Research shows that babies who are carried cry, on average, 43% less overall, and 54% less during the evening hours. Besides easing your baby’s cries, babywearing is convenient and can even help with postpartum depression. And, it’s a great way for other family members or caregivers to bond with your baby! How is it good for baby’s neural and physical development? How can it bring out the best in you and your baby? Babywearing International Alma Gordillo is this week’s babywearing and baby carrier expert. 

We love birth stories on PregTASTIC! This week, panelist Vanessa joins us in studio to show off her new baby girl. What was different this time compared to the birth of her first child? What did her 22 month think of her new sister and how is everyone settling in? What products does Vanessa recommend? What's a tight jaw? How breastfeeding is going, and mastitis. 

Women, infants, and children or WIC, is a federally funded program providing residents with nutritious foods, nutrition education, and referrals. WIC serves pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, and infants and children under age five who meet WIC eligibility guidelines. What are these guidelines and how can WIC be a great resource for you as you become a new mom? Maryann Miernicki, RD, CLE Nutrition Education Coordinator, WIC Program in San Diego and this week’s expert.

H1N1 is an important topic for all pregnant women. What are your thoughts about getting vaccinated for it? Is this vaccine 100% safe? What are the pros and cons of getting it? And, what type of flu vaccine is best for you and your unborn baby. Dr. Christina Chambers an Associate Professor at University of California San Diego is here to share her knowledge of H1N1.

Pregnancy changes everything including your skin: dry skin, stretch marks, acne, dark splotches... Have you ever thought about what potentially harmful products are in some makeup, sunscreens, moisturizers, and cleansers? What are retinoids, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids? How about soy? Which are safe and which are harmful? And why you should be reading the labels while shopping when pregnant. 

An expecting mother can take many actions to increase her chances of having a healthy baby; beginning with a healthy pregnancy. What you eat, what you do, or don’t do, can have a lasting difference in your pregnancy and your baby's life. Today we discuss the ABC’s of a healthy pregnancy and provide you with a quick list of pregnancy do’s and don'ts.

While you're reading books, visiting online forums, listening to PregTASTIC, attending birthing classes... what is your husband or partner doing? Does he know your birth plan? Is he up on midwives, doctors, or doulas? The Bradley method, Hypnobirthing, Lamaze? How will he handle seeing you in pain? How will he cope with a complicated delivery? Is he doing any research about cribs or car seats? 

What’s the difference between screenings and diagnostic tests? Why do you need a full bladder, and why do you have to pee in a cup every time you see your midwife or OB? What are the routine and optional tests of each trimester? What are the risks involved with those tests? And, who can best tell how big your baby is and/or going to be? Certified nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner Alisa Smallwood is this week's expert.

When it comes to naming your baby, only three people matter: you, your partner and your baby. For some this is an exciting and fun event, for others it could be the first major challenge. This week PregTASTIC features some naming ideas, resources, and the idea of waiting to choose after your baby is born. Plus, 58% of moms feel there is power in a name. Do you agree?

Natalie’s 1 of 4% to give birth on her due date, with a worked-like-it-should epidural at the hospital! Did everything else go so smoothly? How is breastfeeding coming? Also, how hypnobabies, yoga, a birthing ball, water, and mostly the toilet helped Jean’s unmedicated birth at the birth center. Why her husband didn’t tell her the baby’s gender, and what to do with those nipple shields?