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MistyMagic profile picture
What to Expect When You're Expecting!
by MistyMagic
Last post
 September 24th
...See more What to Expect When You're Expecting: Tips and Resources Whether you're pregnant, planning to be, or supporting someone who is, it’s an exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey. Here's a basic guide to what you can expect and helpful links to get you started. Share with us your journey and any tips or thoughts you have on pregnancy and parenting! ------------------------- General Tips for Expectant Parents 1.  Schedule Prenatal Care * Once you have had a positive pregnancy test or think you may be pregnant then that is the time to make an appointment with your doctor, as soon as possible. They can be your first point of call for confidential and professional care and advice. * Regular doctor visits ensure that your baby is growing properly and allows you to discuss plans, options and concerns. * Tests to expect: * Ultrasounds (to monitor growth and anatomy) * Blood and urine tests * Glucose screening (to check for gestational diabetes) 2. Take Care of Your Health * Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid and iron). * Avoid: Alcohol, smoking, excessive caffeine, and unpasteurized foods. * Exercise: Light to moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help with stamina, mood, and delivery preparation. * Hydration: Drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated. 3. Learn About Labour and Delivery * Research options like vaginal birth, caesarean section, or water birth. * Take prenatal classes to prepare for labour, delivery, and postpartum care. 4. Prepare Emotionally * Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings; don't hesitate to seek help if you feel persistently anxious or depressed (possible signs of prenatal depression). * Involve your partner or support system in the journey—attend appointments and classes together. 5. Plan for Postpartum Life * Research breastfeeding basics and consider lactation consultant resources if needed. * Stock up on essentials: diapers, baby clothes, and postpartum care supplies for you. 6. Stay Informed * Learn about pregnancy stages: trimesters, fetal development, and common symptoms like nausea or swelling. * Keep an open line of communication with your doctor for any concerns. ------------------------- Helpful Resources and Links * General Pregnancy Guidance * What to Expect (Official Site) [https://www.whattoexpect.com/] * March of Dimes - Pregnancy [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkLlPEDWdnBwIAAokM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016580/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.marchofdimes.org%2Ffind-support%2Ftopics%2Fpregnancy/RK=2/RS=XcMs1vVhA7DkRk5niTTk1yLMlLQ-] * Nutrition During Pregnancy * Mayo Clinic - Nutrition and Weight Gain During Pregnancy [https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle] * Prenatal Classes * Lamaze International [https://www.lamaze.org/] * BabyCenter - Prenatal Classes Overview [https://www.babycenter.com/] * Labor and Delivery Preparation * The Bump - Birth Plan Template [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkOYxnDWdnHAIAl0IM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016488/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thebump.com%2Fa%2Ftool-birth-plan/RK=2/RS=kv8SKtjL7n6puIQ2vsiSuweVbp4-] * Childbirth Connection - Labor Comfort Measures [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr.oGmUDWdnIwIA.1kM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzMEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016532/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fnationalpartnership.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F02%2Fcomfort-in-labor-simkin.pdf/RK=2/RS=6y1YrO1Esb41Rf7nAXYYgZYraDc-] * Postpartum Support * Postpartum Support International [https://www.postpartum.net/] * KellyMom - Breastfeeding Resource [https://kellymom.com/] * Apps to Track Pregnancy (easy to google lots of different apps)) * Ovia Pregnancy Tracker [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrLAC27D2dn6wEAp78M34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736017083/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.oviahealth.com%2Fpregnancy-app%2F/RK=2/RS=Aq7Aq.9x_6NXd38lIw52BrAnmK8-] * The Bump * BabyCenter [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkMR7ZD2dnDAIAlJQM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736017114/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.babycentre.co.uk%2F/RK=2/RS=Xb.kKMywOuMUgSCwVN.fkHFxpmc-]
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Are You Coparenting? Introduce Yourself
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 September 18th, 2025
...See more Welcome to the Parenting and Pregnancy Community! One of our community topics is coparenting. For those who are familiar with the concept, co-parenting is a remarkable journey of collaborative parenting after separation or divorce. It's an approach that brings together separated or divorced parents with a shared goal: to provide the best possible upbringing for their children. This community space serves to connect with others who understand the joys and complexities of co-parenting. Are you a coparent? Feel welcome to: ✨ Introduce Yourself ✨ Share a little about your coparenting situation or journey ✨ What are some challenges you would like to discuss and gain support for?
tommy profile picture
Parenting & Pregnancy Automated Taglist!
by tommy
Last post
 June 5th, 2025
...See more Welcome to the Parenting & Pregnancy Taglist This thread is an auto-updating list. The list is regularly updated by forum leaders and can be found below. Having issues? Reply to this thread and someone will help you! Why should I join the taglist? ✔ Never miss out on sub-community check-ins, discussions or events ✔ Get tagged and notified by community leaders whenever a new relevant thread has been posted ✔ Become a more active member of the community. What do I need to do? ✅ To add yourself to this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please add me. ❌ To remove yourself from this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please remove me. ------------------------- Current taglist as of Jan 2024 (updated by @MistyMagic) @daydreammemories @Iyyana @KindCatEars @Maxisthebest @MistyMagic @tealPapaya5453 @tommy @Truth22
MistyMagic profile picture
What to Expect When You're Expecting!
by MistyMagic
Last post
 September 24th
...See more What to Expect When You're Expecting: Tips and Resources Whether you're pregnant, planning to be, or supporting someone who is, it’s an exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey. Here's a basic guide to what you can expect and helpful links to get you started. Share with us your journey and any tips or thoughts you have on pregnancy and parenting! ------------------------- General Tips for Expectant Parents 1.  Schedule Prenatal Care * Once you have had a positive pregnancy test or think you may be pregnant then that is the time to make an appointment with your doctor, as soon as possible. They can be your first point of call for confidential and professional care and advice. * Regular doctor visits ensure that your baby is growing properly and allows you to discuss plans, options and concerns. * Tests to expect: * Ultrasounds (to monitor growth and anatomy) * Blood and urine tests * Glucose screening (to check for gestational diabetes) 2. Take Care of Your Health * Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid and iron). * Avoid: Alcohol, smoking, excessive caffeine, and unpasteurized foods. * Exercise: Light to moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help with stamina, mood, and delivery preparation. * Hydration: Drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated. 3. Learn About Labour and Delivery * Research options like vaginal birth, caesarean section, or water birth. * Take prenatal classes to prepare for labour, delivery, and postpartum care. 4. Prepare Emotionally * Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings; don't hesitate to seek help if you feel persistently anxious or depressed (possible signs of prenatal depression). * Involve your partner or support system in the journey—attend appointments and classes together. 5. Plan for Postpartum Life * Research breastfeeding basics and consider lactation consultant resources if needed. * Stock up on essentials: diapers, baby clothes, and postpartum care supplies for you. 6. Stay Informed * Learn about pregnancy stages: trimesters, fetal development, and common symptoms like nausea or swelling. * Keep an open line of communication with your doctor for any concerns. ------------------------- Helpful Resources and Links * General Pregnancy Guidance * What to Expect (Official Site) [https://www.whattoexpect.com/] * March of Dimes - Pregnancy [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkLlPEDWdnBwIAAokM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016580/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.marchofdimes.org%2Ffind-support%2Ftopics%2Fpregnancy/RK=2/RS=XcMs1vVhA7DkRk5niTTk1yLMlLQ-] * Nutrition During Pregnancy * Mayo Clinic - Nutrition and Weight Gain During Pregnancy [https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle] * Prenatal Classes * Lamaze International [https://www.lamaze.org/] * BabyCenter - Prenatal Classes Overview [https://www.babycenter.com/] * Labor and Delivery Preparation * The Bump - Birth Plan Template [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkOYxnDWdnHAIAl0IM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016488/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thebump.com%2Fa%2Ftool-birth-plan/RK=2/RS=kv8SKtjL7n6puIQ2vsiSuweVbp4-] * Childbirth Connection - Labor Comfort Measures [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr.oGmUDWdnIwIA.1kM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzMEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736016532/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fnationalpartnership.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F02%2Fcomfort-in-labor-simkin.pdf/RK=2/RS=6y1YrO1Esb41Rf7nAXYYgZYraDc-] * Postpartum Support * Postpartum Support International [https://www.postpartum.net/] * KellyMom - Breastfeeding Resource [https://kellymom.com/] * Apps to Track Pregnancy (easy to google lots of different apps)) * Ovia Pregnancy Tracker [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrLAC27D2dn6wEAp78M34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736017083/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.oviahealth.com%2Fpregnancy-app%2F/RK=2/RS=Aq7Aq.9x_6NXd38lIw52BrAnmK8-] * The Bump * BabyCenter [https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrkMR7ZD2dnDAIAlJQM34lQ;_ylu=Y29sbwNpcjIEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1736017114/RO=10/RU=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.babycentre.co.uk%2F/RK=2/RS=Xb.kKMywOuMUgSCwVN.fkHFxpmc-]
pluckyLychee4792 profile picture
I Came Across Something About Olive Oil and Tomatoes Improving Egg and Sperm Quality
by pluckyLychee4792
Last post
 July 4th
...See more Hi everyone, I recently came across some interesting information about fertility and wanted to share it here. I read that following a Mediterranean-style diet may support reproductive health, and that olive oil and tomatoes, which are key parts of this diet, could have benefits for both egg quality and sperm quality. From what I found, olive oil contains healthy fats and antioxidants, while tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that some studies have linked to male fertility and overall reproductive health. Of course, I know diet alone isn't a miracle solution, but I thought it was an interesting topic since many of us are looking for ways to improve our chances naturally alongside medical treatment. Has anyone here tried adding more olive oil or tomatoes to their diet while trying to conceive? I'd love to hear your experiences or any research you've come across.
modestFig8996 profile picture
I think I might be pregnant with an IUD
by modestFig8996
Last post
 June 23rd
...See more I’m 17 with an IUD and in a relationship. Recently I’ve been gaining weight at a rapid pace, and I’ve been spotting as well as cramping for a bit now. I’ve always been super athletic and have never gained weight like this before, and I don’t usually get periods anymore. I know the IUD is 99% effective but I just can’t shake this feeling that something is different. Do I sound pregnant?
maxisthebest profile picture
Surprise..
by maxisthebest
Last post
 March 29th
...See more TW: Miscarriage Hi friends. (:  For a second time around, I am pregnant again. This time, I'm going to do everything in my power to prevent a miscarriage, as that's how I lost my baby last time.  I know this is going to be extremely hard since I am only 15. I know, I know. What is a 15-year-old girl doing messing around like that? I find out if I am having twins, or just one baby on Jan. 6 at 9 am EST. I am very excited since this is my first sonogram (ultrasound).  The friends i'd like to bring with me along my journey: @ZeroFizz @SyriusSystem @Amymimy2711 @someoneidk468 @iloveyouxx @Macylou82 @MidnightMystique @Sebastion0o0
Prettypaws8618 profile picture
Early miscarriage
by Prettypaws8618
Last post
 March 29th
...See more I had a very early miscarriage, I'm just looking for some support, and answers.
Shinewellv profile picture
Overwhelmed with gestational diabetes
by Shinewellv
Last post
 March 29th
...See more I am 9 weeks pregnant and feeling very overwhelmed today with expectations and health. Last week I have been diagnosed with early gestational diabetes and I’ve been to some appointments and following up as expected, but today everything feels like a lot. I had some trouble already before with that I should not be taking hot baths, which relax me a great deal, but I’ve dropped them and it was fine-ish. I haven’t really had big issues with specific food restrictions. But now I started feeling this great pressure to always eat healthy and move a lot, but my cravings for bad food have also gotten bigger (both because of pregnancy and because I’ve been denied them, I guess) and I am so tired all the time. So both eating healthy and moving feel super hard, and on top of that I need to be tracking my blood sugar levels all the time. I hate having to see the result of every single meal I eat. I just want to lay in the couch and eat comfort food and be fine. And now I also feel worse about not taking baths etc, like suddenly every restriction feels too much. But then I also feel guilty for feeling that because I should have no problem doing this for my baby. I feel like I’m failing them already.  I know rationally that I don’t have to be perfect 100% of the time, but it is still hard - because if this is good for the baby, it should be a no-brainer and I should just want to do it well.  I am not sure what I am expecting from posting this, I just wanted to vent to people who may relate or have some ideas on how to deal with these feelings, I think
IslaBeatrice profile picture
The weight of pregnancy
by IslaBeatrice
Last post
 March 29th
...See more I am scared to be a single mom. My sweet girl will come in September. My body is so weird. I have back pain. My feet are swollen and my arms are fat. My belly isn't pretty. i have no money. I go to college by scholarship and I am financially supported by my father. Recently he hasn't care too much about me just so we can prioritize the baby. He's helping me buy things for the baby - and baby daddy's mom too. I'm selling books and jewels to have money for myself, for skin care or going to the movies. Things to relax. Father will no longer pay for my heath insurance after the baby so he can pay for the baby's insurance. So I cannot get sick. Baby daddy's mom will stay with the baby sometimes during my classes so me and the father can go to college in peace. But sometimes we're gonna have to bring the baby with us bc she is a nurse and works all night once and a while. My breasts are huge and my nose is swollen. I'm not liking my body. I am just looking foward to meet my baby and not worry so much. It's gonna be so hard. #pregnancy #family
emotionalEast5400 profile picture
First time Mom
by emotionalEast5400
Last post
 March 29th
...See more Hi, I'm a first time mum, I'm currently pregnant with multiples, due on January 1st. Does anyone have any advice? I don't know what to expect and I'd be grateful to hear from anyone's experiences with giving birth/pregnancy/life after birth with a baby (babies)
Ariel2991 profile picture
Pregnancy/ Too much folic acid/ Freaking out !
by Ariel2991
Last post
 March 29th
...See more Hello! I’m 33 and currently 10 weeks pregnant. While trying to conceive, my OB advised me to take a folic acid supplement for a couple of months. During the month I conceived, I was also taking another vitamin that included folic acid, so there was some overlap for a short time. Around the time I conceived, I continued with the folic acid supplement, and after finding out I was pregnant, I was advised to add a prenatal vitamin that also contained folic acid. That meant I was unintentionally taking more than intended for a few days before I realized and stopped the extra one. Since then, I’ve been following the original recommendation only. What’s really stressing me out is that another OB later told me that the amount I had been taking was too high and suggested stopping briefly and checking my folate levels. Now I’m spiraling and terrified that I’ve somehow harmed my baby. I know some people are prescribed higher amounts for specific medical reasons, but I don’t have any known risk factors, which is why I’m so anxious and second-guessing everything.
bestSea653 profile picture
third trimester, first time mom
by bestSea653
Last post
 March 29th
...See more Hi! I am a first time mom in my third trimester with 5 weeks to go. I am incredibly nervous about giving birth despite doing research, reading books, etc. Does anyone know of support group I may be able to go to for support? I talk about it with my family which is helpful but when I am alone with not much to do, I start panicking. 
crimsonSummer6376 profile picture
Pregnancy Feelings
by crimsonSummer6376
Last post
 March 29th
...See more I'm not pregnant, so I don't know if I'm in the right place to be but:  I’ve noticed I’ve been drawn to pregnancy and baby-related things since my teens, even without actively planning children. I’m curious how others understand long-term interest in caregiving or family roles, and whether anyone else relates. I’ve been wearing a pillow to look like a pregnancy belly and I’m wondering if this means something?
Pining4Papaya profile picture
Anyone Expecting Now?
by Pining4Papaya
Last post
 March 29th
...See more Hi. I'm a mom of two girls - 3 years & 21 months - and just found out I'm carrying twins due in October. I have the support of my two older sisters who live close by and my husband who travels a lot for work. I struggle with depression and anxiety and while I have found some online support through online parenting & pregnancy communities, it has been more helpful to chat with other mothers here about the emotional parts. I just wanted to say hi and see if there are other women who would like to be support for each other. Thanks.

Parenting and Pregnancy Support

Welcome to the Pregnancy and Parenting Support! We are so pleased you have stumbled across our little internet corner. Our community is here to support you through your parenting and pregnancy journey. From pregnancy woes and wins, milestones with your little ones, resources, general support, offering personal experiences, and more! Feel free to discuss anything and everything related to the life that is raising a child, growing a child, supporting someone who is growing and or raising a child, or co-parenting while raising a child. 


What are the different forum topics for Parenting and Pregnancy?

Community Space: A place to introduce yourself and participate in our community check-ins, games, and more!

CoParenting: A place to connect with others in a co-parenting arrangement, share your story, and support others!

Parenting: A place to receive support, ask questions, and start and participate in discussions regarding the parenting journey!

Pregnancy: Want to share your pregnancy experience? Have questions and want to hear the experiences of others? Discuss it here!


How can I help?

You can help us by simply responding to threads and sharing your story (if you're comfortable). Check-in with us, join a discussion, or start one! Alternatively, join us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information.


Helpful Threads

Taglist: Do you want to stay up to date with our community? Then join our tag list to be notified whenever there is a new discussion or update within the community!


Parenting and Pregnancy FAQ

Q: Are there any sub-community-specific guidelines that we need to adhere to?

A: You can find Sub-community-specific guidelines below, which you should follow in addition to the general forum guidelines.


Help! I still have a question!  If you need help, feel free to contact a community leader or post here, and someone will contact you!

Community Guidelines

1. Include a trigger warning (TW) when referencing sensitive topics such as miscarriages, death, abortion, etc.

2. Respect the views of other members within the sub-community. Parenting is not easy and is often done differently from person to person.

3. Do not attempt to diagnose another member's child. You may share your experience with your child with the same or similar symptoms and the outcome, but diagnosing should be left to a medical professional. 

Not Helpful: “[I think] Your child has [xxx].

Helpful: “My child had/has symptoms [xxx] and [xxx] and was/is diagnosed with [xxx]; you might consider taking your child to a medical professional to rule this out.”


Read the 7 Cups Guidelines
Community Resources