PVHC Childbirth Education

04/21/2026

Sigh... this is all too true... but as we head in to warmer weather it is important to stay hydrated.

Frequent urination is one of the earliest and most common symptoms of pregnancy, often beginning as early as the first trimester. This happens primarily because your body starts producing more blood to support your growing baby, which means your kidneys have to work harder to filter that extra fluid. As a result, more urine is produced and your bladder fills up more quickly, making you feel the need to go more often—even if only a small amount comes out.

As pregnancy progresses, especially into the second and third trimesters, the growing uterus begins to put increasing pressure on the bladder. This reduces the bladder’s capacity to hold urine, so even a small amount can trigger the urge to urinate. Many women notice that this becomes more intense at night, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom and interrupted sleep. Toward the end of pregnancy, when the baby drops lower into the pelvis (a process called “lightening”), this pressure can increase even more.

Hormonal changes also play a key role. Pregnancy hormones, particularly progesterone, relax the muscles throughout your body, including those in your urinary tract. This can make it harder to hold urine for long periods and may increase the feeling of urgency. While frequent urination is usually completely normal, it’s important to pay attention to any unusual symptoms like burning, pain, or a strong odor, as these could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI), which requires medical attention.

To manage frequent urination, it helps to stay well-hydrated but try to reduce fluid intake a few hours before bedtime to minimize nighttime trips. Avoid caffeine, as it can act as a diuretic and increase urine production. Practicing pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can also strengthen the muscles that support your bladder, helping you maintain better control. Most importantly, remember that this symptom is a natural part of pregnancy and a sign that your body is adapting beautifully to support new life.

04/13/2026

Download this free app and count the kicks!

And even better? It still feels productive.

04/10/2026

What is a BioPhysical Profile (BPP)?

04/07/2026

Newborns need skin-to-skin with mom AND dad.

The first hour after birth shapes more than just the moment. Skin to skin contact with fathers triggers a strong hormonal response in babies, especially oxytocin, the hormone linked to bonding and calm.

That early contact helps regulate breathing, temperature, and stress. Babies settle faster, cry less, and are able to rest more deeply in those first critical hours.

It also builds an early connection between father and child. Not through routine, but through presence and physical closeness right from the start.

Small moments at the beginning can have lasting effects. This is one of them.

04/03/2026

The placenta is amazing!

During pregnancy, the placenta allows more than just nutrients to pass between mother and baby. Small amounts of cells and biological material can move in both directions, creating a unique connection between the two.

Some of the baby’s cells can enter the mother’s body, and in certain cases, they have been observed in organs long after birth. Researchers are still studying how these cells may contribute to repair processes or immune responses, but the exact effects are not fully understood.

At the same time, antibodies from the mother can pass to the baby, helping support the newborn’s immune system early in life. This provides temporary protection while the baby’s own immune system continues to develop.

Pregnancy is not just growth. It is a shared biological exchange that science is still working to fully understand.

04/02/2026

Mama's movement encourages baby's movement.

03/31/2026

Don't squeeze them!

03/21/2026

What is in your milk?
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=796214930929479

03/13/2026

Nutrition makes a difference! How is your protein intake?

03/13/2026

Upright positions during labor allow gravity to help move baby down.

03/11/2026

Mom's movement during labor encourages baby's movement. Let gravity work for you!

For most of human history, childbirth happened in upright positions like standing, squatting, or kneeling. These positions worked with gravity, helping the baby move downward while allowing the pelvis to open more naturally during contractions.

In many Western hospitals today, about 80% of births take place with the mother lying flat on her back. Research shows this position can narrow the pelvic opening by around 30% and removes gravity’s assistance during labor. When gravity is no longer helping guide the baby, the body may need more effort to push, which can sometimes extend the first stage of labor by about two hours.

Medical historians say this position became common partly because it allowed doctors easier access during deliveries, even though other positions may better support the body’s natural mechanics.