You Can Now Have Breast Milk Delivered To Your Door.Read More Yep, you read that correctly. Breast milk is now available on tap. Ok, maybe it’s not that readily available. But a new delivery service means there’s another option (other than… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 21 April 2021 You Can Now Have Breast Milk Delivered To Your Door. Yep, you read that correctly. Breast milk is now available on tap. Ok, maybe it’s not that readily available. But a new delivery service means there’s another option (other than formula) for parents who are unable to breastfeed. Now, we completely understand how the concept might throw you off a little. Tbh we had a lot of questions too. So that’s why we caught up with Best Milk’s founder Dr Julia Sarno to find out what it’s all about, if it’s safe and why you might want to use it. Why did you create Best Milk? “I created the company because I experienced issues with breastfeeding, and I wasn’t able to access the NHS supply because my baby wasn’t sick or premature. After searching for a service like this, I realised there was nothing out there for me. By creating Best Milk, I hoped to provide a solution for other parents that experienced the same issue as me”. Who would use it? “A lot of parents can’t breastfeed, but they want to offer their children the benefits of natural milk. This might be because they have used a surrogate or they’ve adopted. There can be many reasons why someone might want to use the service. It could be that a mother needs to go in for an operation and wants their baby to have breastmilk while they can’t provide it”. Where does the milk come from? “We are a milk bank that collects and screens excess breast milk, which comes from wet nurses and we conduct direct screening of all the women that donate”. How do I know it’s safe? The screening process of our sharing mothers is rigorous, and every donation is thoroughly checked. We work with two top UK accredited (UKAS) laboratories, and we follow and support both our sharing mothers and the recipient families. We don’t accept donations from mums on antibiotics, antidepressants, painkillers, have mastitis or are Covid-positive. Every donating mother has successfully passed a serological screening, which tests for HIV-I & II, Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HBC), Syphilis and HTLV (human T-lymphotropic virus). What happens to the milk after it’s donated? “We test every donation, and if it passes the screening process, then it is professionally pasteurised to ensure any traces of bacteria or viruses are destroyed. All of its vital nutritional and immunological properties are maintained during the practice. The milk is then stored at the correct temperature, ready to be sent out for delivery”. How much does it cost? “Each case is individual. Some mothers can breastfeed, but aren’t providing enough milk for their babies, so they just need a top-up. It completely depends on the individual, and that’s a conversation that we will have with each parent. Our most popular 5000ml package consists of 25 bottles of pure breast milk and costs £500. This will feed a newborn for up to a month”. How is it delivered? “It’s sent out via a courier in a chilled container to make sure it stays fresh and at the correct temperature. Then dependant on the milk you’ve purchased you store it either in the freezer or fridge until you need to warm it up ready for your baby to drink”. Is it available nationwide? “Yes, we now use a very specialised courier that can deliver anywhere in the UK”. Is this the only service in the UK? “Currently, yes. It’s available in other countries, but other than the NHS, we are currently the only independent milk bank in the UK”. Tags 5minuteread, Yournaptimeknowhow
TMC Talks To Alison McAleavy Founder Of Zig & StarRead More Let’s face it being a mum is a big enough job on its own. It’s a full time commitment with no pay and mad hours! So adding ANOTHER full time… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 21 April 2021 TMC Talks To Alison McAleavy Founder Of Zig & Star Let’s face it being a mum is a big enough job on its own. It’s a full time commitment with no pay and mad hours! So adding ANOTHER full time job to the mix is not only very impressive but also massively inspiring. We recently spoke to ex- Topshop fashion buyer Alison McAleavy about the launch of her new unisex kids footwear brand, Zig & Star to find out how she manages it all.. Explain what you do in a sentence? After a 20 year career in fashion, I have just launched my own brand, Zig+Star unisex kids footwear, created to challenge outdated gender stereotypes and uniquely designed to last longer. How long have you done your job? I left my job as Head of Buying at Topshop over 2 years ago to focus on the brand full time, and it’s taken that long to perfect the designs. I worked in conjunction with a paediatric podiatrist as I wanted the styles to not only look good, but to be good for their feet too. Before launching the brand, I worked in fashion for over 20 years, specialising in footwear and accessories. What’s the coolest thing about it? My whole career, I had always worked for someone else… I had a lot of responsibility but none of the risk was mine. It’s been a big leap to start my own business (especially in the middle of a pandemic!) but it has been amazing. You definitely have highs and lows but the feeling you get when you achieve something like finalising the range, building a website, and getting great customer feedback… you can’t beat that feeling. What does your day or week entail? My working week was all over the place during homeschooling, but now my 3 kids are back in school, I’m starting to settle into a bit of a routine. I drop the kids to school, go up to my office at home and log in to check all emails, new orders and general queries. I am loving communicating with customers, giving advice on sizing and generally finding out what they like and don’t like. I think it’s really important to be as close to the customers as possible… social media is a great resource for this, the feedback is instant, and it’s a two-way conversation. Where did you start out? I didn’t study fashion, I actually studied English Literature at university. But I got a job at Faith Shoes back in the day when it had concessions in Topshop and was THE place to get your shoes (really showing my age!) I was hooked instantly… as a buyer you had to find the balance of creativity and commerciality and I loved it. Plus you got to travel all over the world, which in your mid-20’s was amazing. From there I moved several times, but finally spent the last 8 years of my career as Head of Buying at Topshop. What has been your biggest challenge? As a boot-strapped start up, it’s just me doing everything so I’ve had to become a jack of all trades. Product development is my comfort zone but I’ve had to learn about digital marketing, web design, SEO, even graphic design… all sorts of things I had no idea about before I started. I’ve got a very supportive husband who has helped with things like logistics (and spreadsheets!) but generally it feels like I learn something new every day. What piece of advice would you give to someone hoping to do the same? My advice on starting your own business would be, find something you’re passionate about, and that gives you purpose. The highs you experience are great, but to survive the lows, you’ve got to be absolutely committed to your idea.. anything less won’t survive. My mission was to give kids the freedom to be themselves, and not be restricted by the outdated sterotypes that dominate the kidswear market – boys should be strong and tough, and girls should be kind and pretty. The choices we make for our kids clothes and shoes can either accept or reject those stereotypes… As a mum of 2 girls and a boy, I started Zig+Star to champion equality and freedom for all kids. Something you’ve learnt that is crucial to either your job or to success: Collaboration and support.. for me, I feel like Zig+Star has been a group effort and wouldn’t have been possible without people being generous with their time and expertise. I have a lot of friends from the industry who have supported me, people I’ve met along the way who given up their time to advise and help me, and then friends and family who have listened, counselled and motivated me when I’ve needed it most. I can honestly say it wouldnt have been possible without the great people around me. How important is it to switch off? I would say it’s taken me quite a long time to realise the importance of switching off. When you work for a fast-paced business, it’s harder to set your own schedule. Since working for myself, I found the value in taking time away from work, especially when things feel stressful. My lockdown pleasure has been walking every day, if i don’t get outside, even if just for 15 minutes, I feel like it definitely has an impact on my focus and productivity. If I can’t get outside, I will take half an hour away from a screen, and I really love listening to podcasts. How do you manage your work / life balance? In the beginning of starting the brand, I would say it was a struggle. I would be getting up early before the kids wake up and do a couple of hours of work before homeschooling started, and then back at it again in the evenings once my husband finished work . But now we’ve launched, and kids are back in school, it’s been much easier. Although I’m still busy, being in charge of my own schedule has made a big difference and I’ve found ways of working flexibly which mean I get to spend more time with my family. Also, the business is very much a family affair, and as I work from home, my two older daughters have loved getting involved and helping where they can. How do manage mum guilt? I have a very supportive husband, and we see parenting as a partnership. Somehow we have managed to muddle through with managing his busy full-time job, kids in and out of school, and starting the business. It’s not easy and I often feel like I’m not doing either job of mum or founder particularly well, but we also need to remember to cut ourselves some slack sometimes… I think parents need to give themselves a massive pat on the back for what they have managed over the last year.
How To Conquer The Fussy EatersRead More I know, it baffles me too when you give your child a meal which you may (or may not!) have been slaving over the hot stove for what feels like… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2021 How To Conquer The Fussy Eaters I know, it baffles me too when you give your child a meal which you may (or may not!) have been slaving over the hot stove for what feels like hours, just for them to turn their nose up. You try it, you whack it up on your Instagram stories to show off to all your mum friends, and you’re half tempted to give Jamie Oliver a buzz to get his verdict on it because you think it’s that damn good. And quite frankly, you’d give anything to have someone cook something delicious for you…so why don’t they want it!? It’s totally A-Okay to not like everything, but it’s always good to try. How many times have you tried something you don’t like? If you don’t try, you don’t know! So, here are my top tips to conquer those fussy eaters… Get involved! Let your child have some sort of choice over their meals. When it comes to doing the food shop, allow them to pick some new fruit and veg to try…how exciting!! I love taking children to the supermarket, walking up and down the aisles, seeing what they want to try. It’s also great for their own knowledge. I aim for 1 new food or flavour a week. Realistically sometimes this doesn’t always happen. If they’re sick, tired, all of the above, it’s not worth giving them something you ultimately know they won’t enjoy. Sometimes their favourite home comfort food is what they fancy. Pick your time and your place. If you’re more of a home delivery kind of family, then hop online and have a browse with your little one. Let them do the clicking, it’ll make them have the feeling that they ‘did’ it. Allow them to have a flick through some recipe books, grown up or children’s ones! See what they think looks good. Go out and buy the ingredients together so they can see what’s going into their meals. Wean in 15 Joe Wicks £9 Family Cookbook Ella’s Kitchen £10.99 Weaning book Annabel Karmel £8.52 Ready Steady Cook Chop together. Mix together. Cook together. Bake together. And make it fun! I love these fab child friendly knifes from Kiddi Kutter. They’re a great way of letting your child have some more independence and involvement. Also, great for them to see what is actually going into their meals. As always, please do supervise just in case they have other ideas…! You don’t want to be off to A&E purely because you were trying to get your child to eat a carrot. Kids Kitchen Knife Set Onupgo £8.99 Apron set Hoolaroo £14.95 Mini Baking Set LakeLand £11.99 Make them feel like a proper little chef in that kitchen and buy a cute apron and mini baking tool set. This will also (hopefully…!) save you some laundry. The more ‘involved’ they feel, the better. Role Play This is great for everyone, but especially little ones. Using some plastic, wooden, or even real fruit and veg, pretend to make up some recipes and serve to each other. Just make sure you go OTT with the whole “oh it’s delicious, SOOOO yummy in my tummy” thing when they serve you up some plastic bread with a felt cheese slice! Let them use your utensils, sauce pans etc. This is very exciting for them, especially as these are the ones you use, they’ll be feeling like a boss. Duktig Play Kitchen Ikea £60 Fridge Play Food Stoy £25 https://www.alexandalexa.com/en/product/194132/le-toy-van-toy-toaster-set Le Toy Van £29.90 We Are family I appreciate this isn’t always possible with work and other commitments, but try make an effort by doing this a few times a week if you can. Sit down and have a family meal. Talk to your little ones, engaging them in a grown-up conversation. Imagine if you had to sit there all by yourself and eat whilst someone meticulously watches you. Terrifying. I don’t think I’d eat either! Children learn from example, so by them watching you eat your supper, will encourage them to eat theirs! I find it best to serve a big dish, such as lasagne, curry etc, and serve it up on the table in front of them, and make sure you’re all eating the same thing, you don’t want them getting FOMO, resulting in you having the left overs of whatever they don’t eat! Stealth Is Wealth Don’t get me wrong, I am all for children seeing what they are eating. Don’t hide that tomato under the ham, trust me, they’ll find it. However…if you’re making a tomato pasta sauce or bolognaise for example, there is no harm in grating or chopping those veggies till they’re small enough to go through a pin head and adding it into the mix. Those hidden veg are full of all the nutritional goodness your little one needs. Crockery Because one more piece of plastic fantastic garish crockery won’t hurt, will it?! Let your little ones choose a fun plate or bowl to eat from. I love the ones with a fun picture at the bottom, they’re great for encouraging them to eat the whole plate to reveal the picture. White Melamine Eat & Learn Giftbox Design Letters £28 Dinner Winner Plate Fred & Friends £12.50 Mice Silicone Tableware Zara From £4.99 Keep Trying They say it takes a child 10 goes at trying something before their taste buds decide whether it’s good or not. Just because your child licked the broccoli once and they instantly decided they didn’t like it, doesn’t mean it should never ever ever be served on their plate, ever again! Give it a few goes. I always go by the saying “smell it, lick it, chew it, swallow it.” It works…most of the time! You don’t need to panic if your child who was once beautifully weaned and ate everything and anything, now only eats a handful of (possibly beige) meals. Children’s taste buds are constantly developing. This is also their way of taking some control. As long as your child is eating enough of a well-balanced diet, they’ll be okay. If you can, avoid caving and giving them another option or a slice of toast. If you do this once, you’ll be doing it every meal time.
Co-Sleeping: Expectation Vs RealityRead More Along with dummies, screen time and the Sleepyhead,, co-sleeping is one of the final parenting taboos. Yes we’re aware of the risks (which should never be ignored) but we’ve all… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2021 Co-Sleeping: Expectation Vs Reality Along with dummies, screen time and the Sleepyhead,, co-sleeping is one of the final parenting taboos. Yes we’re aware of the risks (which should never be ignored) but we’ve all been there and the truth is that snuggling up with your baby can be the best thing ever. It’s not, however without its downsides… Expectation ‘My baby will sleep in their (very) expensive bedside crib/Moses basket’ Reality Turns out, nobody briefed your new-born they’d be relocating from a warm and squishy womb to a giant Snuzpod in a matter of days. Yes it cost you £200 and you bought the bottom sheet from John Lewis but they’ll still want the comforting sound of your heartbeat and the touch of your skin. When they scream all night, take it as a compliment. They miss you. Expectation ‘We’ll never have sex again’ Reality Sleeping with your baby doesn’t mean you can’t have sex, it just means your sofa gets a lot of action (ok, some…we’re still really tired). Babies go to bed early, so make the most of that precious alone time and do it downstairs. With the curtains shut, obvs. Expectation ‘We’ll all get more sleep’ Reality Your tiny intruder now commands three quarters of the king-sized bed, leaving you to fall asleep on a perilous cliff-edge of mattress. You clutch onto the corner of the duvet (now barely covering your right shoulder) like your life depends on it. Namely because it actually does; if you roll over you’ll almost certainly knock yourself out on the bedside table. Expectation ‘If the baby is right next to us, my husband will have to help more’. Reality Take it from us; they don’t hear them. Your next-door neighbours won’t sleep through the ambulance-like wails of your offspring penetrating the walls, but your other half will snore on by like a warthog. It’s biological, apparently, but feel free to unleash seven shades of holy hell when they wake up the next morning and announce that they’re ‘still tired’. Expectation ‘My baby has slept soundly in their crib from day one. That’s never going to change’. Reality That may well be the case now, but you can bet that the second they graduate to the Big Girl’s Bed, you’ll experience the fresh horror of waking up 12 times a night with a small child standing three inches away from your face. Four hours of them bouncing right out of bed every time you put them back in it, and we guarantee you’ll and shove them in with you for some much-needed peace. Expectation ‘I’ll definitely co-sleep with my child’ Reality Fun fact: kids rarely do what you want them to. So you can practically guarantee that if you’ve opted to share the bed with your baby, they’ll have other ideas. From the night-time wanderer to the won’t-stop-wriggler, you might find yourself putting them in their own room regardless. Expectation ‘They’ll never go back in their own bed’ Reality There aren’t many 40-year-old men still snuggling up to their mums, so stop worrying. One day they’ll want their own space and you’ll probably be really sad, so just soak it in while you can. Expectation ‘People will judge me’ Reality Just like stalking your other-half’s ex on Insta and picking your nose, we’ve all fallen asleep with a babe in the bed, whether that’s once in a blue moon or every night for six years. We’re all just doing what we can to survive – and don’t worry, everyone knows it. Tags 5minuteread, Yournaptimeknowhow
Priceless Gifts For A New MumRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2021 Priceless Gifts For A New Mum 1. Not Telling Them Your Traumatic Birth Story Before They Give Birth You might mean well, but a minute-by-minute graphic retelling of your 72-hour labour resulting in an emergency C-section and near-death isn’t as helpful as you think. 2. Keeping Unsolicited Advice to Yourself Yes, we know they’ve lost a sock. No, they’re not hungry. We’re sure that is how they did it ‘in your day’, and we really couldn’t give a flying fuck that you disagree with co-sleeping. Oh, and it’s a boy, actually. 3. Support Their Feeding Choices Breastfeeding, pumping, formula; all kids live on a diet of toast and chicken nuggets in the end, so does it really matter? 4. Not Dropping Round Unannounced Always ask in advance and make sure you don’t stay too long. If the baby is asleep, you’re encroaching on prime parent nap time – please leave through any exit. 5. Bring food If you’re thinking about buying a teddy or a plant, STOP! Choose a pre-made lasagne instead. Extra points if you wash your cup up and fold some washing before you leave. 6. Be Understanding When She Doesn’t Text Back She still loves you, but her mind is busy remembering which boob she fed off last so she doesn’t get Mastitis. She’s living with a tiny human who hates sleep. The fog will lift eventually; until then, bear with her. 7. Share Your Reality Endless night feeds scrolling through picture-perfect Insta feeds might make it look like every other mother has her shit together. If you’re already a mum, acknowledge that it was really f*cking hard for you too. It will make her feel like she’s not alone. 8. Listen When They Want to Talk About The Baby Hey, baby-free friends! We know you don’t really care about sleep training or teething or whether the kid has crapped for 4 days or not. Thank you for pretending to be interested. 9. Tell Her She’s Doing A Good Job There is no appraisal from a newborn. The screaming in your face, vomming etc… can make you feel like a complete and utter failure. So a little thumbs up really does help. 10. Invite Her and Let Her Off When She Comes When that first night happens she will be pissed after 0.5 glasses of prosecco and it’s highly likely she will sob during a live stream of the baby monitor.
TMC Family Recipe Of The Week: Crunchy Garlic ChickenRead More Can you tell we like chicken yet? As with most of our favourites, this one can be prepped during the day, left in the fridge and popped into the oven… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2021 TMC Family Recipe Of The Week: Crunchy Garlic Chicken Can you tell we like chicken yet? As with most of our favourites, this one can be prepped during the day, left in the fridge and popped into the oven at dinner time, but we’d recommend doing the messy bit during nap time – this isn’t a job to do when you’re holding a crying baby. Ingredients • 4 tbsp (about 40g) grated parmesan • 5 tbsp mayonnaise • large garlic clove, crushed • 1 lemon, zested • 2 tsp finely chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, sage or rosemary) or ½ tsp mixed dried herbs • 50g panko breadcrumbs • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast • lemon wedges, snipped chives and roasted potatoes and tomatoes to serve (optional) Method 1. Create a production line of one board, two wide, shallow bowls or dishes, and a baking tray that will comfortably fit the chicken breasts, lined with baking parchment or oiled foil. 2. If intending to bake immediately, heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. (Otherwise, remember to turn the oven on 10 minutes before baking.) 3. In the first dish, mix the parmesan, mayo, garlic, lemon zest, herbs and seasoning to form a paste – a tablespoon does this well, and helps at the next stage. Tip the crumbs into the second dish and shake so they cover the base. 4. Now the messy part. Put the chicken on the board and, if necessary, trim and discard any flappy bits. Blot well with kitchen paper – this will help the coating stick. 5. Slide the first breast into the mayo mix and use the spoon to make sure it is coated all over. Pick it up by the pointy end and place on the crumbs. Use a spoon to cover completely with crumbs and press them on gently until covered all over. Pick up once again by the ‘tail’ and place on the prepared baking tray. Repeat with the second breast, then discard any leftover mayo and crumbs. 6. Bake for 25-30 mins until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a board and slice into three or four thick slices, scatter over the chives and serve with the lemon wedges, roasted potatoes and tomatoes, if you like.
Travelling With a Newborn Made EasyRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 14 April 2021 Travelling With a Newborn Made Easy Meet the hotels and products that take the stress and strain away. The Fish Hotel Near Broadway, Cotswolds, England The Fish Hotel can be found on a hillside, in the middle of a 400-acre private estate in the middle of the Cotswolds. With the comfiest Naturalmat mattresses, not only does it ensure a good night’s sleep, it has a fun, quirky and refreshingly modern set up: rather than all being found in one main building, accommodation consists of shepherd’s huts, tree houses and rooms in a series of beautiful Cotswolds stone buildings. The Fish is an ideal place to take a new-born for a relaxed holiday in beautiful surroundings. The staff are incredibly friendly and will happily accommodate your requests for all things baby. Make sure you take an hour or two for a leisurely lunch in The Lounge, and order the tacos from their specialised taco menu – delicious! Rooms from £150 www.thefishhotel.co.uk Bedruthan Hotel & Spa Newquay, Cornwall, England Set into the clifftop overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach, The Bedruthan Hotel & Spa is a must-stay for families. Management and staff could not be more considerate of families with small children, with a variety of restaurant options, an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa and even an indoor soft play for rainy days. The hotel has been run by the same family for over 60 years, so it maintains a family feel but with the air of a luxury beach side hotel. They can provide all the baby and toddler equipment you need. Rooms from £129 www.bedruthan.com Another Place Ullswater, Lake District, England Another Place has a dreamy position on the shores of Ullswater in the Lake District. It prides itself on being a relaxed hotel that prizes quality family time, while still offering an incredibly high standard of food, service and accommodation (if you’ve ever been to its sister location, the stunning Watergate Bay Hotel in Cornwall, you’ll recognise a similar vibe). The hotel has a variety of rooms that can easily accommodate a cot, much of the baby equipment you might need, and pantries with microwaves, washing-up facilities and a fridge – so useful! The swimming pool has incredible views of Ullswater, and there’s a glorious which is perfect for a post-partum massage. Rooms from £270 www.another.place/ Woolley Grange Bradford-on Avon, Wiltshire, England A countryside retreat in a 17th Century Jacobean Manor, with an impressive personal touch that keeps families returning year after year. This hotel has thought of everything needed to keep parents relaxed and their children entertained. All necessary equipment is provided, and the staff clearly adore children. To ensure that new parents in particular have a successful first holiday, a ‘Baby’s First Stay Away’ package includes treats such as a baby singing class, baby’s first swimming lesson and a baby massage class. The garden is a highlight, with chickens, rabbits and pigs, scarecrows, a tree swing and even a fairy garden. Truly a hotel worth introducing to your special new addition. Rooms from £119 www.wooleygrangehotel.co.uk The Gleneagles Hotel Auchterarder, Perth and Kinross, Scotland Luxurious, decadent, opulent… if you want to push the boat out for baby’s first trip then this is the place. There’s so much to explore and enjoy in this iconic hotel, and Gleneagles has thought of everything to make your family stay as comfortable as possible. Baby equipment is easily provided, bespoke baby food can be prepared by the hotel’s top chefs, and experienced babysitters are on hand if needed. When your baby is older, the hotel has thoughtfully-designed children’s spaces for them to enjoy – they can even try their hand at outdoor pursuits such as archery, off-roading in a mini Land Rover replica, or they even ‘own a pony’ for the day. Just hope they don’t get too much of a taste for it… Rooms from £295 www.gleneagles.com The Products to Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep Upgrade your travel cot with a much comfier mattress. Black out the morning light. And pack a sleep inducing sound machine… *Then cross everything! Travelmat – Travel Cot Mattress Naturalmat Baby £90 Sleeptight Portable Blackout Blind Tommee Tippee £27.99 (Sale) Portable White Noise Sound Machine Yogasleep Hushh £34.95 (Sale) Tags 10minuteread, Bedtimebrowse, newDesign
How long will it take for my tummy to shrink after birth?Read More A few will make you feel better. Most will make you feel worse.So, want to hear the truth? Not one person is the same. All our tummies, pregnancies and births… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 13 April 2021 How long will it take for my tummy to shrink after birth? Being a living breathing vessel is bloody hard. At nine months you just want to scream, “I’m done with this sharing malarkey, just give me my body back! Then your wish comes true. And while it’s great – mainly because no one is internally kicking you anymore. This new you is not old you, and quite frankly, it feels a bit shit. But it doesn’t last forever. Messages online will say it takes months or years for your stomach to return. Others will declare that it won’t ever be the same. Oh, and of course, you’ll see images of women who don’t even look like they’ve had a baby. A few will make you feel better. Most will make you feel worse.So, want to hear the truth? Not one person is the same. All our tummies, pregnancies and births differ. Your stomach before baby, in pregnancy, and after, will be different to every mother you know. There are so many variables, and there’s NO WAY you can compare both your bump and your body’s recovery to someone else’s. Now for some good news… “The majority of women can get their tummy back with a sufficient level of guidance”, says Specialist Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Emma Brockwell. A message we can all get on board with. Read on to find out how. How will my tummy look after birth? “Hold on? I still look pregnant”, said every new Mum in the history of motherhood. It’s a shocker for sure, but it’s completely normal explains Emma Brockwell, “Your stomach has taken a long time to stretch to that shape, but it will go back”. Mentally that’s hard, so don’t worry if it makes you upset because you won’t feel like this forever. In the meantime, wear lots of loose flowing tops and dresses and read on to find out what else you can do. How long will it take for my tummy to shrink? You’ve lived the last nine months reading how your body might change every week, so it’s understandable that you’d like some guidance on how things might go post-birth. Fiit Mum trainer Charlie Launders, explains “Frustratingly, it is difficult to give an exact time or estimate because we are all so different. The time it takes for you tummy to return to its pre-pregnancy size will depend on your genetics, the size of your bump, the type of birth you had, and the amount of weight gained in pregnancy”. Also, let’s be honest, it would be pretty weird if your tummy did just snap back, “In the weeks and months following birth all of the organs that were squished and moved to make way for your baby need to return to their usual places. Your core muscles will be recovering without you even realising it, as well as your pelvic floor, so try not to put too much pressure on yourself “says, Charlie Launders. How can I make my tummy flat after birth? Yes, yes, we hear you cry. But when? “Expect it to take longer than 6-weeks, which is usually what women expect”, says Emma Brockwell. She adds, “Even if you haven’t had a c-section, that abdominal wall will take a good couple of months to strengthen” But that doesn’t mean it won’t gradually go down, because it will. Does having a c-section mean your tummy takes longer to shrink? If you didn’t plan to have a c-section, then it can be quite shocking. The recovery process can take some time, and it’s upsetting when your stomach doesn’t seem to be going down. Want to shout, ‘Fuck off!’, at anyone that says, “You should be proud of your body, it grew your baby!”. Yeah, we don’t blame you. We love our babies, but we’d also quite like to feel like us again. Think of it this way, you have had abdominal surgery, and yes, it will take a little longer for the tummy to strengthen and shrink, but at least your vagina is still intact. Small wins people. What is diastasis recti? Irrespective of delivery, any woman can experience diastasis recti. Even though it sounds very technical, it is very common (about 60% of women have it) and it is a term used for when the muscles in your stomach separate in order to make space for your growing baby. Tummy exercises you can do after birth Straight from the get-go, “The first thing you can do to start flattening your stomach is your pelvic floor exercises. Your pelvic floor connects to your core, which is what helps flatten the whole abdominal wall”, says Emma. When can you do actual exercise after birth? We sound like a broken record, but it really does differ from person to person. As Emma explains, “Slow progressive abdominal exercises are best advised on an individual basis by either a pelvic health physiotherapist or trained postnatal fitness instructor”. How much is a postnatal MOT? Feeling a bit broken? We’re not surprised, you’ve just carried a baby inside you and don’t even get us started on labour. Check-in with a professional and give your body the care and repair it deserves. Dependant on where you live, a postnatal MOT costs around £80. This will usually consist of an external and internal examination, where they will check the strength of your pelvic floor, your core and see if you have any muscle separation. Then they will advise you on recovery methods and exercises. Feel like it’s a splurge? Just think about all the baby crap you’ve bought. You deserve this, so don’t feel guilty about having it. Will my tummy always be different? No actually, “Some women’s tummies aren’t that affected by having a baby, it depends on your connective tissue, how you carry your baby during pregnancy, how you’ve delivered and your genetic makeup. For the majority of women, they can get their tummy back with a really good level of guidance”, says Emma. Tags newDesign
How To Refresh Your Underwear Drawer Pre, During & After The BirthRead More All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. Remember your pre-pregnancy underwear drawer? We wouldn’t try to guess… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 13 April 2021 How To Refresh Your Underwear Drawer Pre, During & After The Birth All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. Remember your pre-pregnancy underwear drawer? We wouldn’t try to guess what was in it (one woman’s stretch jersey is another woman’s embroidered tulle) but we can bet it held more options than it does now. Bodies change, priorities change, and when your own needs slide to the bottom of the pile there’s rarely time to buy a new bra, unless it’s to support growing boobs, or for quickly feeding a hungry babe. But can we suggest that there’s more to lingerie – and life – than that? A new bra (one that fits, feels good and looks pretty cute) is a mood boost we all deserve; throw in some matching knickers and you’re a whole new woman. We’d also suggest you look at Lindex, which has an incredible range of lingerie, loungewear and sleepwear, including sleek maternity basics and some sexier pieces for whenever you’re ready. Keep it comfy Seamless shapes, non-scratchy lace and fine merino fabrics; these comfort-first separates are a supportive hug in underwear form. Charm Wirefree Bra Lindex £19.99 Seamless ribbed soft bra Lindex £14.99 Soft bra Lindex £29.99 Thong Regular Tencel® Blend Lindex £7.99 MOM 3-pack brazilian low briefs Lindex £14.99 Classic High Briefs Lindex £7.99 Add some spice Modern shapes, luxurious hues… Lindex’s strength is in pieces that look more expensive than they really are – which always comes into its own on date night. Unpadded bralette with lace Lindex £29.99 Attract Unpadded Bra Lindex £24.99 Thong Low Lindex £3.89 Before the babe From nursing bras to post-partum pants, Lindex’s maternity range is exactly on the right side of snug. You might even miss them when real life resumes! Maternity brief with lace details Lindex £12.99 MOM 2-pack soft nursing bra Lindex £19.99 2-Pack Nursing Bra With Lace Lindex £24.99
TMC Recipe of the week: Strawberry-Oat BarsRead More We’ve partnered with Zenia Deogan, Nutritionist and Chef @thesensorykitchen to create some super easy, super speedy recipes of the week. A fruity tray bake treat for any occasion – friends,… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 12 April 2021 TMC Recipe of the week: Strawberry-Oat Bars We’ve partnered with Zenia Deogan, Nutritionist and Chef @thesensorykitchen to create some super easy, super speedy recipes of the week. A fruity tray bake treat for any occasion – friends, family, tea, breakie, a snack, picnic, a celebration or just for some easy Sunday baking – enjoy these gorgeous strawberry squares. Ingredients – 1 cup Rolled Oats – 3/4 cup Plain Flour – 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar – 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger – 1/4 tsp salt – 6 tbsp unsalted butter/coconut oil – 2 cups finely diced strawberries and raspberries (1 cup of each) or jam mixed with 1 tsp corn starch and 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice – 1 tbsp granulated sugar Method – Preheat oven to 190°C and line an 8×8-inch baking tray – Combine dry ingredients. Add melted butter/coconut oil and stir until evenly moistened to resemble a crumble type texture. – Divide mixture, press 1/2 mixture into an even layer in the bottom of tray. Scatter strawberry/raspberry mixture over oat layer and then evenly spread remaining crumble over the top (some fruit will be visible) – Bake the slices for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden. – Cool, slice, serve and enjoy! Watch How to Make it View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cailee Fischer (@caileeeeats)
Totally Rational Fears Every Mother Has Before Baby No.2Read More Most people think that deciding to have your first child is the biggest decision you’ll ever make. The truth is, deciding you’re ready for round two can often be just… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 12 April 2021 Totally Rational Fears Every Mother Has Before Baby No.2 Most people think that deciding to have your first child is the biggest decision you’ll ever make. The truth is, deciding you’re ready for round two can often be just as terrifying. You’re not alone. Here’s our TMC guide to things every parent worries about before Baby No.2… How Will I Deal With Pregnancy Whilst Looking After My First Child? If your pregnancy was spent napping and hugging the toilet bowl for the first 2 hours of the day, it’s only natural that you might wonder how the f*ck you’re going to get through 9 months of feeling like utter shit whilst chasing after a toddler. The answer of course, is that women are super-human and somehow no matter how awful we feel, we manage to suck it up for the sake of our family. Don’t be afraid to lean on your family and friends for much needed respite and if your first kid still sleeps in the afternoon; feel zero shame in joining them. Fear Of Giving Birth This is not your first rodeo; this time you know those 20 minute births you see on One Born are total bollocks, and the reality is a much longer, much messier affair. Needless to say, you will not be wasting valuable snack room in your hospital bag packing shit like Lavender Oil; nor will you be attempting the first 48 hours without ALL THE DRUGS. Forewarned is forearmed, so take comfort in the fact that you’ll know what the hell is going on this time, and equip yourself with the information and support you need to get through it. How Will I Love As Much As I Love My First? You. Just. Will. You might not take as many pictures, or be able to instantly recall how many days/weeks old they are; but cliches are cliches for a reason, and your love will just grow with every new addition. What Have We Done?! Having a baby turns your world upside down and inside out. You’ve just got your shit together, found a routine that works for you, maybe gone back to work and then BOOM; those two little lines turn blue again. You might feel ever-so-slightly panicked whilst you try to imagine how on earth you’ll juggle another one in your already jam-packed schedule; but within weeks it will feel like they’ve been here forever. Will Our First Kid Feel Neglected? In the short-term it’s totally normal for first-borns to act out a little whilst they get used to the new (and very loud) new member of the family; but in the long run, you’ve just grown them a best mate for life. Try the old trick of buying something from their little brother/sister to give to them when they come to the hospital, and resist the temptation to laugh when they ask ‘when the baby is going back’. Will We Disappointed If It’s a…. Let’s be real here; gender disappointment is a thing, and we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about it. You might have spent your whole life imagining a little girl to go shopping with when she’s older, and realising that dream is over takes some adjusting. The truth is, every kid is different and whatever you end up with, once they are here you won’t be able to imagine your family any other way. Is It Bad If I Don’t Breastfeed This One? Breastfeeding is a big commitment and if your BF journey wasn’t smooth sailing, you might be considering if you can take on the physical and mental toll the second time around; especially with another one to look after. There is no wrong answer; a hungry baby just needs feeding, whether it comes from you or a bottle. Will We Ever Leave The House Again?! In between feeds, nap schedules and PUT YOUR BLOODY SHOES ON; it’s hard to imagine ever being able to leave the house without reinforcements ever again. The short answer is yes (but it might take several attempts). Tags 5minuteread, Yournaptimeknowhow
An AM/PM Skincare Routine Using The OrdinaryRead More There was a time the beauty industry kept the real science behind the scenes. Sure, you could buy a spendy elixir made from rare plant dew gathered at dawn, or… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 8 April 2021 No Comments on An AM/PM Skincare Routine Using The Ordinary An AM/PM Skincare Routine Using The Ordinary A stripped back guide to the no-frills skincare brand that’s anything but basic There was a time the beauty industry kept the real science behind the scenes. Sure, you could buy a spendy elixir made from rare plant dew gathered at dawn, or a gold-lidded jar of distilled babies’ tears (and we’re only just exaggerating), but highly efficacious skincare using proven ingredients at prices we can all afford? Not a chance. And then in 2013 along came The Ordinary, with its functional-looking line of clearly labelled formulas, showcasing hero ingredients such as peptides, retinol, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. In short, the stuff that really works. So far, so revolutionary. But where another brand might have one simple vitamin C serum for example, The Ordinary will have a whole range of powders, suspensions and solutions in wildly differing percentages. It’s an offering that’s not only mega in scope but seemingly requires a chemistry degree before you can pronounce the names on the bottles, let alone put them into a skincare routine. Which is where we come in. And although there’s no such thing as one skincare regime to rule all others (no matter what the brand), there are some key fundamentals that can help you put together an effective morning and evening routine. Roll up for your as-basic-as-possible The Ordinary explainer. Morning skincare routine 1. Cleanse Don’t even think about skipping it – you need to wash off all the sweat and dead cells (true story) accumulated during your action-packed quarantine dreams. Plus, if you’re planning on applying any skincare or make-up afterwards, this is where the prep starts. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser, £5.50, works by gently trapping and removing impurities on the surface of your skin without stripping away its natural oils – unlike harsh, sulphate-loaded cleansers that can leave you feeling dry and tight. Rub between your palms before applying to a dry face; massage in then rinse away. 2. Trap in moisture A juicy splodge of hyaluronic acid, a molecule that helps skin to conserve moisture, keeps skin plump and hydrated. A pea-sized amount of lightweight The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, £5.90, is the one here. The B5 helps to strengthen the skin barrier, thus extending your skin’s capacity to hold onto water while fending off daily wear and tear. 3. Treat Now for a shot of vitamin C – it’s the potent antioxidant that dermatologists agree is key to brightening skin tone, helping to prevent pigmentation and slowing collagen breakdown. You’ll reap maximum rewards if you apply it in the morning as it’ll help to reinforce the sun protection prowess of your SPF product while fending off damaging free-radicals that come at you during the day by way of pollution, smoke and radiation. Many of us already pop some vit C on the daily (The Ordinary reports that sales of Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone, £5.75, have rocketed by 161% since lockdown began) but this is strong stuff so if you’re a vitamin C newbie or have sensitive skin, start your vitamin habit with Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%, £4.90. It’s still potent but will ease you in nicely while our old friend hyaluronic acid comes to your rescue on the moisture front. Speaking of which… Squalane Cleanser The Ordinary £5.50 Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 The Ordinary £6 Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone The Ordinary £5.75 4. Hydrate Depending on your skin type (and how emollient your SPF is) you may find you can skip this step, but most skin will likely benefit from an added moisture hit. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, £4.90, is your relatively rich daily hydrator. If you still like the texture and feel after you’ve used your first tube, go large for £6.80. It’s better for the environment from a packaging point of view and you’ll save precious pounds too. Let’s face it, the travel sized minis are pretty redundant right now anyway and the sales figures are showing it – The Ordinary’s ‘super size me’ options have seen a 35% lift in purchases. 5. SPF Yes you do still need to wear SPF in lockdown, since 90% of skin ageing is triggered by UV exposure and your living room window is a portal. Mineral sunscreens are considered less irritating to skin than chemically based formulas and The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30, £8.90, is the brand’s highest mineral based formula. It has a lot going for it in terms of soothing hydrators, but one downside is the white cast it leaves behind skin. If you’ve got dark skin this will be especially apparent in which case we’ll give the off-menu recommendation of Ultrasun Face Anti-pigmentation SPF50+, £32, which provides high level protection that’s suitable for sensitive skin and doesn’t come off ashy. One brand can’t give you everything. Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% The Ordinary £4.75 Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 With Antioxidants The Ordinary £8.75 Ultrasun Tinted Anti-Pigmentation SPF50 Ultrasun £28.80 Evening Routine 1. Cleanse This time around, you’re double cleansing (exactly as it sounds: cleanse, rinse and repeat) using a warm flannel or muslin cloth, especially if you’ve been wearing make-up or SPF, both of which are designed to stick to the skin as long as possible, so need thorough attention. 2. Exfoliate Twice a week max, especially if you’re using the much ‘grammed The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, £6.30, which often pops up on Stories owing to the blood red ‘vampire facial’ hue created by its fusion of pore clearing, surface smoothing acids. A patch test is advisable before applying all over your face. Even then, use only in the evening as AHA acids leave skin more sensitive to sun damage and never leave for more than ten minutes. For a gentler facial acid trip, Lactic Acid 5% + HA, £5.80, is the one. It doesn’t pack such a punch in terms of fading pigmentation but it leaves skin soft and is a milder starting point for sensitive skin or chemical exfoliant beginners. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution The Ordinary £6.50 Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% The Ordinary £5.80 Retinol 0.2% in Squalane The Ordinary £4.50 3. Treat On days you’re not exfoliating, this is where retinol, and all other Vitamin A derivatives come in. Vitamin A is one of only two skincare ingredients clinically proven to definitively delay signs of premature ageing (the other is SPF) but be aware that not everyone can tolerate it so it’s best to start ‘low and slow’. Begin with a gentle retinol formula (in the case of The Ordinary, Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, £4.20) and apply a small amount once or twice a week, building up to every other day or moving onto a stronger formula as your skin develops a tolerance. It’s not wholly dissimilar to weaning. On which note, steer clear of vitamin A if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. There’s plenty of time to get on the retinol train later, and in the meantime an all-rounder serum such as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, £5, can have a reversing effect on breakouts and dullness. 4. Moisturise Wait at least twenty minutes post retinol application and then it’s on with The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, £4.90. If you’re a facial oil fan and have dry skin, consider layering The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil, £5.50, over the top of your hyaluronic acid serum for ‘no messing’ nourishment instead. All that said, any skincare routine has an element of ‘you do you’, so Deciem (The Ordinary’s parent company) recently launched an At Home consultation service which allows you to chat or schedule a video call with an in-house expert. Whether you have questions about individual products or a new routine, or want to find out what the hell you can put on that raging spot, they’ll shed some light and (if you give them the go ahead) can check in three weeks later to see how you’re getting on. It’s not a facial, but in the current times, it’s something. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% The Ordinary £5.05 100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane The Ordinary £2.80
The Best Ways to Recover From a C-SectionRead More Image: Jorgen House With any other major surgery you would be sent home to rest and given the correct care plan to repair your body. However, it’s not quite like… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 6 April 2021 The Best Ways to Recover From a C-Section Image: Jorgen House With any other major surgery you would be sent home to rest and given the correct care plan to repair your body. However, it’s not quite like that with a C-section – mainly because you have a new tiny human to look after. But also because the guidance given is just not good enough. So we’ve summarised the key things you need to aid your recovery. Just because you’ve had a baby, it’s so important to “Make sure you take care of you”. The first couple of weeks: Keep a track of your pain relief: It’s so easy to forget what you’ve taken and when and when the pain kicks in it can really set you back. Either chart it on your phone or the fridge and set reminders or get your partner to take charge of it for you. With so much going on in your brain it’s nice to offload something and let them take care of you. They’ll probably like that they can help too. The best way to rest We know this can feel impossible but you really do need to rest. Pull in all the help you can get. Pause any other unessential tasks like washing, cleaning etc… and use tools like pre-made meals. Try and reduce screen time and sleep when you can and let other people help you recover. You may feel like you want to do more but we promise it will only delay your healing and can also cause infection. Stock up on face masks and beauty treatments that you can do sitting down and make the most of it. Garnier Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask BUY NOW How far to walk after a C-section Start with small walks around the house, avoid walking up and down stairs and when you do try and hold your scar and stomach and move slowly. Then when you’re ready take a small walk outside and don’t be afraid to turn back on yourself if a destination feels too far. You’re healing and there’s no shame in admitting you need to return home to rest. It’s essential. Arnica will help you to heal Great for healing and not something your hospital will supply you with as it’s homeopathic. You can take the capsules and also use the gel or cream on the scar once the dressing comes off. Weleda Arnica Tablets BUY NOW A high temp doesn’t always = an infection But keep an eye out for it. A high temp can sometimes happen when your milk comes in but it’s always best to check any sudden spike and to ring your health visitor if you have one. Also keep an eye your scar to see if you think it’s not healing well. You should have regular check ups for this anyway but it’s always good for you to familiarise yourself with what it looks like. And again this is also something your partner can do for you if you don’t feel ready to look, which is completely normal if you’ve had an emergency section. It will get a lot easier. Up your fibre content to avoid constipation Avoiding this is important, for healing and overall health. Post op you might find it takes a few days to settle back down to normal. Help yourself by keeping your fluids and fibre rich foods up to aid in bowl movement. If this persists abdominal massage can also help. Lifting things and being lifted Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby and when you need to get up from the sofa or bed get your partner to help raise you up. You will regain strength quite quickly but it’s important to really let them heal, especially in the first few days and weeks. Get yourself some big high waisted pants The pants they give you in the hospital tend to cut in too low and are just plain rubbish and the other all in one pants can make you feel sweaty. We’ve found the best thing is a high-waisted maternity knicker with a pad placed inside. High waisted seamless pants BUY NOW Sneezing, coughing, laughing and crying You might be crying a lot and hopefully laughing, which can cause pain. And having a cold or cough is complete bitch as it bloody hurts. The best way to combat this is to gently hold your scar and tummy, almost cupping it, and this will help. Treat yourself to some new high-waisted Trousers Often women find the section above the scar is tender too. This is because of the internal incisions you’ve had and can also be down to internal trauma caused from having the surgery, so the higher your pants and trousers the better! Don’t worry about jeans or heavier materials, loose and soft clothing is key. You won’t be in them forever but you need them right now. MAMA Before & After Jersey Trousers BUY NOW Keep your blood sugar levels up with dark chocolate Dark chocolate is a winner for helping you get some energy and a great treat to have on standby. Ferrero Rocher Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Bar BUY NOW You’ve started to heal, what next? Complications that can happen Your scar is just the bit you can see but under the skin there is a lot more healing taking place. During the healing process adhesions form, initially good (to close the wound), however they can cause potential issues as they bind to organs and tissues in the pelvis, which can cause incontinence, pelvic pain, and back pain. Which is why it’s important to take care of yourself. Women also often find that they experience pulling or restrictions in the area, when getting back to moving more. So once you feel comfortable to do so, start reconnecting with your body by gently massaging the stomach (no need to go directly on the scar to start with), above and below the scar and once it has fully healed, on the scar too. Feeling disconnected from your body After a C-section lots of women express a lack of ‘connection’ to their body, like it has failed them in some way. Please remember that you have definitely not failed. You just grew a tiny human and you birthed that baby and went through a huge journey to get where you are. You will recover and you will feel better in time. It is so normal to feel like this and like everything it will improve as you strengthen your physical and mental health. You can also feel like your tummy or parts are disjointed. This is often accompanied with poor core control, stress incontinence and other issues. Again this is a completely normal feeling to have. It will improve as long as you give yourself the proper care and attention to recover. How to get the care you deserve Speak to your GP and request to see a women’s health physio. Or take matters into your own hands and book an appointment with your local practioner. You will find lots of Google, ask some friends who they used or look for your nearest Mummy MOT. Mummy MOT is a brand we trust and have used personally and you can find them almost anywhere. What does a women’s health physio help with? They will check your scar and tummy. They’ll be able to tell you if you have any stomach muscle separation. Most will offer an internal examination too, which checks for internal damage, prolapsing and measures the strength of your pelvic floor. It sounds invasive but after birth you won’t mind and it’s actually very reassuring to know if everything is ok in there or not. After your chat and examination they’ll give you advice and exercises to help you recover. If you end up paying for it yourself we guarantee you won’t regret it. Before you do anything just breathe All of the core muscles (Diaphragm, Pelvic Floor, Abdominal wall, Lumber Back muscles) work together when we breathe. Sit with your hand on your tummy (or if no time, do it when you’re lying down just before sleep) take a deep breathe in and then exhale through pursed lips till you have no air left. You’ll feel the tummy move away from your hand, you might also feel the lower back tighten and the pelvic floor move upwards. Repeat this as often as you like, it will aid recovery, reconnection and relaxation. This is the first step back towards any type of ‘exercise’ as it’s setting the foundations for a strong and well functioning core. Starting to exercise after a C-section The best way to repair your body and regain strength is to focus on breathing, postural exercises and gentle walking that you can build up slowly with time. Rehabilitating exercises you can try after your 6-week check up: Pelvic Tilting: Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat on floor. On an out breath, tilt your pelvis so your lower back presses into the floor, inhale and release. Repeat x 10 Bridging: Start position as above. As you exhale, lift your bum off the floor till you have a slope from your knee to your chin, inhale as you lower. Repeat x 10 Leg Slides, start position as above. As you exhale so the belly moves down, start to slide the leg forward, just as far as you can without your pelvis moving. Inhale as you bring the leg back in. Move slowly! Repeat x 5 each leg Try and eat some healthy foods We know it’s so hard and cake is all you want. But poor nutrition will slow post natal healing. Especially after a c-section when the the body needs to repair the damage done by the operation part of your birth. If healthy eating feels too hard, include a green smoothie into your day, they’re quick to make and will help you tick off some essential nutrients that you need. You need: Protein – helps tissue repair. Vitamins A, C & E – repair the skin and underlying tissue. Boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and help wound repair. Magnesium – attracts water into the intestines so helps reduce constipation. Collagen – great for wound healing and scarring Omega-3 – helps maintain cells and reduces inflammation. Read next… Green Smoothies That Every Mum Needs READ NOW Smoothies are a great way to stay topped up with essential nutrients. An easy way to drink a shed load of fruit and vegetables while you get on with other things.
10 Types of Mum Mates Every Woman Needs In Her LifeRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 2 April 2021 10 Types of Mum Mates Every Woman Needs In Her Life The Organiser Remember World Book Day? Us neither. But Organised Mum does; she’s got spreadsheets for this shit. She knows all the best baby classes and always has a spare swim nappy/outfit/pack of wipes. The Insta pal She slides into your DM’s on the daily and is always the first to throw you a like on your latest grid post. There are no plans to meet IRL, you’re happy just being each others vitual cheerleader. The Experienced Mum While you’re still finding your feet with baby no.1, she’s on to her 2nd, 3rd or 4th. This is not her first rodeo! She’ll tell you what to pack in that hospital bag, can diagnose a suspicious rash over Whatsapp and has potty training nailed like a pro. She’s your guru! The One Whose Kid Has The Same Issues As Yours You know what’s worse than your baby not sleeping through the night? All your friends’ babies sleeping through the night! Thank goodness there’s a pal in a similar shit situ to you. Off During The Week Mum You’ve spent many a random Tuesday spent wandering through a National Trust park together and she’s always free for a quick play date/brew. The Laid Back Mum The antithesis of the Helicopter parent. Big believer in the 5 second rule. Most likely to be spotted scrolling through Instagram whilst their slightly-feral child runs riot through soft play. The ‘Newer New Mum’ Mum Newer-New Mum’s baby is 6 months younger than yours, which makes you an absolute pro qualified to dish out parenting advice. This makes you feel smug, like you know what you’re doing; when you absolutely do not. NCT Mum The only woman in birthing classes whose birth plan was also ‘for the baby to come out’. You bonded over your dislike of…well…basically everyone else, and your kids are the same age, which is handy when you’re both awake at 3am trying to stay conscious for the night feed. School Gates Mum You’ve made small talk with her 5 days a week for 6 years and know all her innermost secrets, but you don’t actually know her first name and now it’s way too late to ask. The No-Judgement Mum Unflappable, unshockable and always brings wine, chocolate or both. We like her the most.
