PREGNANCY UPDATE! [Weeks 15-18] We Have a Name! Epidural? Hypnobirthing? 

I'm a teenage girl with no intentions of having children, why the heck am I watching these videos 😂

should do a maternity haul! I'm 18 weeks and it's been my new guilty pleasure of watching maternity styles, because this is my second pregnancy and I feel confident this time around to show off the baby bump ( pregnant at 17/18 for first now 25 for this one)!

When I had my daughter, I was begging for the epidural. literally pleading for it. I have a pretty good pain tolerance but my contractions were absolutely horrible and strong. THAT EPIDURAL WAS MY BEST FRIEND ❤ I literally slept the whole 14 hours I was in labor and I felt not a single thing and my daughter was almost 10 pounds... 😲😲😲 the epidural didn't really hurt itself, it was a sharp burning pain, not necessarily a needle pain. just whatever you do, do not watch any epidural videos. whatever you decide to do though, you're awesome and you're bringing a new life into this world ❤

I couldn't focus on anything you were saying because my cat keeps knocking shit over and meowing. I'm gonna have to re watch tomorrow. Love you Dani!

Ahh congratulations! I loved vlogging my pregnancy. It's so lovely to look back at the videos xxx

Time is going so fast! Feels just like yesterday that you annouced you were pregnant! So happy for you and Austin. 👍

So glad you mentioned the back pain! I'm 17 weeks now and just started noticing the most uncomfortable pain in the middle of my back, especially at the end of the day. Thought it was way too early to be having back pain, so it was nice to hear an explanation for it

Sorry in advance for the super long comment, but I agree that when you're pregnant other women like to scare you. I had a good birth experience and I try to tell people about it, not to brag, just to tell you that you can do it. I took a hypnobirthing class, which was offered through my hospital with a whole class of people. It was really good for stress relief and staying calm. It did not take away the pain but I did the breathing through all my contractions and I genuinely think that it helped SO MUCH. I also took a prepared childbirth class (like a full day class) that explained the specifics of childbirth. That one helped me and my husband to know what actually would happen to my body, which took away some of the fear. My mom was there for the birth and I'm SO glad there was more than one person. My husband was the main person helping me through but she was a good backup to pay attention and hit the call button to get a nurse in when we needed to. And she stayed with me when he went to get something from the car. Honestly if I have another baby I want them both AND I want a doula. A doula can take pictures, give your husband a break if your labor ends up taking a long time, remind you to breathe, remind your husband to drink water...if your doctor said a doula isn't a big deal then I think that if you can afford it, you NEED a doula. And she can help you get started with breastfeeding. Also, it probably depends on your hospital, but you should be able to get an epidural at any point, so you can change your mind. LAST THING! :) The thing with contraction pain is that it hurts when you have the contraction but then it STOPS hurting until the next one. You get tired and the breaks between get shorter the closer to baby you get, but if you can remember that you just need to breathe through it and then you'll get a break then I think it makes for a better experience (whether you get an epidural or not) and that is what your husband and the doula (if you get one) will help you to remind you about, because you probably will forget when you're in the middle of it. :)

This is so cute when you talked about the kicking inside. I'm so happy for you ❤️💕 babies are precious

YES to a 20 week ultrasound video!!! 💕

Don't let other people's stories scare u! Everyone has a different experience. Be educated but flexible. I feel like when people r so set on a particular plan and things don't go that way then they end up being disappointed. I'm sure a doula would be helpful, but my opinion is that ur husband seems so supportive and as long as he goes to the classes/does a little research he could really fill that role for you. I know doulas r there to help w everything in the hospital etc, but having just him there as a coach can really bring the 2 of u together (even though there still is a few others in the room). For me personally it was nice sharing the experience w just my husband.

A good doula will educate and support you both. They are amazing, I loved having one so much that I'm planning on training to become one when my babies are bigger. Doctors can be a little negative about them because doctors can tend to push for a lot of medical intervention whereas a doula will educate you to ask questions and a doula supported birth will statistically have less interventions... they will help you with breathing and coping techniques as well as massage and all sorts of things.

Dani, check out some essential oils for your back pain. Peppermint, frankincense and cypress used sparingly and with a carrier oil. Read up on them before use so you know what is safe during which trimester. I am a mom and have been in your shoes many times with the horror stories and I just wanted to say, take anything you hear, any unasked for advice with a grain of salt just nod and say thank you and keep your own instincts, thoughts intact. YOU ARE MORE THAN CAPABLE OF BEING A WONDERFUL MOTHER. You can do this and you are strong enough. Whether you choose an epidural or not, it doesn't matter, all that matters is how you and baby are feeling and doing. If you need it, then it's there for you but you can do it and you are strong enough and you are capable. Trust yourself, your body, Austin and your baby. You guys got this.

my best friend had an 11 pound baby with no pain meds at all. she even says how much of a baby she is with pain. she did great. everyone is different with how their pregnancy and delivery goes so you don't need to choose yet. I plan on attempting to do an all natural birth if I can. I don't want to do the pain medication because I want to be fully aware of everything as it happens and being able to truly be 100% there when the baby is born and when I hold them for the first time.

I'm so excited. I adore him already and he isn't even here yet ❤️

love you! so exited for you

I've never been pregnant before, but I have been there for friends and family members pregnancies. There's so many decisions to make and it can be overwhelming. Please just do what you think is right for you and Austin and your baby. When the day comes to deliver it probably won't be perfect. One thing that I have learned from my friends is that you can have the perfect birth plan and things can change the day of. The most important thing is that you and the baby are safe and healthy and all my friends have told me that while things didn't go just as they planned- they wouldn't change a thing! I hope that makes sense. I just know that whatever you choose you'll be fine. Try not to stress too much.

Yes to WSLF what I eat in a day prego addition video!!

I also wanted to attempt to give birth without an epidural. I didn't have any pain medication prior to them breaking my bag. After that, my contractions became intense immediately after they broke my bag. The pain was still bearable, but since it was my first pregnancy, I decided to get an epidural since I had no idea how much longer I'd be in labor and they would probably get a lot worse. I ended up giving birth shortly after and only had it in for about 2 hours. I probably could have done it without an epidural, but it was definitely nice to have the option. I didn't have any negative side effects from it and was able to walk again in a couple hours. Getting an epidural is totally up to you, I know people who have given birth without it also. Best wishes, can't wait to meet him!

The 20 week ultrasound is VERY important. It's an anatomy scan. So that's where they will make sure that everything looks normal and there's no abnormalities that could cause problems with the pregnancy or the baby's overall wellbeing. Also, as someone who studies ultrasound and personally knows many OB sonographers, they more than likely will NOT let you vlog the scan. It's common for places to have a no camera policy because it's a HIPAA violation and also extremely distracting to the sonographer. Especially with an ultrasound as crucial as the 20 week scan, they most likely won't let you. Every once in a while you will come across someone who doesn't mind, but it's actually one of the top pet peeves of sonographers. But I don't want this to be taken the wrong way! I love your updates about your pregnancy. I just want to save you the trouble, and any other soon-to-be mommas watching! And It's so exciting to see your pregnancy basically in real time! I've never had a baby so this is so cool for me as a woman and as a healthcare professional. I've often had the same thoughts of whether or not I would want an epidural or a doula so I'm curious to see what you choose! Like I said, I'm not a mother so I can't really give an opinion on that basis lol. I can't wait to hear the name either ❤️❤️

Hi dani! I encourage you to have Austin takes those classes at the hospital with you, there is totally a place for him there, and in our experience they will get him involved. In hind sight I wish we had hired a doula as well, especially since I didn't get an epidural right away. At least go consult with one and you'll know what's best! Best of luck💗

Yes! A vlog channel would be very exciting!(:

I think it would be great to see the ultrasound! You look great

giving birth is the only thing that causes a lot of pain that there is this weird pressure and expectation to go "natural" you wouldn't go "natural" if you were getting a root canal. there is zero shame in it, natural is such a weird word too since nothing is really natural any more. do what's best for you! ❤

doulas are amazing! They can help guide your partner on how to help you. they can also help take some of the pressure off of your partner being the only support person. they can massage your back, bring tools to help you labor, and so much more.

More what I ate in a day while pregnant videos please! They are so helpful :) I love all your videos...hoping you post more often in the next few months because once baby comes you probably won't post as much

Don't let other people's birth stories scare you. It feels like everyone tries to scare you into labor, but just like pregnancies, every labor is different. Mine was actually pretty great. I wanted to do the natural thing so I waited 18 hours of labor (my water actually broke at home) then finally deciding to get the epidural. From there, it was easy and my son came out easy as can be. Go in open minded and see what you can handle. Last as much as possible without anything if you want to feel the pain and when it's too much, get the pain killers☺

After 13 hours in labor and only 7cm dilated I got an epidural and it was the best thing ever. I had the mind set I wanted to do it naturaly, but since I was induced I couldn't handle it anymore. My Dr told me don't try and be a hero. If you have the mindset (and hopefully not induced) definitly try, but don't beat yourself up if you do get one.

YAS! I love these vids

Yes 20 week ultrasound !!!😍

Hi Dani - I am also vegan and 20 weeks pregnant now :) My mom actually recommended I get a doula, and like you, I had a few doubts in my mind about it. After chatting to loads of friends who went the traditional hospital route with no doula, I decided to meet with one. The main concern my friends had while giving birth were feeling overwhelmed and not understanding the process happening around them as doctors and midwives were in and out of the room, and often did not explain the readings on the screens. Most of them ended up having caesareans as they felt pressured to do so and could not stand up for themselves and their options. My husband and I met with a doula and we just clicked! She was very quick to reassure us that my husband would be my birth partner and she would be our support and our voice and help us in any way she could - from rubbing my back when my husband needed the bathroom (or to go grab a sandwich) or by taking photos of us three... I hired her on the spot and I am so looking forward to having her assist us with the birth. My advice then is to just make an appointment to meet with a doula (or three) and see how you feel after chatting to them :) Their consultations are usually free. If you still feel that you do not need a doula, then at least you know you explored the option and won't regret it later on after the birth. Lots of love, xxx

Hey Dani PLEASE READ!!!!! I am currently 22 weeks pregnant, with a little boy as well. I too wanted a complete natural water birth, my local hospital actually has water birth accommodations, but the same thing happened with me a lot of women told me horror stories and it really got me feeling nervous then I watched BUSINESS OF BEING BORN on Netflix (I've actually watched it twice) haha and since watching that I have become so empowered and I trust my body completely I highly recommend it. ALSO they have natural birth classes outside of the hospital you should look up some in your area. My hospital also offers prenatal yoga that will definately help your labor, if your open minded people recommend going to a chiropractor they will help align your pelvis and can help with back pain just make sure they are board certified. Good luck in your journey ☺️

I haven't read any other comments, but I have a 1 year old little boy and I wanted to let you know my experience! Don't Be Scared!! Women have been having babies forever and your body knows how to do this! I personally had a friend as my doula because I wanted someone who really knew what was going on. My husband and mom were my support people, but I actually had complications during pregnancy and I was VERY happy I had someone to help calm down my family and let them know what was going on. Also you will be in labor for a while and that is a time where Austin will not necessarily be there. There will be times when he needs to grab himself a coffee or use the bathroom! Find a doula who will train Austin, not replace him! I'm so excited for you and Austin and congrats on the new best thing ever! Being a mom is literally the best thing that has ever happened to me!

i feel like the father will be as involved as much as he wants to be. the doula brings a whole other side into the birth, much more attention, and giving much more help and information, including after care. perhaps in the experience of the doctor the husbands weren't initiating to help. That would be a great thing to discuss with the doula, what their role could be and what your concerns are as well. Always go to the source, not just based on someone's opinion.....you're vegan....you know how that works!! haha

If you're planning on having a hospital birth definitely get a doula. A doula is there for you and your partner. They know the ends and outs of the hospital and can be your advocate for what type of birth you want. I did hypnobabies with my first birth and it was amazing. It's an audio teacher and it's very in depth. When contractions started you listen to a track and it really helped me with the labor. I pla. In doing it with my second birth in June. If you have any questions feel free to ask :)

Our pregnancies sound exactly the same, I have watched all of your pregnancy vids and literally everything you say sounds like you are describing my pregnancy. I'm 25 weeks today 😘😘

I remember these movements!! So exciting. The movement was my favourite part. Really the only part I liked lol

You are already such a cute Mama Dani! Loving your updates! Don't stress too much about the delivery you'll know what to do and what feels right. I went with a birthing center and had a natural delivery with my baby girl. I wouldn't have changed it for the world. I was very blessed with a 4 hour total from water break to birth. I would say that was all due to taking red raspberry leaf supplement (as well as drinking the tea) eating right, taking alfalfa (to help shorten your bleeding time) and being active! No matter how you give birth you're still a Mama and you'll still feel that amazing bond and love with your baby when he's born!

I'm a labor and delivery nurse and I think as much as doulas can be helpful, if Austin goes to Lamaze with you, I think he'll do the job no problem. I teach lamaze and half of the class if helping dads be the best support that they can be. I do find dads being put to the wayside when doulas are present. BUT that being said, they do say that a female presence in the delivery room is very empowering during the labor process. So it's totally a personal choice. Maybe see how Austin does in lamaze and see what he feels comfortable with :)

Girl, dont listen to people's horror stories. I asked for an epidural. But when they checked me, it was too late. The only reason I asked for one was because I was crowning. The pain didn't get intense for me until it was time to push! I am soooo glad I did't get an epi or use any pain meds! I would highly encourage you to try to go without. Congrats from a fellow vegan!

You have to watch The Business of Being Born on Netflix if you haven't yet!!! It is so helpful and full of education! Also, I love how people ask if 2 VEGANS are going to raise their baby vegan? Like duh! It's not a diet people. It's a lifestyle. haha!

The rib pain could also be costochondritis which is actually common in pregnancy. It's just inflammation of the ribs and sternum and you just can't get away from it. The inly thing I noticed is if I didn't eat as much sugar or gluten, it seemed to help lessen the pain. Annnnnd let's be real, I also ditched my bra and went for a suuuuuper stretchy sports bra for like $5 from walmart. Made a huuuuge difference.

I also waited until I actually went into labor to see if I wanted the epidural and the beginning of labor I was in the bath a lot which helped with the pain of pre labor contractions but then my water broke and the real labor contractions started and I couldn't bear the pain and ended up going with the epidural and it was a life saver!!! The needle didn't hurt nearly as bad as the contractions. I'm currently pregnant with baby #2 and I do plan on getting an epidural again :) good luck girly!

Can you do more what I eat in a day videos? I recently started eating vegan and I just found out yesterday I'm 3 weeks pregnant so I just want more info on what I can eat. 😊 I love you and your videos!

I'm sure you have more advice then you can handle. But here is my baby 2 cents.... I've had 3 kids. One epidural, one natural and one breach c-section. The natural birth was painful but the recovery was so much easier!!! I worked out and ate healthy and I also learned to meditate for the labor. Look into meditation if you are considering natural. I would highly recommend it. So keep your recovery in mind. If I had a choice I would pick natural on recovery alone. I hope that helps!!

Doulas can be as hands on or hands off as you want. If you want Austin to be very involved, you can tell the doula before hand. She can offer Austin tips/suggestions to help you. It takes some of the pressure off of him since he won't have to constantly guess what he should do next. She can also step in if he needs a break to eat or rest. I would definitely suggest it especially for being a first time mom. Hypnobirthing isn't so much hypnotizing as it is meditation. You learn different ways to relax yourself to help with the discomfort of contractions. You can find hypnobirthing videos on RU-vid that will play soothing music and have a voice over offering affirmations or breathing techniques. I would check them out if you haven't. If it seems like something that would help you then I would take a class. You are looking great!

I LOVE these videos! We're trying to get pregnant now and I'm vegan so I love that I can relate to you. Do you take folate? Or just make sure you eat enough food with folate in it?

What your doc said about the doula is true, but if you are anything like me I want a natural birth & my husband is not necessarily good under pressure. He can get panicked & scared so for us, having a doula will insure that at least one person in that room knows ways to calm me down, & show me what to do to better my birth & having someone advocating that I do not want to be offered an epidural, ect.

if you're birthing in a hospital, i would TOTALLY get a doula. Your husband will be a wonderful birth partner, I'm sure. but he doesn't know the ins & outs of a hospital. Unfortunately, when you're giving birth, the hospital staff will tell you you NEED to do so many things and you basically need to do 0 of them. thankfully, a doula knows this and can stick up for you and support your partner as well. (i don't use a doula but #1 i've had 7 babies and #2 i just don't step foot into the hospital until i'm ready to push b/c hospitals are the WORST for healthy births :P ) as far as whether or not you'll be able to do a natural birth, i recommend you read all the natural birth books you can get your hands on. hypnobirthing, anything from ina may gaskin, etc. the more informed you are, the more you practice, the better prepared you will be. you will have so many coping techniques in your arsenal that you will be totally ready :)

Where I live we have hypnobirthing classes and I plan on going. I'm currently reading a hypnobirthing book and it is so interesting! It's not necessarily being "hypnotized" but learning breathing techniques that help with being able to fully relax when you're in labor and how to listen to your body. I have a friend that did the hypnobirthing class and she had a wonderful natural birth. Wouldn't hurt to check it out!

For your ribcage pain try eating a bunch of small meals instead of 3 big ones. Since I got pregnant I get full so so fast and if I eat as much as I would usually do the digestive process gets really painful. I got an epidural at both my past deliveries and it was my best friend. I have moderate pain tolerance and when the contractions got really close together I was definitely asking for it. My approach to delivery is to be open minded and go with the flow so I never did the birth plan thing and for me calling it as it feels like in the moment was the thing to do, that way I don't stress out if things don't go as planned. I will do the same when I deliver baby girl. And you should be happy that you have a long torso, mine is short and baby doesn't have much room and she is kicking my ribcage and hips a lot !

I am fully confident you are healthy enough and strong enough to have a natural delivery. Women have been doing it forever and ever, and you can too. It IS do-able. Some workouts are very painful...waxing is painful...laser treatments worse than labor if you ask me.

My suggestion (if you don't want an epidural) is to labor as long as you can at home, one: it's so much more comfortable and two: you won't have the option at home to get an epidural and if you get to the hospital already really dilated they might not suggest that you get one because it would slow the process a ton!!!

I would talk to your doctor if you want to wait until the day of to decide about an epidural, my hospital requires me to sign up for it ahead of time to make sure there's an anesthesiologist on duty! So I'm going to sign up for it just incase I do decide day of!!

A doula is there to support you and your partner and can help coach your partner through the process as well. A resource I would suggest is listening to "the birth hour" podcast. It is a podcast where woman tell their birth stories of all kinds and it is very empowering.

Me and my husband Austin also took all the classes. We already knew a lot but it was so fun for us to get hyped up together. It definitely brought us closer :)

Hey dani! You should check on SacconyJollys channel, Anna and Jonathan vloged their two pregnancies and this third one as well. That might help you with the birth question, as well MimiIkon channel. Lots of love

I didn't have a doula my Doctor had also said that it wasn't needed ,I had my husband by my side for all 3 pregnancies and to be honest when that moment comes he was the only one I wanted by my side. I also suggest you both take Lamaze class it helps alot., it also teaches you how to do your breathing which is very important. The breathing technique helped me through my contractions . Now about the epidural I tried to go without it but I ended up getting one. My baby was just so large the nurses kept coming in and asking if I wanted one I had kept saying no but then my body obviously was telling me Yes, after the epidural I was so much more relaxed. You will know if you need one or not everyone has a different level of pain that they can tolerate. Don't let people scare you everyone is different, the nurses that I had were wonderful they are there to help comfort you both. This is the most exciting time of your life savor all of it.

The hypnobirthing book is meant to be used as a textbook to go along with the five week course. I wouldn't recommend doing the book alone, as you learn a lot in the classes. The course runs around $200-$350 for the whole five weeks, which isn't bad considering the amount of information you get that can be directly applied to the birth. It's a weird name cause you think of getting hypnotized lol but it's all about birthing without fear. The reason labor is so painful is because of the fear and anxieties surrounding childbirth but women who relax and go in without fear usually have short and relatively pain free labors. Good luck! (and sorry for leaving multiple comments, I am typing advice as I am watching this video so I don't forget lol)

I had that same rib pain/soreness later in my pregnancy i felt like i broke a rib or something...but the only real relief i found was warm baths and stretching so maybe you could look up some prenatal yoga videos :)

I would suggest watching birth videos. having a wide variety of birth knowledge will help you know what you want and what to expect

For your rib cage pains try having light dinners like soups that way it shouldn't bother you as much when you go to bed, my sister had the same thing!

I know this is a little too late haha, but I could see you guys having a baby boy named Wyatt!:)

Get your husband a book called "The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin. It's available on Amazons and super helpful for daddies to be.

A doula helps the father just as much as he helps the mother. You may think he will just be standing back while she just takes control, but that is not the case. She is not there to take the place of him as a birth partner, but to be additional support and a personal advocate for you in case the doctor and nurses want to go against your birth plan. The work doulas do is SO important and I know a lot of dads who had a doula there for the birth and are so glad they did. Here is an article written by a new father that explains why the doula they hired was a huge blessing during the birth: goodmenproject.com/families/new-dads-advice-just-hire-a-damn-doula-jrmk/

If your rib pain starts bothering you more I just wanted to let you know that it's totally possible to do a low fiber vegan diet. I personally follow one for my stomach problems. I can still eat veggies like romaine, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, asparagus tips, mushrooms, and carrots. Dried fruit, berries, bananas, and cooked fruit like baked apples and applesauce are a part of my diet, too, so I'm still pretty healthy. I rely mostly on tofu, seitan, and a bit of tempeh (which seems to be okay for me despite being higher fiber, but you might be different) for protein. I throw in some white beans here and there. I stick to mostly refined grains so if you do try a low fiber diet and you're not a fan of white starches you might want to take a more whole foods approach and eat potatoes, sweet potatoes, and oats. They have a bit more fiber than something like tofu so you'd just have to see what you could tolerate. For fat I can handle cashew nuts, avocados, and almonds but again you'd just have to see what your tolerance is for those foods. There's lots of resources online about which foods are lower in fiber, too. I hope you feel better soon! And I just have to say that you shouldn't be scared about your pain tolerance and childbirth at all... in my experience you can handle a lot more pain than you think you can. Painkillers or not you'll do well :)

I don't know how you feel about vaccinating, but definitely do your research. Most parents don't know that the vitamin K shot that doctors recommend, actually comes in a oral version. The oral version gives your baby the stuff it needs without getting the metals from the shot.

I get back pain on my period and I use peppermint essential oil and recently mixing a couple of drops with a minty lotion I get from whole foods 365 brand! :)

I had rib cage pain and it was shingles! That would be horrible if you had that right now!!! If you are at all interested in learning about natural birth and the natural process of women being strong enough for labor, check out the book "spiritual midwifery" by ina may gaskin. Also "birthing from within" to help with your perceptions of birth. Both amazing books that helped me understand how strong I am and how well equipped women are already for birth!

I'm 21 weeks pregnant and I definitely have had that rib pain! It's very uncomfortable and much worse at night. It feels like my ribs are tingling, a little numb and just sore. My midwife said that it might have something to do with the loosing of the ligaments... on top of all your organs getting squished with the growing uterus. It's pretty irritating but tolerable. I'm really enjoying these pregnancy updates! It's nice to be able to compare symptoms :).

I would HIGHLY recommend you watch the documentary 'The Business of Being Born'. It's really interesting and informative!!!

Definitely recommend a doula! Try to find one who also specializes in breastfeeding because everyone's experience with that is different and she will help you find your way. Check out RU-vid videos on home birthing/water birthing. They are so empowering and will help you feel like the strong mama bear you are! :)

Yep i have the rib cage pain too.. 38 weeks today. i attributed it to just everything growing/stretching. not much helped unfortunately.. showers sometimes.

My whole pregnancy I was 100% against epidurals. I was so convinced that I wasn't going to get one... When I was in labor my contractions didn't hurt at all until they started me on pitocin. After that kicked in I was begging for the epidural lol. I guess my "advice" is to not get too stuck with an idea because things can change?

The hospital I gave birth at had a labor tub, and it was amazing for contractions! it was like a big jacuzzi. I still ended up getting a epidural though at 8cm lol I tried to go without, but caved.

I don't suggest using icy hot. Maybe try a few drops of peppermint oil and coconut oil to dilute.

Yes!! I totally had ribcage pain. I'm super short and have less room so I felt it about halfway through the pregnancy until the end. It made sitting in a car super awful.

Have you heard of Wine Mom? She's a lot of fun, you should check it out. She has fun stories about her pregnancies and good advice.

just found your channel thru mrs vegan do you eat any fruits at all or take prenatal

As a mom, if you need the epidural get the epidural, girl lol. I wanna know the baby's name but you should wait until he's born then do a video titled "Meet baby..."

im a clinical chemist, i do prenatal and various lab tests, so NOT a doctor, but i was premed & do work in the maternity wing. i wouldn't recommend natural birth for your first. it just seems from what ive observed, the anesthesiologist often double books anyway and isnt available during that short window unless you really pressure them to schedule you.

Matt and Amanda on RU-vid recently had a baby within the last 6 months and they used a doula. I am pretty sure they live close to you in Southern California. They really liked their doula and they have used her help after Luna was born. I've seen someone announce the name of their puppy with spelling it out on the counter with syrup and the name was Maple. Do you have any non vegan cravings? I can't to learn more about if you are going to feed your baby vegan! How has Willow reacted to you being pregnant?

Will you be vaccinating? They'll start harassing you as soon as the baby is born so it's important to have a game plan of defense if you don't intend to vaccinate 🙅🏼

I did some reading and watched some youtube vids on hypnobirthing and found it helpful during labor. I don't think it would have been worth the money to take classes on it. Also, I highly doubt they will let you film during your ultrasound. they were very strict about not letting us film. But you could always ask

Your belly definitely looks rounder especially at the bottom. Glad you're feeling good! 😊

I would recommend a doula, if you get a good one then they will help you and Austin, not exclude Austin. A doula is very beneficial if you don't have much experience being around pregnant women or babies (in my opinion). I think it will do more good than harm.

Doctors hate all things related to natural birth. Get a Doula. She will help Austin, not hinder! And she can also help clear your fears. You are less likely to have interventions and/or a cesarean with a Doula. Also, a chiropractor could help with your rib issue!

My doctor told me not to use a heating pad near the stomach during pregnancy :( but yup, I can feel my organs moving when I’m laying down it’s very uncomfortable- a very weird feeling!! No pain for me yet though (12weeks).

Be careful. RUQ rib pain while pregnant can be a sign of gallbladder infection. My friend who is 20 weeks pregnant just had to get hers removed

I've wanted to be a doula forever!! if I were to ever become a doula I'd focus mostly on single mothers, but for married/couples then I'd want to be the doula that involves the fathers & shows them what to do, asking if they'd want to do this or that.

Love these videos, I'm 24 weeks with a baby boy too! You are going to gain more weight then 12 pounds total girl, most healthy pregnancies have about 25-30 pounds of weight gained total, the ratio of how much you are supposed to gain a week changes every trimester😚

where is that succulent painting from?!?

Please🙏🏻do what I eat in a dat

Are you planning on feeding your baby a vegan diet? If you are, I highly recommend watching Ellen Fisher's channel. She has two vegan children, one is a baby the other is a toddler. She also has videos talking about her home birth experience which included a doula if you are interested.

I love WSLF :)

And to put in even more of my clearly biased opinions: below I saw someone urging you to not think too much about epidurals and just go with the flow. I agree to go with the flow, but definitely look into epidurals! Know what is in them and if your body does well with that kind of medication, especially since you have other medical issues. Part of the epidural chemical makeup is from cocaine based local anesthesia, similar to what they use in oral surgery, mixed with some kind of opiate like fentanyl or morphine. I personally don't do well with cocaine based local anesthetic, specifically lidocaine, and would most likely go into respiratory distress and lose consciousness if given that medication. Avoidable complications happen often to people that just don't know what is in what is being given to them. I'm not saying to not get the epidural, do what works best for you, but definitely research what is in it and know before hand if it is dangerous for your body.

When I had my daughter I got an epidural, but if I were to have a second child I wouldn't get it again! You can always try going natural and then if it gets really bad you can get one! They also have another medication that you can have for pain as well! I forgot the name of it though! But that one goes in your IV and you press a button when you want the medication! If you have any other questions let me know!!

😊

😍you're lucky I've been dying to feel my baby kick! I usually feel them move by 15-16 weeks (this is my 4th pregnancy) but this time it's different 😣 maybe girls are calmer? lol

i would say dont look into the epidural too much. u really wont know if u need it until u are actually in labor. dont let anyone try to convince u to get it or not to get it just waut and see how u do... also i watch mr and ms vegan and the birth vlog was awsome!!!!