babysteps newsletter
August 2005
BabySteps is a FREE monthly email newsletter on holistic health, nutrition and solution-oriented tips
for enhancing fertility naturally and for maintaining a healthy, happy and balanced pregnancy.
tips for getting pregnant naturally
Timing is Everything!
Here are some suggestions that may improve your chances for conception:
1. Try to Make Love in the Morning! Sperm count is higher in the morning (if you haven't had sex the night before)
Also - male hormones peak in the morning. Although there are no studies proving this am theory - it makes sense!
2. Skip Oral Sex...The bacteria found in saliva can actually degrade semen and reduce the chances of conception.
Saliva has also been proven to decrease sperm motility and progression so it is best avoided by both partners.
3. Avoid Commercial Lubricants...many commercial materials can interfere with sperm's ability to find it's way to the egg.
Oil based lubricants can affect the pH levels in the vagina and can damage sperm as well. Even water-based products can trap or slow down sperm.
If you really need a lubricant try an actual egg white!
tips for a healthy happy pregnancy
Oh gosh I have...Constipation!
What is it? Constipation is one of the common discomforts of pregnancy.
It is characterized by abdominal pain, difficult and infrequent bowel movements and the passage of hard stools.
Why does it happen? Worry, anxiety, low-level of exercise and a low-fiber diet are common causes.
Pregnant women you should also consider that
A. high level of certain hormones during preg relaxes the muscles of the bowels and makes it hard for them to work efficiently.
B.The growing uterus presses on the bowel & disrupts normal function
C. The iron in your vitamin supplementation may make stools dry and difficult to pass.
Tips To prevent and treat constipation:
1. Drink lots of fluids - water and juice softens the stool and keeps digestive waste passing through the bowel
(prune juice especially) 10 - 12 cups per day of fluids is recommended.
2. Eat fiber-rich foods - fruit, veggies, whole grains, and legumes. 25-20 grams per day.
3. Limit sugary, processed foods - they are binding.
4. Exercise - inactivity fosters constipation. Walking, swimming or other moderate exercise helps mobilize the intestines.
5. Avoid straining and do not take laxatives as they may stimulate uterine contractions.
Please feel free to tell friends and family about this posting. And check back for a new one each month!
The contents of this newsletter are meant for educational purposes only and are not meant to treat or cure any specific conditions.