If someone’s told you to “do your Kegels” when you’re pregnant, don’t hit play on that autopilot just yet. Because when it comes to prepping for birth, the story isn’t quite what we’ve all been told.

What’s wrong with “just Kegels”?

“Kegels” are those squeeze-and-lift exercises you do when you’re at a red light, brushing your teeth, or standing in line. They’re great for strengthening the pelvic floor when you need hold-and-lift (like fixing leakage or postpartum support). nhs.uk+1
But - here’s the thing - birthing is not about clenching. It’s about opening, releasing, and allowing. Evidence shows that when your pelvic floor doesn’t relax enough, it may result in a longer pushing phase, more tearing, or more discomfort. PubMed+1

So what should your pelvic floor be doing pre-birth?

• Relaxation + release: Your body needs to know how to let go.

• Balance + strength + flexibility: One without the others is a recipe for tension.

• Movement patterns that mimic birth:

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Hey beautiful mama, I’m Stephanie Poole — doula, lactation consultant, bestselling author, and your personal birth-prep partner. If you’re reading this, you’re preparing for your first birth and haven’t yet started breastfeeding, but you’re serious about setting yourself up for success. You’re in the perfect place.

In this post (and the companion video) we’re talking about something EVERY first-time mom worries about tearing during birth. But here’s the twist — it’s not just about “doing Kegels” or “stretching the perineum” (though those tools have their place). The real game-changer lies in avoiding a very common mistake that most mamas make before they enter labor.

Let’s dig in.

1. What do we really mean by “tearing”?

Many mamas imagine dramatic rips and stitches but tearing ranges from tiny superficial tears to more significant ones. The good news? Many tears heal quickly and clean with minimal intervention — but the goal is to give yourself the best shot at minimizing...

You’ve made it to week 38 of pregnancy — congratulations! 

You’re in the home stretch. But being this far along doesn’t mean the journey is over. In fact, it’s a time full of subtle (and sometimes surprising) changes — both for you and your baby. Here’s a full guide to what’s going on, how you can support yourself, and what to get ready for next.

1. The “Full Term” Misconception

At 38 weeks many people say, “You’re full term now!” … which is technically correct, but there’s more nuance. The truth is: your baby is still undergoing significant brain and lung development. While many organs are ready, the last few weeks matter.
So instead of thinking “time’s up,” think: “Let’s finish strong.”

2. Symptoms No One Really Talks About

This stage comes with some little-known symptoms:

• Lightning crotch: sudden zaps down low as baby’s head presses nerves. Normal, but name it so you don’t freak out.

• Nesting bursts: late-pregnancy oxytocin surge means you might suddenly clean

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If you’re pregnant and thinking, “I want to breastfeed, but I have literally NO idea where to start…”—you’re not alone.

Most first-time moms feel unsure (or overwhelmed) when it comes to breastfeeding. And while it’s something your body is designed to do, the truth is—it doesn’t always come naturally.

But guess what?
With the right guidance and prep (yes, even before baby arrives), you can feel way more confident, calm, and ready. Let’s dive into what you really need to know before baby latches for the first time.

🤯 The Biggest Breastfeeding Myth That Sets New Moms Up to Fail

Let’s get this out of the way first:

❌ “Breastfeeding is natural, so it’ll just happen naturally.”

I hear this all the time—and it’s one of the biggest mindset traps out there.

Here’s the truth:
✔️ Breastfeeding is a learned skill—for both you and your baby.

Just like birth, walking, or talking—it takes time, practice, and support.
So if it doesn’t “click” on day one? You’re not failing. Y...

 So, you’ve made it to the third trimester—cue the celebration!  But between “get your sleep now” and “baby’s the size of an eggplant,” are people actually telling you what’s happening in your body (and what to do about it)?

Let’s fix that. Here's what no one talks about—but every pregnant mama should know at 28 weeks.

1. The Real Symptoms to Watch

Normal:

• Braxton Hicks (aka warm-up contractions)

• Blurry vision (yep, hormones can affect your eyes!)

• Leaky boobs (colostrum may start early!)

• Shortness of breath + insomnia

 Not Normal:

• Sudden swelling in your face/hands

• Persistent headaches or blurry vision with floaters

• Severe pain or bleeding

If you’re unsure, always call your provider. No shame in being cautious!

2. Your Body is Prepping for Birth Now

Here’s the deal: labor isn’t something that magically happens at 40 weeks. Your body is training already—and how you support it now matters.

Try this daily:

• Light stretching + p

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You’re 26 Weeks Pregnant — Here’s What You Really Need to Know

If you’re 26 weeks pregnant and wondering if that sudden belly pop or weird rib ache is normal… you’re not alone. This week isn’t just another milestone — it’s a major turning point in your pregnancy.

Let’s dive into the unexpected truths, expert tips, and must-do actions to make this week count.

 Baby’s Development at 26 Weeks (It’s WILD)

At 26 weeks, your baby is about the size of a head of kale or a long zucchini doing flips in a water balloon (yep, that’s the vibe).

What’s happening inside:

• Blinking & eyelashes! Your baby can now blink and even react to light.

• Lung development: Tiny branches and surfactant are forming to help your baby breathe air after birth.

• Amniotic fluid breathing: Yep, your little one is practicing those first big breaths.

Your Body at 26 Weeks: Symptoms You Weren’t Ready For

This is when your body really starts shifting to prepare for labor and postpartum.

Here ar...

Congratulations! At 8 weeks pregnant, you’re halfway through your first trimester—what a milestone! But if you’re anything like most moms-to-be, you’ve realized that pregnancy is full of surprises (some delightful, some… not so much).

In this post, we’re skipping the basics and diving into the unexpected, evidence-based insights about being 8 weeks pregnant. From your baby’s jaw-dropping brain growth to the weird symptoms you might not have heard about, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore everything that makes this week so unique!

What’s Happening to Your Baby at 8 Weeks Pregnant

• Brain Explosion: Your baby’s brain is growing at a rate of 250,000 neurons per minute.
• Taste Bud Development: They’re not tasting yet, but the groundwork for future food preferences is being laid.
• Skeleton Formation: Cartilage is forming and will soon turn into bone.

Your little one is now about the size of a raspberry and growing faster than ever.

Weird Symptoms Nobody Talks About

1. W...