The mental note-to-self during labor with my first child went something like this: You definitely don't want to do this again. Three kids later, it's obvious that I did not listen to my own advice. I guess it's true that the joy of having a child far outweighs the discomforts of pregnancy and childbirth. But even beyond that, I have to admit that giving birth was easier the second and third time around. For those of you who may be wondering if that means less pain, in my case it did. But before I jump into that part of the story, I'd just like to say that my subsequent labor and deliveries were better. Much better -- and here's why: 

My symptoms did not change. My attitude did. For instance, I experienced just as much nausea during my second pregnancy and my third, as I did with the first. In fact, nearly everything about the subsequent pregnancies and the deliveries was identical. What changed was how I handled it mentally. Knowing what to expect made it easier to prepare both physically and mentally, and it eliminated the surprise factor, which in turn, made it easier to cope.

My accommodations were new and improved. My three children each have nearly five years between them. As you might imagine, medical technology changes rapidly during that time period, although I suspect you don't have to wait five years for that to occur. Likewise, hospital birthing rooms took on a new and improved look. The transformation from cold operating room to warmly decorated bedroom-like surroundings was a welcome change indeed.

My subsequent deliveries were faster -- much faster. My first birth was somewhat complicated by the fact that my daughter was in posterior position (the back of the baby's head is against the mothers' back). In spite of this complication, I managed to evade both a C-section and the forceps, but it definitely slowed the process. On the other hand, her brothers came into this world in a hurry, sans posterior problems and all. While I know that subsequent births are not always quicker than first births, it was a welcome truth in my case.

My confidence emerged. Just like anything you've done before, a successful experience generates confidence. With one labor and delivery already on my mommy résumé, I had more confidence with the second pregnancy. Experience taught me what worked well and what didn't, and that's a far cry from the fear of the unknown that accompanies any first birth.

While it's certainly true that no two birth stories are ever the same, most mothers are more physically and mentally prepared the second -- and third -- time around. I certainly was, and it made all the difference!

Photo by John Looy on Unsplash

Pregnancy may seem like a great excuse to become a regular at your local bakery or ice cream shop, but even if you’re aching for sweets daily, that doesn’t mean you should give in to your cravings on a regular basis. In fact, a healthy diet is a must for your baby’s development. But while eating a wide array of fruits, veggies, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein can give you most of the nutrients you and your developing baby need, it’s still possible to fall short on a few key factors. This is where vitamins come in. Read on for all you need to know about taking prenatal supplements when you’re having a baby.

Reach for the right jar. Moms-to-be have an array of multivitamins to choose from, but it’s important to reach for prenatal vitamins. These are specifically formulated with more folic acid and iron, two key nutrients for your baby’s development. Folic acid helps prevent brain and spinal cord abnormalities, while iron helps ward off the chance of anemia during pregnancy. Prenatal supplements also help you meet your daily requirement of other vitamins, such as calcium, which boosts your baby’s bone strength, and vitamin D, which lowers the risk of dangerous birthing complications.

Choose carefully. Ask your doctor if they have a preferred brand of prenatal supplements. If not, look for a jar that meets the following requirements: 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid, 250 milligrams of calcium, 30 milligrams of iron, 50 milligrams of vitamin C, 15 milligrams of zinc, 2 milligrams of both copper and vitamin B-6, and 400 international units of vitamin D.

Know the proper dosage. Be sure to carefully read the dosage instructions before taking your prenatal, and ask your doctor if you’ll need any additional supplements. Some new moms may need an extra dosage of certain vitamins, such as omega-3 fatty acids. And if your prenatal vitamins are making you feel nauseous, bring that up too, as your doctor may prescribe another type of supplement. 

Prenatal vitamins help give your body the best shot at a healthy pregnancy, but remember that they are not an excuse to eat a poor diet. Loading up on wholesome, nutritious foods in addition to taking a regular supplement will put you in great shape for having a healthy baby.

Photo by Adam Nieścioruk on Unsplash

Pregnancy brings a lot of unexpected surprises, but perhaps one of the least welcome is a disruption to your sleep schedule. Being pregnant is exhausting, so why are you lying awake counting sheep at a time when you need sleep the most?

Rest assured that you’re not alone. It turns out that many moms-to-be have trouble falling -- and staying -- asleep while pregnant due to the hormonal changes and physical discomfort of carrying a baby. While it’s frustrating, experts say the situation is fixable, and since your new baby’s health depends on your health, the more sleep you get during your pregnancy, the better. Read on for a pregnancy tip for each trimester that will help you get the rest you need.

Sleep tip for the first trimester
During the first few months of your pregnancy, you may notice that you need to urinate more often in the middle of the night. This is normal, but to prevent the number of trips to the bathroom, avoid drinking too many fluids in the evenings. Just make sure you drink plenty of water during the day to make up for this.

Stress can also keep new moms-to-be awake, so if you’re worried about your new pregnancy, try keeping a journal next to your bed and jotting down your worries before you go to sleep. The act of writing them down may help alleviate your stress enough for you to fall asleep.

Sleep tip for the second trimester
Many moms-to-be find that their sleep improves during the second trimester as the need to urinate decreases. However, your changing body shape may present some sleep problems. As your baby grows, you’ll find that sleeping on your side with your knees bent may be the most comfortable position. While strategically placed pillows can help keep you in this side position, don’t worry if you roll over onto your back in the middle of the night -- it’s one of those parts of pregnancy that you can’t control.

Sleep tip for the third trimester
During the last trimester of your pregnancy, the need to urinate frequently often returns, along with heartburn, leg cramps, and discomfort due to your expanding belly. To help prepare your body for sleep, do something relaxing before you head to bed, such as taking a warm bath for 15 minutes.

Getting into a regular bedtime routine can also help your body shut down for a good night’s sleep. While it might be tempting to work into the night getting ready for your new baby, remember to put your needs first. The nursery decorations can wait until the morning!

If you find a bedtime routine that works for you, be sure to stick to it. While it is possible to get a good night’s sleep while pregnant, you’ll find that it isn’t as easy once you have a new baby in the house, so stock up on your shut-eye now!