Search Posts

"Is hypnobirthing worth it?" The Team at Carol have all used Hypnobirthing techniques throughout their labours. Our Founder Holly has had two very positive, unmedicated home births with both her children and used hypnobirthing techniques throughout both of her labours and swears by it for helping to manage the discomfort through each contraction and to use the breathing techniques learned in hypnobirthing as a focus. Just as with everything, hypnobirthing isn't going to be for everyone and that's totally fine, it will differ for each mum! A brief overview of hypnobirthing: Hypnobirthing is a childbirth education method that involves using relaxation, breathing, and visualization techniques to reduce stress and pain during labor and delivery. The effectiveness of hypnobirthing can vary depending on individual circumstances, so it's difficult to say whether it's worth it for everyone. However, many women who have used hypnobirthing report that it helped them feel more in control during labour and reduced their pain levels. Some studies have also shown that women who use hypnobirthing techniques have shorter labours and are less likely to require medical interventions. However, it's important to note that hypnobirthing is not a guarantee that childbirth will be completely pain-free, and it may not work for everyone. Ultimately, the decision to use hypnobirthing or any other childbirth education method is a personal one. It's important to do your research, speak to your healthcare provider, and choose the option that feels right for you and your unique circumstances.

Another of our favourite beauty products that we are delighted to share with you is the highly popular MySweetSmile - the Amazon best-selling oral-care brand, loved by over 120,000 UK customers, and for good reason! They have a small, yet carefully-curated product selection, that aims to help solve any smile care goal. Stained teeth, yellowing/ageing teeth, or sensitive teeth - they've got solutions for them all. Their product range includes teeth whitening products formulated with the clinically-proven peroxide-free active whitening ingredient, PAP. As well as targeted formulas that help you achieve specific smile care goals, like reducing sensitivity & strengthening tooth enamel. Teeth whitening products are very popular, and we tried a number of different products once we were no longer feeding our little ones to get our smiles looking fresh again! By far our top recommendation is MySweetSmile because of their peroxide-free, dentist approved formulas and enamel-safe, non-abrasive whitening methods to brush away stains & plaque caused by coffee, tea, food, wine, etc! Our hero product from MySweetSmile is the whitening powder, which we find so effective and doesn't contain peroxide which made our teeth so sensitive and gums irritated when using other brands! The whitening powder claims to remove all types of stains & yellowing, is non-abrasive and safe for enamel and gums! The MySweetSmile whitening powder is also way more cost effective than other brands on the market and each tub provides a 6-month whitening supply! MySweetSmile currently has a number of different offers available including: 1. Buy 1 Get 1 50% Off - Valid on all individual products (e.g. add 2x powders to your cart) 50% discount auto-applies. 2. Bundles - Choose from MySweetSmile's Bundles for the fastest & most effective whitening results. They feature all of their fan-favourite product combinations and save you 20% as opposed to buying them separately. 3. Free Tracked 2-3 day delivery included on all orders.

We all know that high-quality sleep is an absolutely essential part of staying healthy. Whilst we sleep our body repairs itself and restores energy, getting us prepared for whatever the next day brings. Unfortunately, the demands and stresses of modern life cause so many of us to suffer from poor sleep which will affect our physical and mental wellbeing- this is incredibly common for mums who are trying to juggle it all. The KLORIS sleep patches help to naturally promote a restorative sleep with no groggy feeling when you wake. The KLORIS Sleep Patches won the ELLE Future of Beauty Award 2023 and for good reason! The ingredients for the sleep patches have been carefully selected for their properties so that if you find you have difficulty sleeping - for example because of a sleep disorder - they may help you to fall asleep quicker and then stay asleep, resulting in a good night's rest without the groggy after-effects that some sleep aids may induce, or the side effects of hormone-based solutions like melatonin supplements or melatonin patches. The KLORIS Sleep Patches contain CBD, valerian, passion flower, and hops, and are a revolutionary solution for insomnia sufferers. These patches provide a natural and effective solution that stands out from traditional supplements. Unlike pills or capsules that can take time to digest and may not be fully absorbed by the body, KLORIS patches are transdermal, meaning they're delivered through the skin and directly into the bloodstream. The patches are so easy to use too, simply stick one patch on your skin (in a hairless spot such as your wrist or waist) around 30 minutes before bed, and get ready for the sleep of your dreams. KLORIS currently have an offer on where you can use the code 'SLEEP15' at checkout for 15% off your order! Each discrete, biodegradable sleep patch is a unique sleep aid, formulated with a special hypoallergenic adhesive that is activated by your body heat and allows the tried-and-tested active ingredients (all natural sleep aids) to be steadily absorbed directly through your skin throughout the night. Patches are a highly efficient delivery mechanism as they bypass the stomach and liver, allowing much more of the active ingredients to be absorbed into your body transdermal and quickly reach your brain and nervous system. The KLORIS Sleep Patches are packed with natural ingredients to help you fall asleep, stay asleep and have better quality sleep too! The ingredients in the KLORIS Sleep Patches include - Valerian: Several studies suggest that valerian root may improve the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep and achieve high-quality sleep in adults and children with insomnia. CBD (5mg): By helping your Endocannabinoid system reach and maintain balance CBD can potentially decrease symptoms of insomnia and help you get more quality sleep. Passionflower: Early studies suggest Passionflower might help relieve insomnia and anxiety. It appears to boost the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in your brain. This compound lowers brain activity, which may help you relax and sleep better. Hops: commonly used orally for anxiety, insomnia, disturbed sleep, restlessness, tension, ADHD, nervousness and irritability. KLORIS Sleep Patches are a game-changer for those who struggle with insomnia. With their natural ingredients, transdermal delivery, and ease of use, they provide a powerful and convenient solution that's hard to beat.

"I'm wondering if you have any tips for helping with sleep? My toddler is 2 1/2 and has been sleeping through the night for months now but I still find myself struggling to fall asleep and staying asleep!" We get this question a lot from our community, it's so frustrating especially when your little one is sleeping through and you could (finally) get your sleep back! A product that we would recommend looking at is the KLORIS Sleep Patches which have incredible reviews, are made from 100% natural ingredients and have been crafted to help you fall asleep faster, improve sleep quality and diminish the symptoms of jet lag! The KLORIS sleep patches help to naturally promote a restorative sleep with no groggy feeling when you wake. The KLORIS Sleep Patches won the ELLE Future of Beauty Award 2023 and for good reason! The ingredients for the sleep patches have been carefully selected for their properties so that if you find you have difficulty sleeping - for example because of a sleep disorder - they may help you to fall asleep quicker and then stay asleep, resulting in a good night's rest without the groggy after-effects that some sleep aids may induce, or the side effects of hormone-based solutions like melatonin supplements or melatonin patches. The KLORIS Sleep Patches contain CBD, valerian, passion flower, and hops, and are a revolutionary solution for insomnia sufferers. These patches provide a natural and effective solution that stands out from traditional supplements. Unlike pills or capsules that can take time to digest and may not be fully absorbed by the body, KLORIS patches are transdermal, meaning they're delivered through the skin and directly into the bloodstream. The patches are so easy to use too, simply stick one patch on your skin (in a hairless spot such as your wrist or waist) around 30 minutes before bed, and get ready for the sleep of your dreams. KLORIS currently have an offer on where you can use the code 'SLEEP15' at checkout for 15% off your order!

Having received so many questions from our community about recommended beauty and skincare products that we love, we wanted to share some of our recommended beauty brands and our first is the incredibly popular, luxury beauty brand Augustinus Bader! It's no secret that the Augustinus Bader hero product is The Rich Cream, widely known as "The One That Works" and we couldn't agree more! The Rich Cream is the clinically proven solution for fine lines, wrinkles, skin hydration and overall skin health.The Rich Cream formula was hand crafted by Professor Augustinus Bader in his own laboratory: Professor Bader is a globally recognized biomedical scientist, physician and one of the foremost experts in the field of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Some real results from the brand themselves: We have seen amazing results on ourselves with this product and can absolutely confirm its' efficacy. The Rich Cream KEY BENEFITS A luxury moisturizer clinically proven to reduce the signs of aging including the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation Deeply hydrates, conditions, and renews for soft, even, restored skin Promotes elasticity, supports skin barrier function, and prevents transepidermal water loss - for skin that’s supple, plump, and smooth Protects against environmental aggressors TFC8® supports cellular renewal and guides key ingredients to the cells VISIBLE RESULTS In user trials: 97% agree skin’s tone and texture looks dramatically transformed 96% agree skin looks firmer and lifted and feels more supple and elastic 95% agree the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles is dramatically improved ABOUT A rich, thick, and texturedluxury moisturizer with an emollient feel Ideal for normal to dry skin, more mature skin types, and colder, drier climates Fragrance-free. Vegan

"Can anyone recommend the best reusable nappies for my little one please? There's so much choice and I don't know which to go with! Thanks." Our top choice at Carol App for reusable nappies is the brand EcoNaps! EcoNaps believes that every small choice can make a big impact. In the UK alone, a baby will go through 2500+ disposable nappies in their first year. Each nappy can take up to 500 years to decompose in landfill, leaving a negative legacy for our children. EcoNaps is committed to producing reusable nappies and accessories that make it easier for environmentally conscious parents to reduce waste and protect the planet. EcoNaps also offers 20% off your first order! EcoNaps reusable nappies are incredibly easy to wash, soft on babies skin, very absorbent and very easy to use! If you're a first time reusable nappy user, EcoNaps have a brilliant blog on all things cloth nappies including washing your nappies tips and tricks, cloth nappy guides and so much more. They also have the cutest nappy designs too! EcoNaps also make reusable swim nappies which we love - our write up on the swim nappies can be found here.

Nutrition in Pregnancy: In-Depth Guide Congratulations on your pregnancy! This is an exciting and transformative time in your life, and taking care of your nutrition during pregnancy is of utmost importance. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the health and development of both the mother and the growing baby. In this in-depth guide, we will explore the essential aspects of nutrition in pregnancy, providing you with valuable insights and tips to ensure a healthy and nourishing journey for you and your baby. The Importance of Proper Nutrition During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes to support the growth and development of the baby. Adequate nutrition is crucial to provide essential nutrients for the baby's organ development, brain growth, and overall well-being. It also helps maintain mum's health, energy levels, and immunity. Key Nutrients for Pregnancy 1. Folic Acid:Folic acid is essential for the baby's neural tube development during the early stages of pregnancy. It is found in green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified cereals. 2. Iron: Iron is crucial for preventing anaemia and supporting the baby's blood supply. Include iron-rich foods such as lean meats, beans, spinach, and fortified grains in your diet. 3. Calcium: Calcium is essential for the development of the baby's bones and teeth. Dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, and leafy greens are excellent sources of calcium. 4. Protein: Protein is the building block of the body and is necessary for the baby's growth. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts in your diet. 5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for the development of the baby's brain and eyes. Sources include fatty fish (e.g. salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, and chia seeds. 6. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Spend some time in the sun and consume vitamin D-rich foods like fortified milk and fatty fish. 7. Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron and supports the immune system. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and tomatoes are excellent sources. Eating for Two: Understanding Caloric Needs Contrary to the popular saying, you don't need to "eat for two" during pregnancy. While it's true that you need extra nutrients, the caloric increase is relatively modest. Most pregnant women require only around 300-500 extra calories per day during the second and third trimesters. Focus on nutrient-dense foods to ensure you and your baby get the necessary vitamins and minerals without excessive weight gain. Remember, pregnancy is not a time for crash diets or extreme calorie restrictions. Dealing with Morning Sickness and Food Aversions Morning sickness and food aversions are common during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. To cope with these challenges: - Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar stable. - Stay hydrated by sipping water or ginger tea. - Avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods that may trigger nausea. - Experiment with different foods to find what feels comfortable to eat. Foods to Avoid While a well-balanced diet is essential, there are certain foods that pregnant women should avoid to ensure the safety of both mum and baby: - Raw or Undercooked Foods: Avoid raw fish, eggs, and meat, as they may carry harmful bacteria or parasites. - High-Mercury Fish: Limit the consumption of high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel, as mercury can harm the baby's developing nervous system. - Unpasteurised Dairy: Steer clear of unpasteurised milk and cheeses, as they may contain harmful bacteria. - Caffeine and Alcohol: Minimise caffeine intake and completely avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Hydration and Pregnancy Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, as it helps maintain amniotic fluid levels, aids digestion, and prevents constipation. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and consider consuming hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and soups. Consulting with a Healthcare Professional Every pregnancy is unique, and individual nutritional needs may vary. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to create a personalised nutrition plan that meets your specific requirements and health conditions. Pregnancy is a magical journey, and proper nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy and successful pregnancy. By prioritising key nutrients, understanding caloric needs, and making informed food choices, you can ensure the best possible start for your baby's life. Remember, nourishing yourself during pregnancy is an act of love not only for your baby but also for your own well-being. Embrace this incredible experience, and let nutrition be your companion as you embark on this beautiful adventure of motherhood.

Our community are always asking questions about which sustainable, reusable nappies we would recommend. There are so many different brands out there and it can be hard to know which ones to choose. There is one key winner for us however, and that's EcoNaps! EcoNaps believes that every small choice can make a big impact. In the UK alone, a baby will go through 2500+ disposable nappies in their first year. Each nappy can take up to 500 years to decompose in landfill, leaving a negative legacy for our children. EcoNaps is committed to producing reusable nappies and accessories that make it easier for environmentally conscious parents to reduce waste and protect the planet. EcoNaps also offer 20% off your first order! EcoNaps are an award-winning brand committed to producing reusable nappies and accessories, and are thrilled to announce the launch of their latest collection for the UK market! Designed in the stunning Australian beach town of Byron Bay, the EcoNaps UK collection features captivating prints that inspire families to reduce waste and choose sustainable options for their little ones. EcoNaps reusable nappies are incredibly easy to wash, soft on babies skin, very absorbent and very easy to use! If you're a first time reusable nappy user, EcoNaps have a brilliant blog on all things cloth nappies including washing your nappies tips and tricks, cloth nappy guides and so much more. Every purchase of the reusable nappies, swimwear, and accessories from EcoNaps contributes to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment for future generations. By choosing EcoNaps reusable products, parents can make a significant difference and contribute to the protection of our planet. "At EcoNaps, we are passionate about creating the best and easiest eco-friendly products that meet the demands of environmentally conscious parents in the UK while preserving our planet for future generations," said Kyla, founder of EcoNaps. EcoNaps values quality without compromise and sustainability in everything. The brand's reusable nappies are made with the best quality materials to keep active little bottoms dry and happy for hundreds of uses. The products are also beautifully designed to make cloth nappying simple and stylish. With EcoNaps, you are stronger with support. The brand believes in the power of community and offers helpful resources to parents transitioning to reusable nappies. You will be joining an environmentally conscious family dedicated to making a positive impact on our planet. Join the sustainable parenting movement with EcoNaps' UK collection. Choose reusable products for your little ones and be part of the solution. Visit the EcoNaps website or reach out on Instagram @econaps for more information.

Postpartum back ache is a common topic of discussion for the Carol App Team where the back ache we experienced during pregnancy didn't seem to improve as quickly as we thought postpartum (probably due to carrying a little one on our hip at all times!) After doing our research, we came across a brand called Percko and we had to share them with you. Percko have designed the everyday vest to relieve back pain. Working with health professionals, including osteopaths, physiotherapists and doctors in biomechanics to find a simple and effective solution to reduce spinal pain by stimulating a dynamic posture, Percko created the Lyne UP tech-embedded T-shirt that reminds you not to slouch. The Lyne-UP works thanks to a system of elasticated tensors positioned strategically to align the spine and the pelvis. The clever tech applies gentle pressure to your lower back and shoulders, encouraging you to straighten up naturally while allowing freedom of movement. The everyday vest, Lyne UP, is the original smart vest that helps you strengthen your back muscles by encouraging movement and engaging your posture. The result? Back pain relief. By strengthening the back and core muscles, the Lyne UP can help to improve your back health and pain relief, both long term and short term. Percko claims that wearing the Lyne UP at least two days a week guarantees a long-lasting healthy back. It has been long established that not moving enough weakens your core muscles, making back pain worse over the long term. The everyday vest was created to combat this, using the principle of proprioception to keep the user's back mobile and engaged throughout the day. This is especially common after pregnancy and was certainly the case for us! Created with discretion in mind, the everyday vest is invisible under your clothes. This makes it ideal whether you are working from home, the office or simply going about your day. Take back relief on the go. Lyne UP is designed to encourage movement and give you support similar to Kinesio taping. It uses elasticated tensor technology strategically positioned on the upper body to create a dual-action: on the shoulders to open the chest and on the lower back to realign the spine and the pelvis. The everyday vest has been certified as a medical device by the MHRA. This achievement recognises the work that went into developing this product by a multidisciplinary team of biomechanics experts, physiotherapists and osteopaths. Six studies on over 4,400 testers were submitted as part of the certification process. Results from the research showed: 86% of users are satisfied* 72.5% reported reduced pain** *2020 study of 819 users. **Based on studies from 2020 and 2021 conducted at SNCF, Bouygues Construction, FM Logistique and 9 other companies using PERCKO products Percko knows that back health and pain relief isn’t limited to the proper functioning of its products though. That is why Percko is building a community of specialists to provide its customers with regular access to exercises, tips and tricks to improve back health.

Having been huge fans of Nip + Fab for years, we are delighted to share with you that their sell-out Teen Skin range is back in stock! With over 550+ reviews, this range is trusted by parents of both boys and girls to reduce spots and improve their confidence. We know how stressful it can be for parents of teens who suffer from skin concerns - we've been there ourselves. The Nip + Fab Teen Skin range is made specifically for teenage skin and works extremely well for blemish-prone, oily and irritated skin, to calm redness and clear breakouts. So, if your teenager is struggling with their skin, this range offers the solution. Its magic comes from wasabi extract, a powerful antioxidant which also demonstrates skin soothing characteristics. Combine this with salicylic acid, well-known for reducing blemishes by exfoliating the skin and keeping pores clear, and you’ve got a potent yet gentle combination that can be used by teenagers every day. Plus the format of the products makes it super easy and ensure your teenager actually uses the products, from pads to a spot stick that can be easily applied straight to the blemish area. Best of all, you can get all your teenager needs in one kit! At just £22.95 for four full-size products, it's the perfect way to get them started with a skincare routine. KEY BENEFITS • Purify + Cleanse • Even + Smooth complexion • Unclog Pores • Antimicrobial • Unclog pores + clear skin • Control skin’s oil production

Baby Feeding and Baby Weaning with Carol App Congratulations, on your journey of motherhood! As your trusted companion, Carol App is here to empower you with reliable knowledge and unwavering support in the realm of baby feeding and weaning. You will find in hand-picked expert led content related to all things baby feeding in the Resources on your App. This guide will walk you through the art of nourishing your little one, from those precious first feeds to the exciting world of weaning. Baby Feeding Feeding your baby is a magical bonding experience, whether through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Carol App celebrates the significance of this special time, encouraging you to embrace the connection that it fosters. The Resources in your App will provide you with reliable information on breastfeeding, establishing a feeding routine, and all things bottle feeding as well as transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding! Empowering Bottle-Feeding If you choose to bottle-feed, Carol App is here to support you. We empower you with practical tips on safe formula preparation, finding the right feeding routine, and creating a loving environment for nurturing your little one. Remember, bottle-feeding can be just as empowering and beautiful as breastfeeding, offering an opportunity for bonding and closeness. We are a mix of bottle and breastfeeding mamas here at Carol App and it’s important to remember that fed is best. So you do what works best for you! Introducing Solids: The Weaning Journey Begins As your baby grows, the exciting world of weaning unfolds. Carol App guides you to navigate this new chapter with confidence. We provide a step-by-step guide to introducing solids, from the first taste to the development of a diverse and nutritious diet. Weaning is an empowering process that allows your baby to explore new tastes and textures, and we'll be with you every step of the way. Creating a Nutritious Weaning Plan Empower yourself with knowledge on creating a balanced and nutritious weaning plan for your little one. Carol App offers you expert advice on introducing different food groups, identifying potential allergens, and ensuring your baby receives all the essential nutrients. As you embark on this journey, remember that you are nurturing healthy eating habits that will positively impact your child's well-being throughout their life. Nurturing Your Baby's Unique Journey At Carol App, we recognise that every baby's weaning journey is unique. We encourage you to embrace the process with patience and empowerment, allowing your baby to explore and enjoy their food at their own pace. We empower you to trust your instincts as a mother, providing the support and guidance you need to nurture your little one's health and happiness. Nourishing your little one through baby feeding and weaning is a magical and empowering chapter of motherhood. With Carol App by your side, you have a reliable companion throughout this transformative journey. We celebrate the moments of baby feeding, empower you with guidance on breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and provide you with the tools to embark on the exciting adventure of weaning. Remember, each step of this journey is a precious opportunity for bonding and connection. Embrace the magic of baby feeding and weaning with confidence and joy, knowing that Carol App is here to support you every step of the way. Your baby's health and happiness are in your capable hands, and we are honoured to be a part of your empowering journey as a new mum. Trust yourself, embrace the journey, and let Carol App guide you towards a nurturing and empowering experience of baby feeding and weaning.