In today’s birth culture, there’s a phrase that gets thrown around a lot: “All that matters is a healthy mom and baby.” While, of course, the health and safety of both mother and baby are paramount, this phrase oversimplifies the birth experience. Birth is not just about physical outcomes—it's about the emotional, mental, and spiritual journey that brings a new life into the world. How you feel during your birth, the trust you place in your body, and the ability to make informed, autonomous decisions are all crucial elements that contribute to a truly empowering birth.

When it comes to preparing for childbirth, one term that can stir up a lot of anxiety is "big baby." The thought of delivering a larger-than-average baby can trigger concerns about labor difficulties, the need for medical interventions, and potential risks during birth. However, it's crucial to understand where these concerns stem from and how much of them are truly based on accurate information versus systemic biases.

The anticipation of meeting your little one is building and you're almost at the finish line. Let's get to one of the exciting tasks of late pregnancy: packing your hospital bag! But what should go in there? What are the must-haves, the nice-to-haves, and the "oh-I-wish-I'd-thought-of-that" items that will make your hospital stay comfortable and stress-free? And when is the best time to pack your bag? Allow me to guide you through it with the Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist.