Your Questions About Natural Ivf Treatment

Posted on March 20, 2011 by Michelle

Steven asks…

I m 31 yrs old n have been married since 4 yrs.wish to have a natural child n procedures.hence visited a gyno.?

she adviced me to do certain blood test n an critical ultra sonography.the report stated focal adenomyosis in d right lateral wall of the uterus.hence she gave me an injection Lupricle 11.25mg.which resulted in d a temporary menopause.then after 3 months was called again the sonography then stated there is partial regression of changes of adenomyosis.she said it has been reduced upto 50%.but again asked me to take the same injection and told me to come back after 2 months and she will then start with the ivf treatment.natural pregnancy not possible.i havent taken the injection again worried what to do have lots of questions unanswered….pls help what shld i do now??

Michelle answers:

Well, I think to be able to carry a baby in your uterus, you need to shrink the adenomyosis. So I think it’s a good idea to get the injection again. I know the injection side effects are pretty awful, but it will help you to carry a baby to term. Otherwise, you might have a miscarriage and that would be worse.

It sounds to me like in addition to the adenomyosis, you have endometriosis that has caused scar tissue, and that is why natural pregnancy is not possible and you need the IVF.

Ruth asks…

My Wife & IVF treatment..STRESSED OUT. PLEASE HELP. NEED AVICE!?

I am a male and Im unable to conceive the natural way. (due to a health condition)
I had to have a testiciclur biospsy in order for us to get sperm. I have sperm stored at the hospital (frozen)
In order to proceed with IVF (ICSI) we had to attend a seminar which was to educate us of the process. About 100 people attended the seminar.
I felt very uncomfortable, and so did my wife. As we entered the room where the seminar was being held my wife kicked off (stampinghher feet, hufffing, tutting) I tried to calm her down but she made it obvious to EVERYONE she didnt want to be there.
During the seminar she put cotton wool in her ears and started reading a book! Thought the whole seminar she was muttering things. My wife made the whole experience 100 times worse.
When I confronted her after the seminar, she stated that she felt very uncomfortable in the room. I explained that everyone was in the same boat and nobody was singled out. I also informed her that I was the one who had
the medical complaint, so if anyodoy should feel uncomfortable it should have been ME!
my wife cant see that she was in the wrong. Going through IVF is stressful and Im not sure she will be able to cope.
I tried talking to her about it and she has twisted things round and made me look the bad one (for being in a mood with her!)
I said to her last night that I dont think she is in the right right frame of mind to go ahead with IVF. Her reply was “go and find another women who will go through this for you!”
After some deep thought, I said maybe we should hold back on the IVF for a few years, She agreed and phoned me today to tell me she was called the hospital to cancel all treatment! She informs me she has put this in writing to them aswell.
Now shes blaming me saying ” youve dragged me this far and now your changing your mind, your playing mind games”

I feel so so low! I feel she has twisted the whole thing around to make me look bad.

some advice would be great!
steve

Michelle answers:

Hi. So sorry you have to go through this. My husband and I have gone through 3 IVF cycles, with 2 beautiful little girls (ages 3 1/2 and 1 month) as a result. One IVF resulted in a blighted ovum. My husband has male factor infertility, he was born without his Vas. They did asperation of his testicles and we also had to have ICSI. I understand how you both feel. We felt embarassed, ashamed, alone in the beginning. We did not talk about it with anyone during the first cycle and honestly it was more me than my husband. I did not want anyone to know. I truthfully think it was my way of having control over a situation I had NO control over. It does sound like your wife is not ready. Maybe even a little resentful. I have to be honest and say I was a bit angry with my husband for a situation he did not ask for and that I had to give myself shots and go through what I went through. But it was not his fault and he wanted a baby just as badly as I did. He used to apalogize and say he was sorry for all of it. He aslo used to say if he knew before we got married he wouldn’t have married me so I wouldn’t have to go through it. But that is why it is for better or for worse. Going to a seminar or a support group would probably be very helpful to her. If she is not willing to deal with people face to face there are on line support groups. (fertility neighborhood) My kids are proof it does work. I wish you the best. Don’t add any more guilt to yourself. It is a situation you did not ask for as well. Give her time to adjust. I hope you have happy healthy babies!

George asks…

Natural Fertility Treatment vs Medical Fertility Treatment which is most succesful? Want to conceive FAST!!?

I’m 24, been on the pill for around +-8 years. Stopped pill in May which was when I had last period. No period since then. Went to OBGYN everything is perfect except when I went for blood test. Thryoid problem. Hormone TSH is too high. Took eltroxin for 6 weeks made hormones too low. No medication for a month and then back to the doctor. If no period or hormones have not settled he wants to send me to a fertility specialist. who will probably put me on clomid and if that doesn’t work then onto IVF. the Fertility specialist sounds good. I also heard of another doctor that specialieses in natural fertility treatment as in homeopathy, acupuncture, chiro etc. I phoned them and they said I should see them first before doing clomid. Now I don’t know what to do. I really want a healthy baby FAST so I’m not sure which way will give me the best results. I’ve currently had 2 acupuncture treatments, taking folic acid and trying to improve diet and excerise. Also taking chinese meds my acupunturist gave me. Has anyone experienced both type of treatments and which was more successful? Which one made you get pregant faster. You can go to http://www.fertiboost.com/home.asp and tell me if you think it’s any good!!! Thanks so much!!

Michelle answers:

This is probably not what you’re looking for- but I don’t think there is any way to know what is or is not going to work for you. Even when the doctors know what is causing the ferility problem, they are not 100% in making women get pregnant. Same for the natural treatments- they can treat you, but there’s no way to know if what they do is going to work.

I recently did a stint with Clomid- on my third cycle I had two good follicles that released. We did IUI, and my husbands sample was fantastic. And I still didn’t get pregnant. It should have worked, but it didn’t. So now we’re back to the drawing board.

The point that I am making is this- choose the therapy that you feel is right for you, and know that there is no way to get pregnant “fast”- you might get lucky and do it in one month, or you might wait longer, and in many respects, there’s no way to control it.

Mary asks…

How long I have wait to get treated with IVF after my second ectopic surgery[Laparoscopy]?

How long I have wait to get treated with IVF after my second ectopic surgery[Laparoscopy]?
Hi,
I have 2 ectopics, first was trated with methatroxate and my left fallopian tube got removed during my second ectopic which was on oct 2 2009, I have a follow up appointment after 2 weeks which was on 13th oct and my OB/GYN suggested to go for IVF procedure rather than natural process[getting thru sex]. Even we made up our mind for IVF. Could somebody please tell me how long i need to wait or what is safe time to go for IVF treatment and how many days bed rest after the procedure. Plz help me as i’m getting lot of pressure from my relatives.

Michelle answers:

I had an ectopic via IVF and also had my tube removed. My doctor told me I could start another IVF cycle as soon as my second period after the surgery. My second period came about a week earlier than expected and I pushed on through with the cycle. It was my worst cycle ever (Out of 4). I responded VERY slowly and my eggs were dark and out of 15 eggs only 4 fertilized. I should have waited until my period cycles were normal rather that push on.

Do fall to the pressure. You will not respond well unless YOU are ready. This cost way too much money and is way too exhausting for you to be pressured. When you feel ready then start your IVF cycle.

As for bed rest, every clinic is different. Some say none and some say 48 hours. The top notch clinic in the country says 48 hours but some studies have shown it makes no difference. For me, I figure after everything I went through to get to embryo transfer, I am keeping my feet up for a couple of days as not to have any “What ifs.”

Good luck!

Your Questions About Natural Pregnancy Remedies

Posted on March 19, 2011 by Michelle

Susan asks…

seeking info on natural/herbal remedies?

particularly pertaining to natural termination of pregnancy via herbs, roots and/or vitamins

Michelle answers:

Based on the other questions you have asked, if you already know the sex of the baby, it is late enough in the pregnancy that you could only have a doctor perform an abortion. But you should be aware that if you already have named the boy (and referred to him as “the only family I’ve got”), I am willing to bet that terminating the pregnancy would emotionally scar you for life… Maybe deep enough that you wouldn’t even want to finish school or advance your career.
I know many women that have had abortions or miscarriages that have been so emotionally torn up that some of them wanted to die (or kill themselves) and most still hadn’t gotten over it after almost a decade (a couple of them still celebrate their lost child’s birthday).

Please consider the alternatives to trying to abort, whether another member of your family raise him until you are able to or whether it be considering adoption… Doesn’t your son deserve a chance to live?

Charles asks…

Fertility Issues. Natural Remedy or Pills for Guaranteed Pregnancy?

Before I start please don’t be mean. I just wanted advice or another’s opinion. I tried taking Fertiblend and my peroid extended from 5 days to 9 days. That freaked me out. So I was hearing about a chinese remedy or blend that would help me but I don’t know where to look first. Anyone know? It would be a great help. Went to the DR and he doens’t know what’s wrong with me and my husband had a sperm count and it was normal.

Michelle answers:

A fertility doc should be able to help you all out. By either giving you clomid or possibly IUI or IVF.

If you want to look into a natural remedy –
http://www.tryingtoconceive.com/
or https://www.herbdoc.com/index.php?&c=1 – (he has formulas for female & males). I looked into both of them. I picked the herbdoc.com – haven’t started it yet. I am going to do a detox first.

I don’t know much about these two sites, so look into it more. Do research. Don’t take anything you don’t think you should. Also, don’t take too much of anything. I am just learning more about herbs myself. The 1st link – email the lady. I did & she wrote me back. Maybe that could give you a good idea as to what to try.

Good luck!

David asks…

feeling sick to my stomach, 8 weeks pregnant, remedies?

Any herbal/ natural remedies for sick to stomach feel from pregnancy? It has been this way for about 2 weeks. Does feeling sick denote the gender of your baby?

Michelle answers:

Preggie pops worked for me… You can buy them at mother hood maternity for 3 or 4 dollars. Boy/girl predictions are all myths.

Linda asks…

Is it safe to take probiotics during pregnancy?

I’m pregnant and I need to find a natural remedy for a yeast infection.I was told to take probiotics,but I’m reluctant. Why are probiotics ok, but unpasteurized cheese and things like that not ok during pregnancy?

Michelle answers:

If the doctor was your gyno and said it was ok, then it should be. But you can also eat yogurt, buttermilk, and cottage cheese like that to help get rid of the yeast infection. And it will be healthy for your baby to get all that calcium.

Your Questions About Heartburn Natural Remedies Pregnancy

Posted on March 18, 2011 by Michelle

Helen asks…

Pregnant w/ bad heartburn 🙁 Any natural remedies or tips for me?

My heartburn is SO BAD. But I am determined to get through it without taking medication. I sleep with my head and chest elevated, gave up my oranges (my main pregnancy craving), tried tums and they don’t help at all, eat small meals, quit eating a couple of hours before bedtime. What are some things I can do besides take the prescription I’ve been prescribed? Any natural remedies anyone has heard of? I never have a problem with heartburn except for during my pregnancies so I really don’t know. It’s gotten to the point where I have a cough all day now where it used to be only at night. Even though I keep my head and chest elevated I am still extremely uncomfortable. And it’s starting to happen during the day. I’m 31 weeks pregnant. Thanks!

Michelle answers:

I tried everything and nothing worked for me until i had the baby. I tried tums, milk sleeping with my held up on pillows and nothing. Pretty soon you will have the baby and be fine

Susan asks…

Pregnancy heartburn?

I am 24.5 weeks pregnant, and I have REALLY bad heartburn. I tried Tums, but I am on bedrest, and I don’t want to become any more constipated from them. They don’t really work for me anyway. I spoke to my doctor, and she suggested Pepsid AC. That didn’t work either. I will call my doctor in the morning, but I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for now. I’m not sure what is safe to take, or if there are any natural remedies I can use.
-And I’m lactose intolerant, so I can’t try milk. 🙁

Michelle answers:

Well I too had very bad heartburn when I was pregnant. Tums didn’t help for me either and I was on bed rest as well. Although I must say that I took a lot of tums and never became constipated. Anyways I had so many tums to the point where when I would take one I would throw up…not to mention they were not helping at all. What I started to do was sleep with two pillows in an upright sort of position. To be honest nothing I took helped me except Zantec. I found that when they say to eat small meals throughout the day it didn’t help and I ate very healthy throughout my pregnancy. What I find did help was taking a zantec before bed and not eating at least 2-3 hours before I went to sleep. It was really hard for me to find something that would help with my heartburn…but these things worked for me.

Mandy asks…

Does drinking Aloe vera help with pregnancy heart-burn?

Amongst natural remedies, this is one I have heard of. Along with drinking apple-cider Vinegar (YUCK?). Has anyone tried either of these and do they work?? I have seen Aloe Vera Juice in stores, so I figure that one can’t taste too bad. But I’m hesitant to try the vinegar honestly.
My heartburn/indigestions has been so bad, I have been taking Pepcid AC, and Zantac, etc. But I wonder if there is something non-medicinal that is just as effective.

Michelle answers:

I’d check with your doctor or midwife first. I had horrible heart burn and NOTHING helped. Luckily, it goes away immediately after giving birth.

Richard asks…

indegestion/heartburn while pregnant?

i am 18 weeks pregnant and am suffering with really bad indegestion. i would like any natural remedies because i dont l;ike taking anything medicated whilst i am pregnant. i have never suffered with it this bad throughout any of my pregnancies (3)
its getting so bad i cant sleep on a night with it

please answer lol

Michelle answers:

Tums and mylanta are ok to take while pregnant. The calcium is good for you. Don’t eat or drink before bed and put blocks at the head of your bed to keep your upper body a little elevated. Wear loose clothing and avoid acidy foods, coffee and soda.

Your Questions About All Natural Pregnancy Products

Posted on March 17, 2011 by Michelle

Mandy asks…

Just found out I’m pregnant, should I…?

stop tanning? I went last night and found out today. Also I am scheduled to get highlights in a couple weeks, should I cancel? My salon uses Aveda, all natural products, but still I didn’t know if it’s okay. This is my second pregnancy and it’s been 5 years since my last, it’s like you forget everything!

Michelle answers:

I definitely wouldn’t go to the tanning bed. Ask your doctor or hair stylist if it would be okay to get your hair done.

Sandy asks…

Pregnant & Clean Residential Houses, how long should I do it for?

I’m just 5 weeks pregnant! I am a little concerned with cleaning people’s houses and being pregnant. I use Norwex products and all natural cleaners but I do alot of work! Alot of scrubing and washing. At times I feel sore after…this is my second pregnancy. I probably have nothing to be concerned about, but I guess my question is, am I risking a higher change of miscarriaging with all the scrubing and mopping?

Michelle answers:

I do the same job and I’m almost 31weeks. The most I can say is that I’ve been getting more tired as it goes along but so far everything is fine. If your body is use to it then there shouldn’t be a problem. It’s certainly not a job you would want to take up when you are pregnant. Do it as long as you can but if it gets to be to much then take time off. Good luck!

Laura asks…

Good moisturizer/skincare products?

am 23 and I have become more concious about aging. I have clear skin my only problem would be my dark circles but since I am pregnant I know that has a lot to do with them. I drink plenty of water and I try to eat as healthy as possible I also do my best to to get some kind of excercise. I love makeup although I’ve come to realize I like the natural look more. So I got a $40 gift card to Macy’s and I would like to use it in skincare products like a moisturizer with spf, sunblock, cleanser or what ever. Like I said I like the natural look and I just want to enhance what I already have. If you could reccomend me some great products I would really appreciate it. Also if you could reccomend what great things I could do/use to help delay the aging process and to keep radiant skin. I would eventually like to invest in a eye cream but since many eye creams have retinal and I am pregnant I’d rather stay away from them right now.
Here are the available stores in my local Macy’s
Lancome
Estee Lauder
Shiseido
Clinique
Chanel
Origins
Perscriptives
Benefit

BTW I am 23 and I have noticed that when I try some products they seem to enhance the appearence of pores and fine lines that I didnt even notice before. I am currently using Dear John by Benefit at night since it doesnt have SPF and I like how its a nice heavy cream on my dry skin. Also I dont know if its because of my pregnancy but it seems I now have some fine lines under my eyes and crows feet :o( (when I smile of course) but I would like to minimize them.
Also your reccomendations dont have to be dept store brands they could be natural skin care routines or drug store brands.

My current routine.
mornings: wash face with aveeno baby wash
ddf spf 30 moisturizer
mascara

night:
wash face with baby wash
dear john moisturizer

olay toner but it made my skin flaky and the all day moisturizing cream from olay irriated and dried my skin.

Thank you

Michelle answers:

Cetaphil has great cleansers and moisturizers . They are very gentle.

Mary asks…

Skin care during pregnancy….what skin care line do you use?

I would like to find a skin care line that is all natural (or organic) but not too expensive. Since I am pregnant, I don’t want to use anything with crazy ingredients, but would like something that will help with fine lines, age spots….etc…. I was hoping to find something without too many steps….I will have a newborn shortly!! Just wondering what lines of products you have tried and have had good results with.
Thanks!

Michelle answers:

Well, they’re not organic or all natural, but I prefer mary kay concealer for any blemishes or redness–just a little bit will cover it up and if you’re in a hurry it’s not a big deal, it looks natural and isn’t oily. For everything else, I use clinique because it’s mild and my skin agrees with it, lol! For removing makeup, almay is the BEST for eye/lipstick makeup, and regular old noxzema pads for any powder, etc. I love clinique’s pink lightweight moisturizer….love it. Hope that helps!

Your Questions About Natural Infertility Treatments

Posted on March 16, 2011 by Michelle

Carol asks…

Infertility support for Catholics?

I am 27 years old and Catholic. Until recently (April of this year) I attended Mass each week and had a sense of peace in regards to my faith. Though, since then my husband and I have learned that we may never successfully achieve pregnancy the “natural way.” I am struggling with the Church’s view of infertility treatments – they aren’t acceptable. Does anyone know of any online support groups or forums for Catholics with fertility issues?
Baby Bump: Thank you for your comments. I should add, though, that the infertility issues that my husband and I share are not due to my health. Instead, we learned that my husband is the one inflicted. After testing we have determined that there is nothing that can be done to improve his odds.

Michelle answers:

I think it is important to remember, when it comes to any religion, that God is not sitting the papal office handing down views. The Catholic also faith says molestation and rape is wrong, but when it comes to priests, apparently they are okay with it.

Listen, I am a cradle Catholic– so much so we were home schooled and attended daily Mass so if anything understands the guilt ridden feelings the faith imposes, it’s me. But I guarantee you if God or Mary were sitting across from you right now, and you said “Father / Mother, I really want a child but may need medical help to do so.” They would say, “And we will be right here with you through it all.”

In the meantime, have you checked out the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility or taken Vitex supplements? I have irregular cycles, ovarian cysts, and high risk HPV…vitex helped me conceive THE FIRST MONTH of trying. 🙂

Good luck

David asks…

Mommy’s What do you guys think of that lady that had 8 babies in Bellflower California? ?

I have heard that she is on Welfare. If she’s on Welfare it should be wrong to do this. So what stupid Doctor did this, I can’t believe that it is natural she had to of had infertility treatment of some sort. If a Doctor did this he should get dis-bard and pay for those kids till they are 18. Let me know what you think. But I am glad the babies are well. Oh this lady already had 6 kids before the 8 new ones.
Welfair is ment for people in need and emergencies. Not for people to keep on having kids so other people can support them. That is abuse of the system.
They 8 babies are not being feed breast milk from their own mother, its her milk plus other women that have donated it to feed babies. It is not possible to feed 8 babies breast milk from one person.

Michelle answers:

If this lady already had 6 kids and was living with her parents and was young why did she need a fertility drug and she has no husband….I think it is wrong..

George asks…

I faked infertility to keep my career?

My career has always been my first love, but when I was 31 I agreed to marry a lovely man that I had been seeing for several years.

Sam was really keen to have children straight away but I was focussed on my job and doing really well so I managed to convince him to wait a few years. He kept bringing up the topic and, although I was still not interested, I eventually agreed to start trying for a family.

I started taking folic acid and calcium and stopped drinking alcohol. But secretly I kept taking the pill. I felt terrible but I knew that if I got pregnant now I would lose my job, I figured this was the best way to keep everyone happy. Besides, by this time I was still only 34 and figured that I still had plenty of time to have children later, when I had achieved what I wanted at work.

Sam was so excited, he started buying little present for our ‘baby’ and spent time researching the best cots, car seats and carriers. I felt bad but I’d just been promoted again and was able to throw myself into work and forget about my lie.

Each month when I got my period Sam was so sad, and I had to pretend to be too. He’d cook me special meals full of baby-making vitamins and burn oils that supposedly promoted fertility. After a year of “unsuccessful attempts” Sam suggested seeing a fertility specialist. I put it off as long as I could but eventually I had to agree to go along.

I felt sick sitting in a waiting room surrounding by hopeful looking couples waiting nervously. I had to lie to the doctor and undergo a series of tests. When I couldn’t take it anymore I broke down and cried to Sam that all the testing was too intrusive and made me feel like a failure. I was consumed by guilt. As always, Sam was so wonderful and supportive, I hated lying to him.

By this time Sam has spent loads of money on all kinds of “natural treatments” and with the stress of it all, along with me working longer and longer hours at work, we began to fight. Sam resented me spending so much time at work and putting extra stress on my body. Gradually we stopped fighting and gave up on the idea of a baby of our own.

Today I am 46 and have pretty much missed out on my chance to have children. It hurts me to watch the sad look on Sam’s face when he plays with our friends’ children. And it hurts me even more to watch the sympathetic look that my poor childless husband gives me; misinterpreting my guilt for the pain of being unable to give him what he wanted.

No job is that important. If only I’d realised this 10 years ago.

Michelle answers:

This is not a question, but i think your a sick sick woman

Nancy asks…

40 and ttc! Tried Clomid and IUI with Injectibles. Should I try IVF?

I’ve been doing infertility treatments for a year now (3 years ttc). I have a full-term, completely au natural (no fertility treatments) son who’s 3.5 years old. This year has just been so-o many Dr.’s appointments and internal ultrasounds and tests and trying to find people to watch my son that I don’t know if I can take any more. BUT, I haven’t tried IVF, yet. I’m 40 years old, so I’m really watching the door close on any opportunity to have any more children, but I’m just so-o tired of the process and the invasion of privacy and the all-consuming nature of fertility treatments. And my husband and I are both tired of my feeling crappy ALL the time. Is the process of IVF worse than IUI with Injectibles? Anybody out there have an encouragement for me? Or discouragement?
(BTW, our insurance, incredibly, covers IVF. Even the copays are expensive, but we might have enough money to do a few rounds.)

Thanks for answering seriously!

Michelle answers:

If you are already tired then that presents a problem.

My husband and I tried for our first child for over 3 years. We did every treatment out there. We did several rounds of medicine with IUI. We did a few rounds of injectible medicine with IUI. Nothing worked for us. We then tried IVF. And it worked. Finally!!!

IVF is much much much more time consuming that any other treatment that you have done so far. The process will take around six weeks. You will have several appointments with blood work and ultrasounds. The retrieval of the eggs is done under sedation and you will be unable to work for the remainder of that day. The transfer of the embryoes requires at least one day of bed rest. You also will be restricted from heavy lifting for a majority of your first trimester. Which can present a problem with your son. You also will take progesterone shots which are given in the rear with a long needle. These are daily shots that can be painful. You will take them until you start your period or until you are 8 weeks along. I found this to be the most inconvenient.

If you really want to have another child, then go for it. Especially since your insurance covers it. (Lucky girl!!!) You may kick yourself later down the road if you don’t. Call up your doc and make an appointment to speak with him about your concerns. Good Luck!!!

Your Questions About Natural Pregnancy Nutrition

Posted on March 15, 2011 by Michelle

Robert asks…

Would you take a multivitamin in pregnancy?

Hi I was wondering if you would take a specifically designed pre natal vitamin during pregnancy with an omega 3 supplement or is their any evidence that this can do damage. It has no Vit A only beta-carotene, here is the list and the link

Formula

Nutritional Information Average Per Tablet % RDA
Vitamin D (400 I.U.) 10 mcg 200
Vitamin E (Natural Source) 4 mg 33
Vitamin C 70 mg 88
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) 3 mg 273
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) 2 mg 143
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) 20 mg 125
Vitamin B6 10 mg 714
Folic Acid 400 mcg 200
Vitamin B12 6 mcg 240
Natural Mixed Carotenoids 2 mg —
Vitamin K 70 mcg 93
Iron 17 mg 121
Selenium 30 mcg 55
Magnesium 150 mg 40
Zinc 15 mg 150
Iodine 140 mcg 93
Pantothenic Acid 6 mg 100
Biotin 150 mcg 300
Copper 1000 mcg 100

Pregnacare Omega-3 Capsules Average Per Capsules % RDA
Omega-3 Fish Oil 600 mg
Providing:
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) 300 mg —
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) 60 mg

Pregnacare Plus

I would eat a healthy diet of fish but there is a mercury content to think of plus the foods today have proven to lack nutrition. What is your opinion or have you done when you were pregnant? Thanks in advance

Michelle answers:

You do need to take a prenatal vitamin because your nutritional needs are different during pregnancy. You need to make sure you get enough of every vitamin and the best way is to take something specifically made for pregnancy especially folic acid. There is evidence proving that if you do not take enough folic acid that your baby could end up with birth defects such as spinal Bifida. There is no evidence that taking prenatal vitamins will harm you or your baby, but there is proof proving it will greatly benefit you and your baby. You should talk to your doctor about what is best for you and your diet and make sure you only eat approved foods during pregnancy. Make sure you DO NOT eat fish that contains mercury!! Good luck and congratulations!!

Donald asks…

Clearing Marijuana out of system during pregnancy?

So, I was an occasional user of MJ for about the past year or so. A smoke here and there when I had trouble sleeping or when I just wanted to relax. I recently (just this past week) found out I am pregnant and will not be smoking anymore, now or in the future. I would like to clear the MJ out of my system for my own peace of mind, but in a safe and natural way. If anyone has any tips for expediting the MJ detox process, that would be a great help. Also, about how long should it take for my system to be clean? I am starting a strict prenatal nutrition plan and I would like to have it out of my system ASAP to reap the full benefits. Any advice would be greatly appreciated 🙂

And if you have anything obnoxious to say, save it. I made an informed and educated decision to use Marijuana for beneficial purposes, and I have no shame about that. I have made the decision to cease use for the duration of this pregnancy AND after the baby is born, since I will be breastfeeding. Any ignorant comments will be disregarded 🙂
I should probably add that I have discussed my previous use with my OB and he says that he doesn’t start routine drug screens until ten weeks along, and I am five. He will let my first one pass if there is any residual, he is more concerned about continued use, which is not an issue for me.

Michelle answers:

Well first to directly answer your question. There is nothing to take to help clean your system out of marijuana. . Most items you can buy at head shops only give you a window that you can be clean, by lining the bladder with a jellylike substance so the urine doesn’t get toxicated. Marijuana stays in your fat cells and will fade out with time. Having a good diet and exercise can help but only minimally.

The average time for a pot smoker to get clean is usually 4 weeks, depending on how much you use. I usually smoke 1/16″ a day and have for years. When i had to get clean for legal troubles, i hadn’t smoked in over 45 days, yet still failed a drug test, however during that time i was plenty out of shape and had plenty fat for it to be stored in. If you only use a few times a week, a month would be plenty of time to be clean

However there is good news. Marijuana is shown to be non-addictive. Meaning there are no side effects when usage is stopped. Though i beg to differ, i get intense headaches for about a week when i stop using, it is still very minimal. Even though it is best not be as healthy as you can while pregnant and nursing, marijuana often helps out pregnant women. It helps both you and baby keep up a healthy appetite, keeps both of your stress levels down, lowers pain and help you both sleep better. You can even talk to your doctor about this.

So in closing, I would say: If you are determined to stay clean while pregnant and feeding, don’t worry about forcing yourself to be clean, because you can’t. When people drink a lot of water to get “clean”, they are essentially only pissing out water to pass a drug test. Just cease your use, and continue to live a healthy lifestyle. And there is no need to worry about problems to your baby. Only worry while smoking cigarettes or taking pills.

Just seen your edit* what do you mean your doctor will let your test pass? Is he going to abort your child if you fail a drug test? This is confusing to me. I’ve never had my own child but i live around lots of low lifes that do many drugs while pregnant and never heard of any of them having to submit to drug tests. I know some of the doctors around here have told women they shouldn’t smoke pot, but its not as big of a deal as other things that they could be introducing to their body.

George asks…

Do you know the Answers To this Health Homework?

25. Some bacteria surround themselves with a tough, resistant wall and become spores that can survive dryness and low temperatures but die in boiling water.

True False

26. A disease-causing microorganism is called a pathogen.

True False

27. Viruses are similar to cells because they have a nucleus.

True False

28. Mucous membranes form a protective lining in the body openings.

True False

29. Tears contain antibacterial substances that destroy many bacteria.

True False

30. Gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.

True False

Part 4

DIRECTIONS: Select the best choice to complete the following items.

(Each question is worth one point)
31. Antibodies are produced in the body and attach themselves to antigens.

True False

32. Our bodies have a natural resistance to many infections; this is called passive immunity.

True False

33. Antibiotics are effective against both bacterial and viral infections.

True False

34. AIDS is caused by a virus that attacks the immune system.

True False

35. Droplet infections and waterborne infections describe the same type of transmission of pathogens.

True False

36. Pasteurization is a heating process that destroys most of the bacteria in milk.

True False

37. Tapeworms enter the human body when a person eats undercooked flesh of infested animals.

True False

38. AIDS can be fatal.

True False

Part 5

DIRECTIONS: Select the best choice to complete the following items.

(Each question is worth one point)
39. In each human body cell there are _____ chromosomes.

7 46
92 23

40. The combination for female offspring is

XX XXY
XY YY

41. The blue-eyed child has what combination of genes?

BB bb
Bb both A and C

42. Cystic fibrosis is caused by

poor nutrition during pregnancy viral infection
dominant inheritance recessive inheritance

43. Which is an example of a sex-linked genetic disorder?

sickle-cell anemia Down Syndrome
hemophilia all of the above

44. A prenatal diagnosis technique is

ultrasound PKU test
X rays in vitro fertilization

45. Among these choices, the most important factor affecting the baby’s health during pregnancy is

nutrition blood pressure
weight exercise

46. The blueprints for life are found in the

zygote genes
embryo cell wall

47. Noninsulin-dependent diabetes usually shows up first when a person is

less than 20 years old 20 to 40 years old
40 to 60 years old more than 65 years old

48. Nitroglycerine is the principal medicine used to

relieve attacks of angina help stroke victims
help out a pacemaker treat diabetes

49. The leading cause of death in this country is

cardiovascular disease cancer
heart attacks diabetes

50. A stroke occurs in the

brain pulmonary artery
chambers of the heart aorta

Part 6

DIRECTIONS: Select the best choice to complete the following items.

(Each question is worth one point)
51. Which of the following microorganisms is the smallest?

bacterium virus
protozoan hookworm

52. A type of bacterium that is rod-shaped is a

spirillum coccus
bacillus both A and B

53. Which of the following is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

epidemic typhus gonorrhea
yellow fever malaria

54. Which of the following is usually caused by bacteria entering the body through a puncture wound?

dysentery mastitis
pinkeye tetanus

55. The pathogenic protozoan that causes malaria is transmitted to humans by

the bite of a tick the bite of a flea
the bite of a mosquito contaminated drinking water

56. The bacterium that causes bubonic plague is transmitted to humans by

the bite of a tick the bite of a flea
the bite of a mosquito contaminated drinking water

57. Who is responsible for controlling STDs?

the family the medical profession
the individual all of the above

58. Substances that are carried to other cells and act as messengers to warn them of danger are called

interferons antigens
RH factor spores

59. High-risk groups for infectious diseases who should receive yearly vaccinations include all the following EXCEPT

old persons young children
chronic disease patients pregnant women

Michelle answers:

Are you expecting people to answer all these questions ? Lol. Try googling some of them.

Richard asks…

What is wrong with my body?

I gave birth to my baby #2, two years ago and on my pregnancy i went from 128lb (57kg) to 168 (76kg) then i lost around 6lb straight after giving birth then another 4lb after few months and thats it! I need to lose 7-10 more lb to be like before but really struggling to do this 🙁

I am 5ft2 140lb and looks chubby without wearing high heels especially around my stomach and hips do you think I am considered fat or over weight??

I tryed dieting and weight lost tablets (useless) not lost a pound i spent like 100s of pounds on slimming pills, accay berry juices cinammon tea and hot spices but nothing NOTHING worked I walked for few months 4x a week but everytimes i do i get stiff ankle so I am unable to do any exercise due to some medical condition although I always be active!

Yes I eat healthy and allow myself only weekends to eat whatever i like ( i dont eat like a pig though) lol! I usually dont eat lunch only B/F and dinner! oh i need to tell you that i drink red bull once every two days could that be a reason why? i drink it for my brain to stay active during the day, i got used to drink it from work! otherwise all my food i eat is good, i eat chicken, rice, soups, pasta(twice a month) low fat yogurt brown bread, gouda cheese slice, sushi, prawns, no added sugar jam also i eat loads and loads of salad (i love salad) no salad cream, mayonaise or dressing except lemon and abit of olive oil, no fried food only sometimes on saturday only a bit of it and i eat fruit but everything i eat is in moderate i don’t over eat and stops eating even before i feel full, i take natural sugar that comes from fruit and was recommended by my nutrition.

Do you think there is something wrong with me? I mean why did the slimming pills none of them worked for me? Am I having hormone changes due to my age (30yo)? I had blood test for thyroid that was normal? I am going mad i dont understand why i am just unlucky? 🙁

Michelle answers:

It will sound kind of stupid, but you need to eat lunch. Cutting back the QUANTITY of food you eat just fools your body into thinking that you’re in a famine, and it lowers your metabolism accordingly. You should eat three full meals (until you feel full), as well as snacks. The trick is not in cutting back the amount of food you eat, but in making sure that about 50-70% of what you’re eating is vegetables (not fruit, and not starchy vegetables like potatoes). You’ll feel well-fed, but you won’t be getting it in the form of high-calories. 🙂

Also, check out the processed and low-fat foods that you’re eating. A lot of so-called “diet” foods actually compensate for reduced fat by increasing the amount of sugar. Look on the labels, and don’t be fooled by all the different types of sugar they list (glucose, fructose, lactose, etc). They’re all sugar. A high sugar diet will actually lower your body’s ability to burn fat – to the point that (once your body has burnt all of the sugar) it will start burning muscle in preference to burning fat. This is a huge reason why a lot of women eat nothing but “diet” foods and yet never lose substantial amounts of weight.

If you’re worried about over-eating (not that it sounds like you do – it actually sounds like you eat too little!), then you can help your body out by having a glass of water about 10 mins before every meal (which will fill up space in your stomach), and by eating slowly. It can take up to 20 mins for the “I’m full” signal to go from your stomach to your brain, so a lot of people eat well past the point that they’re satisfied. But seriously, it actually just sounds like you’re not eating enough. Sorry. You should eat until you feel satisfied – just make sure it’s lots and lots of vegies. 🙂

Edit: And this is basically exactly what they’ll tell you at Weight Watchers – but at least if you enroll in the program you’ll also have regular meetings with other people who are losing weight, so that you can stay motivated. 🙂 Good luck.

Your Questions About Natural Pregnancy Induction Methods

Posted on March 14, 2011 by Michelle

Maria asks…

Very hard Stomach?

My stomach is VERY HARD. It constantly stays that way. (No change at all). Its been this way for about 2 days now. I have been trying to induce my labor with natural induction methods (I am at a completely safe time in my pregnancy to be trying this). My stomach has been constantly hard since I started trying to induce labor. Is this a side effect to trying this? Is it normal or should I call the doctor? It is also making me extremely uncomfortable but there has been no pain, no contractions or anything. I am also not constipated whatsoever. I have actually been going about 5-7 times a day for about 2 months now.

Thank you for any and all answers!!

Michelle answers:

At this point the baby is fully developed, probably breeched, and putting more pressure at the front of your abdomen ……and as you’ve probably noticed, it’s also putting more pressure on your bladder. So, your basically running out of room in there, and the baby is packin on about 1 pound every two weeks now so you might even feel less movement than you did before because the baby is slightly restricted now.

This is quite normal…..no pain is good news for you. You may notice the “hardness” area might shift a bit when you lay down in bed or turn on your side. Make sure you keep in touch with the doctor, as he/she may decide to do a c-section if the baby gets too large. They can determine approximate weight during the ultrasound, and exact cranial diameter.

In Europe c-sections are more standard than vaginal births. The surgery is more routine today than it ever was, and recovery times are less than vaginal births, so don’t worry if that ends up being the recommendation of your doctor. Always go with the doctors recommendation regardless.

Good luck, play it safe, but don’t worry….

Jenny asks…

I’m being induced on Monday?

I have been dilated 2 cm & effaced for a week now. Having mild contractions and losing pieces of my plug. Just out of curiosity, has anyone had any natural induction methods work for them before you had to be induced at the hospital. I’m asking for experience. I have researched all the methods, I just want to know if any have worked for anyone at this point in pregnancy.

Michelle answers:

I tried almost everything you could think of and nothing worked for me 🙁 I still had to be induced 1 day after my due date.

Paul asks…

do u have to be active to go into labour?!?

Hi, bit of a strange question I know but I’m amost 40 weeks and I’ve got all pre-labour symptoms and most of the early labour symptoms yet I’m still waiting for full blown labour and have been for a week! My baby is posterior so could be the reason why (as was my 2nd child).
Like most women towards the end of pregnancy, been waiting for a sign, feeling fed up etc…so tried some natural induction methods like a lot of walking, rocking on birthing ball, nipple stimulation and even sex, which can start off contractions but doesn’t last.
So my question is, if I were to rest instead of going for walks every day, would it decrease the chance of me going into labour soon? Because it’s been a long 40 weeks and I’m getting tired now(!) but I’m afraid if I don’t at least try to help the start of labour I may go another 2 weeks!!
Thanks xx

Michelle answers:

No, you do not have to be active to go into labor. In fact, walking and general activity are not guaranteed ways to start labor anyhow, as you know. They are sometimes good at getting baby into a better position and putting pressure on your cervix from baby’s end, due to gravity, so this might help a little, but it won’t start contractions. It might help your cervix get ready for labor, but it doesn’t actually start labor.

It would be good to be active every day, but with other children, you probably are pretty active without additional activities to think about.

Getting closer to labor-time, it’s best to rest and take care of yourself, getting a little bit of exercise but not over-doing it by any means. When you’re tired, rest. You’ll need all the energy you can get when you do have your baby.

So no, resting is not likely to make your labor take longer to come, but walking and rocking do help get your cervix ready and might help baby get into a better position. As for getting baby in a better position, I would check out Spinning Babies to get some information about malpositions and exercises to do that can help: http://www.spinningbabies.com

Good luck!

Thomas asks…

Any Success stories for inducing labor naturally?

So I am 36 weeks pregnant with my first baby. The last ultrasound and fundal measurements show him at over 8 pounds already. The doctor did say this estimate is +/- 2 pounds. So at the smallest my little guy will be 6 pounds if born now.
I have terrible back pain from a previous back injury (compression fracture of my L1-L3 vertebrate)
I have been struggling with high blood pressure throughout the pregnancy, but aside from that there are no signs of pre-eclampsia.
I am currently on bed rest because of the blood pressure. It gets about 10-5 points higher when I am up around moving.
My question is, have any natural induction methods worked for anyone?
The doctor will induce in 2 weeks if I have not gone into labor on my own, but I simply do not want to have to be induced if I don’t have to. I know several people who had bad experienced with Pitocin or Oxytocin.
I have purchased Evening Primrose oil. For the last week I have been taking 1000 mg once a day and inserting 1000 mg vaginally at night.
I have been drinking 2-3 cups of Raspberry leaf tea a day.
I have castor oil ready to go as well, but wanted to wait another week before trying that and making sure I am very hydrated.
I spend 20-30 minutes a day sitting on the exercise ball bouncing lightly. I cannot walk much because of being on bed rest.
Has anyone tried black or Blue Cohash?
Any success stories or other methods? At least to soften the cervix?
I am truly miserable, but I want the best case scenario for me and my baby.
Please don’t tell me just to wait and let nature take its course. I am not just being selfish, high blood pressure is dangerous for me and my baby, and if I have to be induced in hospital, my chances of a c-section are high.

Michelle answers:

As far as i kno the only thing works for me having sex and have orgasm plus lots of walking that’s all i have been tried and it works for me 1 of my friend have try drinking castrol oil and it worked for her.

Your Questions About Best Natural Pregnancy Books

Posted on March 13, 2011 by Michelle

Mark asks…

I need success stories…are formula-fed babies ever fine the way they are?

I need some moral support. I am the proud mother of a beautiful six month old boy. However, he’s starting to get fat. It’s yet another problem one could trace to formula feeding, I guess.

During my pregnancy and during my preparation for natural childbirth, I took breastfeeding classes, bought a double breast pump (in preparation for continuing to breastfeed right through age 2 (!) as recommended by the World Health Organization), nipple cream and pads, a breastfeeding pillow, books on the subject, etc. Then, three days after my baby was born and with no sign of my milk coming in, I agreed to supplement with formula. After having tried some methods like SNS, and breastfeeding for 45 minutes at a time every couple of hours for weeks, an expert lactation consultant finally looked at my breasts and saw “hypoplastic tubular” breasts, a condition related to a PCOS-like complex of symptoms. Anyway, I feel it necessary to explain all this on here, to try and prevent breastfeeding fanatics to tell me I can still breastfeed. I have tried Goat’s Rue, fenugreek, etc., etc. I’m trying something called “Shavatari” right now. I still give my baby the few, hand-expressed drops I can produce each day….just in case it helps.

Anyway, he’s been on Earth’s Best organic dairy-based formula pretty much since the second week after birth. His weight is now in 80th percentile, while his length is only 60th. I am overweight myself, and very worried that my gorgeous boy is going to be a little chubster! It’s nothing to laugh about, it’s like a mark for life.

I really need to find out if any formula-fed babies are brilliant, successful, non-diabetic, thin, fit, and healthy (???) Are there any famous Nobel prizewinners or anything who have been formula fed? How about any athletes? I need moral support, because I don’t have a choice!

Also, do you have any advice about formula feeding and not letting your baby get fat? Thanks.
Wow, Melissa is…, “can we say” beey…?

Who is superficial here??? I am feeling pretty darn guilty about not being able to breastfeed and to me, that is not superficial. It is clear that breastfeeding is ideal nutrition for babies, and I feel badly about not doing it, for my baby’s well-being. I love him a lot.
Thanks everyone else…. my baby is 20 lbs 8 oz. Maybe it’s even a higher percentile for weight(?)…I’m not sure.

Dr Sears’ book says the charts are wrong, because they include formula-fed babies in the average, and that proper weights should be even lower than the charts indicate…ugh.
Yes, if you are ever approaching the obese range (which most women only approach during pregnancy and even then, many don’t), you will know how horrible it can feel. In fact, being overweight is extremely dangerous for health, and heart, vascular, endocrine, etc. problems are not superficial. I am really struggling to take off my pregnancy weight…I had reached a healthy weight prior to that (I say “healthy,” but it was 150 pounds, which is really high for some people.) At over 200 pounds now and 5’6″, I REALLY do not want this condition for my son!

Michelle answers:

Most babies are chubby until they start crawling and walking, from then it’s all dependent on their diet and regular activity. Honestly, you need to get yourself in check or YOU are going to cause your child to have weight and self image issues!

Maria asks…

why would you not breastfeed?

hi im not being judgmental or a breastfeeding nazi or anything like that but i just wondered to the people who didnt even try to breastfeed what you reasons were? when you went to the classes and read the books about the massive benefits of breastmilk at what point in pregnancy did you decide you didnt want to give your baby this? Do you regret your decision I breastfeed and always would as it feel totally natural and instinct to me but my best friend had no intention to even try with all of her children but she cant tell me why she just says because she didnt want to. Im just curious because i want to understand better thankyou x
i totally understand if you have medical reason or even if you did it for a day and decided it wasnt right i mean for the people who get to 5/6/7 month pregnant and decide to not give there baby such a amazing thing………. and because i didst want to isn’t good enough it sounds very selfish to me
my baby girl was 10lb 7 and is breastfed at 7 months!!!
i totally agree that as long as babies are loved it doesn’t matter if they are fed breast, formula or camel milk im just a curious person and because of how natural it feels to me i cant get my head around it
IM SORRY FOR THE PEOPLE WHO TOOK THIS QUESTION WRONG IM IN NO WAY SAYING THEY IS ANYTHING WRONG WITH FORMULA FEEDING MY BABE GET IT EVERY NOW AND THEN I ONLY ASKING THE WOMEN WHO DECIDED NOT TO BEFORE THEY EVEN HAD THERE BABIES BREASTFEEDING IS HARD IVE BEEN THROUGH HORRIBLE TIMES I WOULD NEVER SAY ANYONE WAS LESS OF A PARENT EVEN IF BABY GETS ONE MOUTHFUL ITS SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF IM SORRY IF I UPSET ANYONE X
thanks to the last people who actually answered the question honestly and i breastfeed my 7 month old because guidelines say up to one year and i guess to me its just easy cheap ect and i certainly wont be doing it when she is toddling!!! we are all different and there are plenty of bad mothers who breastfeed so i guess its here nor there. From the answers it sounds like most give it a go and for the lady with twins i totally understand i think i would question whether to do it or not Thankyou ladies x

Michelle answers:

Hiya,

I totally get why you are curious,

but not all things are black and white – yeah they say in all the books and so on breast is best but there was a time when we thought the world was flat.

I did not breast feed my son and knew before i had even fallen pregnant that i was not going to breast feed – to you it feels like the most natural thing in the world so you are comfortable with it where as to me it would feel the complete opposite!

Being a new mum is hard at the best of time mix into that the stress and thought of breast feeding to me would have made the whole experience just awful and i really wanted to enjoy my baby and not be in a state.

I to am curious – so please dont take offence but wondering why you feel the need to breastfeed your baby at 7 months old? And wonder will you carry on when she is todling?

Lisa asks…

Has anyone read ‘the birthkeepers’ by Veronika Sophia Robinson?

I’d be interested if anyone has read it and their views on it. It is about pregnancy, childbirth and raising infants. It focuses mostly on unassisted childbirths.
The author believes that childbirth is only dangerous if you are afraid, and being in a hospital environment makes you afraid. She believes that doing a pregnancy test (rather than listening to your body telling you that you’re pregnant), having scans, dopplers, cervical checks, urine tests, blood tests etc throughout pregnancy destroys the natural bonding process and she actually calls them ‘violence to mother and baby’ (she also calls an episiotomy ‘slashing the vagina with scissors’ – refusing the use the medical term). She says the best research for unassisted homebirthing is reading other people’s birth stories but also mentions later in the book that you shouldn’t listen to, or read, birth stories with negative consequences. Actually, to quote, she says, ‘Beautiful birth stories only please, my baby is listening’.
Another quote I’v just spotted, ‘We’ve been inculturated with the idea that birth is painful, dangerous and deadly. I agree. It is painful, dangerous and deadly IF and only if we allow The Obstetric Observer into our birthing space’.
Seriously, is this a common belief? I’m interested in others views.
Oh, she also believes that Autism is caused by a traumatic birth and/or being introduced to too many strange faces in the early years.
emma’s*mommy – I agree with that, I’m sure there’s some sort of middle ground where the medical profession can make more allowances for the mother’s comfort and to lower her anxiety levels, it is better for all. I also agree that approaching childbirth with less fear, more confidence and perhaps a more spiritual outlook will most certainly make for a more succesful birth, but this book is way OTT. I keep reading excerpts to my husband saying, ‘can you believe this??’ It is most certainly as interesting read, however infuriating it is.
I definitely think that expectant mothers hear too many horror stories, but if stories are your only source of information for birth – where no knowledgable professional will be present – how will you know what to do if something goes wrong? How will you recognise that signs that baby is breech, or distressed, or the cord is wrapped around their neck? Things go wrong all the time.

Michelle answers:

Well i havent read it, and probably will going by what you have said

i agree that there is alot of negativity surrounding childbirth in this day and age, which does strike fear in most soon to be mothers. I cant remember hearing alot of positive births when i was pregnant but i know i did i only remember the ones where they had to get an emergency C-Section, or where they were stitched up to high almighty to be honest. I guess if you take that away there would be less anxiety for expectant mothers but i dont beleive that fear alone causes traumatic birthing experiences. I beelive that mothers should be monitored frequently during pregnancy as it diagnoses problems, scans and dopplers for me was pure excitement in looking at my child and hearing my unborn and knowing that she was safe. If anything that relaxed me, take all that away and i would have been a mess.. The autism reference…oh boy dont get me started lol

so in a few word a basically i dont agree with her book at all but think it will be interesting to read….pass me the doppler, birthing ball and gas and air mask please:)

yeah i agree when you say the medical profession can help, when i was in labour they set up the cart with instruments on it, air mask etc for the baby just ‘incase’ lol just aswell i had a gas and air mask wrapped round my face!

David asks…

I AM CURRENTLY 22 WEEKS PREGNANT AGAIN! I had my 14 year old daughter with help of forceps after being cut.?

18 months ago i had my son. I went into labour on my own, I got to 10 cm then it all went down hill. He was VERY distressed and I ended up having failed forceps then an emergency C section. I still have my hospital notes and when I shown them to the Midwife at my booking in for THIS pregnancy, her face dropped & she said she would referr me to VBAC clinic stating I have good grounds for SELECTIVE C? . She didn’t say much else so I researched my notes and now I know. I lost 2000ml blood and haehmoraged and was in High Dependency THEY SAID ANYTHING AT 1000ml blood loss is classed as MAJOR! I LOST DOUBLE THAT!! My son was born with a APGAR of 2!! They say anything between 2-3 is FATAL!! I am now so worried. I am scared they will NOT allow me to have selective C and I am so scared something like this will happen again!! I am due to speak with Cunsultant in 3 weeks were they will look through notes and make a decision. AT first I did NOT want another C cos I am scared of the scaring/belly being worse!! AND the recovery is longer and I will have a 2 yeard old to look after too!! BUT now I have done my research and realised how bad things were I don’t want any risk to my unborn baby. I have been told that there are chances I will end up having another ermergency if I attempt a vaginal birth after energency C anyway and that the scar could rupture?? I am petrified and would like to known if anyone has been through anything silimlair?? Am I best trying for VAGINAL birth, BUT what if something goes wrong and the same thing happens this time OR should I push for PLANNED C to avoid the risk of this happeneing again? Especially if the chances are I will end up having Emergeny C anyway?? What is they say I can’t have one?? If they could gurantee i could have natural vaginal birth and it will be ok then of course I would go with that but THEY can’t can they cos anyting can happen and no one knows how things will go? I am worrying myself sick over this?? What is best option. What if Im not so lucky and risk natural Vaginal, end up with an emergency anyway then it was all wasted and therefore I am best going to Elective?? Also, if the chances are I will end up having emergency C, having a planned one is better as not rushed and therefore wouldn’t the scar be neater?? I beleive they go into the old scar? Please help before I go mad!!!

Michelle answers:

I don’t think your Dr. Will have a problem with an elective c- section due to your past problems giving birth.

Your Questions About Natural Remedies For Infertility

Posted on March 12, 2011 by Michelle

Maria asks…

Has anyone tried natural remedies to reverse infertility?

I have a small fibroid on my uterus and PCOS on my right ovary. The doc has spoken about prescribing clomid, however we have only been ttc for 8 months. My hubby and I would like to wait till 12mths of ttc before I start to take drugs, but I was just wondering if anyone has tried natural remedies to reverse infertility and what your thoughts are. Did it work?

Michelle answers:

I didn’t take it long enough to actually witness any results yet, but you could try taking Vitex aka chaste berry. You can order it online at Amazon.com or whatever. It’s a natural supplement that can regulate a woman’s cycle. I have PCOS too, so I know it’s frustrating. Good luck to you!

Daniel asks…

Infertility – do natural remedies work?

Have you (or do you know of anyone) been unsuccessful in conceiving and been told your only option is IVF, and have you decided to go down a more ‘natural‘ route and been successful? For example, have you tried a change in diet, or perhaps reflexology?

Michelle answers:

Yes, after close 4 years ttc, partners SA -severely low and me -endo and pcos we were due to start IVF with ICSI in Feb this year, however i have been having acupuncture since last april and partner taking high strenght zinc to preppare his guys for IVF and we conceive naturally in october, baby due 1st week of july.
NEVER GIVE UP HOPE x

Chris asks…

Has anybody have any suggestions for natural remedies for infertility…ttc for over 1 year now?

Michelle answers:

Would you consider acupuncture a natural remedy? Often an acupuncturist will have herbal supplements, etc that will boost fertility. Here is a great resource for ttc http://www.thebump.com/stages/stage.aspx?stage=ttc

Joseph asks…

Natural remedies to getting pregnant?

I am 25 years old with unexplained infertility and I just want to know are there any ladies on here who has concieved using any of these methods.

Im currently taking a chinese herb for women called cinnamon & poria. Its made to warm the uterus unlock stagnation, make menstruation less painful and loosen any adhesions in the fallopian tubes. I am also doing a chinese fertility massage to my abdomen starting the last day of menstruation and stopping before ovulation {this massage is not to be done during luteal p or during ovulation}> Im also doing accupressure and hypnotherapy everyday to help me relax. I wanted some feedback on these methods. Im also charting on fertiltiy friend http://www.fertilityfriend.com/home/angelface

Michelle answers:

You might want to take a look at a herb called dong quai. When I was a teenager I used to have very irregular cycles. This really helped them out.

Your Questions About Natural Pregnancy Blog

Posted on March 11, 2011 by Michelle

Carol asks…

Had a natural miscarriage & period has decreased over the months to not having one at all?

Back in August I had a natural miscarriage at 8 weeks. It was a blighted ovum. I bled for a week and then 2 weeks later I had my period and bled for 4 days(I usually bleed 6-7 days). 30 days passed before I got my next period and this time I only bled for 3 days. Then 35 days passed before I got my period again and this time I bled for about 5 days but it was light(usually it’s moderate to heavy bleeding). And now, it’s been well over a month and a half and still no period. I’ve taken a pregnancy test last week and one today and they both were negative. I’m worried that something is wrong or that my period is just all out of whack now after the miscarriage.

Just a little background. I use to have PCOS(Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and my period was very irregular… as a teen it was every other month after a course of 5-6 years it was twice a year. After I had my first child my period became very regular, same thing after I had my second child. Because I had PCOS it took me 5 years to conceive. I would like to have a couple of more kids but am afraid that maybe somethings wrong since my period seems to be getting worse and worse. I don’t have health insurance until Feb, so I can’t schedule and appointment with my OB yet. Can someone help me out. Every post or blog I’ve seen they usually say that there period become regular by the 3rd to 5th month after having a miscarriage… So why is it that it seems to be that my period is getting worse and worse… My worst fear is that I won’t be able to conceive anymore.
1 second ago – 4 days left to answer.

Michelle answers:

First, there is no *cure* for PCOS. It’s chronic, which means once you have it, you have it…but sometimes it’s under control more times than others.

It sounds to me like this last pregnancy triggered your PCOS symptoms again. What you’re describing smacks very loud of a hormone imbalance.

The only thing you can do is wait it out until February and then get the hormones you’ll need to jumpstart your cycles again.

You may or may not need medical intervention to conceive in the future. But either way, there’s no reason to believe you won’t ever conceive again.

Good luck.

Sharon asks…

Trying to conceieve 🙂 what are yours tips?!?

So hi everyone I noticed alot of people are trying to conceieve .. my first took well over 3 yrs..
I have collected a BUNCH of tips.. and would like to ask you …what are your NATURAL tips to conceive**** old wives tales… stories.. experiences.. let me know!!!!

http://www.powerful-readings.com/apps/blog/show/3647466-conception-pregnancy-help-tips-old-wives-tales-

I am trying again for baby #2 and hoping to make it quicker this time around hahaha
XOXOX to the moms fathers and people trying to conceive!!!!

Sincerely Chairity***
Ps.. I am collecting tips and old wives tales to inspire others!!!! As well as myself! 😉
XOXOXOX

Michelle answers:

The biggest wives tale is to ‘relax’ … That one cracks me up!

I don’t know if you are talking herbal supplements to help you concieve. There are things like soy isoflavins, Vitex, vitamin B complex etc…
Some swear by baby aspirin after ovulation, preseed, robitussin before ovulation or evening primrose oil to increase your CM.
I’ve heard grapefruit is somehow helpful.

Everyone says to stay lying down for at least 10 minutes… Some say with your legs in the air.. Some say you can lie on your stomach with your butt in the air…. Thats standard fare though

I heard that you can conceive easier on ‘special’ days… But I ovulated ON my 1 year wedding anniversary last month and it didn’t help, lol.

I’ve heard you can dangle an needle on a thread over your wrist to find out how many children you will have and what sex they will be.

David asks…

obama vs mccain on the issues. your thoughts?

For those that have difficulty in matching up what these guys are saying.
….
2008 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE COMPARISON TALKING POINTS

ISSUE

JOHN McCAIN
BARACK OBAMA

Favors new drilling offshore US
Yes- JM (Top Always) -No reason just the way it copied.
No- BO (Bottom always)

Will appoint judges who interpret the law not make it
Yes
No

Served in the US Armed Forces
Yes
No

Amount of time served in the US Senate
22 YEARS
173 DAYS

Will institute a socialized national health care plan
No
Yes

Supports abortion throughout the pregnancy
No
Yes

Would pull troops out of Iraq immediately
No
Yes

Supports gun ownership rights
Yes
No

Supports homosexual marriage
No
Yes

Proposed programs will mean a huge tax increase
No
Yes

Voted against making English the official language
No
Yes

Voted to give Social Security benefits to illegals
No
Yes

CAPITAL GAINS TAX

MCCAIN
0% on home sales up to $500,000 per home (couples). McCain does not propose any change in existing home sales income tax.

OBAMA
28% on profit from ALL home sales. (How does this affect you? If you sell your home and make a profit, you will pay 28% of your gain on taxes. If you are heading toward retirement and would like to down-size your home or move into a retirement community, 28% of the money you make from your home will go to taxes. This proposal will adversely affect the elderly who are counting on the income from their homes as part of their retirement income.)

DIVIDEND TAX

MCCAIN
15% (no change)

OBAMA
39.6% – (How will this affect you? If you have any money invested in stock market, IRA, mutual funds, college funds, life insurance, retirement accounts, or anything that pays or reinvests dividends, you will now be paying nearly 40% of the money earned on taxes if Obama becomes president. The experts predict that ‘Higher tax rates on dividends and capital gains would crash the stock market, yet do absolutely nothing to cut the deficit.’)

INCOME TAX

MCCAIN

(no changes)
Single making 30K – tax $4,500
Single making 50K – tax $12,500
Single making 75K – tax $18,750
Married making 60K- tax $9,000
Married making 75K – tax $18,750
Married making 125K – tax $31,250

OBAMA (reversion to pre-Bush tax cuts)
Single making 30K – tax $8,400
Single making 50K – tax $14,000
Single making 75K – tax $23,250
Married making 60K – tax $16,800
Married making 75K – tax $21,000
Married making 125K – tax $38,750
Under Obama, your taxes could almost double!

INHERITANCE TAX

MCCAIN
– 0% (No change, Bush repealed this tax)

OBAMA
Restore the inheritance tax

Many families have lost businesses, farms, ranches, and homes that have been in their families for generations because they could not afford the inheritance tax. Those willing their assets to loved ones will only lose them to these taxes.

NEW TAXES PROPOSED BY OBAMA

New government taxes proposed on homes that are more than 2400 square feet. New gasoline taxes (as if gas weren’t high enough already) New taxes on natural resources consumption (heating gas, water, electricity) New taxes on retirement accounts, and last but not least….New taxes to pay for socialized medicine so we can receive the same level of medical care as other third-world countries!!!

You can verify the above at the following web sites:

http://money.cnn.com/news/specials/election/2008/index..html
http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/issues/issues.taxes.html

http://elections.foxnews.com/?s=proposed+taxes
http://bulletin.aarp.org/yourworld/politics/articles/mccain_obama_offer_different_visions_on_taxes.html

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/fact-checker/candidates/barack_obama/
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/fact-checker/candidates/john_mccain/

Michelle answers:

The only sensible choice is McCain.
Obama’s “change” campaign is losing steam.
This is typical that when people get past the personalitlies and start to focus on the issues someone so extremely liberal as Obama is going to lose.

People do want change, they just don’t want socialism

Lisa asks…

John McCain/Obama Comparison ?

Now why you would vote for an idiotic Democrate like this i just dont know!

This might be the single best comparison I’ve seen on McCain and Obama. It’s worth looking at this information and passing on so others can see the differences. Read this completely, because the tax differences between the two are significant.

SIMPLE MATH:

2008 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE COMPARISON TALKING POINTS

ISSUE JOHN McCAIN
BARAK OBAMA

Favors new = drilling offshore US
Yes
No

Will appoint judges who = interpret the law not make it
Yes
No

Served in the US Armed Forces
Yes
No

Amount of time served in the US Senate
22 YEARS
173 DAYS

Will institute a socialized national health care plan
No
Yes

Supports abortion throughout the pregnancy
No
Yes

Would pull troops out of Iraq immediately
No
Yes

Supports gun ownership rights
Yes
No

Supports homosexual marriage
No
Yes

Proposed programs will mean a huge tax increase
No
Yes

Voted against making English the official language
No
Yes

Voted to give Social Security benefits to illegals
No
Yes

CAPITAL GAINS TAX

MCCAIN
0% on home sales up to $500,000 per home (couples). McCain does not propose any change in existing home sales income tax.

OBAMA
28% on profit from ALL home sales. (How does this affect you? If you sell your home and make a profit, you will pay 28% of your gain on taxes. of you are heading toward retirement and would like to down-size your home or move into a retirement community, 28% of the money you make from your home will go to taxes. This proposal will adversely affect the elderly who are counting on the income from their homes as part of their retirement income.)

DIVIDEND TAX

MCCAIN
15% (no = change)

OBAMA
39.6% – (How will this affect you? If you have any money invested in stock market, IRA, mutual funds, college funds, life insurance, retirement accounts, or anything that pays or =einvests dividends, you will now be paying nearly 40% of the money earned in taxes if Obama becomes president. The experts predict that Higher tax rates on dividends and capital gains would crash the stock market, yet do absolutely nothing to cut the deficit.’)

INCOME TAX

MCCAIN

(no changes)
Single making 30K – tax = $4,500
Single making 50K – tax $12,500
Single making 75K – =ax $18,750
Married making 60K- tax $9,000
Married making 75K = tax $18,750
Married making 125K – tax $31,250

OBAMA eversion to pre-Bush tax cuts)
Single making 30K – tax $8,400
Single =aking 50K – tax $14,000
Single making 75K – tax $23,250
Married =aking 60K – tax $16,800
Married making 75K – tax $21,000
Married =aking 125K – tax $38,750
Under Obama, your taxes could almost double!

INHERITANCE TAX

MCCAIN
– 0% (No change, =ush repealed this tax)

OBAMA
Restore the inheritance tax

Many families have lost businesses, farms, ranches, =nd homes that have been in their families for generations because they =ould not afford the inheritance tax. Those willing their assets to loved =nes will only lose them to these taxes.

NEW TAXES PROPOSED BY = OBAMA

New government taxes proposed on homes that are =ore than 2400 square feet. New gasoline taxes (as if gas weren’t high =nough already) New taxes on natural resources consumption (heating =as, water, electricity) New taxes on retirement accounts, and last but not least….New taxes to pay for socialized medicine so we can =eceive the same level of medical care as other third-world countries!!!

You can verify =he above at the following web =ites:

http://money.cnn.com/news/specials/election/2008/index.=tml

http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/issues/issues.taxes.html
=BR>http://elections.foxnews.com/?s=proposed+taxes

http://bullet=n.aarp.org/yourworld/politics/articles/mccain_obama_offer_different_visi=ns_on_taxes.html

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/fact-checker/cand=dates/barack_obama/

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/fact-checker/c=ndidates/john_mccain/

Michelle answers:

NObama Bin Biden