New Bump Times

Abdominal wrapping or binding is common practice in many cultures. Compression of the abdomen encourages the stomach to return to its original shape; improves posture; supports your lower back and tightens and shapes your midriff.

We’ve just added the Carriwell adjustable belly binder to our range, and wondered what people think.  The practice is becoming more popular in Europe.

The soft breathable organic cotton is ideal for wearing after a c-section and the wide velcro band allows for maximum adjustability and comfort.

• Helps flatten the belly and redefine the waistline
• Provides abdominal support and comfort after c-section
• Reduces stretch marks by tightening and firming loose skin
• Helps improve posture whilst sitting, standing and in particular breast feeding

Always consult with your doctor or midwife before using the belly binder.

Anyone need a last minute gift idea - or party outfit for a pregnant lady.

Here is a simple solution that works with a simple pair of black trousers and white top.

The Noppies Bowtie Maternity Bumpband is a great stocking filler.

Noppies Bowtie Maternity Belt - £19.99 (clipped to polyvore.com)

We’ve just updated our gift ideas for pregnant women fact sheet, as it seems to be the most popular currently…….I wonder why.

It great to see that the men are taking a look through and buying some of the items we suggest.  There are a couple of non-glamorous items on there, but will really offer comfort to a pregnant lady - which has to be a great gift.

tumblrbot asked: WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER WHEN YOU ARE IN A BAD MOOD?

Lemon curd on toast, nice customer feedback, a good cup of tea.

Just added some maternity nightwear from 9Fashion. And we have to say it is really lovely!

We sent this helpful email out today to all our pregnant customers.  Hope you find it helpful

Planning for a caesarean

We all assume, especially first time around, that we will have a natural birth if your pregnancy is all going well.  While this will hopefully be true for you, it’s worth doing some background reading around c-sections just in case you are one of the 25% of women who give birth this way.

Even if a caesarean is planned then you should still draw up a birth plan. There are certain factors you will have control over and by asserting control, you can be more involved in the birth of your baby.

Things to take to hospital
In addition to all the stuff that your new baby will need, take these things for yourself to make life a little easier in hospital after a c-section:

• Snacks - It is usual to be “Nil by Mouth” prior to an elective caesarean, (though an emergency caesarean can still be performed if you have eaten). Take snacks for when you’re back on the ward as it may be a few hours until the next hospital catered mealtime.
• Peppermint tea to help with the wind that always troubles people after abdominal surgery!
• Short sleeve nursing pyjamas – the wards are warm and you are likely to be attached to a drip for a while so need to feel comfortable and confident for feeding.
• Disposable pants or large “belly warming” pants are essential following a caesarean as their elastic line is well above the incision site. The incision may feel rather sensitive for a while and elastic will irritate it.
• Maternity sanitary towels, extra long to accommodate the fact that you will be lying down for longer periods of time. Blood loss after both caesarean and natural birth will be about the same.
• Face wipes, you wont get to a shower for at least the first day so they’re handy to freshen up.
• Nursing bras, Breast pads and the all important nipple cream. Using a cream such as Lansinoh from the first day is a good idea if you hope to avoid cracked nipples. The last thing you need is further pain and discomfort!
• Slippers without backs so that you can put them on without having to bend down

Read on to see our recommended items for your hospital bag, and more tips on preparing for a c-section.