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We absolutely loved this product during pregnancy. The Weleda Stretch Mark Oil claims to avoid the development of stretch marks on the stomach, thighs, breasts and it feels such a treat to use! The Stretch Mark Oil, which was development by doctors and midwives, contains a base of sweet almond oil and helps to nourish the skin keeping it supple and helping to reduce dryness. The Oil contains wheat germ which helps to refine your skin's texture whilst feeding it Vitamins E, D and A. We can't say for sure that using this product is the reason we didn't get any stretch marks in our pregnancies, but we do believe that it helped and massaging the Oil into our skin helped to reduce tension, moisturise our skin and give ourselves some love. We recommend this oil to all our mums-to-be as we loved it that much! For Use: It's recommend to gently massage the Oil into your skin once a day throughout your pregnancy and can be used postpartum too! Making sure you are massaging in a light, gentle motion over your stomach, breasts, bottom and thighs. You can always ask your midwife for the best way to apply the oil if you would like to. It should also be noted that oils containing Arnica (such as this) should not be used on broken skin as they may cause irritation.

The My Expert Midwife Super Scar Recovery Oil is the midwife developed oil which helps to improve the appearance of scar tissue through its' natural oil blend which helps to soothe and soften scar tissue through massage. Our Community are always talking about any products we would recommend for C-Section mamas to help with scar healing and the Super Scar Recovery Oil is up there with the best! (And it's on sale!) Following your 6-week check up with your GP, the Super Scar Recovery Oil can be used to gently massage into your skin around your scar. Once wounds have healed, it is recommend to try to gently massage your scar daily in a circular motion in both directions. The anti-inflammatory and fragrance-free Super Scar Recovery Oil contains natural ingredients that can help with softening scar tissue and helping to heal the area. Onion extract has been proven to help reduce redness and itching as well as improving the appearance of scar tissue, Castor Oil and Vitamin E both nourish your skin keeping it supple and soft. The Geranium and Lavender essential oils offer calming properties helping to soothe, calm and relax the area.

"I'm having the most random cravings in my pregnancy (22 weeks). Why does this happen?! Any tips? I want to eat healthier but all I want are ready salted crisps." We've all been there! Pregnancy cravings are bizarre, especially when it's foods you wouldn't normally eat. It's said that around 85% of pregnancy women experience food cravings throughout their pregnancy, so you aren't alone! There are so many theories as to why we crave certain foods when we're pregnant, ranging from nutrients your body is asking for to changes in our hormones but there doesn't seem to be a definitive answer unfortunately! Hormonal changes can make certain foods more appealing for example higher levels of progesterone can make sweeter foods more appealing and taste better whereas an increase in blood volume could make you prefer to eat saltier foods. We know that when we're pregnant we want to be eating a balanced diet to make sure we are nourishing our body with all the essential vitamins and minerals it needs. However, eating some of the foods you are craving in moderation is fine, if they are safe to eat during pregnancy. You can find our full Pregnancy Nutrition Guide here. Alongside eating a healthy, balanced diet, taking a good quality pregnancy supplement helps to ensure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals needed to supporting your growing baby. Our favourite Pregnancy Supplement is the Feel Pregnancy - full write up can be found here.

"I'm wanting to get my daughter a baby gym / playmat but they are all £40+ that I can find. I want one that's more affordable but that will keep her entertained too! Can you please share any suggestions you have?" Absolutely! We found getting the right play mat a minefield as there are so many available and with such varying price points! We managed to find a play mat that we love and at £25, it's definitely good value! The play mat we would recommend is the KinderKraft Play mat which has over 2,000 4.8* reviews and we can see why! The Kinderkraft Play mat comes with: DIVERSITY OF TOYS - 7 toys included: mirror, rattling book, 2 teethers, rattle, squeaking tiger, jingling elephant. The mat comes also with 20 balls in 4 colors, providing an additional form of entertainment for children PLAYPEN FUNCTION - The base of the mat is thick and thus very soft, and the sides can be lifted and fastened together to form a playpen. Its walls are a real curiosity because each of them represents a different story ADJUSTING THE BARS - Toy bars with a universal connector that allows adjusting the distance to the playing child ACCESSORIES - Included is a comfortable cushion improving the comfort of lying on the tummy. A child can also play lying on their back or sitting UNIQUE DESIGN - Original colours, in particular the contrast of white and black, will help the toddler discover the world from the very first days of life Little ones should never be left alone on a play mat and should always be supervised as per guidance. We also love the Kinderkraft as it's easy to wash and folds away quite small which means you can tidy it away and it won't take up much space - bonus!!

'Have you got the Doona car seat/pram? Would you recommend it?' The Doona Car Seat claims to make travelling with your little one that little bit easier as the car seat transforms into a pram and easily folds back into being a car seat in seconds. Not having to wake your baby up when they fall asleep in the car is a game changer and really does make life easier! It's important to remember that in line with guidance you shouldn't leave your little one in any car seat for longer than 2 hours. The Doona Car Seat weighs 6.5kg so it is pretty heavy getting in and out of the car (and that's without baby's weight added), but it's just one simple motion opening and closing the car seat into a pram and then back to a car seat. The Doona is so easy to use and all cloth parts are washable which is a plus from us! The car seat is suitable from birth - 13kg making it long lasting and worth the money in our opinion! In terms of using the Doona to travel abroad, it's TUV and FAA aircraft approved and is very easy to use when walking around in the airport too! The Doona can be attached using a seatbelt meaning that it's great for if you are using a hire car on the other side as it can be easily attached to the sear. Doona has to meet European standards for car seats, strollers and reclined cradles and it comes with many safety features. The Doona is great if you are a family on the go. At £399 it is a high expense but when you put together the cost of a pram and a separate car seat, it's probably not that much more expensive if at all. The ease of using the Doona, it's safety features and durability makes the Doona worth it in our eyes!

Postpartum hair loss is real and for those who experience it, it's stressful to say the least. We may have a solution for you that we have tried and tested - although not to be used when breastfeeding - you may find this article helpful if you are pregnant/breastfeeding. Having tried Nioxin for over 6 weeks, we can absolutely tell the difference in the strength and thickness of our hair. Nioxin is designed for thinning and fine hair which is exactly what we were left with postpartum! The Nioxin treatments claim to: Strengthen, nourish and repair thinning hair Improve the health of the scalp – and the health of your mane Promote thicker, fuller-looking locks Reduce breakage Restore moisture balance Boost volume, texture and density of each and every strand We can say from our personal experience that Nioxin does all of these. We aren't alone in our review either, 89% of people who used the 3-part systems noticed a thickening effect. *Based on a 2016 US survey, conducted by SIRS and involving 230 participants with thinning hair concerns. Nioxin is on the pricer side being around £60 for their complete system, but their products last for a very long period of time as you only need to use a tiny bit with each hair wash - the small amount goes a long way! They have different 'systems' and products whether you have coloured hair, natural hair etc, so check out the entire range to see which would work best for you and your hair type. The way Nioxin works is that their 3-part systems contain a blend of 3 technologies which are all formulated to promote scalp health which in turn helps to improve thinning hair. We would recommend giving Nioxin a try if you have noticed your hair is thinning and you aren't breastfeeding. Let us know what you think!

In this guide, we delve into the essential aspects of pregnancy nutrition, aiming to provide expectant mothers with valuable insights to ensure a healthy journey for both themselves and their precious babies. Understanding the Importance of Proper Nutrition During Pregnancy Pregnancy is a remarkable and transformative time in a woman's life. Ensuring optimal nutrition during this period is of paramount importance as it directly impacts the well-being and development of the growing baby. A balanced and nutrient-rich diet is key to supporting the physical and mental health of both the mother and the child. Key Nutrients for a Healthy Pregnancy 1. Folic Acid Folic acid, also known as folate, is a crucial nutrient for pregnant women. It plays a vital role in the development of the baby's neural tube, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord. Including foods rich in folate, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals, is highly recommended. 2. Iron Iron is essential for maintaining healthy blood and preventing anaemia during pregnancy. The body's demand for iron increases significantly during this time. Incorporating iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and fortified grains into the diet is essential to meet these increased requirements. 3. Calcium Calcium is fundamental for the development of the baby's bones and teeth. Additionally, it helps to maintain the mother's bone density during pregnancy. Dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and leafy greens are excellent sources of calcium. 4. Protein Protein is the building block of life and plays a vital role in the growth and development of the baby's tissues. Including lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, and lentils in the diet ensures an adequate protein intake. 5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are crucial for the baby's brain and eye development. Eating fatty fish like salmon or incorporating plant-based sources like flaxseeds and walnuts can help meet the body's DHA needs. Meal Planning for Optimal Pregnancy Nutrition Breakfast A nutrient-rich breakfast sets the tone for the day. A bowl of fortified whole-grain cereal with milk or plant-based milk, topped with fresh berries and a handful of nuts, provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins. Mid-Morning Snack A mid-morning snack could consist of a fruit smoothie blended with Greek yogurt, spinach, and chia seeds. This snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep your energy levels up. Lunch For lunch, a colourful and wholesome salad with a variety of leafy greens, grilled chicken or tofu, chickpeas, avocado, and a drizzle of olive oil provides a nutritious and satisfying meal. Afternoon Snack A whole-grain granola bar or a piece of fruit paired with a handful of almonds offers a healthy and convenient afternoon snack. Dinner Dinner could be a combination of lean protein (such as fish, chicken, or plant-based alternatives), steamed vegetables, and quinoa or brown rice. Staying Hydrated Throughout Pregnancy Proper hydration is often overlooked but is critical during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas helps maintain amniotic fluid levels, aids digestion, and prevents common pregnancy-related issues like constipation. Exercise and Pregnancy Regular, moderate exercise during pregnancy promotes better circulation, reduces discomfort, and prepares the body for childbirth. Activities like prenatal yoga, walking, and swimming are highly beneficial. Each pregnancy is different so always speak to your GP/midwife before undertaking new activities throughout pregnancy. Rest and Relaxation Adequate rest is essential during pregnancy. Ensure you get enough sleep and take breaks when needed. Managing stress levels can positively impact both the mother's and baby's well-being. Overall, ensuring optimal nutrition during pregnancy is vital for the health and development of both the mother and the baby. By incorporating a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods and following a well-balanced meal plan, expectant mothers can provide the best possible environment for their baby's growth and development. Remember to stay hydrated, engage in moderate exercise, and seek professional guidance to ensure a smooth and healthy pregnancy journey. Embrace this remarkable phase of life with the knowledge that you are nurturing a new life and giving your baby the best start possible.

'Is there a gentle nappy rash cream you suggest using? My son has sensitive skin. Thanks' Yes - our little ones also have sensitive skin. We found the Weleda Nappy Cream to be the most gentle and effective nappy cream on the market. The Weleda Nappy Cream claims to: Protect the delicate skin of the nappy area Help protect and nourish the skin Supporting its natural functions Reduces redness and supports skin regeneration Specially formulated to care for baby and infant skin - we can vouch for all of this. It's the only Nappy Cream we feel comfortable using on our little ones. The Weleda Nappy Cream is organic and its' biodynamic calendula and chamomile extracts help to soothe irritation and comfort the skin. Hope that helps!

Having used Neal's Yard for years since before we became mamas, it was a no brainer for us to incorporate their Mother & Baby collection into our routine with our little ones. What we love about Neal's Yard and their products is that they are nourishing, organic, gentle and feel like a real treat to use. The Neal's Yard Mother & Baby collection offers natural, gentle, wild & organic ingredients to nourish delicate skin keeping it soft and glowing. They offer a range of products from pre-natal, new mums and mums to be, organic baby bath products and beautiful gifts for Mother & Baby. The Baby Collection uses natural organic ingredients in the products aimed at nourishing delicate skin. Some of our favourites are the organic baby massage oil and baby bath & shampoo! The Mum & Mother to Be products have been created to keep your 'skin supple and mind calm during pregnancy and beyond.'

"My 16 month old has decided that she wants to get into all our cupboards and we don't have any locks on them yet - is there any you would suggest?" This is a hectic time that's for sure and we've definitely been there! Once your little one discovers they can open the cupboards and empty them, any toys suddenly seem very uninteresting! The cupboard locks that we use are the BABYGO locks (£19.99) - these magnetic locks don't require any drilling/screwing and are very easy to apply. You can add them to cupboards and drawers and are very easy to install. They are invisible from the outside so you can't tell that you have them installed which is a big plus from us - we would absolutely suggest giving the BABYGO locks a go!

We know that sterilising bottles can be a hassle particularly when going abroad or on roadtrips with your little ones. This is why we absolutely love the MAM Self Sterilising Bottles and recommend them! The MAM Self Sterilising Bottles take the hassle out of sterilising with bottles that do the work themselves! The MAM Self Sterilising Bottles are also anti-colic and claim to reduce colic by 80% which we can vouch for - having used them ourselves and no issues with colic, we really rate the bottles for helping! All you need for the bottles to sterilise themselves is water and a microwave and then you simply follow these three steps; baring in mind that if you are sterilising more than one bottle, the time in the microwave does vary so make sure you check out the instructions: Fill the base of the bottle with cool water using the measuring cap provided in the bottle lid Place the bottle components on top of the base and place in the microwave Heat the bottle in the microwave for 3 minutes - it's then sterile! The MAM Self Sterilising Bottles are absolutely worth the money and having tried and tested the bottles ourselves and still use them, we 100% recommend giving them a try!

'What gifts would you recommend for a baby? My sister is due with her first and she has all her baby gear sorted!' Such a good question! It's so hard to know what to get isn't it! Our favourite for baby gifts has to be My 1st Years offering great gift ideas which can be personalised! My 1st Years has a range of different gift ideas which would be perfect for you! They offer a range of products from baby bath towels, baby bags, toys, clothes and so much more! You can also get some of their products personalised with baby's name on if you'd like, too! We have an exclusive discount code with My 1st Years too - use code CAROL15 for 15% off your order!