Behind the Scenes of Motherhood: The Surprising and Wild Truths You Never Knew!
Stitches Tie Everything Together
And there’s more! Stitches may be needed, but not the fun kind you can knit a cozy scarf with. No, these are the kind that makes sitting down a challenge. But don’t worry; the healthcare provider will ensure the site is well-numbed and comfortable.
Typically, episiotomy stitches dissolve within a few days and disappear in a week or two. It may not be the glamorous side of childbirth, but it’s all worth it when you finally get to hold the beautiful little one.
Next: No guts, no glory…they say.
Chainsaws Were Used For Childbirth
The chainsaw was invented to assist with childbirth! Yep, you read that right. In the 18th century, before modern medicine and fancy equipment, doctors had to rely on primitive tools to help deliver babies.
And one such tool was a modified chainsaw, which was used to perform symphysiotomy, a procedure in which the pelvic bone was sawn in half to make room for a baby to pass through. But thankfully, the chainsaw eventually found a more practical purpose in the logging industry.
Next: Have you ever heard of a device that spins pregnant women to help them give birth?
Spinning It Out
Here’s a fun fact that might leave you feeling a bit dizzy: the Blonsky device was a table patented by a couple in the ’20s that spun pregnant women around to help them give birth!
That’s right; the idea was that the centrifugal force would make it easier for the baby to come out. But don’t worry; you won’t find this device at local hospitals today! It turns out that spinning around like a merry-go-round isn’t the safest or most effective way to give birth.
Next: Imagine giving birth to a crowd of strangers watching.
Royal Women Had No Privacy When Birthing
Back in the day, giving birth was often treated as a public spectacle, especially if you were a royal family member. That’s because proof was needed that the baby had truly come from a royal womb.
So, women would often give birth in front of many people, including doctors, midwives, courtiers, and even the public. This way, everyone could see that the baby was legitimately born from the family and that no foul play was involved.
Next: The most unusual form of confirming pregnancy.
Good Ol’ Egyptian Pregnancy Tests
It’s amazing what people used to do to determine whether or not they were pregnant in historic times. In ancient Egypt, women didn’t have access to modern pregnancy tests, so they had to rely on some creative methods to determine if they were expecting.
One of the most unusual methods involved peeing on a bag of barley and wheat. If the grains sprouted, it was believed that the woman was pregnant. This was because the hormones in a pregnant woman’s urine can sometimes stimulate the growth of plants.
Next: Embryos can be frozen indefinitely. Here’s how!
Don’t Have To Worry About Future Infertility
Who knew that once embryos are frozen, they can be kept in icy limbo forever? Couples undergoing IVF may end up with more embryos than they need, so they freeze the extras for later use. They’re often kept in specialized freezers in reproductive medicine centers.
But, the longer they’re frozen—generally stored for only up to ten years—the greater the risk of damage or degradation. So, while it’s impressive that we have the technology to freeze embryos, there are practical considerations for long-term storage.
Next: There’s a good chance younger siblings have some of their older sibling’s cells…
Old Cells Just Hanging Around
Did you know that some stem cells from a fetus can stay in a mother’s body for many years after childbirth? It’s true! These cells, known as fetal microchimeric cells, can cross the placenta and enter the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy.
Once inside the mother’s body, some fetal cells can take residence and remain there for many years, even decades. This means there’s a good chance that an older sibling’s cells also flow within their younger sibling’s body.
Next: Growing up means getting rid of those extra bones.
Human Babies Are Born With More Bones Than Adults
When born, our skeletons comprise around 300 bones. But as we grow and develop, some of these bones fuse, leaving us with 206 as adults.
So, why do babies have so many extra bones? Well, it’s because many of these haven’t yet fused, and babies need additional flexibility in their skeletons to help them navigate the tight spaces of the birth canal during delivery. Over time, many of these bones will fuse to form larger and stronger bones.
Next: Newborn apes and monkeys help in their delivery.
Before Their First Breath, Primates Are Already Lending A Hand
Did you know that non-human primates have a pretty clever trick up their sleeves—or, rather, up their hands—to help them get out of the birth canal? Many non-human primates, like monkeys and apes, use their hands to assist in birthing.
During labor, the mother often reaches down and uses her hands to grab the emerging baby and guide it out of the birth canal. This can help to prevent the baby from getting stuck or injured during delivery.
Next: Moms pass on their culinary preferences to their little ones in the womb.
Influencing a Baby’s Taste Buds Before Birth
During pregnancy, the mother’s diet can affect the developing taste buds of her offspring. Certain food flavors can pass from the mother’s diet into the amniotic fluid and eventually into the newborn’s taste buds. As a result, a baby may be more likely to enjoy foods that the mother frequently consumes during pregnancy.
Conversely, if a mother avoids certain foods during pregnancy, her kid may be less inclined to enjoy them. Although a kid’s food preferences aren’t solely determined by the flavors they experience in the womb, cultural and environmental factors can also impact them.
Next: Belly button rings for pregnant women are a thing!
Specially Designed Belly Rings For Pregnant Women
Traditional belly button rings are typically made with metal or plastic, which can become uncomfortable or even painful as the belly expands. But the specially designed pregnancy belly button rings are often made with materials like flexible plastic or silicone, which can bend and stretch as the belly grows.
If you’re pregnant and want to keep your belly button ring, consider investing in one of these special pregnancy rings to make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Next: Do women on birth control pills blink more?
Blink Twice If You’re On The Pill
Who knew that birth control pills could also make you a world-class blinker? A study has found that pill-takers blink 32% more often than non-pill-takers. Scientists aren’t entirely sure why this happens, but it could have something to do with the hormones in the pills messing with our bodies.
It’s possible that estrogen and progesterone, the main hormones in the pill, could be affecting the muscles that control our eye movements. But don’t worry, ladies! This increased blinking seems to disappear during the monthly visit from Aunt Flo.
Next: The truth about water breaking.
More Of A Dribble Than A Downpour
Contrary to what we see in movies and TV shows, a pregnant woman’s water doesn’t break in a dramatic gush at her feet. Instead, it’s more like a slow leak or a trickle. So if you’re pregnant and worried about ruining your favorite pair of shoes, don’t fret!
Water breaking is more likely to be a subtle and gradual process than a dramatic movie moment. Of course, every pregnancy and labor is different, so there’s always a chance that your water could break more noticeably.
Next: More facts about water breaking.
It’s Not Always A One-time Event
When it comes to water breaking during labor, it is not always a one-time event. Your water can break multiple times during the course of delivery! This may happen because the amniotic sac surrounding the baby can have small holes or tears, which can cause a slow leak of amniotic fluid.
As labor progresses and your little one moves down the birth canal, more pressure is placed on the sac, causing it to break open further and release more fluid.
Next: No dramatic water breaks? There’s still hope!
Don’t be Intimidated by Amniotomy
If your water doesn’t break on its own during labor, don’t worry—the doctor or midwife can help by breaking it. This procedure is called an amniotomy.
During an amniotomy, a healthcare provider will use a small tool called an amnihook to make a small hole in the amniotic sac, allowing the fluid to leak out. This can help to speed up the labor and increase the likelihood of a vaginal delivery. While it may sound intimidating, an amniotomy is a routine procedure.
Next: What to do when water breaks.
Don’t Panic!
Contrary to what you may have seen in movies, just because the water has broken doesn’t necessarily mean one has to rush to the hospital in a frenzy. Only about 10% of women experience water breaking as the first sign of labor.
Once the water breaks, take a deep breath, stay calm, and wear a pad. Call your healthcare provider to let them know what is happening, and they will advise on the best course of action.
Next: Put your running shoes and bedroom activities on hold.
Put Your Feet Up And Take It Easy
Many couples wonder whether it is okay to make love during their pregnancy journey—and the short answer is: yes. However, it is only safe to do so up until the moment that the water breaks.
When this happens, the amniotic sac protecting the baby ruptures, releasing the fluid inside. This means the baby is now more vulnerable to infection, with less protection around them. Running around or having intercourse could introduce bacteria into the vagina and increase the risk of infection.
Next: Are contractions the worst part of labor?
The Bright Side of Contractions
Labor can be a real pain, especially concerning those pesky contractions. They feel like a giant hand squeezing your insides and won’t quit! But don’t worry; it’s all part of the miracle of birth.
These contractions are like a mother’s personal cheerleading squad, helping push the little one into the world. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to deal with the pain. From breathing techniques to pain meds, the options are endless. So don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Next: Finding a secret shortcut to the smoothest delivery journey possible.
Who Needs Magic When You Have An Epidural
Getting an epidural during labor is like winning a VIP pass to the magical land of pain-free childbirth! With the help of a small tube inserted in the lower back, you can say goodbye to the worst of the pain. It’s like taking a happy pill without any illegal stuff!
However, epidurals aren’t all rainbows and unicorns. As with any medical intervention, there are risks involved. The blood pressure could drop, and one may have difficulty pushing during delivery. It might just be worth it!
Next: A sign that you’re one step closer to meeting the little one.
A Workout Paired with a Bathroom Trip
When giving birth, the body can give some interesting signals. One of these is the feeling of having to drop a deuce, even if you don’t need to go.
It might feel awkward, but trust us; it’s completely normal. It’s a sign that the baby is moving down the birth canal and getting ready to make their grand entrance. Some healthcare providers might even encourage pushing like you’re on the toilet, as it can help move the baby.
Next: You will need a lot more than a doctor.
Trust In Healthcare Providers
All through the pregnancy term, the would-be mom will come across several health practitioners depending on the nature of the pregnancy. It starts with the general practitioner, the first point of medical contact. The GP can confirm the pregnancy and give you an approximate due date.
There are also others like obstetricians, midwives, doulas, and sonographers whose job is to make the pregnancy and delivery go without any hitch. Remember that these healthcare professionals are highly trained and experienced in delivering babies.
Next: Don’t be surprised by this doctor recommendation.
The Dreaded Cut Down There
During delivery, doctors may perform an episiotomy, a small incision between the vagina and anus, to widen the vaginal opening and facilitate the baby’s passage.
While it may sound a bit daunting, rest assured that doctors will numb the area and use sutures to stitch it up afterward. And hey, a small snip is a small price for a safe and healthy delivery, right? Plus, with proper care and rest, the wound heals quickly.
Next: What’s a vacuum in the delivery room?
Sometimes Suction Is Needed
Doctors may use a vacuum during delivery to assist in getting the little one out. The vacuum extractor applies suction and traction to the baby’s head to help guide him through the birth canal and prevent the head from moving back up the birth canal between contractions.
While it’s a standard procedure, it’s not without dangers and is used only if necessary. Despite the potential risks, vacuum-assisted delivery is a safe and effective method for delivery when used appropriately and under the right circumstances.
Next: Giving birth to a conehead!
Baby Might Have A Temporary Conehead
After a vaginal birth, it’s common for newborns to have a cone-shaped head due to the skull’s adjustment needed to pass to the birth canal. Although it may look alarming, it’s a normal part of the birth process.
The good news is that coneheads usually go away within a few days as the baby’s head gradually returns to its more rounded shape. During this time, you may notice a soft spot on top of your baby’s head, known as the fontanelle, which allows for the continued growth and development of the skull.
Next: More deliveries to be done.
Meet The Placenta
After delivering a beautiful bundle of joy; there’s still one more thing left to do—say goodbye to the placenta. The placenta, which provides all the nutrients and oxygen for your baby in the womb, must also be delivered.
But don’t worry; delivering the placenta is usually quick and easy. After the baby is born, the uterus will continue to contract, which will help the placenta separate from the uterine wall. Then, the placenta will be delivered with a gentle push or two.
Next: What happens to the episiotomy sites?
Stitches Tie Everything Together
And there’s more! Stitches may be needed, but not the fun kind you can knit a cozy scarf with. No, these are the kind that makes sitting down a challenge. But don’t worry; the healthcare provider will ensure the site is well-numbed and comfortable.
Typically, episiotomy stitches dissolve within a few days and disappear in a week or two. It may not be the glamorous side of childbirth, but it’s all worth it when you finally get to hold the beautiful little one.
Next: No guts, no glory…they say.
It’s All Part Of The Amazing Process
Let’s face it, giving birth can be messy! Along with all the fluids, there will likely be some blood. It’s nothing to be too alarmed about, though. The uterus sheds its lining as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state, which can result in some bleeding.
But don’t worry; the doctors and nurses are experts at handling the mess. They’ll have plenty of supplies and techniques to keep everything clean and tidy. And let’s not forget, the result of all that blood, sweat, and tears is a beautiful new life!
Next: Mommy diapers to the rescue!
New Best Friend = Mommy Diapers
After giving birth, it’s common to experience postpartum bleeding, lasting for several weeks. To manage this bleeding, many new moms are given what are colloquially called “mommy diapers,” which are just extraabsorbent pads that provide some much-needed protection.
While wearing a diaper may not be glamorous, it’s all part of the post-birth experience. And hey, there are worse things than being able to rock a comfortable and practical diaper without any shame or judgment.
Next: Aunt Flo will be around for a while.
Rock the Granny Panties
After giving birth, many new moms experience postpartum bleeding, commonly known as lochia. It’s like having a period on steroids—heavy bleeding, clots, etc. This can last up to six weeks and is the body’s way of shedding the excess blood and tissue from the uterus.
So, in addition to all the other joys of motherhood, new moms get to wear pads, rock the granny panties, and change “diapers” frequently. Just think of it as the body’s way of returning to normal after the incredible experience of bringing new life into the world!
Next: You might want to ditch the toilet paper!
A Peri Bottle Can Be A Game Changer
After giving birth, using the bathroom can be challenging. A handy accessory is often recommended to make things easier: the peri bottle. It might sound silly, but this little thing can be a lifesaver.
It is used to squirt warm water on your lady bits while peeking, helping gently clean the area and ease discomfort while preventing infections. After all, no one wants to deal with the sting of toilet paper on sensitive postpartum skin.
Next: Say bye-bye to your favorite undies!
Not-So-Glamorous Undies
After delivery, say goodbye to those favorite undies because there’ll be no need for them for a while. Instead, they’ll be replaced with disposable mesh underwear that’s not exactly Victoria’s Secret material. And when it’s time to go home, you’ll likely be sent on your way with a few more pairs of those stretchy, netted undergarments.
It may not be the most glamorous postpartum attire, but it’s practical. Plus, you’ll be so focused on taking care of the baby to worry.
Next: A little gift from nature: forgetfulness.
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