Updated: May 10, 2016
Originally Published: March 23, 2016
This piece is sponsored by Americord, a reliable private cord blood bank offering a complimentary collection kit and no annual storage fees.
From laughing gas to cord blood banking, the experience of giving birth is evolving. Here are the latest trends we’ve noticed since last year:
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Placenta Tissue Banking
The advancements in science have made it possible to save and store placenta tissue. This is significant because it’s a complete genetic match to the mother and may provide protection against over 80 diseases for your child.
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Henna Belly Tattoos
Forget the traditional empire-waist maternity outfits; the trend now is to embrace belly art! Henna tattoos provide a beautiful way for mothers-to-be to showcase their baby bumps with pride.
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Eating During Labor
The old belief that laboring mothers should avoid food for fear of complications is fading away. Experts now suggest that women can enjoy snacks beyond just ice chips during labor.
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Crowd Birthing
The days of Dad waiting nervously in the hallway are over. Hospitals are now welcoming the idea of a “birth entourage,” allowing couples to gather friends and family for support during labor.
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Cross Fit Birthing
When contractions hit, comfort can seem elusive, so many women are finding relief through bouncing on exercise balls, walking, or taking showers—anything to help ease the pain.
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Laughing Gas
Using nitrous oxide to take the edge off labor is becoming more common, thanks to its safety and popularity in countries like the U.K. and Canada. It’s a great way to manage discomfort without affecting the birthing process.
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Live Social Updates
Sharing the excitement of labor with friends and family has never been easier. While the classic wooden sign announcing the baby’s arrival is charming, nowadays, it’s all about instant updates for loved ones, especially those far away.
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Pulling Out Baby Yourself
For those looking to take a hands-on approach, some moms are opting to help deliver their own babies, inspired by various media and trends.
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Baby Pics Before Their First Bath
While adorable staged photos of newborns are always a hit, there’s a shift towards authenticity. Parents are snapping pictures of their babies fresh from birth, complete with vernix caseosa, which is that protective white coating.
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In summary, the childbirth experience is evolving in exciting ways, from the comfort of eating during labor to the growing acceptance of crowd birthing and new pain management options. The focus is now on personalization and authenticity, reflecting the wishes of modern parents.