Pregnancy Podcast

Getting a manicure or pedicure can be a relaxing way to treat yourself, but many people wonder if it's safe during pregnancy. This episode looks at the potential concerns about nail polish chemicals, like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, and reviews research on how much of these ingredients the body might absorb. Learn about gel polish, tips to reduce your exposure, what to consider about foot and leg massages during a pedicure, and how to lower the risk of infection. By the end of this episode, you'll feel confident in making the right choice for you, whether that means taking some precautions or sticking to your usual routine. Full article and resources for this episode: https://pregnancypodcast.com/pedicure/   Thank you to the brands that power this podcast: Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In the month of September 2025, save 30% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tFOBgb with the code PREPOD30 and email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com for a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the details and the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin at https://pregnancypodcast.com/vitamin/   Get More from the Pregnancy Podcast See all discounts exclusive for Pregnancy Podcast listeners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/resources Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium for ad-free episodes, full access to the back catalog, and a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book: https://pregnancypodcast.com/premium Follow your pregnancy week-by-week with the 40 Weeks podcast. Learn how your baby grows, what’s happening in your body, what to expect at prenatal appointments, and get tips for dads and partners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/week For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website: https://pregnancypodcast.com

Labor and birth are powerful, life-changing experiences, and pain is often one of the biggest concerns for expecting parents. In this episode, we reframe your perspective on labor pain by exploring why childbirth is challenging, how evolution has equipped us with adaptations, and what actually happens during each stage of labor. Learn the role of hormones, your baby’s contribution to the birth process, and the limitations of pain research. Also learn about the many factors that can influence your perception of pain, like support, environment, and positions, and the medical and non-medical interventions available to manage it. By the end of this episode, you will have a new perspective to help you feel prepared, capable, and confident as you approach your birth. Full article and resources for this episode: https://pregnancypodcast.com/pain/ Thank you to the brands that power this podcast: Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In the month of September 2025, save 30% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tFOBgb with the code PREPOD30 and email your order number to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com for a free silicone baby bib. You can always see the details and the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin at https://pregnancypodcast.com/vitamin/ The Pregnancy Survival Kit from 8 Sheep Organics includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. All 8 Sheep products come with a 100-day Happiness Guarantee. You can try it completely risk-free for 100 days! If you feel they have not worked for you, or if you’re not 100% happy with your purchase, simply send them an email and they will get you a refund, no questions asked. For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US. Plus, save an additional 10% off at https://pregnancypodcast.com/8sheep/ Get More from the Pregnancy Podcast See all discounts exclusive for Pregnancy Podcast listeners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/resources Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium for ad-free episodes, full access to the back catalog, and a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book: https://pregnancypodcast.com/premium Follow your pregnancy week-by-week with the 40 Weeks podcast. Learn how your baby grows, what’s happening in your body, what to expect at prenatal appointments, and get tips for dads and partners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/week For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website: https://pregnancypodcast.com

Pregnancy often brings vivid and emotional dreams, influenced by hormonal changes and stress. This discussion dives into why these dreams feel so intense and the role of emotions in shaping them. Practical tips for improving sleep quality, like establishing a soothing nighttime routine and relaxation techniques, are shared. Listeners can discover how to manage anxiety and enhance restful nights during this unique journey. Plus, there's a spotlight on a special lotion designed to help with sleep and pregnancy discomfort.

Navigating the world of infant formula can be quite the challenge! Discover how different formulas vary in nutrients like carbohydrates and proteins. Learn about essential additives such as DHA and probiotics. Tips on spotting allergies and sensitivities will help you choose the right option for your baby. Get savvy shopping insights, including label reading and strategies to save money during formula shortages. By the end, you'll feel empowered to select a formula that aligns with your values and supports your baby’s health!

Curious about concert safety during pregnancy? This discussion dives into how babies hear in the womb and what research reveals about acceptable noise levels. It debunks myths surrounding loud music, reassures expectant mothers, and offers practical advice to minimize risks while enjoying memorable events. Plus, hear about guidelines from health organizations to keep both mom and baby safe. It's all about balancing fun with safety!

Dive into the essentials of bottle feeding! Discover how to choose the right bottle size and nipple flow for your baby. Learn safe methods for warming milk and cleaning bottles efficiently. Enjoy practical tips to ease feeding times and reduce gas and spit-up. If you're breastfeeding, find out how to introduce a bottle without upsetting your breastfeeding journey. Plus, explore the variety of bottle materials and designs to keep your little one healthy and happy!

Explore whether pregnancy-specific seatbelt adjusters truly enhance safety for mothers and their babies. Dive into the research on car crash risks during pregnancy and the proven advantages of using traditional seatbelts. Discover guidance on proper seatbelt positioning and what leading safety organizations recommend. Uncover the reality behind the marketing claims of these adjusters and evaluate their effectiveness in protecting both mother and child.

Dive into the world of pumping breast milk and discover essential strategies for success! Learn how to choose the right breast pump and create a reliable storage system. Uncover tips for maintaining milk production while juggling personal life and work commitments. Explore the best practices for effective pumping techniques and the impact of your diet on milk quality. Get practical insights on the storage conditions for your liquid gold and how to navigate the challenges of breastfeeding with confidence.

Discover vital strategies to enhance fertility, including understanding your menstrual cycle and pinpointing your fertile window. Learn how lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and sleep play a crucial role in improving your chances of conception. Explore innovative hormone monitoring technology that gives you accurate insights into your cycle, moving beyond traditional tracking methods. This engaging discussion debunks myths and offers practical tips to create a healthy environment for pregnancy.

Breastfeeding can be a journey filled with challenges. New mothers often deal with issues like sore nipples, engorgement, and latching difficulties. It’s important to recognize symptoms early to prevent bigger problems later. Tips for managing common infant issues like spitting up and nursing strikes are also discussed. Support from lactation consultants and support groups can make a huge difference. The podcast encourages understanding feeding behaviors and highlights the importance of a nurturing environment for both mother and baby.