I had one... On a serious note, though: why did nobody tell me that it is your third child that finally does it? The first two, I managed to fairly quickly spring back into my jeans and even had some room. This time though, the weight loss seems to be dragging.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/where-did-my-waist-go/147775

Juggling the balls of parenthood

We’re all doing it. Some of us are spinning a couple of plates too, with jobs and pets and teenagers thrown into the mix. Myself, I have a seven-year-old who is starting to get an attitude, a toddler who is partial to a tantrum or two, and a newborn-ish baby who likes to be clamped to me for most of the day.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/juggling-the-balls-parenthood/147752

3 of the best...Moses baskets

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at Moses baskets.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestmoses-baskets/147730

When and how to tell people you're pregnant

You’re bursting with excitement and can’t wait to share the good news. But should you hold back or spill the beans to anyone who will listen? We look at who, when and how to tell. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-and-how-tell-people-youre-pregnant/147534

What do you think about co-sleeping?

The baby is ten weeks old already! And yes, it quickly felt as though she had always been there, nestled in her basket, or her bouncy chair, smiling up at us. Her baby smell is so familiar and there is a twinkle in her eye that tells me she knows me well...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-do-you-think-about-co-sleeping/147551

Mums supporting mums

Yesterday I attended the first ever Birth Trauma Association support group in Manchester. This is a project that the charity has wanted to get started for some time and it came to fruition after lots of women in my local area requested extra support. Having just had the baby, I didn’t feel able to commit to running the group myself, so opted to help another lady and provide moral support where needed. Wow. What an amazingly positive experience!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mums-supporting-mums/147474

8 pregnancy & baby decisions that divide women

Breast v bottle, c-section or home birth – when it comes to pregnancy, some issues can awaken deep-seated opinions you didn’t know you held. Here are a few decisions guaranteed to provoke a debate. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/8-pregnancy-baby-decisions-divide-women/147344

10 reasons to use cloth nappies

With the issue of whether or not to use real nappies constantly on the agenda for new mums, we thought it would be a good idea to remind you of the positive aspects of ditching the disposables and move towards cloth nappies. In case you need convincing, here are ten reasons...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-reasons-use-cloth-nappies/147295

Surviving the last few days of pregnancy: an essential guide

The last days of pregnancy are a waiting game, but watching the clock will just increase your anxiety and slow down time even more. Here are a few ideas to help you stay sane, with tips to ease you through the birth itself. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/surviving-the-last-few-days-pregnancy-essential-guide/147080

3 of the best...baby thermometers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby thermometers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-thermometers/147239

10 most life changing aspects of having a baby

Your bag’s packed and you’ve planned the birth down to the last detail. But have you even thought about what happens next? Here’s how life really changes when you have a baby.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-most-life-changing-aspects-having-a-baby/146880

Diary of a mum: that magic six-month mark

Travelling with a baby can be a real challenge. During the first few months of Oscar’s life, every time we went to visit family our 7 seater car was always crammed full of things we just couldn’t cope without.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-mum-magic-six-month-mark/147065

10 pregnancy questions you’re too afraid to ask

Pregnancy is a leap into the unknown but there are still some questions you feel silly asking. Here are a few answers to help spare your blushes. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-pregnancy-questions-you%E2%80%99re-too-afraid-ask/146619

3 of the best...changing bags

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby changing bags.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestchanging-bags/146606

Sibling rivalry

I always knew that my daughter would make a good big sister second time around. Not only is she easy going and very caring in nature, but she is seven years old- the optimum age for little girls to really love being big sisters, I find. It was my son I was worried about. At two years old, he was used to being the baby of the family. How was he going to react?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sibling-rivalry/146538

Understanding miscarriage

It is a sad fact that around one in five pregnancies end in miscarriage, causing considerable emotional pain for couples trying to conceive. There are also, inevitably, a range of questions surrounding the issue that women affected by miscarriage seek answers to. We attempt to provide some information relating to the key issues... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/understanding-miscarriage/146487

Breastfeeding: the journey so far

Throughout my pregnancy I was a little undecided about breastfeeding to be honest. It had all gone swimmingly with my daughter, but my son’s lactose intolerance and severe reflux made it fairly difficult second time round. By the time he was four months our consultant had told me to stop breastfeeding and our journey came to an emotional end.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-the-journey-so-far/146511

That baby smell

There’s nothing quite like resting your face close to a baby’s head and breathing in that smell. It’s even sweeter when it’s my baby.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-smell/146453

Diary of a new mum: my first Mother's Day

This weekend I got to celebrate something I have been hoping to be a part of for most of my life: Mother’s Day. I have always known that I wanted to have a family, and yet with the problems I’ve had with Endometriosis there were several years when we weren’t really sure we’d ever get to this point.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-my-first-mothers-day/146291

The pregnancy and baby years

It's one of the most cherished times in a woman's life, the late months of pregnancy and early months of motherhood. From pregnancy tips to advice for new mums, we have put together a range of features to help you through this special period.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-pregnancy-and-baby-years/145311

3 of the best...nursing pillows

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at nursing pillows.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestnursing-pillows/146235

10 tips for exercising safely during pregnancy

Regular exercise is not just good for your baby, but will lift your mood and help prepare your body for labour and birth. Here’s what you need to know. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-tips-exercising-safely-during-pregnancy/146179

Here we go again?

Life has been serenely calm and happy since the baby’s arrival. Her birth was such a healing experience and her presence in our family has eased a lot of pain. She is a calm and contented baby so far- she rarely cries and she sleeps well. I should know, I have been obsessively monitoring her activities since we left the hospital. Each day I breathe a sigh of relief that she is not showing signs of reflux.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/here-we-go-again/145994

Adjusting to a newborn

It soon comes back to you. The night feeds; the burping after feeds; the cotton wool and water at nappy changes. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t take a lot of adjusting.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/adjusting-a-newborn/145954

Separating fact from fiction: sex during pregnancy

Confused about pregnancy sex? We look at what’s normal, what not to worry about and how to go about it. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/separating-fact-fiction-sex-during-pregnancy/145855

It's a girl!

5.30 am. We dressed in silence, quickly and with baited breath. We left the house sleeping and sped towards a different future. Together.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/its-a-girl/145823

Win a bath toy prize bundle worth £30

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-bath-toy-prize-bundle-worth-%C2%A330/145459

3 of the best...pushchairs

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at puschairs.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestpushchairs/145794

Diary of a new mum: on the move

The past couple of weeks have been really exciting for us as a family. Oscar is currently just under six months old and is starting to try and move around on his own. Whereas previously he would grumble if we ever tried to have some ‘tummy time’, he is now quite happy to spin around on his belly and quite enjoys the freedom it gives him.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-the-move/145762

The lowdown on weight and fertility

Carry too much - or too little - weight and it could affect your chances of getting pregnant. We explain the risks, and tell you the best weight to conceive...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-lowdown-weight-and-fertility/145696

14 easy homemade baby food recipes

It's hard enough being a mother and having to juggle everything, while making sure your child has a good diet. Here are 14 quick, easy and healthy recipes to help you out!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/14-easy-homemade-baby-food-recipes/145455

Diary of a new mum: organising your time

I often felt like there wasn’t enough time in my day even before I had a baby, but now that feels truer than ever. Once the bottles have been washed, sterilised and made up, purees have been made for weaning, feeds have been given and nappies have been changed, there barely seems enough time to clean the kitchen worktops and put the dishes away.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-organising-your-time/145412

Getting pregnant after miscarriage

Pregnancy after miscarriage can be a rollercoaster of joy, grief and fear. It can be hard to relax, but there are ways to cope. We look at who to talk to, when to try again, and how to get the reassurance you need. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-pregnant-after-miscarriage/145358

Post-pregnancy fitness and my boy's first birthday

As her son Lucas turns one, Katharine Merry takes a moment to share some great bath-time product suggestions, as well as post-baby fitness tips - who better to advise on new-mum exercise regimes than a former Olympic runner?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/post-pregnancy-fitness-and-my-boys-first-birthday/145314

Diary of a new mum: we don't get sick days

Just recently my family has been feeling rather under the weather. It started a couple of weeks ago when I felt particularly sick for a few days, continued when Oscar started projectile vomiting after his feeds, got even worse when my own sickness increased and eventually worked its way through my husband, my mum, my dad and finally my sister. We have, like many people these past few weeks, been hit by a particularly nasty stomach bug.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-we-dont-get-sick-days/145168

3 of the best...electric steam sterilisers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at electric steam sterilisers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestelectric-steam-sterilisers/145118

Getting pregnant after the pill

Planning a pregnancy? For many women, stopping the pill is the first step to having a baby. We look at what happens to your body, how to improve your chances and when it’s safe to start trying. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-pregnant-after-the-pill/145074

Win a BuggyBoard Mini

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-buggyboard-mini/165051

Tips to cope with sore breasts during pregnancy

Sore boobs are one of the first signs of pregnancy, but as your breasts continue to change they may be uncomfortable on and off throughout the whole nine months. Here are a few tips to help bring some relief. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tips-cope-sore-breasts-during-pregnancy/144850

The breastfeeding backlash: is breast still best?

'Breast is best, but stress is worse.' These are the words that my GP said to me when I eventually admitted defeat during the rollercoaster ride that was breastfeeding my son.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-breastfeeding-backlash-breast-still-best/144820

Dads nest too

All this talk about pregnant women nesting while their husbands look on in amusement is just rubbish if you ask me. I finally figured it out this morning while chatting with a friend who recently became a new mum once more. We realised that with each pregnancy, our other halves nested just as much as us!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/dads-nest-too/144678

Win a Britax B-AGILE pushchair and a pair of tickets to The Baby Show

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-britax-b-agile-pushchair-and-a-pair-tickets-the-baby-show/144675

Win a Sleep Pod

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-sleep-pod/165072

Win a Vanchi Ziggy Bag

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-vanchi-ziggy-bag/165071

Win a Love to Swaddle UP sleep suit

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-love-swaddle-sleep-suit/165069

Win a Label Label Lion blankie

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-label-label-lion-blankie/165068

3 of the best...baby monitors

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby monitors.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-monitors/144625

Win a Shade-a-Babe pushchair cover

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-shade-a-babe-pushchair-cover/165065

Win a Fertile Mind 6-way dress

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-fertile-mind-6-way-dress/165063

Win a set of super-size muslins

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-set-super-size-muslins/165054

Will you be making a speedy return to work?

I heard on Twitter this weekend that a certain celebrity mother is already back at work, just a couple of weeks after giving birth to her daughter. Worryingly, this comes after a bout in intensive care following complications, and a history of miscarriage and stillbirth. It’s fair to say that we would’ve understood if she took a little time off to recover.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/will-you-be-making-a-speedy-return-work/144567

I want my body back...I think

After just over 37 weeks of pregnancy, I am ready to throw in the towel. I’ve earned my stripes- quite literally. After three pregnancies, I can’t expect to have no stretch marks at all, apparently. I know I’m not supposed to really say this, but I cannot wait to go on a diet.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i-want-my-body-backi-think/144544

How the baby gets out...

My daughter has never really asked how the babies have been getting into my tummy, but she is interested in how they get out. So what to tell her?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-the-baby-gets-out/144512

Diary of a new mum: guilt

Someone once said to me, not all that long ago in fact, that guilt seems to be a pretty standard part of parenting. ‘Mummy Guilt’ starts to kick in almost as soon as that second pink line appears on the pregnancy test and only continues to grow the more time progresses.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-guilt/144446

I'm scared

It’s true. I really am. After seeing my consultant for the 36-week appointment, I am officially scared. In two week’s time I will go to hospital for major surgery. And yes, I know that I opted - no, fought - for this outcome but that doesn’t mean I made the decision lightly.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/im-scared/144412

Fortnightly shoe buying? I don't think so!

Katharine Merry was so busy thinking about baby Lucas's first Christmas that she hadn't thought about his first birthday! Let planning commence - once Lucas has some new shoes, that is...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fortnightly-shoe-buying-i-dont-think-so/144389

Naomi Hill's baby product guide

When you're expecting, it's easy to get bogged down in the process of buying new products, preparing your home and generally making sure you're ready for life with another little person. Naomi Hill, soon-to-be mother of twins and sister of iVillage.co.uk parenting blogger Katy Hill, offers her top tips on how to navigate through this period with minimal stress.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/naomi-hills-baby-product-guide/144370

Last night

Last night I spent a little longer when it came to the bedtime bottle. I hesitated for a few moments more, just to feel the weight of his little body leaning against mine and to smooth down his silky soft hair. I held him that little bit closer as I took him up to bed and I spent that little bit longer smoothing down the covers as he leant back into his teddies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/last-night/144335

The distraction technique

I recently read an article that claimed French toddlers did not throw tantrums. The reasons for this phenomenon escape me now, as I preferred to focus my attention on scoffing at such a claim. If French toddlers don’t have tantrums, there is something wrong with them- surely?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-distraction-technique/144312

Sleep tips for pregnancy

Struggling to sleep at night? Insomnia affects up to 80 per cent of women during pregnancy, so here are a few tips to help you get some rest. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sleep-tips-pregnancy/144259

Are you ready for a baby?

Having a baby is arguably the biggest decision you will ever make in your life so it's vital you get it right. It's natural to have doubts and while often they are simply minor insecurities, sometimes they can mask a greater reason why having a child may not be the best course of action at that time. Take our quiz to give you a better idea of whether you're ready or not to take the plunge... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/are-you-ready-a-baby/127590

Co-sleeping

Sleep. It’s the most common topic of discussion amongst new parents and the most elusive of all prizes. Today I bumped into a lady who attended the same baby group as the toddler and I when he was a newborn.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/co-sleeping/144149

3 of the best...baby carriers

Every fortnight, journalist and mum Laura Mason will review three of the best baby products on the market for iVillage.co.uk. This week, she looks at baby carriers.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/3-the-bestbaby-carriers/144085

Sling it baby!

I never knew that there was a name for parents who breastfeed, wear their baby in a sling and co-sleep. But apparently, what they do is called attachment parenting. I also never knew that I would identify with so many attachment parenting philosophies than not. But I do. And I’m happy to say that I believe one hundred percent in the gentle parenting method.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sling-it-baby/144048

It's OK to have the baby blues

This is to be my new mantra when the baby is born, but I may need you to remind me now and then. When my daughter was born, I was on a high from the very first moment I saw her face. I never really came down for weeks.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/its-ok-have-the-baby-blues/144002

Place your bets now

It’s almost time to meet the new baby and to place bets on whether it’s a boy or a girl! I secretly think it’s a girl because this pregnancy had been more similar to my first. I’m also carrying similar. So it has to be a girl, right?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/place-your-bets-now/143793

Are you ready for this?

This week has been all about getting ready. For the baby, I mean. And it’s not just me. Although, I have to say that I am mightily proud of the sheer volume of washing I have got through. That, and the scrupulous way we have, over the years since we became parents, saved every single piece of good quality clothing we have ever purchased or been given for the kids.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/are-you-ready/143661

Diary of a new mum: cloth nappies

I first came across cloth nappies in 2006 while I was working in a nursery. Or rather that was when I first came across modern cloth nappies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-cloth-nappies/143622

Naughty or nice?

Before I became a teacher, I worked as a teaching assistant. My role involved looking after one particular child, who was on the autism spectrum, for part of the week and general classroom assistant for the rest of the time. I was also required to support a younger pupil, also on the spectrum, through lunch time. It was this half an hour slot on my timetable which really opened my eyes and instilled a belief in me which has recently been brought into question.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/naughty-or-nice/143495

10 steps to a stress-free pregnancy

A little stress during pregnancy is to be expected, but too much can increase your risk of complications – and affect your growing baby. Here’s how to keep a healthy balance. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-steps-a-stress-free-pregnancy/143403

Early signs of labour

I’m a member of an online mums-to-be forum and recently, many of the women over there have been asking about the early signs of labour. These discussions have become more rife since quite a few ladies have now experienced the real thing and are now the proud owners of early arrivals.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/early-signs-labour/143404

Diary of a new mum: finding peace

So here we are in another new year. Did you make any resolutions? I don’t very often make resolutions because I generally find it hard to think of any. This is because I know I will only get frustrated and cross with myself if I try things such as being more organised, eating more healthily or getting more active.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-finding-peace/143273

Five weeks and counting

This morning I decided to put my new washing machine to the test and clicked the dial over to the ‘baby and toddler’ setting. Yep, with just five weeks to go, it’s time to start washing teeny-tiny baby-gros and sleep suits once more. Now, they are hanging on the clothes maiden, looking all tiny, innocent and glaringly empty as they fill the air with the sweet smell of clean, non-bio baby fumes.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/five-weeks-and-counting/143244

10 most frustrating things about being pregnant

You’re delighted to be pregnant, but there’s no denying those little irritations you could do without. Here are our top 10 pregnancy annoyances. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-most-frustrating-things-about-being-pregnant/143084

New year, new me?

Thank goodness the mince pies are gone and the chocolates have been hidden! I have been subjected to an enormous amount of food over Christmas and, despite being 33 weeks pregnant, I am now feeling the call of the detox along with the rest of the over-indulgent population. But it isn’t just food and exercise that needs an overhaul. I need a new me.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/new-year-new-me/143033

Can't watch, won't watch

This week, a very popular medical-based programme launched it’s new series on the television. I was asked to write a blog post linked to the first episode over on Ghostwritermummy, which I was only too happy to do. I told myself that I would watch the programme when it aired on the television.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/cant-watch-wont-watch/143020

Knitting for the new generation

I’m not exactly a ‘secret knitter’- I help to run a knitting club at school and have always loved to click clack through a new project now and then. During my last pregnancy, I produced an alarming number of booties and other such baby goods. I’ve also made a cardigan and a fetching pair of arm warmers in the past, so whilst I’m not exactly an expert, I do know my way around a pattern or two.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/knitting-the-new-generation/142983

Colds and flu - alternative treatments when you're pregnant

What to take for colds and flu when you're pregnant: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/colds-and-flu-alternative-treatments-when-youre-pregnant/81653

10 positive pregnancy resolutions

Pregnancy should be a time to be savoured but all too often stress and anxiety creeps in. Stay positive throughout your pregnancy with these motivational tips. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-positive-pregnancy-resolutions/142709

The hottest baby products for 2012

From travel cots and high chairs to strollers and baby monitors, we pick out some of the newest baby products that will be hitting the shelves in 2012. By Laura Mason

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-hottest-baby-products-2012/142520

Finding his feet

Katharine Merry's son Lucas finds his feet and learns to walk - just in time for plenty of Christmas exploring!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/finding-his-feet/142607

Merry Christmas!

So this is our last Christmas as a family of four, and my last post here on iVillage.co.uk until next year! It feels as though time has flown since last Christmas and so much has happened that I have to keep pinching myself to believe that we really are about to enter 2012!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/merry-christmas/142523

Christmas survival tips for IVF ladies

Serial IVF-er Liz shares some jokey tips on how to enjoy an infertile Christmas.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/christmas-survival-tips-ivf-ladies/142405

I told you the tape measure was wrong!

A week or so ago, I posted about the dreaded tape measure and how it always seems to come up with random figures for me during pregnancy. Both my daughter and my son were deemed ‘too small’ by the tape and each time, panic ensued.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i-told-you-the-tape-measure-was-wrong/142404

The 'loss' of no longer being pregnant

My little man is growing so fast. He has been in 3-6 months clothes for several weeks now and at 12 weeks is as long and almost as heavy as my friend’s baby who is almost three months older than he is. And let’s not mention the size of his hands and feet! Have you ever seen one of those puppies that look like they need to grow into their paws? Yeah, he reminds me of those!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-loss-no-longer-being-pregnant/142201

Save the date

We saw the consultant last week at our 28-week appointment. We went to the hospital ready for a fight; ready to explain our reasons for wanting - needing - a c-section this time. We had read, researched and discussed our options and we knew what we wanted. In the end, our consultant surprised us.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/save-the-date/142137

Happy Birthday

My son turns two years old this week. It’s not just a birthday. It’s a marker on a long journey I have been forced to take.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/happy-birthday/141963

15 things to do before you get pregnant

Take a look through our check list before you add one more to the family!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/15-things-do-you-get-pregnant/141928

'Failure teaches success' and other IVF clichés

Liz recently completed her third round of IVF but, sadly, was unsuccessful. With a head full of cliches, Liz works through her feelings and considers the next steps in her quest to conceive...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/failure-teaches-success-and-other-ivf-clich%C3%A9s/141814

Coping with fertility problems

Having a baby isn’t always easy, and for some couples trying to conceive comes at a heavy emotional cost. If you’re getting nowhere, or are facing the stress and anxiety of fertility treatments, here are some tips to help you cope.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/coping-fertility-problems/141708

Making memories

Too often in life, memories make us sad. Memories make us want to curl up under the covers and hide away from the wind, rain and icy gales. Memories make us want to close ourselves off from the world and retreat into ourselves, our emotions and our bleak, nagging thoughts. Too often, memories can bring tears to our eyes and quivers to our lips. If we let them.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/making-memories/141458

Getting settled with a new baby

Something amazing has happened this week. Something we have been waiting for but wondering if it would ever come. Something every new parent hopes for. Our baby slept through the night!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-settled-a-new-baby/141454

Guess the body part

Last night, I couldn’t sleep. It wasn’t nightmares or feeling uncomfortable or anything like that. I was just awake, unable to switch off my mind yet unwilling to give in and get up. So I played a game of guess the body part.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/guess-the-body-part/141443

An everyday guide to surviving pregnancy

When it comes to pregnancy everything changes, and you’ll discover new things daily which make life just that little bit more difficult. From tackling the morning rush hour to getting more comfortable at night, here are a few ideas to help make everyday life easier. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/everyday-guide-surviving-pregnancy/141306

Keep that tape measure away from me!

I’m not tall. My husband is not especially tall. My children are not likely to be giants either. There seems little point in sweating the ‘small stuff’ in that case, wouldn’t you say? Now, we aren’t exactly short and we certainly aren’t abnormal looking, and neither are our children. I say this because the dreaded tape measure always seems to create a problem for me during pregnancy.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/keep-tape-measure-away-me/141331

Maternity clothes for party girls

Party season is just around the corner and fashion conscious mums-to-be will look fabulous thanks to all the gorgeous on-trend party outfits in the shops. So there's no excuse not to glam up and show off your bump in style!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-clothes-party-girls/92587

Baby on a budget

We’re not exactly struggling for money at the moment, but we both work hard and we have lots of childcare costs to keep up with, plus a mortgage and the other expenses that life throws at you.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-a-budget/141213

Each day brings new things

Kath's baby is having fun exploring new things every day - as his first teeth are growing so are his crawling skills and his first attempts to stand on his own are occurring.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/each-day-brings-new-things/141113

My baby's first Christmas

I am a huge fan of Christmas. It is actually quite ridiculous how excited I get about this time of year. I love everything about it. Whether I am busy writing cards, wrapping presents, or decorating the house, you can usually find me with a massive grin on my face.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/my-babys-first-christmas/141139

The end is near...

Christmas is coming and I am getting fat. It will soon be time for me to hang up my work pass, put on my slippers and get ready for some serious nesting. Wow, this pregnancy seems to be speeding by so quickly and there is still so much to do!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-end-near/140953

Nanowrimo: I did it!

It’s true. Yesterday, I met my 50,000 word target and, handily, finished my first ever novel. I am, as they say, a winner! Woo hoo!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/nanowrimo-i-did-it/140859

What’s the big deal with cloth nappies?

I always remember the smell. Not a poo smell, I must add here. A different smell. The smell of nappies boiling in a pot. It wasn’t a family delicacy. It was my mum’s old fashioned way of making sure my baby sister’s nappies were really clean. She would wash them, then boil them up in the kitchen to make really sure.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what%E2%80%99s-the-big-deal-cloth-nappies/140746

Natural ways to ease you through pregnancy

Natural remedies have been used for thousands of years to help women deal with pregnancy niggles and manage the pain of labour. Here are a few tried and tested ways to help ease aches and pains.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/natural-ways-ease-you-through-pregnancy/140627

IVF - third time lucky?

It's time for Liz, in her third round of IVF, to find out if she has been successful in her latest attempt to get pregnant.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-third-time-lucky/140672

Pregnancy: is early pregnancy spotting normal?

Pregnancy: is early pregnancy spotting normal? I am in my sixth week of pregnancy. I am spotting. It is light, but at times it feels as if my period is about to begin. It began with one day of cramps but they have stopped. Is this normal?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnancy-early-pregnancy-spotting-normal/156176

Tipped uterus: will a tipped uterus affect your pregnancy?

Tipped uterus: will a tipped uterus affect your pregnancy? I am in good physical shape and three to four weeks pregnant. My doctor has told me in the past that my cervix is 'backwards.' Will this affect my pregnancy or delivery? Congratulations. When a provider comments that your cervix is 'backwards,' he or she is probably referring to the uterine position, which does affect the cervical angle. Most uteri are 'anteverted' - positioned so they flex up towards the bladder and the abdominal wall. About 10 to 15 per cent are 'retroverted' - angled back towards the rectum and spine.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tipped-uterus-will-a-tipped-uterus-affect-your-pregnancy/156167

Placenta previa: should I be concerned?

Placenta previa: should I be concerned? I am due next month, and am very nervous because I was told I have placenta previa. I am feeling fine and my doctor is trying to downplay the entire thing. Should I be concerned?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/placenta-previa-should-i-be-concerned/156162

Over 40: will age impact your pregnancy?

Over 40: will age impact your pregnancy? I am 42 years old and eight weeks pregnant with my fifth child. Although I am thrilled to be pregnant, I am concerned about my age. Should my pregnancy be managed differently? You should be thrilled to be pregnant. It is wonderful to see mature women having babies; the social science statistics suggest that you raise children more likely to do well in school and be professionals. Not that you can't do a good job when you are younger, but the likelihood of 'successful' child rearing gets higher with age.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/over-40-will-age-impact-your-pregnancy/156157

Hypertension

What are the odds for a woman on hypertension medication to have a normal pregnancy? As you probably know or have guessed, pregnancy can induce hypertension or aggravate existing hypertension. However, the majority of women with underlying chronic hypertension demonstrate improved blood-pressure control and have largely uneventful pregnancies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hypertension/156148

What is HELLP syndrome?

I had HELLP syndrome when I was pregnant. What exactly is it? HELLP syndrome is characterized by liver compromise during or after a pregnancy, complicated by hypertension and/or preeclampsia. The letters stand for: Hemolytic anemia (when red blood cells break down), Elevated Liver transminases (sign of liver problems) and Low Platelet count (causing problems in blood clotting).

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-hellp-syndrome/156110

Ectopic pregnancy: what are the symptons?

I have heard a lot about ectopic pregnancies. What is an ectopic pregnancy and is it dangerous? What are some of the signs that you don't have a normal uterine pregnancy?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ectopic-pregnancy-what-are-the-symptons/156107

Bleeding in early pregnancy: Will I have a miscarriage?

I'm 11 weeks pregnant with triplets and have had spotting for three weeks, including red bleeding in the ninth week. Ultrasound results appear to be normal. Will this stop in a few weeks?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bleeding-in-early-pregnancy-will-i-have-a-miscarriage/156106

You're not as fertile as you think you are, according to new research

Sure, we all basically know that the longer we wait to try and conceive the longer it might take us to get pregnant, but new data presented at the recent American Society of Reproductive Medicine annual meeting says women need a wake-up call about the serious impact of age on our fertility.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/youre-not-fertile-you-think-you-are-according-new-research/156102

Introducing a routine

Having worked in various childcare settings, I had a decent amount of respect for how important a good routine is when I began my own parenting journey. I knew from experience how much easier it made life for the parents, as well as how much security it gave to the child who knew what to expect and when to expect it.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/introducing-a-routine/140346

A natural caesarean?

In my last post, I opened with the sentence: there isn’t much natural about a c-section. This worry has been on my mind a lot lately and is one I shared with the lovely ladies over on the Birth Trauma Association’s facebook page. As ever, the support I was shown has boosted me a lot and I now have a plan formulating in my mind...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-natural-caesarean/140342

These things keep me awake at night

There isn’t much natural about a c-section. I know, I was at least awake for my last one. It certainly doesn’t feel natural being sliced open, pulled this way and that and then presented with a clean, tightly wrapped baby at the end of it.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/these-things-keep-me-awake-night/140225

26 weeks

I’ve been waiting for this milestone ever since I reached the magical 12-week marker. I will always remember my mum telling me during my first pregnancy that 26 weeks is the really magical one. This is the week during which the baby becomes ‘viable’ and has a much better chance of survival in the event of premature delivery.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/26-weeks/140056

10-point plan for surviving pregnancy

Mood swings, morning sickness, fluid retention - pregnancy is an exciting time, but sometimes you get a bit more than you bargained for. We look at how to survive some common discomforts and dilemmas.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-point-plan-surviving-pregnancy/139988

Poorly baby

This past week my husband and I have had our first taste of caring for a poorly baby. And I have to say that it isn’t much fun. Oscar has been congested since birth and we have grown used to his grunts and snuffles. But the addition of the most pitiful sounding little coughs that have developed this week thanks to a cold has made it so much worse.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/poorly-baby/139967

The ugly side of Christmas

Last week, I posted about my family Christmas traditions and this week my view of it all has changed drastically. Yesterday, I went to the Manchester Christmas markets.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-ugly-side-christmas/139962

How to help a friend through IVF

Liz, in her third round of IVF, is waiting on the results of her embryo transfer. With a couple of weeks left before she can take a pregnancy test, she turns her attention to the social aspect of IVF - the right and wrong things to say to someone having treatment, and the little ways to show you care...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-help-a-friend-through-ivf/139938

Family holidays and first haircuts

Katharine Merry takes her son Lucas for his first haircut...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/family-holidays-and-first-haircuts/139862

What are your Christmas traditions?

When my daughter was really little, I decided that I wanted to start a Christmas tradition. I made a gingerbread house. It was a disaster, to be fair. My gingerbread turned out really thick and heavy and on Christmas Eve, after hours of painstakingly icing and decorating and filling it with sweets, the entire roof buckled on itself and collapsed.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-are-your-christmas-traditions/139786

Does this mean I need to 'take it easy' now?

With two children, every weekend is busy. It all kicks off on a Saturday morning with gymnastics and it just doesn’t let up. At all. This weekend we have been for long walks, we have spent hours in the garden and we have cleaned the house from top to bottom. Just a normal weekend, right? So why does it feel as though I now have the body of an 80-year-old?!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/does-mean-i-need-take-it-easy-now/139684

Winter

When breath starts to fog in the air and windows need scraping, we always tell the children that Jack Frost has been to play. I love winter. I love wrapping up warm and bracing myself against the icy wind. I love snuggling indoors with the lights on and the fire blazing. I love the watery winter sun on my face and the imminent promise of snow in the white sky.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/winter/139596

10 ways to involve your partner in your pregnancy

Is your partner feeling a bit left out? While cravings, kicks and mood swings won’t let you forget you’re having a baby, many dads say they feel like a bit of a spare part during pregnancy. Fortunately there are lots of things they can do to feel more involved – here are just a few… By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ways-involve-your-partner-in-your-pregnancy/139594

Can we change the subject now?

I think I am entering that stage where I wish people would talk to me about other things now. I’m a little bored with this pregnancy to be honest, and I’m assured by ‘my book’ that this is entirely normal. Nine months is a really long time to be pregnant and every now and then, there are other topics of conversation that can be discussed in my presence. Does that sound awful?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-we-change-the-subject-now/139564

IVF embryo transfer and the waiting game

Liz, in her third round of IVF, heads to the hospital for embryo transfer - an altogether different experience to the egg collection a few weeks earlier. Legs akimbo in a room full of strangers (and her husband), two of Liz's embryos are implanted in her womb - and the waiting game begins...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-embryo-transfer-and-the-waiting-game/139528

The benefits of mother and baby groups

Seven years ago I was coming to the end of a three-month stretch in Germany. As a language student it was important to spend as much time abroad as possible. In fact, it was a required part of my degree. But when I was deciding how to spend my time over there I knew I wanted to do something a little bit different.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-benefits-mother-and-baby-groups/139326

Feeling happy

The other day I stepped out onto my driveway with a school bag, lunch box and PE bag in one hand and a squirming toddler in the other. My mind was bursting with back-to-school nonsense, my eye was on the clock and my feet were dragging with a little bit of the winter blues.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/feeling-happy/139259

10 treatments to try during pregnancy

Is pregnancy making you bloom? Do you float around radiating femininity and joy at your condition? Do your eyes sparkle, your skin glow, your hair shine? If the answer is 'yes' to all of the above then read no further (and don’t rub it in too much to other pregnant women: they will hate you.) Or, like many mums to be, are you finding it hard work, tiring, and you feel like you’re glowing about as much as a lump of coal in the rain?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-treatments-try-during-pregnancy/139190

Week one of Nanowrimo

Those in the know will understand the acronym of today’s blog post. Nanowrimo stands for National Write a Novel Month, the crazy scheme I have devoted much of this last week to. This month I have joined thousands of other budding novelists around the world in a bid to write 50, 000 words by midnight on the 30th November. Here is my update...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/week-one-nanowrimo/139170

Elective caesareans: a doctor's view

Should all women be given the option of an elective caesarean?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/elective-caesareans-a-doctors-view/139106

Why the new NICE guidelines are important to me

Like many pregnant women, I have been unable to avoid the current news storm which has been rumbling for a number of days. Since the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) revealed its revised plans for pregnant women requesting caesarean sections, a number of articles have been written and social media has been talking.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/why-the-new-nice-guidelines-are-important-me/139153

Saying farewell to a pair of faithful friends

This week has been a huge turning point for me. Today marks seven days since I said goodbye to a pair of faithful friends. They’ve been by my side since I was around five weeks pregnant and they have been my constant shoulder to cry on, my rock and my saviour.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/saying-farewell-a-pair-faithful-friends/139099

IVF break points

Liz from Womb For Improvement is a couple of weeks into her third round of IVF and shares the reality of the treatment - a process with many break opportunities...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-break-points/139075

When a friend gives birth

On Friday, I arrived at work to discover a text from a good friend which told me that her waters had broken. It was her due date. I spent the rest of the day leaping each time my phone pinged and frantically checking Facebook for further updates.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-a-friend-gives-birth/139009

Who's your ideal birth partner?

Thinking about who will hold your hand when it comes to giving birth? For many women, the father of their baby is the obvious choice, while for some it’s either not possible or he’s just not cut out for the labour ward. Whether it’s your partner, mum or best friend you need someone who knows your birth plan and will speak up on your behalf – try our quiz to help you decide. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/whos-your-ideal-birth-partner/139017

Which baby guru are you?

Babies may not come with an instruction manual but you don’t have to look far to find one - head to any book shop and you’ll find the shelves groaning with expert advice. From Gina Ford to Penelope Leach, the question is, which to go for? Whether you’re an earth mother or a queen of routine, discover which baby guru is right for you… By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/which-baby-guru-are-you/136818

First steps towards walking

Baby Lucas has finally worked out how to use his walker and there's no stopping him. And the family plan their first holiday - to Centre Parcs.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/first-steps-towards-walking/138825

I breastfeed but you don't have to

This week I’d like to talk about breastfeeding. But before I start I want to make it clear that I believe in a woman’s choice as to how she feeds her baby. I’m all for giving women as much information as possible about the benefits of breastfeeding so that each new mother can make an informed choice based on the facts, but nothing annoys me more than those who forcefully push the ‘breast is best’ campaign and even look at formula feeding mothers as some kind of failure.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i-breastfeed-you-dont-have/138202

Ways to make breastfeeding easier

Breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world, but for many women it doesn’t come naturally at first. From latching on to feeding in public there’s a lot to learn, but with the right support you’ll soon be breastfeeding like a pro. Here are a few tips to help make it easier. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ways-make-breastfeeding-easier/138120

I’m writing a book!

It’s true. Mothering two children, teaching part time, entertaining the masses with my blogs(!), housework etc etc is just not enough! I need a new challenge. I’m taking part in National Write a Novel Month (NaNoWriMo) and I need your help!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i%E2%80%99m-writing-a-book/137951

Top tips for staying comfortable during pregnancy

Morning sickness, back trouble, sleepless nights – and that’s just the first trimester! Aches, pains and other niggles are all part of the pregnancy journey, but there are ways to cope. If you’re not exactly blooming, here’s how to make yourself more comfortable. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/top-tips-staying-comfortable-during-pregnancy/137390

IVF success prediction? Chance would be a fine thing

Liz from Womb For Improvement looks at the things she has done to improve her chance of IVF success and whether it is possible to predict

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-success-prediction-chance-would-be-a-fine-thing/137973

Perfect timing?

When my son was born, we thought we had timed it really well. My daughter had just turned five and she was very handy, to say the least. If we needed a nappy, she would collect it. If we needed someone to watch him in his seat while we nipped to the loo, she gladly obliged.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/perfect-timing/137810

IVF - to tell or not to tell?

As she prepares for her third round of IVF, Liz looks back on how her quest to get pregnant has gone from a talking point with close friends to common knowledge in her workplace and the awkward conversations she's endured in the process...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-tell-or-not-tell/137550

The terrible twos

I often joke that my son reached the terrible twos the moment he was born. Or, I should say, I used to joke that. These days, the terrible twos are no laughing matter. My son has them and he has them bad. He can throw a tantrum to rival the noisiest, angriest kid in the whole of trantrum-ville. We have the terrible twos and I don’t like it!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-terrible-twos/137714

An open letter

You are already such a massive part of our lives. I’m afraid so much is already pinned on you. You are my second chance, the one I never got last time. You are my opportunity to prove that I can do this again and that there is a way to make things right. You are my third time lucky.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/open-letter/137644

23 weeks

I feel as though time is flying past me. According to the iVillage pregnancy week by week tool, my baby is now undergoing massive changes that will help him/ her to breath independently after birth. My baby is practising in and out breaths. My baby is getting ready. My body is doing some pretty amazing stuff too. It’s swelling. Boy, is it ever.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/23-weeks/137508

Diary of a new mum: the first few weeks

It’s hard to believe that five weeks ago I had just given birth to my son. Everyone says that time flies during pregnancy and these first few weeks but I have found the exact opposite to be true. Because I was so ill during pregnancy it seemed to drag on and I assumed that time would suddenly seem to speed up once my little man was here, but it hasn’t.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/diary-a-new-mum-the-first-few-weeks/137303

Should midwives be trained in birth trauma?

I am speaking from my own experience, as this is the only thing I can do. I am not professionally qualified in anything medical and I do not claim to be. I do, however, know a little about birth trauma and sadly, it seems that that is more than some medical professionals. If you are a midwife, please understand that this is not an attack. This is merely an observation.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/should-midwives-be-trained-in-birth-trauma/137306

My fight for a planned c-section

Over on Ghostwritermummy and Maternity Matters, I have written extensively about my previous birth experiences and the resulting trauma following my son’s grand entrance into the world. This time, I was determined that things would be so different. I chose a different hospital - not necessarily because I did not trust the staff at my local maternity unit, but more because of association; I wanted a fresh start - and I educated myself on my rights as a pregnant woman. I thought I knew the risks and I thought that a planned section was pretty much a given for me this time. How wrong I was.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/my-fight-a-planned-c-section/137053

10 newborn night time tips

Can’t keep your eyes open? Lack of sleep goes hand in hand with a new baby, and no matter how clued-up you are nothing can prepare you for the mind-numbing exhaustion of the early weeks. If your newborn is keeping you up all night, here are a few tricks to help you cope.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-newborn-night-time-tips/136331

This baby is making me fat...

My appetite is huge at the moment! I am constantly hungry, morning sickness is well and truly behind me and my shopping bill is growing steadily. I was never like this with my son, which makes me wonder...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-making-me-fat/136968

Baby shower anyone?

I don’t think I really understand what a baby shower is. It seems a little American to me. Do I really want to throw a party during which I can’t drink champagne (or anything else exciting for that matter) and I certainly can’t fit into a little black dress. Also, isn’t it a bit presumptuous, asking people to cough up for presents and pampering treats just before the baby is born and they are obliged to bestow us with gifts once more?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-shower-anyone/136891

The name game

Any other mums –to-be play the name game with their partners? My husband hates it with a passion. If he had his way, our kids would be named after Star Wars characters and be done with it. As it is, I love choosing baby names...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-name-game/136848

Chinese Gender Chart

Work out the sex of your baby using the ninety per cent accurate ancient Chinese Gender chart

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tool/chinese-gender-chart

When you’re pregnant...

During pregnancy, nothing is simple. Even rolling over in bed takes a little bit of forward planning, such as: will you roll via your back or front? Will you roll all the way over to perform a little hop out of bed at the same time?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-you%E2%80%99re-pregnant/136532

21 tips to help a busy mum

Nothing can prepare you for the intense high of your first baby . It's the biggest change and challenge a woman will face. These tips will help you make the most of early motherhood.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/21-tips-help-a-busy-mum/81998

Where do you air your dirty laundry?

Or maybe you don’t air it at all. Maybe you deal with disputes and confrontations in a private manner. I only wish everybody did.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/where-do-you-air-your-dirty-laundry/136486

The 20-week scan

This week we have our 20-week scan. This is the last chance to find out the gender of the baby, should we so desire to. This is the moment where, all being well with the baby, we will sit on our hands and stick to our decision to keep it all a surprise. I genuinely don’t want to find out this time, but as I already explained, I am a very impatient person.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-20-week-scan/136429

The dentist and the pink toothbrush

No offence if you’re a dentist, but I don’t like them. Or rather, I don’t like what they do. Who on earth decided, upon leaving school, that they wanted to stare down a variety of throats for a living? All those teeth of different shades and conditions...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-dentist-and-the-pink-toothbrush/136333

Mastering the logistics of crawling

Kath talks about her baby boy's impressive crawling skills.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mastering-the-logistics-crawling/136176

High-risk pregnancy?

I’ve been told, once more, that this is a high-risk pregnancy. This time, it probably means nothing more than a few more ante-natal appointments with my community midwife and a couple of extra meetings with my consultant. It might mean that my notes are read a little more carefully but it might not.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/high-risk-pregnancy/136175

We need to stand up for ourselves

As a mother, I have already had to teach my children how to stand up for themselves in various situations. When another child pushes in on the slide, let it go once but if it happens again, tell them politely that it’s not their turn. When another child tells you your Cinderella dress isn’t real, tell them you don’t care- it’s your favourite. Don’t let people push you around. Don’t accept criticism that is unfair or personal and don’t let anyone force you into doing things you don’t want to do.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/we-need-stand-ourselves/136096

Return of the sickness

I’m feeling sorry for myself. I’m 19 weeks pregnant and my morning sickness has returned. It’s not fair. I was starting to feel so great, so positive about being pregnant and so happy to be feeling so well. I could barely remember how awful I felt a mere few weeks previously.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/return-the-sickness/136042

A pregnancy journey: the birth story

The last time I wrote I was facing an induction for cholestasis and left you wondering when and how that happened. Well I can happily tell you that I was induced at 39 weeks and had a beautiful baby boy on Monday 19thSeptember. The induction went well, although it was a challenging labour, and I thought it would be good to share the experience with you.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-the-birth-story/136052

Last night, when I felt the baby kick

Last night, when I felt the baby kick, I was taken back to another place. It was cold and the trees outside were swaying like dancers on a stage of autumn dreams. It was early evening; dark already and the curtains were closed against the night. We were safe, we were happy and then the baby kicked.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/last-night-when-i-felt-the-baby-kick/135968

Separating pregnancy fact from fiction

When it comes to pregnancy there’s an old wives tale for every change your body goes through. But sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. We debunk some common myths and explain a few surprising facts.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/separating-pregnancy-fact-fiction/135900

My post-natal cravings

Oh, goodness, there are so many things I want to eat right now! I want a boiled egg - runny with soldiers. I want pate on toast and I want liver and onions. Not only that, but I want to wash it all down with a big glass of white wine, or even champagne. I also want to drink cider and more than one cup of ‘fat’ coffee a day. This is my post-natal menu.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/my-post-natal-cravings/135885

To breastfeed or not to breastfeed?

That is the question. I breastfed my daughter exclusively for seven months. I did try her with a bottle but not until she was around eight weeks old and by then it was too late. She preferred the real thing to a plastic teat and who could blame her? We spent a couple of evenings with me hiding in the kitchen listening to poor old dad trying his best to feed his wailing daughter before we drew a line.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeed-or-not-breastfeed/135785

Are you ready to breastfeed?

You know breastfeeding is best for your baby and for you, but what about the practicalities? Take our test to find out how prepared you really are.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/are-you-ready-breastfeed/126969

Blimey where has the time gone?!

Kath's little baby boy is growing faster by the day - he's already crawling, his first teeth are making an appearance and he even made his mummy a birthday card!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/blimey-where-has-the-time-gone/135644

Surprise, baby

We’ve decided that we won’t be finding out the gender of this baby at the 20 week scan. We already have one of each and both pink and blue clothes currently reside in chubby bags in the attic. We’re ready for whatever Mother Nature decides to bless us with. But, man, this is going to be hard!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/surprise-baby/135639

Can I have an elective caesarian?

Hi, I read that some hospitals are banning elective caesarians because of the cost. Does this mean a patient can still have one if they are willing to pay the extra cost (which the newspaper said was about £800)? Under what circumstances would a mother-to-be still be allowed one? Maybe_baby12

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-i-have-elective-caesarian/134406

Something strange happened to me...

Something really strange happened to me. I never thought it would. I honestly thought that I would never feel this way again. How could I? Please don’t tell my children, but... well, I think I sort of, well- I LIKE going to work, ok? I was convinced that returning to work after having my son was the most awful form of torture and that I would never consider myself lucky to have a career.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/something-strange-happened-me/135525

I’m just a mother

I’m just a mother. There’s nothing special about me. I know how to hold my children close and I know how to wipe away their tears.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i%E2%80%99m-just-a-mother/135452

Pre-natal fitness: are you doing it?

I’m talking about more than pelvic floor exercises here, ladies. Are you exercising the rest of your body too? I only ask because I have recently been told that I am crazy for wanting to jump around my living room on a daily basis, when I can totally get away with lazing in-front of the television all day. What are your views on this?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pre-natal-fitness-are-you-doing-it/135336

10 newborn baby buys you don't need

Shopping for your newborn baby? New parents often bemoan just how much stuff babies seem to come with – and how much it will set you back to buy it all. Don’t panic. Most babies have simple needs and that list of ‘must-haves’ can be whittled down to a few essential items. Here’s what you don’t need… By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-newborn-baby-buys-you-dont-need/135027

Midwife shortages

It’s been a very emotional week in the Ghostwritermummy household. I’ll start from the beginning. After my son’s birth in December 2009, I was a little bit of a mess. The Birth Trauma Association saved me. I was introduced to an amazing support network and given the opportunity to talk to other ladies who had suffered a traumatic birth. I discovered that I wasn’t alone and I wasn’t going crazy. I discovered I could love my son, be a mum and move on with my life.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/midwife-shortages/135151

Which foods will harm my baby?

I was just wondering whether there was any major risk in eating soft yolks, soft cheese and pate. I love all of these foods and although I currently feel so sick that just a cracker is difficult to stomach, I'd like to be able to eat these foods further along in my pregnancy if it's not going harm my baby. I am currently 8 weeks. I don't want to take stupid risks but I can't work out whether there is really much of a risk here. Could you shed some light? Sally

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/which-foods-will-harm-my-baby/134402

When am I safe from miscarriage?

I have read that miscarriage rates in the 1st trimester are about 25-33%, but when do most of these miscarriages occur? Am I safe after about 8 weeks? Maybe_baby12

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-am-i-safe-miscarriage/134405

When in different time zones...

Kath is in Daego to report on the World Athletics Championships as part of the Channel 4 coverage team but she is still in fully 'mummy mode' and constantly thinks about her baby boy back home.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/when-in-different-time-zones/135028

Missing midwives

Yesterday I attended a Save the Children conference in London. The aim of the day was to ask bloggers and vloggers to help raise awareness of the charity’s No Child Born to Die campaign. I left London yesterday feeling as though all of my own 'problems' had been put into perspective. The things I have cried over this week seem so silly now.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/missing-midwives/135010

10 ways to control your weight during pregnancy

Pregnancy is the one time in your life when you don’t have to worry about your waistline. You’re supposed to put on some weight, but gain too much and you could be storing up problems for the future, so a healthy diet and regular exercise are more important than ever. Here’s how to control your weight during pregnancy. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-ways-control-your-weight-during-pregnancy/134797

Out of my way, double buggy coming through!

Goodness me, I’m going to need a double buggy! My son will have only just turned two when the baby is born and there is no way I will ever make it up that hill on the school run with a pram and a loose toddler. I’m guessing that the baby in the sling and the toddler in the existing pram will suffice, actually, but not for longer walks. I wonder where my husband hid his wallet?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/out-my-way-double-buggy-coming-through/134860

Where’s the nearest policeman’s helmet?

I don’t know if it’s a myth or really true, but apparently a pregnant woman can go to the toilet anywhere and a policeman is obliged to offer up his helmet if the situation becomes desperate. Can you imagine?!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/where%E2%80%99s-the-nearest-policeman%E2%80%99s-helmet/134780

Spectacles and sparkles

This weekend I went to the optician, having finally admitted that perhaps I did not have perfect 20/20 vision anymore. In recent weeks I have found myself holding my phone or a book a little further away than usual so that I can re-focus my eyes and read comfortably.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/spectacles-and-sparkles/134688

Room enough for three?

My son is struggling with a few things at the moment. Having just returned from a family holiday, he is more than a little bewildered about the apparent lack of people around him. We stayed with other family members, including cousins and I think he is wondering where they’ve gone all of a sudden.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/room-enough-three/134636

A pregnancy journey: Obstetric Cholestasis

If you have been following my pregnancy journey, you’ll know by now that I have found it incredibly taxing on my body. I’ve suffered from Hyperemesis Gravidarum since week 5, was diagnosed with Pelvic Girdle Pain at 16 weeks, and despite trying to avoid anaemia after my blood results showed borderline iron levels at my 28 week check, I am now on iron tablets as well because no amount of natural supplements just weren’t enough to keep it at bay.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-obstetric-cholestasis/134525

Bump envy

Don’t tell me I am the only pregnant woman suffering from this condition, because I won’t believe you. Bump envy must be a common complaint amongst those of us with misshapen bumps. Not all pregnant women have perfect little basket-balls stuffed under their jumpers, do they? DO they?!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bump-envy/134516

Needles!

So the first scan and the blood tests that went with it are behind me now, but I wish I could say the same about the bruises! I think I must have the worse veins in the world (my mum’s fault, apparently). I used to try to give blood at one point and the furthest I ever got was a third of a bag that had to be abandoned after I fainted and there was no more of the good red stuff flowing. It just doesn’t work. And that isn’t so good for a pregnant lady.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/needles/134209

A pregnancy journey: Antenatal classes

My husband and I went to our first, and only, antenatal class yesterday. That’s right, I’m currently 37 weeks pregnant, considered full-term, and we only just had the chance to go to a class.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-antenatal-classes/134200

Hurricanes and Hormones (part two)

The story so far: we’re stuck in Atlanta, thanks to Hurricane Irene and the travel agent who thought that we could magically transport ourselves from one end of the world’s largest airport to the other with two small children. Oh, yes. The children.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hurricanes-and-hormones-part-two/134342

10 foods to avoid during pregnancy

You don’t have to eat wildly differently during pregnancy than before you conceived, but it’s important to avoid certain foods that could cause harm to your unborn baby. By Hilary Pereira

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-foods-avoid-during-pregnancy/134289

Hurricanes and Hormones (part one)

I need to explain my absence. I’ve been on holiday. I was promised wi-fi so that I could keep up to date with the blog but actually, broken promises aside, I’m not sure I would’ve had time anyway. We did the Disney thing, you see. That means we had barely a moment to ourselves without one child or another demanding more Mickey, more princesses, more swimming, more candy, more late night fairground rides, more, more, MORE!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hurricanes-and-hormones-part-one/134254

Seeing double - the wonder, the joy, the fear of expecting twins

Discovering you are pregnant is, generally speaking, a joyous thing but there are a range of emotions that can occur, not least when you find out you are expecting not one, but two little bundles of joy. Naomi Hill made that very discovery and decided to put her experience into words...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/seeing-double-the-wonder-the-joy-the-fear-expecting-twins/134111

10 things no one tells you about labour

During pregnancy, most of the talk is about breathing techniques, relaxation aids and advice on when to phone the hospital but little is said about the real implications of labour. Here are 10 things no one tells you about labour that will make you better prepared for the big day... By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-no-one-tells-you-about-labour/133899

How to reduce your baby's risk of cot death

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-reduce-your-babys-risk-cot-death/133872

A pregnancy journey: Impatience

Having had a really difficult pregnancy in terms of how I have felt throughout, I always thought that by the time September rolled around I would be feeling so much relief at almost being at my due date that I would be able to cope with things much better.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-impatience/133775

Product spotlight: Mima Kobi slimline pushchair

When we were asked to review the Mima Kobi I was sceptical. Nearly all the beautiful baby products I’d had experience of were like pieces of art - easy on the eye but not practical to have in your home. This particular designer, Davy Kho, is also responsible for the stunning but somewhat impractical Bloom highchair so I thought this would be the same story.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/product-spotlight-mima-kobi-slimline-pushchair/152542

Some of the weirdest baby shower cakes, ever!

These cringeworthy baby shower cakes had us laughing 'til we cried. What would you do if one of these creations were plopped down on your table? Certainly not eat it.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/some-the-weirdest-baby-shower-cakes-ever/133240

10 morning sickness remedies

Feeling queasy? Morning sickness is a miserable experience for up to 80 per cent of women at some point in early pregnancy, and can strike at any time of the day or night. Fortunately, it normally fades after the first 12 weeks, but for an unlucky few can last right up to the third trimester. The exact causes are not fully understood, but there are a number of tried and tested ways to help ease the nausea. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-morning-sickness-remedies/133224

A pregnancy journey: loss of a loved one

This past week has been a strange, sad and stressful week for me and my entire family. My 24-year-old cousin was found dead in his bed last Sunday morning. To say that the news shocked us all is a real understatement, and we waited anxiously to hear the report from the coroner.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-loss-a-loved-one/133274

One lucky Mum

Apart from battling eczema, Kath's baby is one happy boy - he is growing by the day and his weaning is going well too.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/one-lucky-mum/133210

I must be dreaming

Last night my daughter and I were in grave danger. We knew we only had a few day’s worth of food left and after that, it was every man for himself. We knew that. Perhaps that was what made us so reckless; I just don’t know.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i-must-be-dreaming/133130

Midwife shortages are still a real problem

The shortage of midwives at my local hospital contributed towards the appalling care I received before, during and after my son’s birth. To put it mildly, the lack of midwives robbed me of the birth experience I deserved and the after-care I was entitled to.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/midwife-shortages-are-still-a-real-problem/133029

A pregnancy journey: maternity photos

Despite having a very difficult pregnancy and spending most of it wishing it were over already, I have still wanted to make sure we have memories of this special time as we get to know our son before his birth. He has a real personality already, wriggling away like crazy most days and my happiest moments are those when my husband decides he wants to get a reaction and so does something silly like blowing a raspberry on my bump and then pretending to be offended when the baby kicks back at him.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-maternity-photos/132873

Is that a baby kicking?

Or is it just wind? I only ask, because I’m sure I read somewhere that a baby’s movements are felt a little earlier with each subsequent pregnancy. I know that I first felt my daughter at 16 weeks, and my son at 13, so there’s no reason why I shouldn’t feel this one at 12 weeks is there? Problem is, when I mention it to anyone they just assume its wind...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-baby-kicking/132727

Drinking and pregnancy

I’m guessing that since I currently have enough hormones to sink a ship raging through my poor body, I am entitled to a little rant. Please bear with me, normal service shall be resumed as soon as I get this off my chest...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/drinking-and-pregnancy/132726

10 natural fertility boosters

Are you trying to conceive? There’s more to getting pregnant than just sex, so when it comes to planning a baby it pays to get in the best shape possible before you start. Here are some simple, and natural ways to help increase your chances.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-natural-fertility-boosters/132037

The juggling act

Kath has a busy week of looking after her son and the household while preparing for a work filled weekend.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-juggling-act/132720

The first scan

In a few days time, I will get to see my baby for the first time! This is the first of the most memorable steps in a pregnancy, and since this may be the last time we do this, it’s an appointment that I am growing increasingly impatient waiting for!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-first-scan/132655

10 superfoods for pregnancy

What you eat in pregnancy can affect your physical and mental wellbeing, as well as help promote your baby’s healthy growth. Here are 10 of the best foods to include in your pregnancy diet.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-superfoods-pregnancy/131292

The riots are getting personal

This week I blogged about the London riots over on Ghostwritermummy. I cannot comprehend the terror that the children living there must be going through each night as the rioters smash windows and burn buildings in some kind of misguided protest. It’s not even a protest anymore. It’s carnage and it’s frightening.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-riots-are-getting-personal/132501

A pregnancy journey: preparing for labour

Despite the fact that my due date is still several weeks away, it feels good to have everything sorted already. The cot is ready and waiting, the nursery is almost complete, and my hospital bag is packed. I feel confident that should I go into labour at any time from now on we’ll be good to go.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-preparing-labour/132457

10 tips for coping with SPD

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, or SPD, sometimes known as pelvic girdle pain, is a common condition which can cause severe pelvic pain for some women during pregnancy. It’s caused by the pregnancy hormone relaxin, which loosens the pelvic ligaments in preparation for the birth. Combined with the weight of a growing baby this can sometimes cause the bones at the front of the pelvis – the symphysis pubis – to separate, resulting in mild to severe pain in the pubic area, thighs, hips or buttocks. It’s made worse by an activity which involves opening the hips, like turning from side to side in bed, climbing stairs and even walking, getting dressed or getting in and out of the car. There is no treatment for SPD, but here are a few ideas to help you cope...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-tips-coping-spd/132454

Saying goodbye to the past

My son’s birth was not a happy affair and when I fell pregnant this time, my husband and I knew without a doubt that we would be booking into a different hospital. Having had two emergency sections and feeling very let down by my local hospital, I felt an explanation was not needed.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/saying-goodbye-the-past/132458

I can’t get no sleep

When I was younger, I used to love the band Faithless and their clubbing classic, Insomnia was my favourite track. These days, insomnia means something totally different though.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/i-can%E2%80%99t-get-no-sleep/132381

Good things come in threes

You know that saying, when you’ve scraped your car and you’ve lost your keys and someone tells you that bad things come in threes, so you’d better brace yourself for a broken bone or a lost purse? Well, I believe in the opposite. I believe that good things come in threes.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/good-things-come-in-threes/132178

A pregnancy diary: getting close now

Many women comment on how quickly their pregnancy seems to fly by. It is something I read regularly on pregnancy forums and the ladies on my Mums Due board seem to be commenting more and more these days on how crazy it seems that we are all so close to the end of our pregnancies.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-diary-getting-close-now/132017

5 quick tips to protect baby skin this summer

We all love to get out and about when the weather warms up but it's worth taking a moment to consider how best to keep your baby comfortable and safe in the sun. Here are 5 quick tips to protect baby skin this summer, courtesy of Children’s Dermatology Nurse Specialist Jean Robinson.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/5-quick-tips-protect-baby-skin-summer/131973

Time stands still for no man

Kath's son is almost five months old and she starts thinking of weaning in preparation for her forthcoming work trip.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/time-stands-still-no-man/131891

A pregnancy journey: planning maternity leave

Last week I finished work for the summer and so my maternity leave has officially begun. Being self-employed and having worked part-time for the past few months has meant that planning maternity leave and sorting out maternity allowance has been a challenge. We’re still unsure of what, if any maternity pay I might get and so we’ve been backwards and forwards over the thought of when I should return to work after the baby is born. Isn’t it a shame that we have to think about this even before maternity leave has properly begun.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-planning-maternity-leave/131640

Breastfeeding support and advice

We're always told that breast is best, but while breastfeeding is the most natural and healthy way to bond with baby, it's not always a straightforward process. From expert tips and advice to your legal rights when feeding in public, we've put together a handy guide to help you through. You may also choose to seek out support or offer your help to other women, on our Breastfeeding Support message board

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-support-and-advice/131636

Sex after baby

Remember when you couldn’t keep your hands off each other? After having a baby, sex is likely to be the last thing on your mind, but while you may not be swinging from the chandeliers, it doesn’t have to spell doom for your relationship.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sex-after-baby/131222

The baby centre of attention

Kath is missing her baby once again when she goes away on a business trip but upon her return she notices what an attention seeker little Lucas has become.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-baby-centre-attention/131151

A pregnancy journey: the pain of PGP

This past weekend we travelled to Lincoln for the wedding of one of my closest friends. It was lovely to spend the day with her and we had a glorious time, especially as we got to meet another of my friends’ newborn daughter. Her three-year-old daughter was there too and wanted to know where our baby was and why he couldn’t come and play with her. I guess having her baby sister out of her mummy’s tummy now makes her think it is about time our little boy made an appearance too!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-the-pain-pgp/131142

10 top tips for breastfeeding mums

Breastfeeding is an emotive subject and doesn’t come easily to every new mum, but if you do want to breastfeed your new baby, these expert tips can help things go smoothly for you and your baby.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-top-tips-breastfeeding-mums/130876

Nikki Moore's top baby gadgets

There’s no better time to be a new parent with so many great baby gadgets on the market. From self-warming baby bottles, headphones for baby bumps to apps that help with breastfeeding there really is something for everyone. Check out iVillage blogger Nikki Moore's top 10 pregnancy and baby gadgets for all you new mums out there.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/nikki-moores-top-baby-gadgets/130756

A pregnancy journey: hormonal woman coming through!

The emotional side of pregnancy hormones seemed to creep up on me and catch me out this week. It’s funny because I expected to be crying at all sorts of things throughout the pregnancy, and yet a couple of emotional meltdowns this weekend made me realise that actually I haven’t been too bad for most of the past few months.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-hormonal-woman-coming-through/130744

Annabel Karmel's easy intro to weaning

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/annabel-karmels-easy-intro-weaning/130555

Pregnant celebs in bikinis

If anyone can make being pregnant appear glamorous, it's these celebs! Check out how hot these famous mums-to-be look in their bikinis acessorised with baby bumps.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnant-celebs-in-bikinis/130474

A pregnancy journey: excuse me while I melt!

We often complain in this country that we don’t get a ‘proper’ summer, with grey and rainy days as common as the blue-skied scorchers most years. And I must admit that usually I am at my happiest when I see a cloudless sky and can don my pretty summer dresses and get out and enjoy myself. I’m far from a sun-worshipper, as I burn far too easily even through high factor sun cream sometimes, but I do always feel happier and lighter when the sun shines.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-excuse-me-while-i-melt/130427

10 steps to successful potty training

Are you ready to ditch the nappies? Follow our 10-step guide to make potty training a breeze – from when to start, to how to go about it and what not to worry about. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-steps-successful-potty-training/128613

Becoming a big boy

Kath talks about her baby's last set of injections and the various lifestyle changes that are due now that her little boy is growing up.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/becoming-a-big-boy/130250

A pregnancy journey: comments from strangers

Pregnancy has the ability to connect a woman to every other woman who has gone through pregnancy before her. In one way it is comforting to know that everything you are experiencing has been experienced before, because it means you have someone to turn to when doubts and concerns arrive. It also means you have the opportunity to share all the joys and excitement of pregnancy with a willing audience.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-comments-strangers/130062

A pregnancy journey: exhaustion

Mustering up the enthusiasm to write this week’s post has been rather difficult thanks to the sudden arrival of third-trimester exhaustion. I’m not even in my third trimester yet, but this past week or two has involved far more sitting around and trying to decide just how long I can put off having to move than anything else.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-exhaustion/129954

Father's Day and baby on a roll

Kath is on a work trip abroad but celebrates Father's Day and her son turning four months via Skype with her family. Surprisingly her baby finally masters the ability to roll over and does his parents proud.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fathers-day-and-baby-a-roll/129825

A 'relaxing' week with my baby

Kath tries to fit in her house duties around taking care of her baby boy, who despite a sore neck and dislike for 'tummy time', is growing by the day.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-relaxing-week-my-baby/129526

A pregnancy journey: bump watching

In recent weeks my bump seems to have grown very rapidly and suddenly everything is getting much more difficult. Just walking the short distance to work each day gets my heart pumping and me breathless in the same way walking up a steep hill would have done prior to pregnancy. And getting up from a sitting position takes some pre-planning if I have been sat for any length of time.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-bump-watching/129352

Momma is back in the building!

Kath is heading back from a work trip to the USA and is extremely impatient to see her son after being away from him for five days.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/momma-back-in-the-building/129240

Are you ready for another child?

There’s no doubt having a baby changes your life, but whether to have a second (or third or fourth) is a decision that will affect your family too. Are you emotionally and financially prepared for another child, and do you have the energy it takes? Take our test and find out. By Lynne Roberts

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/are-you-ready-another-child/129216

A pregnancy journey: preparing the home

The addition of a new member to the family is an extremely exciting event, but as my pregnancy progresses I am beginning to realise just how much we need to do in order to prepare for our baby’s arrival.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-preparing-the-home/128961

A 3 minute guide to nappies

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-3-minute-guide-nappies/128757

A 3 minute guide to baby-led weaning

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-3-minute-guide-baby-led-weaning/128756

A pregnancy journey: buying for baby

This week has been a very exciting one for me as I’ve finally started buying some of the essentials we will need for when our baby arrives. We’ve been talking about all the things we’ll need for ages, but were reluctant to buy anything on the larger side any earlier on in the pregnancy 'just in case'.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-buying-baby/128754

IVF checklist

Maximise your chances of IVF success with our guide to preparing for assisted fertility treatment. While none of these tips will guarantee you a baby, they can help get you in good shape both mentally and physically for what's ahead.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ivf-checklist/128777

A pregnancy journey: weight gain

Weight gain in pregnancy is something that a lot of women find difficult. Some have spent years trying to keep below a certain weight and so seeing the pounds piling on week by week can be hard to accept. Others relish in the chance to gain weight without worrying too much, but then find they have inadvertently put on a little bit more than expected.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-weight-gain/128575

Shimmy Shimmy Ma

Wersha Bharadwa is an award-nominated journalist and iVillage.co.uk blogger. She’s expecting her first baby, and wants you to join her on her adventure from pregnancy to parenting with plenty of insights, ideas, inspiration and must-have products. You can also catch Wersha at her personal website Wersha's World.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/shimmy-shimmy-ma/148857

15 things to do before you get pregnant

You and your partner are thinking about taking the plunge into parenthood, great! This is one of the most exciting times of your life, and it's also the perfect chance to make sure you're totally ready before your little one is on the way. Here are 15 things to check off your to-do list before baby makes three.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/15-things-do-you-get-pregnant/128271

What a trooper!

Kath is surprised to find out how brave her little boy is turning out to be - he leaves the doctor's with a smile after a set of injections. Baby Lucas is also growing up fast despite his recent food replacement.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-a-trooper/128413

What kind of dad will he be?

When you're expecting your first child, there are a host of questions waiting to be answered - one being, what kind of father your husband or partner will be. Take our quiz to establish your man's parenting style and some tips on how best to utilise him when your bundle of joy arrives.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-kind-dad-will-he-be/127711

22 things they don’t tell you about pregnancy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/22-things-they-don%E2%80%99t-tell-you-about-pregnancy/126028

Can we see a picture?

Kath goes to Manchester due to work commitmentns but finds herself missing her baby boy too much. She also visits an old friend and discovers that she's become prone to sleepless nights.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-we-see-a-picture/127837

A pregnancy journey: finding out the sex

Last week we went for our 20-week anomaly scan and found out the sex of our baby… it’s a boy! Both my husband and I have felt very strongly that this was the case from very early on in the pregnancy, and I guess it just goes to show that parental intuition can be correct. But despite our suspicions, it was still strange being told that they were right.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-finding-out-the-sex/127836

Sex after baby: 15 things no one told you

Having a baby changes a lot of things - not least your sex life. However, change isn't always a bad thing. Check out our guide to what you can expect in the bedroom post-baby...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sex-after-baby-15-things-no-one-told-you/127811

The Making of Us

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-making-us/127929

A 3 minute guide to breast feeding

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-3-minute-guide-breast-feeding/127778

A real Mummy's boy

Kath discovers that her baby is a real mummy's boy, who seems to be as nosey as his mom and as imaginative as his dad - having made an invisible friend.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-real-mummys-boy/127775

A pregnancy journey: feeling guilty

When we first decided to start trying for a baby, my husband and I were convinced the hardest part would be falling pregnant in the first place. We knew that with my Endometriosis there was a chance infertility could affect us, and so we did all we could to prepare ourselves for trying to conceive.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-feeling-guilty/127585

Baby steps and a not-so-royal wedding

For the first time after giving birth, Katharine and her newly expanded family attend an event - a wedding ceremony. She also reveals what happened when she let her baby sleep in its own room.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-steps-and-a-not-so-royal-wedding/127249

A pregnancy journey: feeling baby move

This past week has been quite an exciting one for me, because I am finally very aware of baby's movements. I've been getting the odd sensation for a few weeks now but was never quite sure whether it was truly the little one moving around or just a bit of gas! I would think 'ooh, that felt a little bit different,' but then my stomach would suddenly rumble and I'd doubt myself again.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-feeling-baby-move/127106

Getting back into work now I'm a mum

Katharine Merry's son Lucas is approaching 10 weeks and she's dipping her toes back into work. Just one night away from her baby wasn't easy, and with more on the horizon, Kath's going to have to prepare herself for change. And with the hope of travelling baby-in-tow, she tracks down a travel cot...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-back-work-now-im-a-mum/126919

Has parenthood changed your relationship?

For better or worse, few couples remain the same once two becomes three…so how has having a child changed your relationship? Try our quiz to find out…

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/has-parenthood-changed-your-relationship/126748

A pregnancy journey: feeling beautiful

Nearly every book or article you read on pregnancy talks about the pregnancy 'glow'. You know the one, where increased blood flow makes your skin shine and you suddenly pass the nausea and fatigue of the early weeks and feel much happier and healthier. Have you experienced that yet?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-feeling-beautiful/126755

What's your fertility IQ?

Are you clued-up or clueless when it comes to conception? Take our test to find out if you know your baby-making fact from fiction.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/whats-your-fertility-iq/124701

Celebrity maternity gowns we love

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/celebrity-maternity-gowns-we-love/126538

21 hospital bag must-haves

Confused about what to pack for when you're finally called in to give birth? By 36 weeks you’ll want to be prepared, so here’s how to get organised...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/21-hospital-bag-must-haves/126496

Insider tips for an easier birth

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/insider-tips-easier-birth/126630

A pregnancy journey: supporting and judging

This week I have had a rather extraordinary experience. While writing a post for my blog, I decided to focus on the hardships we must all face during our lives. The post explained that, like many people today, my husband and I constantly have to battle with our finances. We always get there, but it can be a struggle and budgeting is a skill that I am glad I learnt from a very young age. Nevertheless, sometimes always having to justify every single purchase can be demoralising.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-supporting-and-judging/126497

Don't believe the stats!

What glorious weather we have been having. Perfect for taking Lucas out for a whizz around the park.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/dont-believe-the-stats/126427

Best foods for enhancing fertility

If you're trying for a baby and are keen for a bit of advice about what food you should be eating to boost your chances, check out this best foods guide for you and your man.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/best-foods-enhancing-fertility/125654

A pregnancy journey: forgetting you're pregnant

I cannot believe that I have reached 16 weeks. In some ways it feels like it can’t be April already, as Christmas seems like such a short time ago. And yet in other ways it feels like these past 16 weeks have taken a very long time, thanks to the excessive morning sickness that, although much improved, still lingers on.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-forgetting-youre-pregnant/126273

My first Mother's Day

Katharine Merry celebrates her first Mother's Day and thinks about how much her son Lucas has changed in the six weeks since birth...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/my-first-mothers-day/126112

38 ways to predict your baby's sex

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/38-ways-predict-your-babys-sex/125492

A pregnancy journey: reflecting on Mother's Day

This weekend just past was a rather special one for many people, with Mothering Sunday being the highlight of the weekend. And for a select few mums it must have been the best day since their baby was born, because Sunday would have brought their very first Mother's Day.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-reflecting-mothers-day/125951

Is he ready to be a dad?

You've finally found the man of your dreams and you're all ready to settle down and make some babies – but is he really ready to be a dad? Take this quiz to find out...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/he-ready-be-a-dad/124987

Fertility myths debunked

When you're attempting to get pregnant it's natural to try everything within your powers to make it happen. General tips such as eating a balanced diet and maintaining your health should be adhered to but there are a number of fertility myths out there to muddy the waters. We separate the fact from the fiction...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fertility-myths-debunked/125055

Strange but true pregnancy stories

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/strange-true-pregnancy-stories/125845

A pregnancy journey: dealing with anxiety

Nobody really knows what to expect when they fall pregnant, do they? I mean, you can read as many books and articles and listen to as many stories from friends and family as you like, but there will still be surprises in store.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-dealing-anxiety/125769

Is breast best?

Katharine Merry has enjoyed a couple of excursions this week - another reunion with her antenatal group and a trip to the health centre to get baby Lucas weighed. And while she's impressed with Lucas's acceptance of expressed milk, she's feeling a little redundant by it, which leaves her with a new dilemma...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breast-best/125825

Can a book teach you how to be a mum?

Katharine is quickly realising who wears the trousers in her house... and it's neither of the adults. But none of the countless parenting books can tell her exactly how to handle her little man.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/can-a-book-teach-you-how-be-a-mum/125428

A pregnancy journey: the first trimester

Oh my! Isn’t it difficult keeping one of the most exciting bits of news a secret for such a long time? Waiting until after the 12 week scan to make the announcement that you are pregnant, especially when that scan doesn’t happen until you’re actually 13 weeks, can seem almost torturous at times. But what an amazing feeling when that day finally comes and you can tell the world of the joy in your heart!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-pregnancy-journey-the-first-trimester/125321

How to find the perfect babysitter

Everyone needs the occasional breather from family life - but who'll look after the children? Here's how to find (and keep) the perfect babysitter. Your social life re-starts here…

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-find-the-perfect-babysitter/125200

The many faces of my baby

Olympic athlete Katherine Merry is three weeks into motherhood and finding her son's facial expressions a constant source of amusement...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-many-faces-my-baby/125030

Endometriosis - Information overload

When you set out on the exciting, yet often challenging, journey towards becoming a parent, it can be all too easy to get swept away with information, advice and research. This can come in the form of books, off the internet, or from friends and family, but very quickly you can find yourself suffering from what I call 'information overload'.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-information-overload/125034

Maternity dresses for weddings

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-dresses-weddings/124825

Being a new mum is so tiring!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/being-a-new-mum-so-tiring/124835

Endometriosis - meditation

Over recent weeks and months I’ve discussed a whole variety of topics related to trying to conceive, especially in connection to Endometriosis. One of the more regular topics that comes to mind when I decide what to write about each week is the emotional aspect of this journey, despite the fact that the physical aspects of pain and nausea can be just as bad, if not worse.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-meditation/124649

Endometriosis - your emotions

There are certain times in your life when your emotions are bound to be heightened and harder to control, and trying to conceive it one of the major ones. With all your hopes and dreams for a future family hanging in the balance, it is no wonder that you find your mood swinging from hugely optimistic one moment to terribly downhearted the next.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-your-emotions/124581

Disclaimer

This Email (including any attachments) is strictly confidential and intended solely for the addressee. If you are not the intended addressee, you must not disclose, copy, or take any action on account of this message. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete all copies. Any views or opinions contained in this message are those of the author only and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of any of the companies below.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/disclaimer/145594

10 tips to get your coupleness back

Ever feel you and your partner put everything into the kids, leaving nothing left over for you as a couple? Here are ten ways to bring back that loving feeling…

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-tips-get-your-coupleness-back/124208

Breastfeeding on demand

Katharine Merry's baby Lucas is 11 days old and breast feeding at every given opportunity. Our new mum takes a moment to tap out her experiences so far - the badly planned shopping trip, new parent extreme worrying, and the impossibility of sticking to a system...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-demand/124441

And suddenly - my baby is here!

Katharine is induced and baby Lucas Jonathan Aaron Daniels is born Saturday 19th February 2011

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/and-suddenly-my-baby-here/124195

Endometriosis - keeping romance alive

When trying to conceive, your relationship with your partner can become almost mechanical. You plan sex, rather than enjoying it on a whim, and you place far more emphasis on the end result, rather than enjoying every moment. And it isn’t just the sexual part of your relationship that can suffer: the romance can disappear too.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-keeping-romance-alive/124170

Maternity dresses for weddings

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-dresses-weddings/124176

Junior meets his cousin

Katharine's brother comes to stay - with baby Jon in tow, and after a sleep deprived weekend Katharine and her partner have a good idea what they're letting themselves in for...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/junior-meets-his-cousin/123597

Endometriosis - keeping a blog

Blogging is, quite simply, an easy way to keep a diary in the internet age. The only difference between an old-fashioned diary and a blog is that a blog is available online, so you can share your thoughts with others.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-keeping-a-blog/123417

The final stretch

Katharine's full term and feeling positive about the final stretch...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-final-stretch/123239

No sex life after giving birth?

Relationships expert Tracey Cox offers her advice to those struggling to resurrect their sex lives after giving birth.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/no-sex-life-after-giving-birth/123220

Endometriosis - other people's reactions

If you decide to be open about your attempts to conceive, you can be sure that you will receive a lot of advice, support and attention from those closest to you. This may even be one of the reasons you decide to share the news of trying for a baby with others.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-other-peoples-reactions/123191

Working mum-to-be

36 weeks into her pregnancy and Katharine is still working. And with just over four weeks until due date she's increasingly aware of the big change her life is heading for.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/working-mum-be/122798

Make room for the man

Katharine has another rollercoaster week, at least baby's back on track...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/make-room-the-man/122706

Endometriosis - the partner's perspective

More often than not, trying to conceive is focussed very heavily on the woman. After all, it is her cycle that needs to be monitored for signs of ovulation, and it is her body's hormonal interactions that will determine whether a fertilised egg is able to implant or not.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-the-partners-perspective/122539

Time to reveal the sex...

33 weeks in to the pregnancy and Katharine reveals the baby's sex. She also shares her first antenatal class experience and some home truths on side-effects. Also up for dicussion - the flu jab, and maternity lingerie for sexy mamas...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/time-reveal-the-sex/122450

Negative tests

I don’t know about you, but testing for pregnancy is perhaps one of the strangest things I’ve ever had to do. How many times in your life do you go through such emotions as anticipation, hope, excitement, fear and disappointment on a regular basis? There are many events in our lives that can cause similar emotional reactions, but never without a resolution or set time-frame.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/negative-tests/122429

The pressure is on!

Katharine's feeling the pressure. Antenatal classes begin, hormones are haywire, and the To Do list never ends. At least she's got the pushchair...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-pressure/122365

Give yourself a break

What resolutions, if any, have you made this New Year? Are they the usual ones such as eating more healthily or getting more exercise and losing that extra bit of weight piled on over Christmas? Perhaps you’ve decided to be more giving, promising to donate more time or money to a chosen charity, or agreeing to visit your relatives regularly throughout the year, despite the challenges this may bring. Maybe you’ve even gone for a less specific resolution, choosing to be more positive, meditate more or become better educated about a certain topic.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/give-yourself-a-break/122294

4D scans and meeting Theo

Where has the time gone? Week 30 has arrived. I look back and think it has gone really fast but then think back to the day in June when I had the joy of finding out I was pregnant and it has gone slowly!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/4d-scans-and-meeting-theo/122248

Endometriosis - trying to conceive at Christmas

Trying to conceive can be challenging at any time of the year, but Christmas really does bring a whole host of situations that can make it so much harder. Let’s face it, if you have been carefully avoiding alcohol 'just in case' over the past few months, then the temptation for a glass of this or a taste of that could send even the strongest will out the window.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-trying-conceive-christmas/122057

10 of the best car seats

One of the many key items parents need to buy for toddlers and small children is a comfortable and safe car seat. We have selected 10 of the best on the market, with something to suit every budget.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-the-best-car-seats/122070

And so it begins...

Olympic athlete Katharine Merry opens up in the first instalment of her pregnancy diary. As a first-timer she's got everything to learn, join her on her journey to motherhood

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/and-so-it-begins/121936

Endometriosis - overanalysing symptoms

When you're actively trying to conceive, it feels as if your mind is stuck on this one thought: 'am I pregnant?' After all, this is the goal of all your planning and lifestyle changes and you may feel as if you want to know you've conceived the minute it happens.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-overanalysing-symptoms/122041

Endometriosis - preconception care

When trying to conceive it can be all too easy to lose sight of anything but where you are in your cycle, whether you're ovulating, and the tiresome 'two-week wait' between when you think you ovulated and when you can begin testing for pregnancy. This whole process is made even more consuming if, like me, you have just come off birth control and have no idea what your natural cycle is.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-preconception-care/121975

Breastfeeding in public: how the law has changed

Recently, the Equality Act came into force and with it new laws were imposed on providers of services and functions, premises, education and associations not to discriminate against breastfeeding mothers or pregnant women.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-in-public-how-the-law-has-changed/121901

ABCs of a healthy pregnancy

Your pregnancy is a great adventure, and the same things that make it exhilarating can also make it nerve-wracking. The new life growing inside you depends on you for all of its needs, and that's not always an easy thought. But don't fear, just keep your eyes on the prize of a healthy pregnancy. Keep up with everything you'll need to know - from A to Z - to stay healthy during pregnancy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/abcs-a-healthy-pregnancy/76446

Endometriosis - dealing with jealousy

Jealousy is an emotion that I am willing to bet all of us have felt at some time in our lives. We might not like to admit it, but this emotion can come at us during the most inopportune times and really disable us from feeling anything other than the gnawing sensation that 'life is not fair'.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-dealing-jealousy/121898

10 top highchairs

Mealtimes are key to your child's development both in terms of nutrition and personal development. We've compiled a list of high chairs to suit all budgets that will allow your child to eat in comfort and safety

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-top-highchairs/84035

10 light perfumes for pregnancy

During pregnancy, your sense of smell is heightened and typical fragrances can be overpowering. To avoid spritz-sickness, stick to fresh, delicate scents. Here are some of our favourites...

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-light-perfumes-pregnancy/92598

10 brilliant buggies

Choosing a buggy for your baby or toddler can be a confusing process so we've done the hard work for you and selected 10 of the best currently on the market. From toddler strollers to full-on babymobiles, check out our list of buggies to suit every budget.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-brilliant-buggies/84034

New mummy essentials

When you're a new mum you suddenly have a million and one things to think about. Check out these yummy mummy products that will make life easier

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/new-mummy-essentials/92593

Magical maternity lingerie

Whether you're looking for practical, comfortable, sexy or all three, our selection of the best maternity lingerie will give you plenty of options for every stage of pregnancy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/magical-maternity-lingerie/92597

Second baby survival guide

Each and every parent looks forward to the birth of their first child with excitement and anxiety in equal measure but what happens when number two comes along? Author and mother, Naia Edwards, talks about the different challenges - and rewards - involved when your second baby arrives

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/second-baby-survival-guide/76444

Getting pregnant after the contraceptive pill

What to do to maximise your chances of becoming pregnant after you have been taking the contraceptive pill: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-pregnant-after-the-contraceptive-pill/81879

Your Baby's Development

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/your-babys-development/93225

High salary or baby?

A recent survey controversially found that 53 per cent of the UK's headhunters think women should forget about having children if they want to be among the country's high earners

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/high-salary-or-baby/76440

Bonding with your baby

One of the best things about being a new parent is enjoying the special moments with your baby - a walk in the park or a cuddle before bedtime. Make the most of those treasured times and create an amazing bond with your child.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bonding-your-baby/107349

Endometriosis - coping with setbacks

It doesn't matter how well you plan something, you will always find that the plan needs to change as events progress. Sometimes the changes are pleasant surprises, helping you achieve your goal much more quickly and easily than imagined. And then there are the times when unexpected challenges appear and create setbacks you would wish to avoid

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-coping-setbacks/76447

Endometriosis - to share or not to share?

When it comes to trying to conceive, most people choose to keep quiet about it. Let's be fair, it is an entirely personal journey and although the decision to begin trying might be shared with one's nearest and dearest, the ins and outs of the whole affair tend to be far too intimate to fall into general conversation

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-share-or-not-share/76445

The fear of change

I've often been told that two of the most stressful times in a person's life are during a change of home or a new job. This is quite true, and having moved home several times over the past ten years and changed jobs numerous times as well, I am more than happy to concede that the stress levels caused by these two events are indeed rather high

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-fear-change/76443

Endometriosis - the man's role

When it comes to preparing to conceive, the emphasis is usually firmly placed upon the woman's role. She is, after all, the one whose body needs to be in the best possible condition to cope with nine months of sharing her body, should she be lucky enough to fall pregnant

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-the-mans-role/76442

Endometriosis - coping with stress

One of the most regularly repeated piece of advice when trying to conceive is to try not to worry. Stress is, after all, a major factor in a whole range of issues from tension headaches and nervous stomachs right through to high blood pressure and an irregular menstrual cycle

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-coping-stress/76441

Endometriosis - help is at hand

Whatever stage you are at in your life, it is always good to have a secure support network to help you through the challenges that you may face. The support may come from friends and family or it might be from a support group online or in your local neighbourhood. Whatever form it comes in it will be invaluable in the journey you will take towards trying to conceive

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-help-hand/76439

Endometriosis - coming off birth control

In recent weeks we have looked at what you can do to help prepare for the moment when you choose to stop birth control and begin actively trying to conceive. For some women this can be one of the easier steps in their journey towards motherhood, but for a woman with Endometriosis it can be terrifying.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-coming-birth-control/76438

Endometriosis and exercise

There's no doubt about it: no matter what stage of life you're at, exercise is sure to be cited as a key component of a healthy lifestyle. It doesn't matter where you look, whether it's your doctor's advice or an article in a magazine, the benefits of regular exercise are too good to ignore

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-and-exercise/76436

Protecting you and your baby from flu

It's an unfortunate fact of life that our immune systems are less resilient in the winter months. So as the seasons turn, pregnant women in Scotland are being encouraged to protect themselves from the flu virus with an early seasonal jab.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/protecting-you-and-your-baby-flu/76437

Endometriosis and diet

Anyone trying to conceive will surely be bombarded with advice about which foods they should and should not eat. In fact, the amount of information and friendly advice offered can be overwhelming: simply thinking about making all these changes can give even the most determined person a headache.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-and-diet/76435

Endometriosis - the 'invisible' illness

'We've decided to try for a baby.' These words, so often shared with ones nearest and dearest, make it sound so easy, as if deciding to start a family is the most natural thing in the world and falling pregnant should be a breeze. However, as an Endometriosis patient, I am fully aware that my journey to parenthood may be a difficult one

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/endometriosis-the-invisible-illness/76434

Delightful rockers for toddlers

No nursery or playroom is complete without a rocking horse. These beautiful rockers will provide endless hours of fun for your little one

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/delightful-rockers-toddlers/84033

Your antenatal notes made simple

Being pregnant - especially if it's for the first time - can be a daunting experience, particularly when it comes to understanding your antenatal notes and the various terms and jargon included in them. Our simple guide takes you through the various stages of antenatal care and breaks down the jargon into basic English

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/your-antenatal-notes-made-simple/76433

Win a copy of Winnie The Pooh The Movie DVD

iVillage.co.uk have teamed up with Disney to offer some lucky winners a copy of Winnie The Pooh The Movie on DVD.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/win-a-copy-winnie-the-pooh-the-movie-dvd/132462

Ghostwritermummy and bump

Susanne Remic is a primary school teacher, freelance writer and parenting blogger. She writes at Ghostwritermummy and Maternity Matters and in between all of that she regularly wins mummy of the year awards for running around after her two children, aged six and 19 months. This is her pregnancy blog: an online diary of her third pregnancy as she strives to overcome two difficult births, one angel child and one awkward toddler. Join Susanne as she shares every step of her journey from bump to baby!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ghostwritermummy-and-bump/132177

Boppy has arrived!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/boppy-has-arrived/82120

Quality clothing for bouncing babies

Whether you're an expectant mum or looking for gift ideas for a newborn or young baby, the summer range at Springbaby features high quality clothing, blankets and accessories

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/quality-clothing-bouncing-babies/92596

Coping with pregnancy sickness

Suffering from pregnancy sickness? The good news is that it's believed to be a sign of a well-established pregnancy; the bad news is it can really sap your energy and spoil the enjoyment of those early weeks. Here are some tried-and-tested tips for getting yourself over the worst

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/coping-pregnancy-sickness/82119

Marvellous maternity swimwear

Whether you're looking for beachwear for your holiday or something to wear at your local pool, we've got a selection of stylish swimwear for mums to be

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/marvellous-maternity-swimwear/92595

Memory-jogging list for each trimester

There's so much information to take on board after your pregnancy is confirmed, but there are some key things to remember for each trimester. Keep this checklist somewhere handy - maybe with your hospital notes - and you'll be well prepared

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/memory-jogging-list-each-trimester/82118

Coping with mood swings

Although some lucky women seem to sail through pregnancy in a state of serenity, the majority experience emotional highs and lows, at times quite extreme. Here are a few expert tips on how to get the better of the mood swings

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/coping-mood-swings/82117

6 ways to toddler-proof your home

The transition from baby to toddler is an exciting time. However, for parents it is also one of the most worrying. According to the Child Accident Prevention Trust, over two million children are taken to hospital each year after having an accident and approximately half of these happen in the home

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/6-ways-toddler-proof-your-home/82116

How to stay cool during pregnancy

As exciting as pregnancy can be, it can also be more than a little uncomfortable - and you may find yourself struggling to stay cool in warm weather. Here are some tried-and-tested ways to keep cool and comfy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-stay-cool-during-pregnancy/82115

Tropical lollies

A fun twist on this refreshing treat.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tropical-lollies/127680

Raspberry and watermelon lollies

A healthy, refreshing treat.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/raspberry-and-watermelon-lollies/127679

Tomato and butternut squash pasta stars

A tasty tomato sauce enriched with butternut squash and cheese.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tomato-and-butternut-squash-pasta-stars/127678

Chicken and apple balls

This is a great favourite with my family. Grated apple adds a delicious flavour to these chicken balls, which makes them appealing to young children, and they are delicious hot or cold. These little balls make perfect finger food.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/chicken-and-apple-balls/127677

Salmon with carrots and tomato

This makes a good, creamy-textured fish puree.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/salmon-carrots-and-tomato/127676

Sweet potato, spinach and peas

This puree makes a tasty introduction to spinach.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sweet-potato-spinach-and-peas/127675

Fabulous maternity frocks

Don't sacrifice style for comfort this summer - these sensational summer frocks are practical and pretty

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fabulous-maternity-frocks/92594

10 steps to a safe baby's bedroom

Setting up your baby's first bedroom is not only about making it look lovely - it's about keeping your baby safe

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-steps-a-safe-babys-bedroom/82114

We've just launched our NEW HiPP Organic Follow on milk!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/weve-just-launched-our-new-hipp-organic-follow-milk/82112

Foods that make you fertile

Research has shown that up to a third of couples struggle to conceive - so what can people do to increase their fertility? Nutritionist Yvonne Bishop-Weston gives her advice on the best foods that help to make you fertile

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/foods-make-you-fertile/82113

Getting your pre-pregnancy body back

Personal Trainer and Fitness Expert Dax Moy offers advice to pregnant women and new mums to help them get back into shape

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-your-pre-pregnancy-body-back/82110

A new mum or pregnant? Find your Me-Spot

Having a baby may have changed the way you look at yourself; you are new to motherhood and don't have the time to spend on fashion and beauty or you simply have no idea where to start, and sex is probably the last thing on your mind!

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-new-mum-or-pregnant-find-your-me-spot/82109

Yummy Mummy Prenatal Workout

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/yummy-mummy-prenatal-workout/125587

Chest infections

How to cope with chest infections in childre: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/chest-infections/81671

Protecting you and your baby from flu

With so many things to worry about when you’re pregnant, the last thing you need is to fall ill at the hands of the dreaded flu virus. A visit from the flu if you’re expecting isn’t just about getting the chills, fever, a chesty cough or sinus congestion, as it hits you quicker and with more force.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/protecting-you-and-your-baby-flu/121834

Bra fitting during pregnancy

For comfort and good posture, make sure you are wearing the correct bra all the way through your pregnancy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bra-fitting-during-pregnancy/82107

Bra fitting for breastfeeding

Look after your breasts once you start breastfeeding, by making sure you are wearing the correct bra

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bra-fitting-breastfeeding/82108

7 Vital vitamin and mineral rich foods for pregnancy

During pregnancy and while breastfeeding, your body is often starved of the vitamins and minerals you need. Discover the vital foods that you should eat while pregnant to stay healthy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/7-vital-vitamin-and-mineral-rich-foods-pregnancy/92752

The random resolution generator

eryt

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-random-resolution-generator/139146

A relaxing pilates weekend with luxury FREE gift

If you're pregnant and fancy a bit of pampering that will leave you refreshed and restored for the exciting events to come, why not treat yourself to a pregnancy pilates and well-being weekend getaway

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-relaxing-pilates-weekend-luxury-free-gift/82106

Bump cover-ups

Being pregnant doesn't mean dropping your style standards. Indeed, there is plenty of scope to work it while sporting a baby bump. From cosy and chic garments to stylish blazers, we've picked the best of the maternity coats and jackets for your viewing pleasure.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bump-cover-ups/92592

Hospital bag basics

Check out our essential picks to pack into your hospital bag. These mum and newborn basics will help ensure your comfort on the maternity ward.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hospital-bag-basics/92591

10 chic changing bags

The busy new mum needs a stylish tote for all those baby essentials. Check out these gorgeous yet practical kid carry-alls

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-chic-changing-bags/92590

Parent pampering

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/parent-pampering/82105

10 most common pregnancy symptoms

Find out how to spot early signs of pregnancy.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-most-common-pregnancy-symptoms/82102

10 most common signs of pregnancy

Find out how to spot early signs of pregnancy.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-most-common-signs-pregnancy/82103

10 most common signs of pregnancy

Find out how to spot early signs of pregnancy.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-most-common-signs-pregnancy/82104

Pregnant at work

Are you a working mother-to-be or new parent? Maternity Action gives you up-to-date information on the rights and benefits you can claim during pregnancy and maternity leave

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnant-work/82101

Understand your cycle and maximise your chances of conception

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/understand-your-cycle-and-maximise-your-chances-conception/82100

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Formerly Incapacity Benefit, this is what you may get if you do not qualify for Maternity Allowance.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance-esa/82099

Sun protection for children

Protect your children from exposure to the sun

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sun-protection-children/81803

Mothercare maternity lingerie 2009

Forget frumpy pregnancy knickers and take a look at Mothercare's latest range of cute and comfortable maternity lingerie and nightwear

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mothercare-maternity-lingerie-2009/92589

Look after yourself with Ovaltine

As a new mum, it's easy to forget about yourself as you concentrate on caring for your baby. Look after yourself with Ovaltine

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/look-after-yourself-ovaltine/82097

Ultimate new mums' eating plan

How can you eat easily for optimum health whilst caring for a newborn? It's simple with our day-by-day plan

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ultimate-new-mums-eating-plan/82098

Down's Syndrome testing: good or bad?

Down's Syndrome births are on the rise, but prenatal testing means that a large number of parents are terminating their babies if the results are positive. Are these parents right to opt for an abortion on the basis of a disability?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/downs-syndrome-testing-good-or-bad/82096

Baby tips for new mums

Advice from the iVillage community for new mums

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-tips-new-mums/92588

MMR vaccination

A look at the MMR Vaccination, it?s pros and con: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mmr-vaccination/81466

Maternal serum-alfa-fetoprotein

MSAFP maternal serum alpha fetoprotein tes: what it is, indications and how it is don: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternal-serum-alfa-fetoprotein/81477

Common problems in pregnancy

A run down of some of the common problems encountered in a normal pregnancy: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/common-problems-in-pregnancy/81506

Special tests in pregnancy

An introduction to the special tests in pregnanc: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/special-tests-in-pregnancy/81517

Post-natal depression

post-natal depression ? how to recognise it, how to get hel: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/post-natal-depression/81613

Ectopic pregnancy, its causes and treatments

What is an ectopic pregnancy and what happens: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ectopic-pregnancy-its-causes-and-treatments/81694

Pre-eclampsia ? diagnosis and treatment

Symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment for pre-eclampsia in pregnanc: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pre-eclampsia-diagnosis-and-treatment/81701

Weight gain in pregnancy

Advice about weight gain throughout pregnancy: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/weight-gain-in-pregnancy/81702

Sick babies: 12 symptoms to help you assess when to call the doctor

12 signs and symptoms to help you decide if you need to call the docto: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sick-babies-12-symptoms-help-you-assess-when-call-the-doctor/81741

TB - it's back

TB - it's on the rise in the UK. Should parents be concerned: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tb-its-back/81768

Molar pregnancy

Molar pregnancy - diagnosis, treatment and prognosi: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/molar-pregnancy/81787

Getting pregnant after miscarriage

Coping with miscarriage and trying again to get pregnant? Get advise here

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-pregnant-after-miscarriage/81788

Rare complications of pregnancy

Pregnancy can give rise to complications, but most of them are very rar: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/rare-complications-pregnancy/81847

Too little amniotic fluid

Too little amniotic fluid can sometimes cause problems for the bab: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/too-little-amniotic-fluid/81860

Polyhydramnios

Too much amniotic fluid: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/polyhydramnios/81861

Breastfeeding and drugs: a mother's guide

Dr Howard Lee on which drugs - legal or recreational affect breastfeedin: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/breastfeeding-and-drugs-a-mothers-guide/81890

Crunch proof your Christmas

Philips AVENT's finance planning for families expert, Sue Hayward is one of the country's leading personal finance experts. Here she offers the following helpful advice and handy tips on saving for the festive season

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/crunch-proof-your-christmas/82094

Would you ask a friend for his sperm?

Would you ask a friend to father your child

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/would-you-ask-a-friend-his-sperm/82093

Do alcohol and pregnancy mix?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/do-alcohol-and-pregnancy-mix/82092

Baby entertainment tips

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-entertainment-tips/82091

Quick-fix beauty cheats for new mums

Make-up advice for new mums

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/quick-fix-beauty-cheats-new-mums/82090

Baby clothing and accessories

A gallery of baby clothing and accessories

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-clothing-and-accessories/92585

Fast fitness for new mums

Fitness tips for new mums

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fast-fitness-new-mums/92586

Top tips for breastfeeding in public

Philips AVENT has worked with its feeding and wellbeing advisor Vicki Scott to provide some top tips on breastfeeding in public. Vicki Scott has been working with mothers and babies for over 20 years and is a qualified midwife, maternity nurse and breastfeeding advisor. She is also mum to two year old Poppy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/top-tips-breastfeeding-in-public/82088

The Baby Friendly Swimming Pool directory

There are over 2,500 swimming pools in the UK, but as parents how do you decide which ones are 'baby friendly' and what to consider when deciding where to take your little one swimming?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/the-baby-friendly-swimming-pool-directory/82089

Exclusive! SpongeBob Squarepants: Clash of the Bottom Image Gallery

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/exclusive-spongebob-squarepants-clash-the-bottom-image-gallery/132665

Green parenting

Tips on how to be an environmentally friendly parent

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/green-parenting/82087

Talk and touch podcast

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/talk-and-touch-podcast/82085

Mel Sykes bonding with baby interview

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mel-sykes-bonding-baby-interview/82086

Baby food: organic purees

A selection of baby food recipes

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-food-organic-purees/82084

Maternity beachwear

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-beachwear/92584

Mums-to-be essential buys

Mums-to-be essential buys for your baby

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/mums-be-essential-buys/92583

Getting out and about with baby

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/getting-out-and-about-baby/82083

Who's the daddy?

The search is on with AVENT to find the best dad

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/whos-the-daddy/82078

Get your glow back

Tips for new mums to help you look and feel great

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/get-your-glow-back/82079

Energise yourself

Keep yourself in great shape after birth

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/energise-yourself/82080

Working mum

Going back to work after having a baby

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/working-mum/82081

Help for new mums: how to delegate

How to ask for help when you have a new baby

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/help-new-mums-how-delegate/82082

Losing the baby weight

Advice on how to lose baby weight

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/losing-the-baby-weight/82077

Bonding in the womb

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bonding-in-the-womb/82076

Waterproof clothes for kids

A gallery of waterproof clothes for kids

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/waterproof-clothes-kids/92582

Pushchairs and travel systems

A guide to pushchairs and travel systems

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pushchairs-and-travel-systems/92581

DDH: Alex's story

DDH and hip problems in babies and toddlers

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ddh-alexs-story/82075

Baby head shapes

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-head-shapes/82074

Pushchairs: How to choose one

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pushchairs-how-choose-one/82073

Pregnant celebs 2008

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/pregnant-celebs-2008/92580

Working Tax Credit

Advice on the working tax credit from Working Families

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/working-tax-credit/82072

Teenage parents and benefits

Advice and information about benefits for teenage parents

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/teenage-parents-and-benefits/82070

Maternity rights - working and pregnant

Advice on working when pregnant

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-rights-working-and-pregnant/82071

Sure Start

Advice from The Maternity Alliance on who qualifies for the Sure Start payment

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sure-start/82068

Tax Credits

Advice on Tax Credits from the Maternity Alliance

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/tax-credits/82069

A new year, a new baby!

The story of a couple who feared they would never conceive but ended up having a healthy baby boy

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/a-new-year-a-new-baby/82067

Hospital checklist

A useful checklist for all mums-to-be to take to hospital with them

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hospital-checklist/82066

Working during Maternity Leave

Information on what benefits you are entitled to if you work during Maternity Leave

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/working-during-maternity-leave/82065

Single parent and working

Single parent and workin: Your benefit rights explaine: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/single-parent-and-working/81488

Social fund loans

Social fund loans, what is it and how do you clai: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/social-fund-loans/81489

Your other rights in pregnancy

Your maternity rights explained by Maternity Action

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/your-other-rights-in-pregnancy/81546

Baby's first Christmas

The festive season can feel like a frenzy of shopping, preparations and family expectations, but for new mums, this is the year to do Christmas differently

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/babys-first-christmas/92579

Is there a right time for pregnancy?

Few couples feel that they've reached the perfect moment to have a child, so how do you know when is the best time to have a family, asks Dr Miriam Stoppard

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/there-a-right-time-pregnancy/82064

Maternity party wear

Maternity party wear gallery

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/maternity-party-wear/92578

Coping with the devastating loss of your baby

This article has been written by women who all have lost a child. Their hope is that by sharing their thoughts, they can help you with the things you never thought you would have to consider

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/coping-the-devastating-loss-your-baby/82063

Memory loss and pregnancy

As your pregnancy progresses have you found your brain power seems to regress?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/memory-loss-and-pregnancy/82062

Sex after pregnancy

Sex after giving birth may be the last thing on your mind, but at some point you're going to want to get back in the saddle. Author and maternity therapy expert Rachel Foux addresses your concerns

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/sex-after-pregnancy/82061

10 things I forgot about babies

Father of two Fraser MacLellan thought he had it all figured out, then along came the most recent addition to his family, baby Isla

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-things-i-forgot-about-babies/82060

Your baby questions

Maternity nurse to the stars, Rachel Waddilove, comes to the rescue of mums struggling to balance feed times, naps and leaving baby with other carers

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/your-baby-questions/82059

Bottle-feeding your baby

Is bottle-feeding the right thing to do and how do you go about it? Su Laurent, author of Your Baby Month By Month, offers her view

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bottle-feeding-your-baby/82058

Home Births

What is the deal with home births? Is everyone entitled to one and what are your rights?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/home-births/82057

How celebrities choose to give birth

For most mums-to-be antenatal classes, midwife visits and packing a hospital bag is all we can manage in the final days of pregnancy. So how do celebrities get to this stage and still manage red carpets and trips to The Ivy?

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-celebrities-choose-give-birth/82056

Bringing baby home

Rachel Waddilove, maternity nurse to Gwyneth Paltrow and author of The Baby Book, reveals some home truths about what to expect when you bring your newborn home

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bringing-baby-home/82055

Fashionable maternity wear for 2007

Fed up with wearing your elastic waist maternity jeans and saggy t-shirt? It's time to update your maternity wardrobe with a few staples and feel elegant and chic this summer. Let floaty fabrics and the bold summer shades flatter and 'de-frump' your bump.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/fashionable-maternity-wear-2007/92577

Help with mortgage interest repayments

If you've got a mortgage and you're on income-based Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support or Pension Credit, you may be able to get help with your interest payments

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/help-mortgage-interest-repayments/81478

Incapacity Benefit

Incapacity Benefit explained: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/incapacity-benefit/81547

Health benefits for people with a low income

Health benefits for people with a low income explained, by Working Families: iVillage

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/health-benefits-people-a-low-income/81468

Hypnotherapy in pregnancy and childbirth

If you're nervous about giving birth, hypnotherapist Maggie Howell has some suggestions about how to get you to see things differently

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/hypnotherapy-in-pregnancy-and-childbirth/82054

10 steps to a healthy pregnancy

Healthy pregnancy preparation tips

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/10-steps-a-healthy-pregnancy/82053

Infertility and reflexology

In the UK, infertility is defined as being unable to conceive for a period of one year or more. Unexplained infertility accounts for around 15 per cent of cases and can be one of the most frustrating and heartbreaking experiences for a maternal woman

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/infertility-and-reflexology/82052

Bonding with baby

Memories of spending the special times with baby with far outweight thoughts of sleepless nights. Make bonding a part of your everyday routine.

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/bonding-baby/82047

Baby bonding books

Here's our pick of the best baby books to help you bond with your little one

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/baby-bonding-books/82051

How to communicate with your baby

The early days are so important. Make time to talk to your baby now and they will reap the benefits later in life

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/how-communicate-your-baby/82048

What do you wish people had told you about?

Everybody's pregnancy and experience of early motherhood is different, but there are some universal truths out there that every mum-to-be should be aware of

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/what-do-you-wish-people-had-told-you-about/82050

Your baby's development