I had such a distorted view of modern motherhood before the big event actually happened. I’d been lucky enough to enjoy a really easy pregnancy (no complications, no morning sickness, no real aches or pains), that I’d naively assumed motherhood would be just the same. I could carry on with normal life, right? Just with a baby tagging along for the ride (what are baby slings for, after all?) I had visions of an Instagram-worthy new life of avocado-toast-and-flat-white breakfasts at all the cute little cafes near my home in North London, wafting around art galleries with a sleeping babe in tow and idyllic sunny walks in the park.
How wrong I was. I mean, to be honest I’d not lived that kind of life before, so goodness knows why I thought I’d suddenly turn into a model mama. But once my daughter arrived I was so anxious to portray the image of ‘everything being ok’ that I failed to get the fundamentals right.
Breastfeeding problems
So on day three of new motherhood - and despite me knowing deep down that things weren’t quite right - I never confessed to the midwife visiting my home for my first post-natal check-up that breastfeeding was just not working. My daughter was barely awake long enough to latch on let alone fill herself up on milk. And besides, I wasn’t totally sure if I was producing enough milk to sustain her anyway.
In my uneducated, probably a bit naive, but hopeful state, I just wanted everything to be alright. I assumed things would ‘sort themselves out in the end’ the way nature intended. Breastfeeding should be the most natural thing in the world, right? Of course, the facts could not be disguised, and on day five my tiny (and, quite literally, shrinking) and jaundiced daughter was readmitted to hospital because she’d lost too much weight.
Cue a long, hot weekend back on the maternity ward, where the first thing the neonatal nurses asked was “what brand of formula would you like your daughter to have?” My heart sank and the tears welled up. “No! She was not meant to be going near the stuff, it’s poison!”, said the little voice in my head. Of course, nothing could have been further from the truth. She clearly wasn’t getting sufficient nourishment from the dribbles of milk I was expressing, so in this instance, the formula (and the hard work and care of the hospital’s neonatal staff, of course) was literally a lifesaver.
After a weekend of pumping, constant feeding and sunbed sessions for my daughter (technically known as phototherapy beds used to help treat jaundice, but in her paper ‘glasses’ she looked like she was getting some serious tanning in), we were discharged on the Monday morning. I have never felt such relief to go home. But even those dramatic few days didn’t prompt me to reach out for more help and advice. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, of course, and only now do I realise that I should have pushed harder for more help with breastfeeding. As it was, I struggled on for weeks, pretending to myself that it would probably get better soon, that the physical pain of feeding my daughter would ease up, that I’d get over the dread I felt when she woke up because it meant the whole painful process would start all over again.
The mum guilt begins
I eventually found a rhythm of my own when it came to feeding - a combination of some attractive nipple shields to help with the pain of breastfeeding and formula feeds meant my daughter started to gain weight at a healthy rate. But the bottle feeding didn’t come without its own problems. Deep down, I was ashamed that I wasn’t exclusively breastfeeding my daughter. I bottle fed in secret until she reached six months, when it was more socially acceptable to whip out the formula. Only my nearest family and friends knew I was doing it - I just couldn’t bring myself to admit it to all the other new mums around me.
One of my strongest memories of that shame was of a Friday afternoon (I remember it that vividly!) when my daughter was about three months old. I was so desperate to get to a baby yoga class and so determined to get through it without drama that I hid in the public bathroom of my local leisure centre and forced a bottle down her throat. For some reason, I was much more concerned about saving face than the germs in that toilet. Needless to say, the class was full by the time we were done with the whole charade and we ended up heading straight home.
Looking back on these events from three years ago, I think I can say with certainty that I would do things differently. Despite reading all the recommended books and attending antenatal courses, I’m not sure anything really prepared me for the avalanche of emotions and new expectations I faced when I became a parent.
I regret not asking for more help; I regret rushing around in those first few weeks trying to pretend my life hadn’t changed. So I went on those coffee dates and baby cinema trips when all I should have been focusing on was nurturing my baby. At the time I thought being busy meant I was coping ok, but it was just a cover-up for my own fears.
So if you’re embarking on the crazy new journey that is motherhood, please don’t be as afraid as I was of opening up about things you might be struggling with - whether that’s feeding or post-natal depression or just general anxiety about what being a new mum involves. Be open with people. There are plenty of people out there who want to help new parents find their feet, from midwives, GPs and health visitors to lactation consultants and sleep trainers, not to mention friends and family. But they can only help if you open up and let them, not if you’re rushing from playgroup to playdate pretending everything is fine.
And seriously, don’t worry about the baby yoga, it can wait….
If you find yourself in a similar position and are not sure who to turn to, then please check out some of these resources. I wish I had...:
Growing your family is exciting and having a close age gap between your children can bring some challenges but will also bring you and your family so much happiness watching them grow so closely together in age.
The thought of taking care of a toddler and a newborn baby can also feel overwhelming but we’ve put together some top tips to help you when you embark on this wondrous journey.
#1 When they first meet
It is a truly precious moment when your first baby gets to meet their little brother or sister for the first time. If you are staying in hospital, use this time as an opportunity to bond with your baby alone until the day you are due to be discharged. Have your toddler come to meet their baby brother or sister on the last day and leave altogether as a family.
When your toddler first arrives to meet their baby brother or sister for the first time, have your baby in the bassinet rather than in your arms, sit your toddler on the bed then place the baby in their lap. These two simple steps will help to get things off to a great start and minimise any upset from your toddler.
#2 Getting your toddler involved
It’s important to remember that your toddler is still very young when your newborn arrives and not yet at an age to really understand what is going on. Getting them involved from the very beginning will make them feel less excluded and take some of the pressure off you too.
Whilst they might not be at an age to completely understand how to do certain tasks, doing simple things like getting a nappy from the nappy basket or choosing their baby brother or sister’s outfit for the day will make your toddler feel involved and more at ease with the new addition to the family who is getting a lot of Mummy’s attention right now.
#3 Arm yourself
As you probably know by now, having a newborn involves a lot of sitting around, feeding and changing nappies. It’s exhausting and whilst Mummy is already tired, having a toddler who needs entertaining does add to the load. To help relieve you, having snacks, toys and story books within arm’s reach will ensure your toddler is kept entertained whilst you are attending to your baby. Reading a story together ensures you are still bonding with your toddler and will give them the attention they need.
#4 Toys
As your toddler gets older, their toys get smaller which means choking hazards for baby. Whilst your newborn may not be able to grab toys at this stage, it doesn’t mean your toddler won’t grab them and perhaps put them in baby’s mouth. Do a sweep of the toys and keep the small things packed away whilst your baby is around. When your baby is asleep, bring your toddlers toys out to play which also make them feel extra special too.
#5 Around the house
Your toddler suddenly has this real-life doll to play with and if only we could grow eyes in the backs of our heads to keep an eye on them. It might seem tiresome having to take baby with you wherever you go, but it’s a good idea not to leave them both alone. Having a bouncer or play mat in each area of your home for your baby means you can do the house chores and keep an eye on them too. Or use a baby carrier, if that’s what you’d prefer.
"Having one bouncer upstairs and one downstairs was a life-saver for me. It meant that I had somewhere safe to put my baby down no matter which floor I was on. My eldest was potty trainning so we were up and down the stairs a lot. The Baby Bjorn bouncers last forever so if you don't want to pay full price, there's a good chance that you'll be able to pick them up second hand in good ccndition and/or sell them on." - Martina, founder NINE+QUARTER
#6 Routine
By now you’ve probably established a good routine for your toddler and when the baby comes along it may throw things off track a little bit. It’s much better for everyone (especially your toddler) if you keep their routine the same and fit the baby around the toddler. As your baby grows then look at routines for them when you start to find your groove. Keeping the toddler’s routine the same will help everyone. Remember every baby is different and what worked for your toddler may not necessarily work for your baby so it’s all about a little trial and error.
#7 Bath time
Having your baby in a bouncer in the bathroom whilst you give your toddler a bath can work really well in the first few weeks, then when you feel comfortable, you can bathe them both together. There’s some great baby bath seats on the market to make bath-time easier for you. As we know babies don’t need a very long bath, so you can take them out, change them and perhaps feed them whilst your toddler continues their bath and splashes away!
#8 Bonding time
You might find you are missing your toddler in the first few weeks when your baby arrives. The dreaded post-pregnancy hormones certainly don’t help but depending on the age gap, you’ve only had a year or so with your toddler, bonded with them then all of a sudden you have another baby. Separate bonding time can really help to control these feelings. Give your baby to your partner and go and spend some alone time with your toddler, it will do you the world of good and allow your partner to bond with the baby too.
#9 Support
Having two children who both require a lot of attention can get very tiresome so don’t be afraid to call on friends, family or a nanny/babysitter when you need support. The witching hour from 4-7pm (depending on your routine) can sometimes be the hardest part of the day, dinner, bath, bed. Having someone there for you at this time on most days would be a huge help for you until you find your groove.
#10 And finally, take care of yourself and your relationships.
You might feel like a mouse spinning on one of those wheels and can’t get off, but it’s important to take some time out for yourself at least once a day. Find what makes you feel relaxed and more energised and take the time to do it. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup so it’s important to look after yourself. It’s important to spend quality time with your partner too. You are both working really hard to raise 2 babies, so you deserve to re-connect frequently and still have fun. Organise a date night every few weeks or just simply switch your phones off every night at a certain time and spend some quality time together.
Hopefully these tips will help you as you embark on the journey of having 2 under 2. It might feel like riding a rollercoaster half asleep most of the time, but before you know it, you blink and they’re off to school. Enjoy the ride, treasure the special moments, be present, capture the memories and have fun!
Aimee X
Since moving from Australia to London in 2011, Aimee worked in Project Management for a Recruitment outsourcing provider across Europe before becoming a Mother in 2015 to 2 happy and healthy boys who are 18 months apart. Since then Aimee has followed her passion and created You First Nutrition, a business focussing on coaching Women to become healthier and improve their overall well-being.
]]>Although there isn't a "right" answer, we're going to look at 1. Common practice, 2. Tips for establishing the right time for you, and 3. The benefits of wearing maternity clothes.
]]>If you’re wondering when your clothes will get too tight during pregnancy, or what trimester you should buy maternity clothes, the honest answer is, there is no right answer. It’s totally up to you!
Wearing tight clothes won’t hurt your baby. They’re just likely to make you uncomfortable and perhaps less excited on the outside than you feel on the inside because non-maternity clothes, even when loose-fitted and oversized, have a tendency to droop at the shoulders and pull in all the wrong places once the bump reaches a certain size.
Most women find pregnancy an exhilarating and exciting time of their life and want to look beautiful, healthy, strong, glowing and feminine as they show off their growing bump (even when - or perhaps, because - the love, excitement and exhilaration is mixed with tiredness, discomfort, aches, pains, fear and emotional instability...). Wearing clothes that I liked and that flattered my new body helped me embrace those changes.
Most women start buying maternity clothes a few weeks into the second trimester, i.e. from week 13 onwards, mainly due to the fact that:
So although some women go out and buy maternity clothes straight away because they feel exhilarated and want to share their news with the world, few actually start wearing maternity clothes in the first trimester.
Subsequent pregnancies, however, tend to show sooner. That’s because the uterine and abdominal muscles have already been stretched so there is less “resistance” to your growing bump. Many repeat mums also start wearing maternity clothes sooner because they have already discovered the benefits of maternity clothes.
When I was expecting with my first, I felt a sort of pride and financial savviness in being able to wear my regular tops halfway into my pregnancy and my low-waisted stretchy jeans almost throughout. With my second, I jumped into my maternity clothes as soon as I’d had my 12-week scan.
So the answer to the questions “when do clothes get too tight during pregnancy?’” or “what trimester you should buy maternity clothes?” or “when is too soon to start buying maternity wear?” is basically: “It’s entirely up to you”.
If you’re still unsure, here are a few simple tips you can follow:
Use comfort to guide you
Because they’re tailored to accommodate your changing body, many women feel maternity clothes are more comfortable. If you choose a maternity brand that focuses on good quality, natural fabrics, the clothes should also feel softer and more gentle on your skin. That’s because natural fabrics, such as bamboo, organic cotton and organic french terry (sweatshirt material), are free of harsh synthetic agricultural chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides.
So if you’re struggling to button up your trousers, your clothes leave red indents where the elastic bands or seams have dug into your skin, you’re struggling to sit comfortably or breath freely or your clothes are pulling around your neck, underarms, breasts or below your bump and you’re frequently pulling to adjusting your clothes, it’s probably high time to try on some maternity wear.
“How do I look?”
Now this is just my personal opinion but, as well as feeling comfortable, I believe clothes should also make you feel good. Pregnancy is an exhilarating and exciting time of life and I’d like to think that you feel as excited on the outside as you feel on the inside.
Whilst regular clothes have a tendency to droop at the shoulders, pull in all the wrong places or make you feel like a sack of potatoes, maternity clothes are tailored to flatter your changing shape. Ask yourself “How do I look?”. If you’re feeling anything but excited, maybe it’s worth giving maternity clothes a go.
Try before you buy
If in doubt, order a few styles and try them on at home to see how they look and feel. Many online brands and retailers operate a free delivery and returns policy so it won’t cost you a penny to “try before you buy”. It will also allow you to mix and match your maternity items with your regular wardrobe to see what works for you.
If it’s still early in the pregnancy you might find that a few maternity tops worn with your existing leggings (folded under the bump) or low-cut jeans work quite well, or that a pair of maternity leggings or trousers, worn with some of your regular tops and shirts, is all you need to feel more comfortable. As you progress through your pregnancy, you’ll probably find that maternity tops are infinitely more comfortable and flattering than your regular options.
In summary, some women get by with just purchasing a bigger bra and unbuttoning their trousers (top tip: one way to keep your trousers up is by looping an elastic band through the buttonhole and wrapping it around the button) and stay clear of maternity clothes altogether, whilst others start shopping for them as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed. Maternity clothes are not a MUST but they are there to make you feel good, so do what’s best for you!
More on the same topic? Read “Are maternity clothes really necessary?”
Martina is the founder of NINE+QUARTER - organic, mindfully-made and easy-to-rock maternity and breastfeeding tops.
]]>When my first child was born, he refused to latch. Point blank refused. Don’t get me wrong, he tried his best, but he just couldn’t get the hang of it. He was crying, I was crying, it was a nightmare. So, I borrowed the hospital’s medical-grade expressing machine and started pumping every few hours around the clock. After six months of exclusively expressing, we managed to transition to breastfeeding and successfully continued our journey for another 18 months.
Why do I tell you all of this? Because I know someone out there will be reading this blog while listening to the hiss of hydraulic cylinders and the steady drip of milk, wondering if there’s an end in sight. There is, and today I’d like to share a few tips I wish I’d known about pumping that might make your journey a little smoother.
When you’re relying on expression to feed your child, relaxing doesn’t come easily, the pressure is real! That being said, you’ll notice a big difference in how much milk you produce if you can convince your body to relax and think happy-baby-thoughts.
If your child is in NICU, they often suggest looking at a photo of them to help your milk kick into gear as you express. We won’t go into the science of how that works, but it really does. Feeling your baby’s skin, smelling that new-baby scent and holding them close are all ways that your body can also trigger the hormones to help release your milk if it’s being coy.
A few decades ago, they would have recommended half a pint of Guinness for a little extra relaxation, but these days it’s considered safer to stick with chamomile tea or similar.
Along with your calming cup of herbal tea, it’s a good idea to increase your fluid intake throughout the day, especially if you’re prone to dehydration. While the science is out on whether expressing mums should drink more than the daily recommendation for women, many of us aren’t hitting the standard daily water target of 2.5 litres to begin with, and as breastmilk is 90% water, this can have a big knock-on effect.
My personal experience was that when I made a conscious effort to drink water throughout the day, it had a direct impact on my milk production and mood. So, treat yourself to a fancy water bottle and get in the habit of sipping throughout the day and refilling often.
In general, most expressing mums will find themselves hooked up to their contraption of choice every 4 hours day and night for weeks on end. So, my advice is to reclaim that time for yourself and find something you enjoy to fill the time.
Along with relaxing to release those feel-good hormones, laughing is another way to get your milk flowing, so find a new Netflix series to binge or a podcast to listen to. Or, use this time to build your support network by joining local Facebook groups for new mums. You’d be amazed at how many other women are also sitting awake at 3am, wishing they could pass the time by texting someone who shared their experience.
Above all, that’s the one thing I want to say to anyone out there who’s having a tough time expressing right now - you’re not alone. Organisations like La Leche League are a great source of guidance, while online communities like boobingit connect you with like-minded mums from across the country. For tailored support specific to your unique situation, Chloe at @littlepimpling is a breastfeeding peer supporter who focuses on exclusive pumping and has been expressing herself for the past 18 months.
Keep it up, you’re doing an awesome job!
"After six months of exclusively expressing, we managed to transition to breastfeeding and successfully continued our journey for another 18 months." - Sarah Todhunter, content writer and mother of two.
Want to read more about expressing, breastfeeding and other feeding options? Read What I Didn't Know And Wish Someone Had Told Me About... Feeding A Newborn.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
Who needs wine when there are so many delicious soft drinks to choose from?! Ok, we like sparkling grape juice as much as the next person, but sometimes you want to sip on something that isn’t found on the children’s table. Whether for toasts or sipping in front of a roaring fire, if the occasion calls for wine, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options.
Tesco currently sells no less than a dozen alcohol-free wines, including chardonnay, shiraz and even prosecco. So, when the occasion calls for something special, make sure you have a bottle of your favourite on hand.
Is there any time of year where cheese plays more of a role than at Christmas? From stinky gorgonzola to creamy brie, we know many of you will be missing your fave soft cheese treats this festive season. And, while nothing will quite fill that gap, there are some pretty good alternatives on the market if you want to scratch that itch.
Vegan cheese has come a long way over the years, with most supermarkets now stocking a good range of flavours. But, if you have the time to spare, nothing compares to a homemade soft cheese made using cashew nuts and nutritional yeast. If all else fails, most unpasteurised cheeses are considered safe to eat if cooked until steaming hot, so add baked camembert to your Christmas menu and snack away!
Caffeine is one of the big grey areas in a pregnant diet, with the recommendations regularly fluctuating between total abstinence and moderation. If you’re a coffee fiend and are trying to cut down, you may want to try chicory root coffee, which tastes surprisingly close to the real thing and is totally caffeine-free. Not only that, but chicory is also a prebiotic, so it’s great for your gut health too.
If the taste of chicory isn’t to your liking, you might also want to consider trying a turmeric latte or switching to herbal tea. Make sure to do your research before choosing a tea though, as some aren’t safe in pregnancy and others are high in caffeine.
There was once a time when pregnant women were advised to avoid eggs unless they were fully cooked, but this is one area where the advice has changed over the years. For expectant mothers in the UK, the NHS guidance is that as long as your eggs have the lion stamp, they’re safe to eat partially cooked or even raw.
So, enjoy those eggs however you eat yours, you deserve them.
Smoked salmon is a Christmas and New Year favourite, and the great news is that it’s back on the ok-to-eat list. In fact, current guidance says that it’s safe to eat smoked fish as well as cooked shellfish, such as mussels, lobster, crab, prawns, scallops and clams as long as you stick to no more than two portions per week.
While sushi isn’t a stereotypically festive food in this part of the world, the umami flavour of sushi is such a common craving in pregnancy that it felt only right we give it a mention on our list. While fresh sushi is a “no go”, it’s ok to eat if the fish has been frozen first. Many supermarkets and restaurants pre-freeze the fish that is used in their sushi. Check with your local sushi supplier and get your hands on some of that savoury goodness! Sushi made with cooked fish and shellfish or vegetables is also safe.
Want to read more about eating well in pregnancy? Try Nutrition Tips For Expectant Mums.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Nothing says “party” like a cocktail, so we’ve put together a selection of tried and tested recipes that are festive, delicious and alcohol-free.
Does measuring, mixing and combining sound like too much faff? Check out this great Alcohol-Free Advent Calendar from Holland and Barrett.
Courtesy of Miriam Nice at bbcgoodfood.com
Enjoy a glass of something sparkling without an ounce of guilt this festive season with this superb recipe for Faux Fizz. We love the balance of sweetness, acidity and the je ne sais quoi that rosemary brings to the party. We’re sure you will too!
For the faux fizz syrup
To serve
Courtesy of Miriam Nice at bbcgoodfood.com
Nothing compares to snuggling up in front of the fire with a glass of mulled wine. Thankfully, you needn’t miss out this year. Don’t be put off by the long list of ingredients, making this mock mulled wine is as easy as can be!
Ingredients
Courtesy of Lauren at laurenslatest.com
For a refreshing, decadent drink that feels like a real treat, you can’t go wrong with the Ultimate Christmas Mocktail. Not only is it super simple to make, but there’s plenty for everyone. We guarantee you won’t be able to keep this one to yourself!
With these great Christmas inspired mocktail recipes, you won’t be feeling left out this festive season. Do you have a tried and tested mocktail recipe for special occasions? We’d love to hear about it. Share your favourite in the comments below!
Shopping for Christmas? Why not read "Shop Small This Christmas" for lots of great gift ideas for yourself and the whole family?
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
But, while we can’t remove the uncomfortable symptoms of pregnancy, we can take steps to make them a little more bearable. If you’re someone who loves your sleep, take note, these five tips will be game-changers during your final trimester.
When your walk is more of a waddle, the last thing you might feel like doing is going out for a brisk stroll, but getting fresh air and exercise can help you sleep better at night. Not only will you get a boost of endorphins, which keep those stress hormones at bay, but the more you can tire your body out, the easier it is to drift off to sleep at the end of the day. And that’s not the only benefit…
According to several research papers, doing 35-90 minutes of aerobic activity three to four times per week during pregnancy is linked to a higher likelihood of vaginal delivery and a decreased risk of gestational diabetes.
Raise your hand if you’re guilty of lying in bed late at night catching up on social media. ✋
That’s the first habit to ditch if you want to sleep well. By giving your brain the right cues that it’s time to wind down, you’re much more likely to be able to switch off and rest. Instead of your phone, try reading before bed (ideally avoid screens for an hour before bedtime). You might also want to practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness, meditation or yoga - the Insight Timer app is a great place to start.
We’re not here to preach about avoiding caffeine, no sirree. We’re all grown women who can make the best decision for our individual circumstances. That being said, if you want to get a good night sleep, it’s best to avoid tea or coffee for at least six hours before you go to bed.
Another issue many women battle during late pregnancy is their seemingly constantly full bladder. If you find you’re having to get up to visit the loo just as you get comfortable in bed, it might be worth shifting your hydration hours earlier in the day, so your bladder is fairly empty by the late evening.
Yes, getting comfy is easier said than done when you’re smuggling a bowling ball up your top, but there are ways to give yourself a helping hand. A must-have sleep aid that should be on every expecting mum’s wishlist is the humble pregnancy pillow. While all manner of shapes and sizes have appeared on the market over the last decade, a simple v-cushion is often all you need to sleep more comfortably.
Not only do v-cushions provide the perfect support for your bump or legs, but they also happen to be excellent nursing pillows! Just don’t be surprised if you fall so in love with your pregnancy pillow that you continue using it for years after giving birth. My youngest is six years old and I still can’t sleep without one!
Last but certainly not least is the horror of heartburn. Facing so many women during the second and third trimesters, it vanishes overnight once you give birth. Still, that’s not much consolation when you’re lying in bed gulping chewing on antacids like they’re Skittles.
Heartburn is caused when the valve that joins your oesophagus and stomach relaxes during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes at first, and often gets worse as your baby gets bigger and your uterus presses against the stomach. To minimise the effects of heartburn, eat little and often, avoiding spicy foods. You may also want to elevate your head either by sleeping propped up on your pregnancy pillow or by raising the head of your bed by 10-15cm.
While we hope these tips give you a more restful sleep, please consult with your GP or midwife if you are struggling.
Get prepared for the next stage of your journey with Postpartum Self-Care.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>We understand that not all women choose to breastfeed and that for some, breastfeeding isn’t a choice due to physical or psychological barriers, or simply a lack of support. If this is a sensitive subject for you, we recommend popping over to the blog and giving this one a miss.
At NINE+QUARTER we’re pro-breastfeeding, but we’re also supporters of your right to choose what’s best for you.
By breastfeeding in the hours and days following childbirth, your body gets a headstart on its recovery process. Breastfeeding releases a range of hormones, one of which is oxytocin. This hormone has a number of great properties (more on that later), one of which is helping your uterus contract back to its usual size.
Not only that, but the work your body puts into creating breast milk actually burns around 500-600 calories per day, helping to reduce some of the extra weight gained during pregnancy. To put that into context, that’s the same as doing a 45-minute spin class or a 60-minute jog. Phew!
Remember that funky hormone we mentioned? Well, it does more than just tighten up your uterus! During a breastfeeding session, your brain releases both oxytocin and prolactin, which increase the experience of love and help with bonding, as well as easing feelings of anxiety and stress. Let’s face it, in those thankless early days of breastfeeding a newborn, the more chilled brain hormones the better!
Many women experience the relaxing effects of oxytocin quite strongly, feeling a sudden wave of tiredness while breastfeeding - a definite bonus during those endless night feeds!
Seriously, there’s something a little out-of-this-world about the magic liquid that breasts create. Sure, it has the power to sustain a human life, which is a fairly impressive feat in its own right, but that’s not all.
According to the World Health Organisation, the antibodies present in breast milk help to protect infants from a range of common childhood illnesses. From pneumonia and respiratory infections to diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, breastfed babies are less likely to get ill, and quicker to bounce back when they do.
It isn’t only babies who benefit from breastfeeding, mums do too. For every year a woman nurses her child, the risk of her developing breast cancer reduces by 4-6%! There are a range of other health conditions that breastfeeding can protect against too, with the NHS stating that it can lower your risk of ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Although we’re pretty sure that no-one decides to breastfeed purely for their own wellbeing, it’s an added bonus that it’s not just baby enjoying the health benefits!
So, we know that breast milk can reduce your risk of cancer, protect your baby from childhood illness and improve your mood - what can possibly top those facts?! This boob fact earned its spot in top place because it’s simply mind-blowing.
Breast milk CHANGES to suit your babies needs.
Not just from month to month as they grow, but weekly, daily, even hourly! Research suggests that when a baby has been exposed to certain germs or illness, this information is passed through their saliva, decoded by the mother’s body, and that the milk then adapts to produce the specific antibodies needed. The same thing even happens in reverse - if mum has a virus, her body will give the baby the right antibodies to keep them protected.
Mind. Blown.
If you’re trying to breastfeed but find yourself struggling or don’t know where to turn for support, know that you’re not alone! You may find the honesty and advice in this article helpful. We hope you enjoyed these Fab Facts About Boobs! Happy Breastfeeding Month from us to you - you’re doing great!
Keep your eyes peeled for the next blog, where we’ll be discussing Natural Term Breastfeeding.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Whether you’re constantly running out of the house behind schedule or just find choosing an outfit a tiresome task, we’re here to help. Using the tips in today’s blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know about creating a capsule wardrobe, so you can get dressed in 10 minutes (or less) while still looking fabulous, reflecting your personality and most importantly of all, feeling confident.
Let’s get started!
Capsule wardrobes have been around since the 1940s but have made a big comeback over the last decade. Essentially, a capsule wardrobe is a small collection of complimentary clothing that can be interchanged to create new outfits. By combining a few staple pieces with bolder statement pieces, maternity and mum-style become a lot less complicated, saving you time and energy.
Notably, a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to be monotone or void of personality. The trick to a killer capsule collection is injecting personality with your tops, knowing that anything else you grab from your wardrobe can be thrown on to turn it into an outfit.
The good news is that you probably already have many of the essentials you need to create your very own capsule wardrobe. That being said, there’s nothing that slows you down more than being overwhelmed when you open your wardrobe doors. The trick is to remove anything that isn’t “you”, that you never reach for or that isn't right for you at the moment and either donate it, sell it or put it into storage. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, assess which items don't fit or aren't breastfeeding-friendly and put them away until you can wear them again. You’re aiming to have a handful of well-made “basics” that work well with your other items and tops that reflect your style and personality.
It might seem like hard work having to go through your entire wardrobe but, trust me, you'll save yourself a lot of time and stress getting dressed each morning, so it's well worth the time!
Things to include in your capsule wardrobe…
Your bottoms, shoes and coat should be in neutral colours that can be paired easily with any other colour, so black or navy are great choices. Meanwhile, your tanks, tees and sweatshirts are where you can go wild, safe in the knowledge that anything you pair them with will work effortlessly.
Accessories are another area you can branch out, choosing jewellery, bags and scarves to suit the latest trends or that you love the look of. Best of all, by selecting the right accessories, the outfits you choose can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Top tip: Life’s too short for sorting socks. Instead, bulk-buy one colour for each family member, so whatever you grab is guaranteed to match.
Things To Avoid…
When building your capsule wardrobe, remember that less is more. It may go against what you’re used to, but you’ll find that with a capsule wardrobe, the fewer pieces of clothing you have to choose from, the more outfit options you have. By reducing the clutter and loving what remains, you’ll free up more time in the mornings for the things that fill your cup.
Want help choosing statement pieces for your new capsule wardrobe? Learn more about dressing for your personality in “Finding Your Mum Style”.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past ten years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>If you’ve never attended a hypnobirthing class, you’re probably wondering what on earth is involved. Well, the good news is that you won’t be put under any sort of hypnosis or expected to do anything too weird; it’s actually an incredibly relaxing experience.
Hypnobirthing can be studied at home using books and CDs, or with a teacher in groups or individual sessions. It teaches relaxation and self-hypnosis skills using visualisation techniques, the idea being that by learning to harness your mind, you can not only move your focus away from pain but also dictate how your brain processes it.
While practitioners may teach their hypnobirthing classes in different ways, the core elements of a hypnobirthing class remain the same. You’ll be invited to get into a relaxed position, usually seated or lying on a yoga mat. Then, you’ll close your eyes, and your hypnobirthing instructor will begin a guided meditation.
The meditations give you practice in visualising tranquil scenarios - one week, you may be imagining a hot air balloon floating on the breeze, another you might be watching waves crash on the shore. Believe it or not, these imaginary scenes are designed to help you ride out your contractions in labour - and they really do work.
At the end of the session, you’ll sit back up and readjust to your surroundings. If you’ve taken part in a group session, the chances are good that at least one person in your class will have fallen asleep. Pregnancy is exhausting, so it’s hardly a surprise that when encouraged to lie down and relax some people nod off. If that person is you, don’t sweat it, it’ll be someone else’s turn next week!
Now, I hold my hands up and declare myself a cynic of all things “woo”. I don’t believe in tarot, aromatherapy or anything along those lines, and I approached hypnotherapy with the same cynicism. But hand on heart, this works.
Of course, the more you buy into the process and commit to it, the more likely it is to work. While hypnobirthing alone wasn’t enough to get me through either of my birthing experiences, I’ll openly admit I could have tried harder.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, as anyone who has gone through labour will tell you, even the best-laid plans can go out the window if there’s a bump in the road. With the best will in the world, there are times when no amount of deep breathing will do the job of medical pain relief; I’m looking at you, inductions. That being said, even a cynic like me (who loves a good epidural) found hypnobirthing helpful during those long hours in the early stages of labour.
So, in summary: in my unbiased, anecdotal opinion, I’d wholeheartedly recommend hypnobirthing to any pregnant mums who have the time and cash to invest in classes or a self-taught course.
At the very least, it’s a weekly hour of “me time” that you more than deserve!
Want more straightforward insight? Read Pregnancy: The Honesty Edition.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Take it from a mum who’s run the gamut of parenting-related fallouts over the last several years; communication needs to be the #1 priority in your relationship. If your partner does something that really frustrates you, communicate about it. Festering over things only makes them worse and doesn’t give the other person an opportunity to fix it. Whether it’s not helping with the laundry or working too much overtime, these things will never change if they’re not talked about.
Open, honest communication is without a doubt the key to any happy marriage. Your relationship will still hit rocky ground at times, but every argument has the potential to bring you a step closer to peace if you’re able to communicate with each other at the end of it.
We all know that relationships require give and take, but when you have your own source of income and no dependents, the biggest compromise you need to make is whose parents to spend Christmas with. Once children are thrown into the equation, it can feel like every day forces you to make new compromises, whether it’s who deserves the weekend lie-in or whose turn it is to deal with a poonami (if you’re not familiar with this word yet, you’re in for a treat).
Compromising requires you to put yourself in your partner’s shoes more than you’ve ever done before, but it only works if you’re both willing participants. If only one person in a relationship is compromising, that’s a recipe for disaster, so if it begins to feel like things are out of balance, revisit your Communication.
Number three in our Four C’s is Consideration, which goes hand-in-hand with Compromise and the act of putting yourself in your partner’s shoes. Take time to think about the person you love and the things you know make them happy. What can you do to facilitate that in a way that works for both of you?
On a personal level, I’m quite an introverted homebody and don’t enjoy meeting up with people at the weekends. However, knowing that my husband is much more social than I am, I encourage him to go out and see friends a few evenings a week. It refills his cup, and I get a night of Netflix to myself. Win/win! On the surface, this seems pretty basic, but parenting can so easily strip you of those things that make you ‘you’. Looking out for each other’s best interests is the ultimate expression of love.
Ok, it’s not a ‘c’, but you can’t win ‘em all. The final tip I’d like to share with you is to make quality time for each other in the way that best suits you. Some couples have regular date nights, which is a fantastic idea if you have the childcare to be able to do it. If not, quality time can be as simple as consciously putting down your phones and talking about your week. Making time for the person you’ve created a family with helps remind you of all the things that made you fall in love with them in the first place.
Want to read more about handling those early years? Check out 'What I didn't know and wish someone had told me about'... Losing Your Sense Of Self.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Say goodbye to flowing skirts and floral dresses, it’s time to get your maternity wardrobe Autumn-ready. We know that you don’t want to replace your entire wardrobe, so here are our top tips for rocking autumn, maternity-style, with a few key pieces.
Never underestimate the power of that perfect sweatshirt. Dress it up for a coffee date with jeans and an oversized handbag, dress it down with trainers and a beanie hat. Or, throw it on at home with a pair of jogging bottoms and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time!
Our sweatshirts come in a range of rock-inspired and modern prints, because we don’t think you should have to sacrifice on style. They’re also part of our multiwear range, made in a stretchy cotton elastane blend and with concealed side zips making them suitable for both pregnancy and nursing. And because they’ve been designed to hold their shape, you could be reaching for your trusty sweatshirt for years to come.
When it comes to a versatile Autumn wardrobe, you need clothing that lasts throughout Winter into next year. Fast fashion it out. Multiwear is in. Instead of buying unflattering, oversized tops to see you through the cooler months, opt for a NINE+QUARTER multiwear tee which is tailored to fit your changing body.
Our multiwear tees are made from soft stretchy cotton in a relaxed fit with a longer cut in front to give you room to grow. Not only that, but the concealed side zips allow you to breastfeed conveniently and discreetly. Pregnancy, nursing and beyond, multiwear clothing has you covered.
Whether you live in leggings and Uggs, or prefer something more swish, boots and skinnies are the ideal Autumn/Winter combo. Choose maternity bottoms with plenty of stretch so that they fit comfortably over your growing bump, and opt for the comfiest boots you can find.
A godsend for your feet and back, there are plenty of chunky, flat, knee-high boots on-trend for AW2021, so you should have no trouble opting for a flat or low heel option. Some of our favourites this season include the classic chelsea boot as well as the "slouchy boot" that hangs relaxed off the leg.
Not a boots kind of gal? No problem. Chunky loafers are also in and so are technical trainers and...wait for it...plush slippers! Yep, that's right, this fall it's totally acceptable to walk out in your fluffy slippers, if you dare...It doesn't get more maternity friendly than this!
No seasonal wardrobe is complete without a few well-chosen accessories. At NINE+QUARTER we love our accessories because they’re a great way to add colour, texture and personality to your wardrobe. You can use a bag, belt, hat or piece of jewellery to dress up or dress down essentially the same maternity outfit.
Accessories will add a punch to your outfits. Best of all they transcend all trimesters and won’t need to be thrown onto the maternity ‘discard’ pile when you’re done. So if you need a fashion pick-me-up, here’s where you can really splurge.
What key pieces have appeared in your wardrobe this autumn? Let us know in the comments below.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
Going through a huge life change such as pregnancy can take its toll on your mental health at the best of times, not to mention the added factors of health anxiety and potential for isolation due to Covid-19.
For some women, a combination of hereditary factors, medical history and situational factors mean that depression and other mental health issues are unavoidable (although treatable). Fortunately, for the majority of women, simply making small changes can help to reduce your risks.
One of the most important things you can do for your mental health during pregnancy is to take stock of how you’re feeling, cut yourself some slack, and prioritise your wellbeing. Here are a few tips for taking charge of your mental health...
Mindfulness has had a lot of air time over the last few years, and for good reason. The ability to calm your thoughts, relieve anxiety and reduce stress are just a few of the results you can expect with guided mindfulness. The process encourages you to notice your thoughts, your feelings and the physical world around you, and learn to let them go. As with anything, practice makes perfect, so carve out 15-30 minutes per day to listen to a guided mindfulness session and you’ll feel the benefits.
Try the Insight Timer app for a wealth of free resources.
When you wake up tired, it’s that much harder to have a good day - but getting a solid night of sleep isn’t easy when you’re pregnant, let alone if you have other small children in the home. If you’re not sleeping well, try one of these tips:
One of the best things you can do to help your frame of mind is to keep your body well-fed and watered. Fresh, nutrient-rich foods give your body and brain much-needed energy to push through whatever the day throws at you. And don’t forget to keep your hydration levels topped up throughout the day to prevent that afternoon brain fog and dip in mood.
Mental health can be influenced by the different chemicals circulating your system. So, if you’re having a particularly low day, encouraging feel-good chemicals can help to boost your mood. Endorphins are a chemical produced when you exercise and increase feelings of wellbeing while reducing pain and stress. So, next time you’re feeling on edge or low, pop on a podcast or upbeat playlist and hit the pavement for a brisk walk.
Mental health is a fickle beast. Sometimes, with a few conscious changes, you can get yourself back on track. Sometimes, you can’t. If you’re experiencing feelings of hopelessness, low mood or a lack of motivation, you may have clinical depression. Many antidepressants can be taken during pregnancy without risk to your baby, so if you have any of the NHS symptoms of depression, arrange a chat with your GP.
Mental health problems will affect 1 in 4 people in any given year. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Enjoying our Blog? Why not check out "Pregnancy: The Honesty Edition"?
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
Like some terrible Survivor re-run, it was as if “the tribe had spoken” and my flame, the one that signified who I had been those last 27 years, had been snuffed out.
The transition from woman to mother isn’t only physical, it’s social. No longer are you defined as the hardass manager, the loyal friend or the witty colleague. Instead, you become someone’s mum. You’ll be guilty of it too. You’ll forget the name of the woman at the playgroup who you chatted with over a cup of tepid coffee, but you’ll remember the name of her kid. Somehow your value transitions to purely being Little Timmy’s mum.
Of course, the issue with this is that being defined by motherhood isn’t particularly fulfilling. There’s no benchmark on what makes you a “good” mum, which is why so many of us fall into that early trap of trying to prove our worth with Instagram-worthy, organic, home-made, toddler meals and declarations of what we believe is the “right” way to parent.*
*Hey, no judgement. I’ve been there. Trust me though, all it takes is a strong-willed (read: feral) second child for that line in the sand to be quickly washed away.
Before you can say “Mr Tumble’s spotty bag”, we’ve defined ourselves by the choices we’ve made as parents. We're breastfeeding, gentle-parenting, baby-led-weaning, wearers of wraps and haters of dairy (personally speaking).
Even our sense of style is displaced. How many of us bought our first breton stripe top post-children? Head to toe in Joules, we adopt a “mum-wardrobe” that feels safe but strips us of our personality. Do I paint too dramatic a picture? I don’t think so.
It was after two years of motherhood that I finally realised I was entirely defining myself as a mother and had lost all sense of self. I started taking steps toward a new me. Not the “me” pre-children, for becoming a mum isn’t something to diminish or wish away, but a version of me that was more than JUST a mum.
I played with new styles of clothes, finally deciding that what made me most comfortable was jeans, trainers and band t-shirts (yes, I’m that mum). I bought CDs of the music I used to love. I went along to WI meetings, local book clubs, board-game evenings, eager to discover interests that weren’t parenting related. And guess what?
I found myself.
I may not be perfect, I may not be to everyone’s taste, but I’m complete.
My eldest is six now, and I’m finally at a place where my wardrobe represents me, I have interests outside of CBeebies and I feel more at peace with myself than I perhaps ever have.
There are a million reasons you can justify putting yourself last when you become a parent. Guilt at enjoying time on your own, the martyr effect of feeling as if the more you sacrifice, the better a mum you’re being, or just pure exhaustion (this too shall pass, I promise). But take this piece of advice from someone who had to learn the hard way… you can’t pour from an empty cup.
As much as I loathe the phrase “happy mum, happy baby”, there’s more than a grain of truth to it. You’re doing an incredibly important job. Your physical and mental wellbeing are more important now than perhaps ever before. Please, please, take care of yourself.
Motherhood is a wonderful, amazing, precious thing. Something that I’m eternally grateful to have the privilege of experiencing. Motherhood is the beginning of a new chapter of your life - but it isn’t the end of the book.
"I launched NINE+QUARTER to prove that you don't have to wave bye to your style because you're pregnant or breastfeeding and to give expecting and new mums something more exciting to wear during this life-changing time." - Martina, Founder NINE+QUARTER
Want to read more from our series "What I wish someone had told me about having a newborn..."? Check out "What I didn't know and wish someone had told me about'...The Fourth Trimester".
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Find yourself reaching for generic “mum” clothing time after time? Have you lost your style mojo? We’ve got you, mama. Finding your mum-style may seem like a frivolity, but actually, it’s an incredibly important act of self-care that many women miss out on.
Not only does finding your personal style make getting dressed a quick, painless process, but it also makes you feel more confident in your skin, more willing to go out and socialise, and infinitely more comfortable.
Here are the four key ways to find your mum-style.
Step away from the generic high-street maternity and breastfeeding clothes and into something that makes you smile. Life is far too short not to wear clothing that makes your heart sing, whether it’s the colour, design, or how it hugs you in all the right places, choose items that you look forward to wearing.
When shopping for your maternity or breastfeeding wardrobe, think about your pre-pregnancy clothes. What pieces made you walk with your head a little higher, knowing that you looked as fabulous as you felt? Whether it’s a bright new pair of trainers, skinny jeans or statement earrings, make sure your wardrobe has plenty of confidence-carrying items for those days you need a little extra pep in your step.
While a capsule wardrobe can be a little too restrictive for our liking, it’s a great idea to streamline your wardrobe into outfits that you can quickly throw together. Most mums live in jeans or leggings during those initial years of motherhood, which is a great base for allowing you to mix and match t-shirts, tanks and sweatshirts for a dose of personality. Not only will you save time in the morning, but you’ll never find yourself struggling to find something to wear.
Perhaps the most important tip of all, choose fabrics and cuts that not only work for your shape but are comfortable for the way you live. Let’s face it, no matter how stylish you’re dressed; it means nothing if you can’t bend, crouch, sit and walk in it. Maternity and breastfeeding clothing gets put through its paces, which is why you should invest in fabrics that are soft yet hardwearing. Look for organic cotton, which feels amazingly soft and washes beautifully, and elastane to provide stretch in closer fitting garments.
Discover more tips for finding your style in What I didn't know and wish someone had told me about... Losing Your Sense Of Self.
For babies being born during these turbulent times, it’s fitting to lean into names from the dystopian genre, and Aldous Huxley was one of the greats. While Huxley has already shot from obscurity to popularity in the last few years (this author has a Huxley of her own), Aldous is still little used and has a great old-world feel.
A unisex name that means “magnificent, majestic, venerable”, the French August(e) Dupin was the detective in Edgar Allen Poe’s mysteries. A popular Latin name, we love it for its balance of strength and subtlety and think it would work well both with quiet types or those with a bold character.
A regal name for any little chap, Caspian comes from the pages of one of Britains most beloved authors, C. S. Lewis. The Narnia reference won’t be lost on fans, but even those unfamiliar with the books are sure to love this choice of names.
No literary list would be complete without at least one Shakespeare reference (spoiler: our list includes two), and this one’s a doozy. Featuring in three of Shakespeare’s plays, the name Demetrius obviously found a soft spot with the famed author, and we’d have to agree it’s a show-stopper.
Charles Dicken’s Great Expectations is a literary classic, and this girls name is equally timeless. Meaning “star”, Estella is a name your little one is unlikely to have to share with anyone in their class, thanks to its reasonably low uptake among parents in the UK.
A strong name from Erica Jong’s feminist novel, Fear of Flying, Isadora is a must for any bold, determined little girl. Although it’s a name that is gaining in popularity, it’s still far from being commonplace. And how cute is “Issy”?!
A name that needs no introduction, Matilda is the epitome of a beautiful literary-inspired name. The protagonist of Roald Dahl’s fantastic book, Matilda ranked as the 30th most popular girls name in the UK when records were last published in 2019. While it may not be as obscure as others on our list, this one simply can’t be overlooked.
Another Charles Dickens reference, Oliver, is an excellent choice for those who want to give a nod to the classics without straying too far off the beaten track. Oliver often ranks in the Top 10 boys names in the UK and is sure to remain a popular choice for years to come.
The tortured soul in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Ophelia, inspired great artists, notably Sir John Everett Millais, whose painting hangs in the gallery of Tate Britain. Though she comes to an untimely end, Ophelia's love and grace are symbolic of femininity and continue to make this a popular name choice for literary-minded parents.
Last on our list, Sylvia is another bittersweet name taken from the novelist and poet Sylvia Plath. A central figure in American literature, Sylvia’s confessional poetry highlighted injustices and brought a voice to women everywhere. Meaning “from the forest”, this beautiful name will never go out of favour.
Looking for more name inspiration? Check out Unique Baby Boys Names or 25 Unusual Baby Girl Names.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past ten years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>by Anna Bastiaenen
You’re pregnant, congrats! Which means you now have a whole new challenge on the horizon: how to style your rapidly expanding body for the next nine months. It can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when accompanied by swollen ankles, growing waistline and inconvenient ‘why am I crying at this shampoo advert?!’ hormones.
Scrolling through the mainstream maternity sites during my first pregnancy I was dismayed at the endless selection of frumpy skirts, navy-striped tees and uninspiring knitwear. But fear not, pregnancy style is transforming and with lots more exciting brands launching (check out the new NINE+QUARTER maternity and breastfeeding wear collection!), and a ream of fashion bloggers and street style stars out there who have paved the way in comfortable-but-cool bump fashion, it is infinitely possible to style your way through it.
Of course, everyone’s body shape is unique and dressing when pregnant is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour, but there are some simple fixes if your blossoming bump is throwing daily challenges your way.
Maternity style tip #1. Start with the basics.
If there’s one thing synthetic fabrics are known for it’s their greenhouse effect, which for you means: sweaty and itchy (as if you’re not uncomfortable enough already). Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal during pregnancy and will keep you fresh and cool. Semi-synthetic fabrics are great, too - after all you’re going to need a fair amount of stretchy supportwear - just try to avoid pure polyester and nylon. Organic fabrics, which are free from harsh chemicals and pesticides, tend to be softer and more gentle which is a plus if you’re experiencing sensitive and itchy skin. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of your underwear during the next nine months! Get yourself fitted for a few stylish, supportive pieces and you won’t regret it.
Maternity style tip #2. You’re still you! There’s no need to wave bye-bye to your personal style (and will to live).
Don’t become downhearted thinking that you’ll have to take a complete departure from your usual look just because you’re pregnant; you really won’t. Maternity doesn’t have to mean matronly, so don’t give up on your fashion sense! You’ll be surprised what you can find when you take a look through what you already own: shirts, jackets, cardis and dresses can be given a reboot for your first trimester. And inevitably, when your regular clothes are starting to pull in all the wrong places, don’t panic buy: it’s better to spend your hard-earned cash on the right items than end up with a pile of clothes you’ve never worn (or can’t bear the sight of) at the end of nine months. Maternity-wear is properly tailored to accommodate a growing, changing pregnant body; finding the right maternity brands means you can stick to your rules - t-shirts, soft cardis, form-fitting dresses, leather jackets and skinny jeans are all still immensely bump friendly.
Maternity style tip #3. Keep it simple.
Try finding one or two silhouettes that you know work to simplify your maternity style approach. Sometimes these can be opposites, for example A-line one day and a tight knit dress the next. If you can, stick to a colour palette that you can mix and match easily to create a capsule wardrobe, if only to keep you sane!
Maternity style tip #4. Enjoy your new bump!
Now that you’re housing a little person, embrace it! You might be surprised to find a new affinity for clothes with a bit of cling and you can layer-up if you’re feeling a bit exposed. However, if right now you’re more confident in looser styles, my advice is don’t go too billowy as this can make you look larger, instead opt for something spacious but that hugs in the right places. Try digging out a belt to cinch in a jumper, dress or light coat under the bust, to create a bump-flattering empire line.
Maternity style tip #5. Dresses are your versatile MVPs (Most Valuable Players).
Be it shirt dresses, folksy, jersey, slip or A-line, find the shape that works for you and it can be adapted for any season. It’s also the easiest item to shoehorn yourself into every morning which is a bonus! Team it with a pair of flats: a smart sneaker, sophisticated sandal, or rock it with some combat boots. An LBD is infinitely wearable and should definitely be on your maternity wish-list.
Maternity style tip #6. Behold, the power of well-chosen accessories.
A bold bag, statement jewels, leopard print flats, a designer belt - all of these will add a punch to your outfits and they won’t need to be thrown straight onto the maternity ‘discard’ pile when you’re done. Best of all they transcend all trimesters, so if you need a fashion pick-me-up, here’s where you can really splurge.
Maternity style tip #7. Buy yourself some badass sneakers.
Bear in mind that your hormones plus the change in your centre of gravity mean that you’ll be more clumsy than usual, so abide by the laws of physics and stick to the no-heel rule. Swollen ankles and aching feet may also be creating a few footwear challenges, but flats don’t have to be unflattering so shop around for some comfy and chic solutions.
Last but not least - remember to relax and give yourself a break! If you want to wear slouchy loungewear from noon till night, then do it and rock it - you are growing a small human after all.
Found this useful? Check out Anna's "Maternity Style Tips for Spring"
As Deputy Editor of luxury lifestyle publication Lusso Magazine and Interiors Editor for influential property journal PrimeResi, Anna draws on a decade of experience in the buying department at Harrods and previous to that Event Coordinator for London Fashion Week, fine-tuning her wisdom of what’s merely expensive and what deserves its high price tag. She now juggles journalism and a busy family life with her husband, three year old daughter and another little one on the way.
*Please, please seek support if you struggle with this, information is provided at the end of this blog.
It’s important to remember that during the first few days after having a baby, you produce colostrum, which is incredibly nutrient-rich and thicker than normal breastmilk. The colostrum gives your baby a kickstart of antibodies and is produced for around the first five days. Because colostrum is thick, your baby has to work a little harder for it and there’s less of it, compared to later when your milk “comes in”. It’s the (seemingly constant) suckling that gives your body the signal to kickstart milk production, but it’s these first few days during colostrum production that worries some new mums, so they begin to formula-feed, which means that baby is suckling at the nipple less, further delaying milk supply.
If you do choose to supplement with formula during those early days, the best thing you can do for your milk production is to make sure you’re still regularly getting your baby to suckle, at least as often as they’re receiving formula.
Your milk has come in, but you worry that there’s still not enough of it. Queue, panic. This is the point at which many new mums speak to their well-meaning friends and family, who advise them that some women just don’t make enough milk and suggest swapping to formula.
Now, this is absolutely your choice, and hopefully you know by now that we’re a judgement-free zone, but we also believe in mums having the information to make the decision that’s best for them. So, with that being said, it’s worth knowing that only 1-5% of women cannot physically make enough milk to feed their child. There are many, many more who have had to stop breastfeeding due to supply issues, but these women were generally not given the right support at the right time by medical professionals.
Keep in mind that when your baby is 1 week old, their tummy is the size of a cherry and can only hold up to 2oz of milk, that’s ¼ of a cup. That tiny little stomach doesn’t hold much, and it empties fairly quickly. Some days, it will feel like you’re breastfeeding almost constantly - these days will pass.
If you’re still concerned about your supply, the La Leche League offers these suggestions:
For ongoing support from other breastfeeding mums, check out boobingit.com which offers resources, a podcast and a great community of parents sharing their experiences.
If you’re experiencing breastfeeding difficulties, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Contact your midwife who can point you in the direction of local support, or contact the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 (9.30am to 9.30pm, daily).
Want to read more about the days following childbirth? Check out Postpartum Self-Care.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>🎶“It’s getting hot in here….”🎶
The weather may be struggling to make up its mind, but the temperature is definitely suggesting its summer under all those clouds. From stifling sunshine to muggy humidity, the warmth is here to stay, and if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you’ll be feeling it more than most. While we don’t suggest taking a page from Nelly’s book unless you’re in the privacy of your own home, there are some clothing choices that will make the heat more bearable (and a few culprits that might surprise you).
Here’s your guide to dressing for the temp, with the best fabrics for summer.
Where would we be without cotton? Light, breathable and gentle on the skin, it’s the ultimate choice for summer. This soft fibre is totally natural and is a sustainable, renewable and biodegradable resource. However, cotton is a huge industry, and the majority of it isn’t organic, meaning that there is a scary amount of fertiliser,pesticide and chemicals used in its production. Always choose 100% organic cotton, which is best for your body and the planet.
2. Bamboo
Bamboo clothing has only really become part of the mainstream in recent years, but it’s a phenomenal fabric that is perfect for the warmer weather. Lightweight, breathable and with moisture-wicking properties, bamboo will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, so you’ll find both strappy dresses and thermal underwear made from this versatile fabric. With one of the fastest-growing rates of any plant, it’s also incredibly sustainable to produce (but again, make sure to look for 100% organic sources).
3. Linen
If you’re anything like us, you probably have a love/hate relationship with linen. One of the breeziest, lightweight natural fabrics available, it’s an absolute dream in summer. BUT it’s also a nightmare to care for. Linen wrinkles if you so much as look at it the wrong way, but for those first few moments when it’s freshly ironed - heaven. Try a pair of linen shorts with one of our 100% cotton tanks for the ultimate in comfort.
Special Mention: Silk
Silk is another beautiful and SUPER lighweight fabric which is perfect for summer. That being said, there isn’t much in the way of maternity and breastfeeding-wear in silk, likely because of its higher cost and more specific cleaning needs.
Nylon is making a come-back in some fashion circles this year, but summer is not the time to jump on the bandwagon. While Prada may be releasing nylon dresses like there’s no tomorrow, we really wouldn’t recommend it for the season. As a synthetic fabric, nylon isn’t breathable, doesn’t wick moisture and actually repels water. This holds sweat against the skin and doesn’t allow heat to escape. That’s a firm “pass” from us.
2. Acrylic
Again, acrylic is another synthetic fabric that isn’t breathable and retains heat. As it’s pretty robust and does wick moisture away from the skin, you’ll often find acrylic in summer tops and dresses, but don’t be fooled! The fabric is abrasive, traps in the heat and makes for a very, very uncomfortable wear. And don’t even get us started on the manufacturing process!
3. Polyester
Last but not least, polyester is another in our line-up of synthetic fabrics that are terrible for summer. On the surface, polyester seems great; it’s resistant to wrinkles, durable and retains its shape well, but like the other fabrics on our list, it’s not what you want to wrap yourself in during a heatwave. Not only is polyester resistant to moisture, making you feel hot and sticky, but it also produces static electricity. We’ll pass on this one, thanks.
And there we have it, the dos and don’ts of summer fabrics. We hope this has been helpful and keeps you comfortable during what’s set to be a very sweaty season.
Still a little hot under the collar? Check out 5 Ways To Keep Cool When Pregnant Or Breastfeeding.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past ten years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
Summer is not the time for unnecessary layers of fabric. If you’re pregnant, look for long, loose tops and other easy pieces of floaty, breathable clothing. Opt for natural fabrics which are lighter and more breathable, such as linen, cotton and bamboo.
If you’re breastfeeding, this is where well-designed tops come into their own. A top that has been created with breastfeeding in mind will allow you to stay cool while feeding. So ditch the cover-ups, muslins, scarfs and cardigans, and feed your baby in comfort, without all that extra fabric.
Usually, at this time of year, we’d recommend taking a trip to your local swimming pool, but these are unusual times. If you already have young children at home, commandeer the paddling pool whenever you need it! Or, use the bathtub or simply get creative with whatever you have to hand.
Using a damp cloth or misting yourself with water is a great way to cool down, especially if you target your wrists, forehead and the back of your neck. Alternatively, even just paddling your feet in cold water will help to bring down your temperature (and is a great relief for swollen pregnancy feet).
Nothing quite beats having a range of ice-cold snacks on hand, whether it be frozen fruit or something less healthy! But it isn’t just food that can benefit from the cold-treatment. A muslin cloth, slightly dampened and popped in the freezer can be perfect for those hot summer days. You can take full advantage of the refrigerator too, with moisturiser being a perfect item to chill prior to use - thank us later.
“My all-time favourite thing to throw in the freezer on a hot day are ‘frubes’, those kids yoghurt tubes. It’s the perfect snack on a hot day, both my children and I love them.”
- Martina Minarik, NINE+QUARTER Founder
We’ve all been there, the first day of the year that reaches the high 20℃’s and we’re googling “how expensive is air conditioning” (answer: very). Thankfully, there are some great hacks to get a reprieve from the heat, without spending a pretty penny. While it might not be quite as effective as an AC unit, the best one we’ve come across is simply placing a 2l bottle of frozen water in front of a fan. The ice absorbs heat from the fan-blown air, resulting in the air being cooler by the time it reaches you. Give it a try next time it’s too hot to sleep!
We know that summer can be a sweaty, clammy, exhausting time when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, but with these handy tips, you’ll be back to enjoying it in no time.
Looking for more clever tips for pregnancy and beyond? Check out our blog post, Pregnancy Style Hacks.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix aficionado and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
Does it really matter? Yes, and no. Although there’s no harm in bringing EVERYTHING you could possibly need, it’s only going to cause you a headache. By packing intentionally and trying to keep it to the bare essentials, you make life easier for yourself in the long run. After all, it’s not just packing, you’ll also be unpacking at your destination, repacking when it’s time to leave and then unpacking again when you get home.
Whether you’re an expectant parent planning your first trip away with baby, or a new mum worried you’re going to need to upgrade to an estate car in order to fit all your luggage, we’ve got you covered with our Staycation Cheat Sheet.
The best part of holidaying during summer is you can get away without having to pack too many layers. Of course, we’re in the UK, so hats and raincoats go without saying, but keep the rest of your wardrobe simple. Choose light, floaty dresses that you can wear more than once, a comfortable pair of casual trousers or jeans, and a few plain tees or vests which can be dressed up or down. Planning for the “what-if’s” is where most of us get caught out. Do you really need to bring a specific “dining out” dress and shoes, or can you just add a nice necklace to a casual outfit?
Between reflux, weaning and nappy explosions, babies can get through a lot of clothes, but that doesn’t mean you need to overpack. Instead, opt for a handful of muslins and some bodysuits in vest or tee styles. Not only will they help keep your little one cool, but they’re easy to clean and quick to pack. Bring a bottle of liquid clothing detergent and in 5 minutes you can have cleaned half of your baby’s bodysuits or a week's worth of muslins in the sink, ready to dry and use again. While there’s no harm in throwing a cute holiday outfit into baby’s bag, the more two-piece outfits you bring, the more washing you’ll be left with at the end of your holiday - and no one wants that.
Best of all, invest in some compression packing cubes. These handy zippered pouches are ideal for keeping everyone’s clothes separate and easy to unpack, but also compress down to a fraction of their original size. Top tip: spend a little extra to buy a trusted brand as the strength of the stitching and zips are essential to the cubes staying intact.
You’d be surprised at just how little “stuff” you actually need when you’re going away for a week or two. Why pack your baby bath, when the kitchen sink of your accommodation will do the same job? That being said, there are a few core bits of kit that every parent should consider bringing along on their staycation.
Perhaps one of the best tips for travelling with a baby is to invest in a baby carrier. There are a multitude of options available, but for anyone new to babywearing, we’d suggest trying the “buckles” style, which fits in a similar way to a backpack. Popular brands are Baby Bjorn, Je Porte Mon Bebe, Ergobaby and Tula, all of which have options that fit from newborn to preschool.
Why is this such an awesome investment? Well, not only does it mean you don’t need to lug around a buggy, but it also frees you up to climb mountains, stroll over cobblestones streets and navigate through busy shops, all with baby safe and sound against you. It can also be used to secure older babies onto their chairs in a cafe or restaurant.
Instead of bringing your bulky microwave or electric steriliser, bring a box of Milton tablets which are simply added to water. Although it takes a little longer to sterilise, they’re just as effective and take up much less space.
Last of all, remember the best part of being on a staycation - convenience! Whether you’re in Portsmouth, Pontypridd or Penrith, if you’re self-catering, the chances are that you’ll be able to order groceries to be delivered to your doorstep, or at the very least Click & Collect. Make the most of it by only packing the essentials you need for the journey and perhaps the 24 hours following, and get your nappies and wipes (and wine and chocolate) locally.
There you have it, your Staycation Cheat Sheet. Happy holidays all!
First holiday with a newborn? Check out How to Breastfeed In Public.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>With so many changes in your body and many more yet to come, it’s difficult to know how to plan your wardrobe over the coming months. And while it may seem unimportant today, knowing you have cosy, flattering clothing to wear can be an absolute game-changer down the line, especially on those days when you’re feeling uncomfortable in your own skin.
But how do you plan ahead for a body that seems to change shape in the blink of an eye? We’re here to talk you through what maternity size to buy and things to keep in mind when shopping.
Most first-time mums tend to feel their tummy growing at around the 14-week mark, although it may still not be visible (for second pregnancies, it can be much sooner). By week 20, most women will either be wearing maternity clothes or at least sizing up their regular wardrobe.
Learn more in our blog, When Should You Start Buying Maternity Clothes?
Whether to invest in maternity clothes or just buy regular clothing in a larger size is entirely personal preference, but there are definitely benefits to dedicated maternity clothing.
Clothing specifically for pregnancy is designed to better adapt to your shape, using either stretch or cut. This is part of the reason maternity clothing is so much more flattering than simply wearing bigger sizes. If you’re on a super tight budget, you can certainly get through a pregnancy without maternity clothing, but if comfort, style and fit are important to you, you’re much better off investing in a few maternity pieces to see you through.
Because maternity clothing has been designed with your changing body in mind, you should purchase your regular size for the best fit. If you're a U.K. size 12 you should opt for a size 12 in maternity clothes. If you were a size 10 pre-pregnancy and have gone up to a size 12, opt for a size 12 in maternity clothes.
Essentially you can ignore the size of your bump when shopping maternity clothes as maternity wear have been tailored to fit a growing bump, throughout all stages of pregnancy, and also a somewhat bigger bust.
This is such a great question, but one that doesn’t have an easy answer. While some women will stay in their regular size throughout pregnancy, simply moving from a regular 12 to a maternity 12, other women will have bigger weight fluctuations.
Personally, I gained slightly over 30kg in my last pregnancy; although my craving for cheeseburgers had a lot do to with that! My advice would be to buy your usual size when purchasing maternity clothes, but size up if you’re sitting between sizes. You’ll find the majority of clothing has been cleverly designed with stretch in all the right places so that it fits well even as your belly grows.
What’s the difference between a £5 maternity tee and a £35 maternity tee? A lot more than you’d think. We discuss this in more detail in the recent blog, How Maternity Clothes Work, but to give you a brief overview:
Cheaper maternity clothes are usually:
Compare that to NINE+QUARTER, where we use sustainable 100% organic cotton, design our clothing to last not just through your pregnancy but even into breastfeeding and over multiple pregnancies, and have a great relationship with a family-owned factory in Portugal that produces our garments.
Looking for more information on finding clothes you can wear beyond pregnancy? Check out Multi-Wear Maternity Clothing.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>In a previous blog, Mental Health In Pregnancy, we discussed the importance of self-care in helping you deal with this incredible chapter of your life. Today, we’ll be talking about the equally important issue of showing yourself love and kindness in the days after giving birth.
Here are your top five tips for postpartum self-care:
In the days following childbirth, you’ll be told to “sleep when the baby sleeps”. I’d take this a step further and encourage you to sleep every chance you get! Daytime naps are the way forward, take them wherever you can get them.
Not only is sleep an important part of the healing process but being well-rested will help you face those endless night feeds and early morning wake-up calls. One day, you’ll sleep like a regular person again, but for now, take what you can get.
Not only should you get plenty of sleep, but even when you’re awake you should try to rest as much as possible. Listen to your body, if it’s telling you it wants to stay in bed with your baby, stay in bed with your baby.
We LOVE the “5-5-5 Rule”, which is encouraged by many doulas and midwives. Plan to spend 5 days in bed, 5 days on the bed, and 5 days around the bed. This not only gives you the opportunity to recover, but it also allows you that precious time to bond with your baby.
No, tea doesn’t count. Ok, it does, but make sure you’re getting plenty of the pure stuff too. As with all of our body processes, recovering from labour will be sped along if your body has the nutrients, minerals and water it needs. Up to 60% of our body is water, so make sure you’re topping up regularly. This will also help with postpartum toilet stuff, making your first few days after labour a lot less stressful.
If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll need to pay particularly good attention to your water intake too, otherwise, you risk getting dehydrated. Water is crucial for the production of breastmilk, so make sure you always have a bottle on hand and get into the habit of sipping it while you’re nursing.
Dear lord woman, you’ve just created a whole new human being, now is NOT the time to deny yourself the finer pleasures of life in an effort to “bounce back”. Not only does your body need plenty of nutrients to recover from the marathon of labour, but it also needs calories to heal, recuperate and to create breastmilk.
Give your body what it needs, without worrying about getting back into your pre-baby shape. Acknowledge how amazing you are, exactly as you are, and eat the damn cake.
At the risk of sounding too hippy-dippy, there’s a lot to be said for the natural world, particularly when it comes to postpartum self-care.
If you experienced tearing or an episiotomy during labour, soaking in a herbal sitz bath can be a great way to ease the discomfort and bring a little luxury into an otherwise rough experience. Sure, it may just be the warm water working its magic, but the scent of lavender and chamomile alone is enough to make this a must.
Top Tip: Add a few drops of tea tree oil onto your maternity pads before you wear them. This encourages healing and helps to keep infections away.
If you’re planning your postpartum self-care, you may also be interested in reading Breastfeeding, Expressing and Other Ways To Feed A Newborn.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
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Having a baby is an exciting time and it often inspires women to improve their nutrition and ensure their baby is getting all the nutrients they need to healthily grow. Here you will find a list of nutrients to include in your diet before, during, and after your pregnancy. These are also useful if you are not pregnant, as they support all women and our hormonal needs too.
It is important to gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy. After all, you are growing a beautiful little human/s inside of you, and it is an incredible feat your body will go through. How much weight should we gain? There is no magic number. We are all unique and will respond to pregnancy in different ways. One thing to note is, it is not a time to put pressure on yourself - no crash diets and no excessive overeating either. Your GP will usually advise that it is safe to consume an extra *200-400 calories in the second and third trimesters. (*NHS UK). Seek professional advice if you are unsure.
When it comes to the best foods you can eat during pregnancy, reach for foods packed with nutrients rather than empty calories (not forgetting to indulge every now and then though!). This will ensure you and your baby are getting the key vitamins and minerals you both need. These include:
Omega 3 and Vitamin D are important for your baby’s brain and eye development, bones, and immune system. These include most fish, (avoiding un-cooked fish and fish high in mercury), eggs and red meat. Vegetarian options include hemp, flax and chia seeds, edamame, walnuts, and kidney beans.
Folate/Folic acid is important to help to prevent neural tube defects. Food high in these nutrients include leafy greens, broccoli, avocados, citrus fruits, legumes (beans, peas, lentils, quinoa), beetroot, fortified cereals (added folic acid) and nuts and seeds. *It is recommended that you take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day before you are pregnant and up until 12 weeks. (*NHS UK).
Fibre is particularly important during pregnancy as it is kind on the stomach, improves our nutrient absorption, helps to balance blood-sugar levels and relieve constipation. Dense leafy greens are full of fibre, folate, and antioxidants. Berries, pears, melon, oranges, carrots, peas, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds, and skinned potatoes are all high in fibre and Vitamin C too.
Your iron intake usually needs to be doubled during pregnancy. The foods listed above in fibre are high in iron (as well as red/lean meats).
Protein is the vital building block our body uses to create muscles, bones, skin, and hair. Foods that are high in protein include eggs, lean/organic poultry, fish, legumes, grains, nuts, seeds and cottage cheese.
Calcium promotes strong bones, teeth, nerves, and muscles. Most of the foods listed above contain calcium, including fish and leafy greens. Other foods include, milk, cheese, yoghurt (opt for organic if you can), fortified cereals, juices and plant-based milk.
Include pasta, rice, and breads in your diet if that is what you like, opting for wholegrain, brown (or gluten free) where you can which are less processed and will keep you fuller and satisfied for longer.
Vitamin B6 is an important vitamin to promote healthy tissue and brain growth. Avocados are high in B6 as well as bananas, sweet potatoes, leafy greens and eggs.
As you can see, a lot of these foods are fresh superfoods. Plan ahead and include them in your main meals. If you are on the go, smoothies, soups, and salads are perfect. Meals you can freeze like lasagnes, curries and bakes are brilliant time savers. If you are not sure where to start, try some simple recipes, or if you would like a little extra help, explore companies like mindful chef and gousto. They do most of the work for you by designing the recipes, sourcing fresh local produce, and delivering it to your door.
Whilst we are talking about the best foods to eat during pregnancy, there is a list of foods to avoid. These contain bacteria and chemicals which can make you sick and perhaps you should steer clear of until your baby is born. Ask your GP about these or visit your local healthcare provider’s website. Remember to wash your fresh produce thoroughly and check the ingredients on the labels of products if you are unsure.
Drink lots of water. Unfortunately, this may not help with already needing to go to the toilet frequently, however, it is so important to help your body absorb all the wonderful nutrients listed above. Water is perfect for cleansing any toxins, aiding your digestion (reducing constipation) and reducing any risks of infections.
As well as a nutrient-dense diet, taking a pre-natal vitamin daily will ensure that you are getting the right balance of nutrients you and your baby needs. There are some wonderful supplements on the market, if you are unsure, speak to your GP and do a bit of research yourself. Choose supplements which are high in pure ingredients with preferably little to no fillers.
It is a time to embrace those cravings too if they ever pop up!
I asked a group of girlfriends what their cravings were and there were variety of answers, including:
How is that for a diverse list? Hardly any two were the same and it just goes to show how different our taste buds are! If you find you are craving things which are not food, it could be a deficiency, so speak to your midwife or GP.
One thing to keep in mind is the time of day we enjoy the indulgences. Food high in sugar/caffeine can affect our sleep and we need good sleep! Heavy carbs and meats can sometimes contribute to indigestion too. Listen to your body and take note of when certain foods might be causing you discomfort.
If you suffer from morning sickness, try to eat what you can and drink lots of water. Keep track of your weekly intake and seek professional help if you feel you are not getting the right amount of nutrients you need.
Enjoy this wondrous time and look forward to when baby is out in the world so you can enjoy the foods that you couldn’t have during pregnancy. My sister is due any day now and I asked her what food she misses the most. She cannot wait to have eggs royale with raw salmon and runny eggs. A platter of soft cheeses and Pâté, with a glass of champagne. Yum!
I hope you found this useful and if you would like some well-being tips for expectant Mums, click here, take a look at my website www.youfirstnutrition.com or visit my Instagram page @youfirst.nutritionwellbeing for more nutrition and well-being tips. I would love to hear from you if you would like any personal advice, email me at hello@youfirstnutrition.com.
Aimee
The idea for the blog came from a Q&A which I recently had the honour of answering for our talented hair & makeup artist Jennifer Lo at Lolo & Co.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jen during the last two NINE+QUARTER photoshoots and when we last spoke Jen, who works with a number of fashion brands big and small, was curious to know what it's like organising your first photoshoots. Here's a bit about our last N+Q photoshoot:
Photographer: Laura Ribatallada, fashion photographer with a focus on sustainable brands.
MUAH: Jennifer Lo, twin-mum and ethical hair & make-up artist.
Models: Lucy - a mum of three with her youngest daughter Lyra. Faye, a first-time mum with her 8 weeks old son Tobias. Angel, 36 weeks pregnant with her son Felix, whom she's since had the pleasure of welcoming into the world!
Director: Martina, mum of two and founder of NINE+QUARTER maternity & breastfeeding wear.
Capture the new NINE+QUARTER maternity & breastfeeding wear collection, including model shots for the product pages on the website and lifestyle shots for the website and social media channels.
"Maternity wear doesn't have to be boring and you don't have to wave bye to your style because you're pregnant or breastfeeding". In other words - New life, same you!
Hair & make-up - The day starts with a cup of tea, a briefing and hair & make-up by MUAH Jennifer Lo.
Let's go! With many of our designs being maternity & breastfeeding friendly, each top needs to be shot three times to show the fit with a bump, the breastfeeding functionality/postpartum fit and the clothes in a "lifestyle" setting. Everyone needs to work together to maintain a quick pace and ensure all designs have been shot before the contracted time is up. A detailed schedule helps inform the order of the day. Our photographer Laura, with all her talent and experience, never misses a chance to capture the best shots! .
Wearing many hats - For our last photo shoot we rented White Room Studio in Brixton which meant we had the right light and backdrop for our model shots but needed to improvise with our furniture props. Being a small team means everyone is wearing many hats, including pumping up the double mattress to create a bed.
Boobing break - Shooting with expecting and young mums and babies requires flexibility, extra time and lots of breastfeeding breaks.
Making connections - During the shoot everyone gets to know each other. Angel and Lucy connected immediately which was not only heart-warming to see but also created beautiful, natural shots.
Women supporting women - One of the things that I love the most about running NINE+QUARTER, besides making clothes that pregnant and breastfeeding mums get excited about, are the photoshoots. The moment post design and production when the clothes are showcased by real mums and pregnant women and skillfully captured by a talented photographer. On shoot day I get to step out of my bedroom/office and meet a bunch of passionate, beautiful women and it is SO MUCH FUN!" 🤗💓
Jen: How did you plan out what you wanted the photos to look like?
Me: This is a great question as it’s the hardest part of planning a fashion photo shoot in my opinion. Being a photo shoot Creative Director is an art and a profession in it’s own right. If you can’t afford to hire someone to translate your vision into the reality of a photoshoot, you have to make up for it in terms of research and preparation.
I did a lot of research, trying to understand our customer (who she is and how she lives), looking for images that match my vision that “Dressing during Maternity & Motherhood doesn’t have to be boring” and looking at other brands to find inspiration.
Interested in finding out more? Read the full Q&A on the Lolo & Co blog.
Martina is a mum of two and the founder of NINE+QUARTER, a small range of easy-to-rock, organic and on-trend maternity and breastfeeding wear.
]]>It’s a problem as old as time, well-meaning strangers intrude into your personal space and, uninvited, put their hands on your bump or touch your baby’s face. It’s intrusive and unsettling at the best of times, let alone when there’s a virus on the loose. So, we’ve temporarily broken our COVID-free bubble to offer you some tried and tested ways to stop people in their tracks. Most of the suggestions you’ll find below are to-the-point but polite, others are a little less so - whatever mood or situation you find yourself in, we’ve got you covered.
This is, without fail, the easiest and most effective way to stop someone from touching you or your baby, but it does rely on you being able to make eye contact. As the toucher leans in, get in their eye line and give them… the look. You know the one. The don’t-try-me, you-better-step-back, mama-bear look.
Over the coming years, you’ll have plenty of time to practice this one, whether it’s aimed at that kid about to push your child off the swing, or at your own child as they argue for the umpteenth time that ice-cream is a valid dinner choice. So, there’s no better time to start honing “the look” than the present.
Let’s face it, there’s no good reason for someone to invade your personal space, regardless of whether you have a glorious bump or are mother to the world’s most adorable baby. Many a fed-up, heavily pregnant mum will tell you that sometimes, turning the tables is the only solution. After all, why should you be the one put into an uncomfortable situation?
“Oh, did you think…? I’m not pregnant.” It’s a white lie guaranteed to make that well-meaning stranger turn bright red, make a hasty retreat and think twice before reaching for someone else’s bump! You’re practically doing a public service!
This is a great option if you’re not the confrontational type and the thought of shutting down an old lady in the supermarket makes you feel queasy. A well-timed gasp and a protective hand over your bump or baby will stop even the most eager of strangers. Best of all, you can quickly follow it up with a “sorry, coronavirus” for the ultimate polite, but firm impact.
When all else fails, or the alternatives just seem too exhausting, the truth is always an option. We don’t know people’s stories. Perhaps that little old lady hasn’t seen her grandkids for the last three months. Maybe that woman in the queue has just battled through another failed IVF treatment. Kindness, understanding and honesty can go a long way in a world that seems to get more bleak by the day.
No, it’s not ok for people to put you or your child’s comfort or health at risk. No, just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you’re fodder for the general public. But let’s face it, the “touchers” of the world are human, just like the rest of us. We all make mistakes from time to time. We’re all guilty of forgetting for a brief moment that the world has changed so totally.
So, perhaps the next time you’re faced with a smiling face and an outstretched hand, an honest, kind, but straight-forward “no touching please,” is the best way to go.
Or keep a rolled-up, swat-ready newspaper on hand. No judgement from us. ;)
Since writing this blog we've dicovered these amazing pram and car seat tags by JillyTotsUk. Beautiful, practical, 100% polite, to the point with a sprinkle of firmness. Check them out!
Ready for more honesty? You might like 'What I didn't know and wish someone had told me about'...The Fourth Trimester.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>However, even though breastfeeding in public is protected by law, many women still worry about doing it. We’ve all heard horror stories about women being asked to cover-up, and while this doesn’t happen anywhere near as often as the tabloids would have us think, it’s still a concern for many new mums.
We know that knowing your rights is only half the battle and that until breastfeeding in public becomes the norm, many women are still going to worry about how to do it as discreetly as possible. With that in mind, here are the pros and cons of various ways to breastfeed in public, so you can decide for yourself.
Clothing designed specifically for breastfeeding is by far the most convenient way to nurse your baby. NINE+QUARTER breastfeeding tops come with either side zips, or double layers, depending on the style. Many of our breastfeeding tops have invisible zips on the side seam below each arm, allowing you to discreetly feed your little one without adding or removing any additional layers. Alternatively, our double-layer tops can be lifted, with the bottom layer covering your tum and boobs. This bottom layer has a large opening under each arm, allowing it to be pulled to the side to feed your baby.
The downside to breastfeeding vests and t-shirts is that they have the biggest initial cost when compared to other options, however, many women find that the confidence, comfort and convenience they provide more than makes up for it.
Our long-sleeve Courage maternity and breastfeeding top is double layered with an opening in the inner layer for easy-access breastfeeding with minimal skin showing.
While your baby is still little, simply throwing a muslin cloth over their head and your shoulder tends to be the method most often used by new mums. This works well, and the muslin doubles as a burp cloth after the feed. Win/win! You can also buy specific covers that attach around your neck to serve the same purpose, but they’re essentially doing the same job.
The downside of this method is that having a cover over their head can make it too hot for baby during warmer months, and as they start to discover their hands they are guaranteed to pull the muslin off at exactly the wrong moment.
One of the most inexpensive ways to breastfeed in public is the one-up, one-down method, which can be done with your existing wardrobe. By wearing a vest under your top you can lift your shirt, pull down your vest, and breastfeed with no skin on show.
This is a great option if you can’t invest in breastfeeding-specific clothing, but while it’s nice and cool for the baby, wearing double-layers can get incredibly hot and uncomfortable for you when the weather is warm.
Last on our list is the easiest option by far - don’t cover up at all. Yes, it might make you feel vulnerable the first few times, but once you’ve got the hang of it, you won’t look back. Many women choose to breastfeed without any form of cover, and often find that even without making an effort to cover themselves, so little skin is actually exposed, no-one notices anyway!
Breastfeeding in public needn’t be something you ever feel you have to do discreetly, but should you choose to cover up, there are plenty of options to put your mind at ease.
Explore our maternity and breastfeeding tops, or learn more about breastfeeding in our blog What I Didn't Know And Wish Someone Had Told Me About... Feeding A Newborn.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Do I really need to shell out on new clothes that I’m only going to wear for a few months? Can’t I just muddle through with what I’ve got? Maybe buy a few sizes up?
Of course you can opt for regular oversized and loose fitting clothes during your pregnancy, or just stretch out your normal clothes - but doing so often limits what you can do with your outfits and how comfortable you feel.
Maternity clothing is there for a reason, and it’s not just to make you look great - it tends to serve a dual purpose. Maternity leggings and jeans, for example, often come with a supportive band on the waist to make your bump feel secure and supported. And some maternity tops double up as breastfeeding tops for once the little one arrives.
The main reasons why some women avoid maternity wear altogether and many more keep their maternity purchases to a minimum are: 1. Maternity wear is considered poor value for money because you can only wear it until the end of the pregnancy, so “cost per wear” is high, 2. Some pregnant women feel uncomfortable with their changing bodies and don’t see the point in spending money on something that they’re not going to feel great in anyway, and 3. Many women think maternity wear is frumpy.
Let’s address some of these misconceptions and also look at the benefits of wearing maternity clothes.
Misconception #1. “Maternity wear is poor value for money”
Not necessarily. Maternity wear doesn’t have to be more expensive than regular, non-maternity, clothes. If you choose carefully and opt for quality, you’ll only need a few pieces and they will last you throughout this and subsequent pregnancies. If you’re not planning on being pregnant again, you’ll be able to sell them on or give them to a friend.
Investing in more durable items is also wise because maternity clothes get used and washed more frequently (due to your wardrobe being smaller). The initial price tag might be higher but you will get more “bang for your buck” with clothes that last more than one round.
You can also lower the “cost per wear” by choosing pieces that can be worn postpartum or double up as breastfeeding wear.
Misconception #2. “Maternity clothes are unnecessary”
Now this is just my opinion, but regular clothes have a tendency to droop at the shoulders and pull in all the wrong places when pulled over a bump. They’re not hugely flattering postpartum either.
Maternity clothes, on the other hand, are tailored to accommodate your growing body, which means they should be more comfortable AND flattering to wear.
If you choose a maternity brand that uses natural fabrics, such as organic cotton and bamboo, the clothes should also feel softer and more gentle on your skin, which is a plus if you’re experiencing tender, super-sensitive and itchy skin that is commonplace with pregnancy. That’s because natural and organic fabrics are free of harsh chemicals like pesticides and fertilisers.
The use of stretchy waistbands and extra fabric not only gives you room in all the right places, so that you feel more comfortable, it also makes you look good too! Clothes are more flattering when they fit the body that they dress, right?!
For me, pregnancy was an exciting and exhilarating time of life and I loved my bump, but the extra weight, rounder arms and bigger breasts also meant my regular clothes didn’t fit as well as they used to and this made me feel self conscious. Finding maternity clothes that flattered my new shape helped me feel as excited on the outside as I did on the inside.
Misconception #3. “Maternity wear is frumpy”
Yes, there are a lot of frumpy clothes out there, but the maternity market has also changed a lot in the past decade, mainly due to the fact that more women work throughout their pregnancy, disposable income is higher and there has been a rise in stylish celebrity mums(-to-be) happily sharing their pregnancies with the public. So these days, there is also a lot of stylish, well-made, maternity wear out there.
Most of my maternity wear came from H&M, Isabella Oliver and Seraphine. These brands have some great workwear options, such as black or white short- or long-sleeve tops, shirts and maternity trousers, which can easily be worn with a regular cardigan or unbuttoned suit jacket. They also have a huge selection of work dresses as well as more formal dresses.
My challenge was finding some low-maintenance, easy-to-rock casual and weekend wear. The kind of washed out, rock-cool tees that were my staple before the pregnancy. Speaking to other mums and mums-to-be, I also realised that I wasn’t the only one wishing there was something more exciting to wear during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding. And that’s where the idea for NINE+QUARTER came from.
NINE+QUARTER is a different kind of maternity wear. Our mission is to bring you on-trend, organic and easy-to-rock designs throughout your amazing journey and beyond. Rock-cool and retro-inspired looks that fit seamlessly into your pre- and post-pregnancy wardrobe - without compromising your style.
New life, same You!
Interested in reading more? Check out these posts: "When should you start buying Maternity clothes?", "How Maternity Clothes Work?"or “Maternity Essentials" by journalist and fashion enthusiast Anna Bastiaenen.
Martina is the founder of NINE+QUARTER - organic, mindfully-made and easy-to-rock maternity and breastfeeding wear.
]]>If you’re newly pregnant, the world of maternity fashion can seem like a daunting place. In previous blogs, we’ve covered when you should start buying maternity clothes, but today we’ll be exploring how maternity clothes work. Zips, panels, stretch and more, the functions of pregnancy clothing may sound complicated, but the reality is they’re incredibly comfortable and many are even designed to last you through the first 3 trimesters and beyond.
Here’s everything you need to know about NINE+QUARTER maternity and breastfeeding clothing, and how maternity clothes work in general.
When it comes to maternity tops, you’ll often find that you get what you pay for. Tops are one of the hardest working items of clothing as your body changes, and many women find that some of the cheaper high-street brands aren’t always up to the test.
In general, cheaper maternity tops are cut from poor-quality fabric that quickly loses its shape. As you start moving toward more specialist maternity clothing brands, the fabric will be better quality, and the tops will be designed to offer more movement and flexibility as your bump grows. We really do recommend investing in your maternity wear, not only will it ensure you’re comfy during what can be quite a stressful time, but it will also help you feel confident in your ever-changing body.
At NINE+QUARTER, we offer maternity tops, and tops for both maternity and breastfeeding. While many companies choose to keep breastfeeding clothing separate, we believe that the most sustainable option is to design clothing that has more than one function.
Our maternity-only items are made from stretchy long-lasting organic fabrics which hold their shape and colour and have elasticated side seams for added stretch. These are a great option if you’re not planning on breastfeeding, or are looking for staple wardrobe pieces to keep you going through your pregnancy.
NINE+QUARTER maternity and breastfeeding tops offer even more flexibility, as they have integrated, invisible zips in the side seams and are cut longer in the front, making them flattering throughout pregnancy and early motherhood. The hidden zips allows you to easily breastfeed when out and about, without having to worry about prying eyes.
So, while high-street maternity tops may only give you a few months of wear, NINE+QUARTER maternity tops last throughout multiple pregnancies, and our multi-purpose tops can easily last, not only through pregnancy but through breastfeeding and beyond.
Jeans, trousers, shorts or skirts, you’re likely to find yourself needing to add to your wardrobe once your bump begins to grow. Maternity jeans and other bottoms tend to have a waistband that falls into one of three categories, under-bump, over-bump or side-panel.
Under-bump jeans have a stretchy waistband that sits below your bump. Because they don’t extend over your tummy, they hold their shape well and can often be worn from early in your pregnancy right through to the months (or years *ahem*) that follow childbirth.
Over-bump jeans also have a stretchy waistband, but it extends much higher, covering your full bump. Although they’re not as easy to wear in early pregnancy or after childbirth, they do offer full coverage and support, which many women prefer.
Inset side-panels are the closest option to traditional jeans, as the stretchy element comes from triangular panels of elastic on the sides, as opposed to the waistband itself. If you’re looking for maternity jeans that don’t look like maternity jeans, these are for you.
Another fab option during pregnancy is maternity leggings. Stretchy in all the right places, they come in a range of styles - tall, petit, regular, cropped, full length and patterned.
Most of our team lived in leggings during our pregnancies, so we designed our NINE+QUARTER full-length organic leggings to provide the ultimate in comfort with an over-bump style. Perfect for pairing with your favourite sweatshirt or tees & tanks weather permitting, these bad boys have all the stretch you’ll need as your bump grows.
When choosing maternity leggings, the main things to consider are that they’re comfortable and aren’t see-through, the rest is down to personal preference.
Whether you want to invest in a whole new maternity wardrobe or just need to replace a few key pieces, understanding how maternity clothes work will ensure you feel calm, cool and confident, whatever life throws your way.
Looking for more information on maternity wear? Why not read “When Should You Start Buying Maternity Clothes?”
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
]]>Boyfriend jackets, aka oversized blazers, are huge this season and are an excellent style for pregnant mamas. Not only are they super comfy to wear, but because they’re large fitting and worn open at the front, you’ll be able to rock it throughout the trimesters.
Choose a boyfriend jacket in a staple colour that will go with the majority of your wardrobe for ultimate versatility, then play with accessories to add a pop of colour. Styling it couldn’t be easier either; just throw it on over a maternity top and pair it with your favourite up-turned jeans and trainers. Voila, effortless!
Goodbye skinnies! Wide-leg trousers are the fashionable choice this season. Louis Vuitton, Stell McCartney, Fendi, Chanel and many many more designers are championing the wide-leg-look, so you’ll definitely find the styles replicated in the high street over the coming months.
Embrace the trend by opting for palazzo style trousers to wear under your bump or wide-leg maternity jeans that sit above your bump. Pair with your favourite maternity tee or tank and a pair of flats and you’ll look super stylish this spring.
Delectable sorbets are the hue of SS21, and while pistachio green seems to be the colour du jour, it isn’t the only pastel making it down the runway. Pastels in every shade are making waves this season, which is great news for those of you who have already nabbed one of our Rockin’It or Roar maternity and breastfeeding sweaters or our Power of Love tee.
If pastel just isn’t your thing, try wearing accents of it in your accessories along with colours you do love.
If you’re not usually one to follow the latest trends, or you simply don’t want to stray from your maternity wardrobe staples, headscarves are the perfect spring trend for you.
Headscarves are making a big comeback in 2021 and we couldn’t be happier. Not only do they come in every possible colour combination, but they can be worn in a multitude of ways. Not to mention, you never have to size up in a scarf! Treat yourself to a new scarf in colours that make your heart sing, and then have fun learning all the different ways you can wear it.
At NINE+QUARTER, we focus on effortlessly-cool clothes because, let’s face it, knowing how to dress a growing bump can be daunting and finding the time to get dressed with a newborn is no mean feat. Yet we’re firm believers that fashion is for everyone. The SS21 trends above are easy to adapt during pregnancy, postpartum and whilst breastfeeding.
Looking for more wardrobe inspo? Why not check out: Multi-Wear Maternity Clothing.
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
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