Back to black

When it comes to choosing evening wear, it's usually best to stick with a classic look. Especially if you're rounder than Santa this year. This twist strap diamante black vest from Fun Mum will take you through the party season looking on trend and feeling super glam. It's cut to flatter expecting mums by gently skimming over your tummy and gathering underneath for a flattering silhouette. Wear it with these elasticated black wide leg trousers and you'll be ready to bump and groove all night long.

Peace on earth - Special Offer

No matter how stressful the early months can seem, becoming responsible for a new life creates a feeling of inner joy and gratitude that’s like nothing else. Now you can wear your emotions proudly on your chest with one of these shirts from PeaceLoveMom. Created by three mums whose motto is ‘a celebration of motherhood,’ the PeaceLoveMom range blends a free-rolling hippy sensibility with a little rock and roll edge.

Oprah Winfrey, Tia Carrera and Cindy Crawford are just a few of the famous fans of their t-shirts and tanks featuring simple, feel-good messages against striking, vintage-look logos. Brand New Mama has partnered with PeaceLoveMom to spread a little peace, love and fabulous-ness this holiday season. They are offering 10 percent off all items including clothing and accessories through January 15th when you enter the code NEWMAMA at checkout. Only available at the PeaceLoveMom web site.

Just done it

Even though we're not currently in the family way, Brand New Mama can't get enough of sassy maternity tops with cute sayings. Our new favourite is the Ruby Fay Done It Thermal long-sleeved t-shirt. It features an upside down Nike style swoosh logo along with the phrase 'Done It' that sits neatly over your bump. Enough said. The shirt comes in flattering chocolate brown or navy and is available at The Cocoa Monkey.

Butter up

It may not be top of your Christmas list but any new mama who's already cracking up from breastfeeding will be beyond thankful to find a jar of Nipple Butter in her stocking. One of the bestselling products from top store Earth Mama Angel Baby, this nipple salve is the first organic, all-natural, plant-based balm that's lanolin-free (so no hint of pesky pesticides). The cream is made from shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter and healing calendula. And if that sounds pretty edible that's because it's safe for baby to eat so there's no need to wash it off between feeds. Yummy mummy.

Belly music

If you’re hunting for Xmas treasures for an impending baby mama, check out the web site Belly Gifts that caters for parents at every stage of pregnancy and beyond. We’re intrigued by one of their top sellers, BabyChimes, a sterling silver pendant hanging from a 34 inch silver chain. Throughout your pregnancy the chime moves across your belly playing sounds to soothe your growing baby. After birth, she’ll associate the sounds of the BabyChime with the comfort and security of being in the womb. All BabyChimes are handmade and come in several designs including this popular Big Heart shape. View this and other great ideas at Belly Gifts.

Sleeping beauties

If you ask any brand new mama what’s on her Xmas wish list, “more sleep” would probably take the top spot. Since you can’t control her baby’s night waking you could offer your mum chum that much-needed nap by taking care of her baby for a couple of hours. Or you could simply pass on that well-worn maxim ‘sleep when the baby sleeps’ and before she can roll her eyes, give her these gorgeous silk masks from Babes with Babies to persuade her. The floral embroidered sleep masks not only block out light but fill the air with a soothing scent to help you nod off. In case dad gets jealous, there’s also a plain black Man Mask to help him rest his weary eyes. Just don’t call him Zorro.

Piece of cake

Stuck for a gift idea for a brand new mama? Ever thought of baking a diaper cake? These cloth concoctions give a whole new meaning to the concept of ‘edible undies’. Diaper Cakewalk is just one of many companies who are cornering the baby shower market with their ornate cake style designs made entirely out of what we in the UK call ‘nappies’. You can choose their pound cakes, diaper-only cakes, boy or girl cakes, or even a diaper castle. Diaper cakes are not only a great conversation piece but they’re just as eye-catching and certainly a lot more practical than a bunch of flowers. Tuck in at Diaper Cakewalk.

Puffed up

There is nothing warmer or more weather-resistant than the puffa jacket which once again the fash pack has declared ‘hot’ for the cold season. But when the average skinny Minnie can resemble the Michelin man in a padded coat, what hope is there for someone who on a good day looks like she’s strapped a VW to her tummy? Well we’ve scoured the web and found this ultra-funky, sleek and mummy-friendly puffer coat by Motherhood Maternity. Available in black, sizes S-XL, this quilted three-quarter length coat comes with a detachable fake fur-trim hood and room to grow. Grab one while they last at Motherhood online store.

Here's baby!

If you're a super-organised mama, you'll have probably dropped off handprinted cards informing your nearest and dearest about the birth of your little one as soon as you eased off the delivery bed. But if you're like most of us, it will probably take you days (okay, weeks) after birth to get around to taking blurry pics of your baby that you'll email to whoever your nappy-headed brain can remember in your contacts list.

Luckily the internet provides a range of options for time-pressed parents such as Baby Momento, a company that creates custom-designed online birth announcements using personal photos. Rather than having to spend hours attaching photos to various emails, you simply choose a design online, submit a form, email your photos to the Baby Momento team and let them take care of the rest. And since it's an online announcement, doting grandparents and aunts and uncles can also share their happy news without fuss - simply by pointing friends and family to the e-card address. For more info, see the Baby Momento web site.

Clever Clippers

One of the first tests a new mama has to face is learning to cut her newborn’s fingernails without causing untold physical or emotional trauma. Baby nails are so soft and their fingers so tiny that it only takes a slip to accidentally nick the skin. Thus many mothers approach baby manicures with almost as much anxiety as if they were performing surgery on their infant. The best advice doctors give is to trim babies’ nails while they’re asleep but if your child is lying in a darkened room it’s almost impossible to see what you’re doing.

The Baby Light & Clip was invented by a mother to take the stress out of baby manicures. The battery-operated nail clipper comes with four safety features: a lighted nail clipper that illuminates under the baby’s nail to show where to safely trim; safety guards to stop you cutting baby’s skin; a tray to catch clippings before they fall into baby’s bedding; and increased visibility of sharp edges that could scratch baby’s skin. It also features a comfort control handle for easy working and a compact storage case. This multiple award-winning product is loved by mums and is available at the website.

Ring leader

I came across an ad for Susan Astaire’s Baby Ring© in a magazine and couldn’t resist checking out the web site. Each handmade gold or silver band features a pink or blue diamond surrounded by white diamonds to signify the arrival of a girl or boy. For added effect (and more spend), you can have the child’s name engraved on the inside of the band.



It might seem a bit strange to get a diamond ring dedicated not to hubby but to baby, but the trend for buying mothers bling to celebrate births seems to be growing thanks in part to the Hollywood baby boom. We’re not ones to turn our noses up at a fine piece of sparkle on whatever occasion but doesn’t it just add to the pressure for ordinary mortals to keep up with the Mr & Mrs Jones (or the Cruises or Jolie-Pitts)? Given the current divorce rates, maybe baby rings are set to take over from engagement rings as the ultimate symbol of lifetime commitment. For more info, visit the web site.

Glow to Bed

Night sweats, leaky boobs and bed head. In the days and weeks after giving birth, you’ve never been in more need of beauty sleep and yet sleep proves disturbingly elusive. So here’s something to perk you up: these ’Cheeky’ PJs from Glow Maternity. Made from 100% cotton, this pyjama set can be worn through bump and beyond, thanks to the adjustable drawstring waist. There’s a discreet side opening in the top so you can breastfeed without having to hide out in the bedroom when guests pop by to ogle baby. The sleek yet comfy stripy tank and sweats combo makes ideal loungewear and yet is smart enough to make you look like you've had time to shower. Available in sizes 8 to 20 at Glow Maternity.

Mod mamas

Every modern mama needs a cute carry-all for baby stuff. Even if you’re up to your armpits in trendy totes, inevitably you’ll want to stack up on diaper luggage as bubba grows. One fantastic design that also makes a great baby shower gift is this handy Mod bag that comes pre-packed with everything you need for baby’s first year. It includes a bottle, changing pad, travel wipes, pacifier, sun hat, change of clothes…basically anything you could think of (and plenty you might forget). At $99 the Mod bag’s not cheap but it’s worth it for the peace of mind knowing you can just grab it and go. Plus, it looks fabulous. Go Mod, baby, at In Style Moms.

Belly-hugging good

The week of August 1-7 marks World Breastfeeding Week, a global campaign to promote the benefits of breast milk as nothing short of the elixir of life for babies everywhere. This year more than 20,000 lactating mamas gathered in more than 400 sites in the Philippines to create the first Guinness World Record on Simultaneous Breastfeeding in Multiple Sites. The action group Children for Breastfeeding is trying to create another world record by getting mums together for a synchronised global boob feast. If you're not quite ready to make history, you can still support the cause simply by continuing to nurse your little one or make a statement by breastfeeding in a public place.

If you're still a little shy about feeding al fresco, there's a range of clothing and accessories that allow you to be more discreet. One fab product for milky mamas is The Belly Hugger, a stretchy piece of fabric that slides over to cover your belly when you lift your top to nurse. This spandex/cotton tube can be worn with your regular clothing and saves on the need to buy an elaborate new nursing wardrobe. The Belly Hugger keeps your post-partum tummy hidden and it can even be worn comfortably by expecting mothers to fill the gap between pre-pregnancy shirts and unbuttoned trousers. Pick one up at Tender Cargo.

Wedding bellies

Sales, dontcha just love em? Yesterday I managed to snap up two lovely dresses under 50 quid for a wedding at the weekend, one from Ghost and the other by Fever at Oliver Bonas. It certainly beats the three-day marathon shop I did last year looking for wedding outfits that would allow me to breastfeed His Cheekiness with some discretion.

Brand new mamas getting ready for the nuptial season should check out Isabella Oliver maternity wear. For bellied belles or babes with babies, this ruffled raspberry number (also available in black or plum) should have heads turning without taking all eyes off the bride. Wrap dresses are universally flattering, grow with your shape and accentuate your cleavage without looking tacky.

Rock 'n' stomp

We've just returned from the south of France to find that the English summer is still a washout. But it's festival season and neither hail nor high water will keep party happy parents from having fun in the great outdoors. I just read this great piece about a mum who took her five-month-old to Glastonbury and lived to tell the tale (and get dissed by killjoys on the comment board).

We're keeping things low-key and heading to the free RISE anti-racism fiesta at London's Finsbury Park. Hopefully the heavens will smile on us but I'll pack trainers along with flip-flops just in case. What I really want is a pair of these Mommy and Me Tossed Skull rainboots by Diane's Little Lambs so Mr. Cheeks and mama can feel a little bit rock 'n' roll (and represent daddy's favourite motif). DLL Rainwear do a fab range of matching mama and toddler rainboots - or wellies as we Brits call them - that will appeal to every mood from princess to pirate. Yo ho ho.

Crocs rocks your socks off

If you shop around at popular maternity sites, you'll find very few pay attention to footwear. It's almost as if pregnant feet - exhausted, bloated, and usually invisible to their owners after the second trimester - are either too hard to dress or too hideous to contemplate. So thank Crocs for bringing out a shoe that's not only bang on trend but comfy to boot (excuse the pun).

The brand new Sassari from Crocs is a retro-style wedge that comes in hot two-tone combinations. With a footbed that moulds to create a custom fit and circulation nubs to massage and stimulate blood flow, these shoes couldn't be kinder to expectant feet. As we've said, good mama footwear is hard to come by so it may be worth splashing out on two or three Sassari in different colours. Or if you've got the Crocs bug, you might want to check out their Mary Janes. They're selling fast at Due Maternity, so step on it.

Divas and babes

We got the lowdown on Divas n Babes, an online boutique for 'haute mamas' and their offspring via our friends at Dynamic Metro Moms. Launched by a mother who got tired of trapping her inner diva in oversized sweats, this fashion line features everything from snappy t-shirts for new mothers, to slings for babywearing fans and even coordinated outfits for parents and sprogs. Breastfeeding mums will love the 'Bosom buddies' set or the 'Drinks on me' nursing bra tank top, while glamma mamas will dig the 'High fashion, high maintenance, highchair' logo. But the t-shirt that simply states 'I am at work!' is set to become an instant classic. It speaks for all of us who recognise that, whether or not she has a day job, every mother has a full-time occupation and a lifetime vocation.

Bellyssima!

If you want to preserve an image of your pregnant self, and be pampered into the bargain, you'll be pleased to hear about a brand new treatment from Belly Vita, a Chicago-based product line dedicated to maternal luxury. The Belly Imprint Spa Treatment and Sculpting Kit is the only patent-pending and scientifically tested belly sculpture designed to capture your bump and nourish your body simultaneously. You start with a soothing aromatherapy oil massaged into your belly followed by a soft fabric immersed in sculpting powder and water being moulded onto your torso while you relax.

It takes 15-20 minutes to set and the finished masterpiece (or mistresspiece?) can be decorated and displayed in the nursery or elsewhere in the home. It's almost enough to make up for that beached whale feeling of the final trimester. Experience the Belly Imprint at one of several spas nationwide (US only) or order online and treat yourself at home.

Bringing sexy back

If you're heavily pregnant or newly with sprog, you're probably feeling about as sexy as a stuffed turkey. Have no fear, help is at hand from those canny souls at Agent Provocateur. By popular demand, they've introduced a line of luscious maternity and postnatal lingerie and no, that's no longer an oxymoron. The range includes sleek under-the-bump knickers in four colours and sizes that can be worn throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Bring out your inner wild cat in their soft-cup leopard print front-fastening maternity/nursing bra that pushes you up and out, and still allows you to breastfeed with ease. And la piece de resistance is this elasticated waist-cinching brief that's designed to help you regain your shape by applying gentle pressure while creating a flattering silhouette. It comes with detachable suspender straps for that 'woah mama' factor and is only available in sizzling burlesque-style black and red. Dita von Teese, eat your heart out.

Bright Eyes

I always used to wonder why those teen mums on shows like Ricki Lake or Jerry Springer looked 20 years older. Until I became a mother myself and experienced the shock of rapid overnight aging. While beauty products for new mamas emphasise stomachs and stretch marks, what bothers most of us are those lines and shadows around our eyes caused by months (and probably years ahead) of sleep deprivation.

So be thankful for this Belli L.A.B. (Life After Baby) Eye Brightening Cream which promises to refresh and rejuvenate the delicate eye area. It contains Vitamin K to enhance circulation and reduce dark circles and Soybean protein to improve hydration. Don't expect any miracle cream to erase the evidence of nighttime waking. But if you enjoy slathering lotions and potions on your body, it can't hurt to show your eyes some extra love too. Visit Belli Cosmetics for more skincare treats for mums and mums-to-be.

Boobs on trial

As I’m now weaning my 15-month-old, I was struck by recent pap shots of brand new mama Maggie Gyllenhaal breastfeeding her 7-month-old. I was amazed once again at just how intrusive the paparazzi can be but even more stunned by the negative feedback. Maybe it shouldn't surprise me after Janet Jackson's Nipplegate that the sight of even part of a woman's bare breast should lead to public hysteria. Some object to her doing it in the open, others insist she should have covered up more. But stroll through any national gallery and you'll see nursing mothers from peasants to the Madonna proudly displayed as art.

If you've ever been out with a hungry breastfeeding baby, you'll realise that discretion is soon tossed to the wind and instinct kicks in. Some new mothers rely on specially designed nursing covers, tops with slits for easy access or even makeshift shawls. But show me a baby happy with wearing a blanket on his head and I'll show you an offspring of Michael Jackson (hey, two Jackson family references in one boobalicious post!) Personally I preferred loose tops I could lift up easily so baby could nurse without any fuss. Most passersby thought we were just cuddling and if I got the occasional funny look I would either focus on my baby or glare right back. After all, it’s rude to stare at people eating no matter how tiny they are.

Photo source: Celebrity Baby Blog

Scent of a baby

Pregnancy not only wreaks havoc on your digestive system, it can enhance your sense of smell to an uncomfortable degree. Even the breeziest fragrance can become overpowering. If you're a preggers perfume junkie after something that won't irritate your nose or your increasingly sensitive skin, check out Philosophy's Baby Grace fragrance. This clean and mild perfume combines talc and lotion notes to evoke fresh baby skin - probably nature's most delicious scent. So along with helping restore your sense of equilibrium, Baby Grace will act as a yummy teaser for your tot-in-waiting. It's also great for new mothers or indeed any woman who needs a little extra nurturing. Find it at John Lewis (UK) or visit the Philosophy web site.

Updates - Mamalingual on hold

Our apologies for the unannounced and unexpectedly long hiatus, but we're back and ready to pick up where we left off. The main news is that we'll no longer be publishing our Mamalingual Dictionary entries at this site, since there's a conflict of interest with another of our projects.

However we will continue with our other upcoming and soon to be regular features including Mama Says (soundbites from the mama blogs), Mama Does (mini-profiles of mothers making smart moves) and MotherFAQAs (frequently asked and answered questions by mothers, for mothers).

We'll also keep bringing you useful tips, product buzz, news and gossip and other general fluff for the nappy-brained. And remember to contact us with ideas, advice or anything you want to get off your chest.

Walk the Earth

Our feet are often the most neglected parts of our bodies, and pregnant feet suffer most of all. When you're pregnant, a combination of weight gain, changing shape and hormonal fluctuations knocks your centre of gravity and causes numerous problems including sore, swollen feet. Tracking down a good pair of maternity shoes can seem like a tall order, especially as most funky maternity lines don't carry footwear.

For both expecting and new mothers who don't want to sacrifice style for comfort, we recommend these Dazzle Metallic Bronze sandals by Earth. The ultralightweight sandals offer a plush foot bed that conforms to the shape of the foot, comfy mid-arch support and a dura-sole design that propels the foot forward in a natural walking motion. Earth shoes are created with Negative Heel Technology - a fancy scientific term meaning they reduce lower heel pressure to promote better posture and align your body correctly. All Earth shoes are approved by the American Medical Podiatric Association as well as celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennie Garth. So you can put your best foot forward while rocking this season's hot metallic trend. Available in US and Europe.

Mamalingual Dictionary: Birth Plot

Birth plot (noun) 1. a conspiracy between healthcare professionals, your baby and divine intervention to sabotage your birth plan (origin: BNM 2007)

Sometime in the weeks leading up to B-day, you’ll be advised to write a birth plan. It’s a useful tool to figure out what your expectations are and to discuss with your birth partner and medical team. A typical birth plan should include details of whether you want to use pain relief, if you want to be able to move around during labour, what props you might like to use (e.g. birthing pool), if you have objections to assisted delivery (e.g. forceps or episiotomy) and who you would like to be present at the birth.

Writing my birth plan gave me a sense of control and made me feel more prepared. But of course only about 60 percent of the delivery went according to what I’d written. It was only afterwards that I could laugh about having three medical students involved in my labour and birth when I’d specifically noted that none should be present. At some point, you have to toss preconceptions to the wind and just be in the moment. Here’s our five-point guide for writing a birth plan:

1. Do your research – the more you read, the more prepared you’ll be
2. Be flexible – each birth is different so expect the unexpected
3. Listen to your body – if she's crying out for pain relief, allow it!
4. Trust the professionals – they've done this hundreds of times before
5. Focus on what matters – getting baby out by any safe means necessary

Check out this birth plan calculator at Babycenter.

Pic source: American Pregnancy Association

Whose embryo is it?

A woman left infertile after cancer treatment is awaiting a final ruling today from the European Court in Strasbourg as to whether she can use frozen embryos fertilised by her former partner. Her ex says he doesn’t want the burden of being a father to children he will not bring up.

This is a tough one as I can see the arguments on both sides although I’m more inclined to side with the woman. My heart bleeds for her if the court denies her appeal. After all, this is her last chance to bear a child but the dad can have other children with other partners if he chooses.

I can’t help but think of the millions of women worldwide who have the legal right to choose whether to carry a pregnancy to term or to have an abortion, even without the potential father’s knowledge or consent. I guess when the embryos have been created outside the womb it’s no longer a question of ‘her body, her choice’. Tricky issue. Read the full story here.

Buckling up

During my first pregnancy I basically lived in my jeans, simply leaving button after button undone as the months went by until it became indecent and I switched to track pants. For my next pregnancy, I plan to shop early for funky maternity jeans or invest in some b-buckles.

These bad boys simply loop and snap onto your jeans to expand with your growing belly. So you can wear your favourite designer pair through pregnancy and into the 4th trimester or however long it takes to lose the baby weight. The b-buckles come in two styles, rock star (white) and rose tattoo (black and red) and ranging in size from zero to 12 (UK size 16) they're hot with celebs like Marcia Cross, Gwen Stefani and Tori Spelling. Snap some up at In Style Moms for only $21.50.

Mamalingual Dictionary: Highchair Five

Highchair Five (noun). 1. the five pounds or more weight gain caused by polishing off your baby's leftovers (origin: BNM 2007)


There are countless guides for parents with toddlers who are picky eaters. But few mention one of the side effects of having a fussy feeder: mum often feels inclined to finish off what her baby hasn’t started. Maybe it’s just me, but I can’t bear to see food go to waste. And my hips are paying the price.

Here are my top 10 tips to combat the Highchair Five (or in my case, Highchair Fifteen):-

1. Offer smaller portions – most toddlers eat like birds, not vultures.
2. Share family meals – having your own plate will stop you eyeing baby's.
3. Chew like a baby – savour(or in his case spit) every mouthful and don't stuff.
4. Serve healthier options – swap oven chips for carrot sticks.
5. Add less salt – it's better for baby and less appetising for you.
6. Graze with your toddler – switch huge dinners for 5 to 6 mini-meals a day.
7. Eat his crusts – wholewheat crusts are packed with goodness.
8. Do some strollercise – walk off the baby fat.
9. Have a hot drink – a cup of lemon tea is fat free and keeps your mouth busy.
10. Throw leftovers away – it’s really that simple.

We realise that tip 10 is guilt-inducing for some. But eating every last morsel won’t do anything for starving kids in Africa. In fact, think of your greedy gut as an insult to starving kids everywhere. Toss those scraps.

Pic via Tiny Tums

Mamalingual Dictionary: Daddyproofing

Daddyproofing (verb) 1. a new mother taking sometimes extreme measures to ensure her child is safe and secure while in his daddy's care (origin BNM 2007)

Hands up: have you ever watched your baby daddy with your joint progeny and thought ‘what the hell is he doing to my precious child?’ Do you sometimes shudder to imagine what they get up to when you’re not around? Papa may be the Shiniest of New Dads, having attended every antenatal class and now handling diaper duty and night shifts without batting an eyelid. And yet the first time you leave baby alone in his care you might be fighting the urge to put safety locks on your pride and joy.

The daddy of all dads Dr. Sears explains in this CNN article how fathers have their own parenting styles which are meant to complement (sometimes improve on) our own. But even the most laidback mama (or stay-at-home-dad) is a potential micromanager when it comes to her favourite project. We’re so caught up in the personal responsibility/power trip of being primary caregivers that it can be hard for us to let go and let daddy do his thing. In the early days watching my husband casually lobbing Mr. Cheeks into the air, or even now when he gives him Pringles for breakfast, my daddyproofing instinct kicks in. Stop! I want to yell. You'll destroy everything I've worked for! But instead I get a grip, count to ten, inhale and exhale. Daddy and baby are doing just fine. And mama’s taking a breather.

Pic via Canadian Family

Scary Spice is a Brand New Mama

Flowers and pink balloons go out to Mel B a.k.a Scary Spice of former UK girl band Spice Girls who delivered a 5 lb. 4 oz. baby girl in Los Angeles at 12.11 a.m. on April 3. Her 7-year-old daughter Phoenix Chi and mother were present at the birth. Notably absent was Mel B’s ex and rumoured father Eddie Murphy. The Norbit star (ouch) publicly disputed the paternity claim in a TV interview last year. When asked if he and Melanie were excited about the baby, he replied, "You're being presumptuous, because we're not together anymore. And I don't know whose child that is, until it comes out and has a blood test. You shouldn't jump to conclusions, sir." Chivalrous.

Eddie is currently dating music producer Babyface’s ex-wife Tracey Edmonds. He also already has five children with freakily slender ex-wife Nicole. We’ll be keeping a look out for any early photos of the baby as experts suggest newborns are genetically predisposed to bear a striking resemblance to their fathers (supposedly to ensure they stick around). Interesting factoid: the baby was born on Eddie’s 46th birthday.

Source: Celebrity Baby Blog

Mamalingual Dictionary: Kegel Knievel

Kegel Knievel (noun) 1. a woman who rides her pelvic floor muscles like a motorcycle stunt professional (origin: Brand New Mama 2007)

Even if you've never read Cosmopolitan magazine or tried to hold back your pee when you're bursting, you cannot make it through pregnancy without discovering the joy of Kegel exercises. And rightly so. The general wear and tear on the muscles attached to your pelvis caused by carrying and releasing a baby can lead to untold future problems from urinary incontinence to uterine prolapse. Like any major muscle group, the pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened and toned through a series of repetitive contractions. By learning to isolate the right muscles and doing regular practice, you'll soon be flexing like a pro. As this Babycenter article explains, becoming a Kegel Knievel should improve circulation, help speed healing after childbirth and prevent unwanted leaks. And both you and your partner will enjoy the fringe benefits.

Evel Knievel photo via Evel 1

Becoming Mamalingual

Attached parenting. Baby whispering. Lactivists. Perineal massage. New motherhood is a country with a language all its own. Baby manuals, parenting mags and even gossip rags are dotted with baby-centric terms that have become part of the lexicon e.g. mannies (male nannies as popularised by Britney Spears), babymooning (the honeymoon period with your newborn), glammas (glamorous grandmas) and more. The Macmillan Dictionary webzine has a fun article on new words and parenting called Babytalk.

Brand New Mama is creating our very own Mamalingual* Dictionary to help new parents navigate this strange terrain. Every week we will be updating our dictionary with words and phrases that we have coined or adapted. This is a collaborative project so contact us if you’d like to add or share your own made-up mama speak (and earn a creative credit in the Mamalingual dictionary). Let the mum-bo jumbo* begin.

Mamalingual (adj.) 1. fluent in the many languages of motherhood (origin: Brand New Mama 2007)
Mum-bo jumbo (noun) 1. meaningless language or rituals that only make sense to new mothers (origin: BNM 2007)

Pic via The Superficial.com

New Pregnancy Checklist: Baby Yourself

Nobody may be able to tell you're pregnant yet, but that doesn't mean you're not feeling the pressure. Growing a baby is exhausting work from the outset and the first 12 weeks leaves most women feeling drained. One of the most important things you can do is to take regular, relaxing breaks to keep both mind and body on an even keel.

Indulge in a Pregnancy Pampering Kit from Earth Mama Angel Baby that includes morning wellness tea and a bottom balm to counter any haemorrhoids-in-waiting. Mama Mio offers sensuous massage oils and a list of spas that provide their deluxe Mama's Touch treatments. Bumping Brits can splash out on Nurturer's personal services including anything from biking waxing to household maintenance. If you're in New York, don't miss out on the brand new Peppermint Reflexology technique at Maternal Massage and More.

Photo via Maternal Massage and More

New Pregnancy Checklist: Don't Blow It

Before you blow your budget shopping for yourself or your impending, take stock of your finances. The average cost of raising a child today is around one trillion dollars (cue Dr. Evil laugh and pinkie in mouth). Seriously though, once you're up to your neck in nappies and formula, you may regret frittering away your savings on non-essentials.

If money's a touchy subject, print out this family budget planner from Pregnancy Weekly and sit down with your partner to sort things out like grown-ups. BabyCenter has a fantastic range of resources ranging from a cost of a child calculator to tips for bargain hunters. For UK readers, NetMums will guide you through the maze of maternity pay, tax credits and Child Trust Fund accounts.

Photo via BabyCenter

New Pregnancy Checklist: Shop til u Pop

It's too early to splash out on baby gear, but it's never too soon to do a little window shopping for yourself. Gone are the days when mou-mous and man-shirts were the only options for a swelly Betty. Babealicious stars like Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stefani and Madonna have turned bumps into a high fashion accessory. Doing your style research early is the yummy mummy's trick to preparing for the curves ahead.

First rule: while your changing body's a great excuse to experiment, don't suddenly try to dress like someone you're not. Remember, comfort is key. If you're looking for functional but style-conscious clothes, pop into 1 in the Oven. Celeb haunt ProMom Couture does sassy tees that make a statement. Destination Maternity is a great one-stop shop for a range of figure-flattering lines. Isabella Oliver offers sleek, designer fashion for the metropolitan mama. And Crave Maternity has a wide collection of everything from smarts like this sexy wrap dress to nighties to see you through delivery and beyond.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Dining a Deux

Let’s clear one thing up. The phrase ‘eating for two’ doesn’t mean scoffing down double portions. After all, even at birth your baby weighs less than a 10th of your poundage. In fact you only need an extra 200-250 calories daily and that’s not until the last trimester. Think quality not quantity, especially in the first trimester when cravings abound and the sights/smells of even your favourite foods could give your belly the heave-ho.

The UK Food Standards Agency has a guide to eating well whether you're trying to conceive or heading for the labour ward. At Pregnancy Today, you'll find a list of foods to avoid when you're with sprout. If that makes for depressing reading, cheer yourself up with a copy of the Healthy Pregnancy Cookbook. It offers more than 100 safe, tasty and satisfying recipes for the mama-to-be.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Burn, Baby, Burn

You feel sicker than a dog and lazier than a llama. The last thing you want to do is exercise. Surely pregnancy's the perfect excuse to slouch around and anyway, won't all that jiggling hurt the foetus? Wrong on both counts. As this Mayo Clinic article explains, staying active helps to ease a lot of the aches and pains that come with pregnancy, aids with labour and delivery and speeds up recovery. Just make sure you get the all clear from your doctor and work at a natural pace. Don't suddenly start trying to run marathons if reaching for the remote makes you break a sweat.

Start easy by registering with BabyFit for a free personalised exercise and nutrition plan or join Blooming Fit for a small fee. Invest in a good maternity sports bra and clothes that appreciate your shape. Fit Maternity has a great range of sportswear to kick you and your bump into gear.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Shoot Yourself

There's no better time to own a camera than when you're expecting a baby. Apart from the crazy photographer/stalker (or mamarazzi) you'll become once your bubba's born, it's a great idea to start taking photos of yourself right from conception. Even though nothing's showing yet, your body will never look exactly the same and there's still something deeply emotional about the sight of your flattish belly with its secret life inside.

You can keep a paper and photo journal tracking your body's changes - not just the size of your belly but your blooming bustline, hair and nail growth, or newly popped belly button (we call it the umbilical cork). You can even share these photos with loved ones or an intimate circle of millions via a private or public photo blog. Or you can go one step further and hire a professional like UK photographer Tina Bolton to record this journey. It may cost a bit, but the memories are priceless.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Go Surfing

From the minute I found out I was pregnant, I was online Googling for pregnancy info, advice and trivia. Many hours supposedly working were actually spent calculating my due date, scoping out belly photos, and signing up for programmes to track my pregnancy week by week. I also figured out my baby's horoscope and did the Chinese gender predictor test. This form of 'research' was one of the fun things about a first-time pregnancy. But if you don't have time to waste, here are our top 5 tried and trusted websites that will see you through the next nine months and more:

Babycenter.com - winner of a 2006 Webby award
Pregnancy.org - watch birth videos, share stories and more
Babyworld - top UK site, great forums and fab shopping
Storknet - practical and accessible info
Pregnancy Weekly - all about pregnancy

New Pregnancy Checklist: Show and Tell

So your pee has produced a thin blue line and you're itching to tell somebody. You could surprise your partner using one of these ideas from Baby Center members. You might want to share with a few close friends and family members with a bold yet understated pregnancy announcement, Hip & Little style. Or perhaps you just want to shout it out from the mountain tops. If you're ready to tell the world even though you've not hit the 12 week mark, try on one of these Shhh...Baby Sleeping t-shirts from Foxy Mama Maternity. It's direct yet discrete, will grow with your figure and the message will last until your baby comes screaming into the world.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Stop Fuming

It stinks. It kills. It rots your teeth, causes wrinkles and burns a hole in your pocket. And you still can't put it out. But if you won't quit the cancer sticks for yourself, do it for your unborn child. Smoking is linked to a host of problems for the foetus including birth defects, abnormal lung development and stillbirth. Read the March of Dimes foundation's fact sheet for a quick anti-nicotine fix. If that doesn't shake you up, see the pregnancy and smoking section at Why Quit. For direct help in kicking the habit, visit the US Surgeon General's consumer guide.

And don't think that just because you're a non-smoker, you're off the hook. Second-hand smoking can also affect your baby, so try to avoid smoky areas. Persuade those around you - especially your partner or housemate - to stop puffing in your presence. If you're timid of tongue, this slogan t-shirt should get your message across loud and clear.

New Pregnancy Checklist: Get the Bible

There are tonnes of books out there about the waiting game, but the undisputed bible of first-time pregnancy is What to Expect When You’re Expecting. It’s practical and reassuring advice although, like the Good Book, some may find it a little alarmist in places. I bought this along with Pregnancy for Dummies which appealed to me mainly because of the title. Even if you’ve witnessed pregnancy, birth and the whole shebang up close, there’s something about going bump yourself that makes you feel quite clueless. For a wittier, hipper and downright ruder take on going belly up, check out The Girlfriend’s Guide to Pregnancy by Vicky Iovine.

New Pregnancy Checklist: 10 Things to Do

There are many thoughts that may run through your head when you find out you're expecting: At last! Oh no, not again! Why me? I'm so blessed. A whole nine months? Hooray, maternity leave! Here comes the fat chick. Who's the daddy? Perhaps none, maybe all of the above.

But there are loads of things you should do, so many in fact that you're probably feeling drained already. Here's our top 10 Things to do when you find out you're pregnant (and you're planning to keep the baby):

1. Quit smoking. Now. Seriously, there's no better reason.
2. Announce it. To the daddy, to a friend, to a doctor. Somebody else has gotta know!
3. Go buy the book. It's the ultimate guide to What to Expect.
4. Eat healthier. It's not just folic acid and Omega 3 supplements.
5. Go window shopping. Being a hot mama takes planning.
6. Bookmark pregnancy sites. You need advice you can trust.
7. Get active. Your baby, and your body, will thank you for it.
8. Budget. The cost of a child is the cost of a lifetime.
9. Start a photo journal. You'll be amazed by your changing body.
10. Take a break. A pregnant body needs rest and lots of pampering. Indulge!

Comment board: What are your Top 10 tips for mamas-in-progress? What was the first thing you did when you found out you were pregnant?

Brand New Mama welcomes you

Welcome to Brand New Mama, the brand new sister blog to Hype Baby (a blogazine for babies with attitude). Brand New Mama is a resource for new mothers everywhere, helping you along the journey from that twinkle in your eye to that toddler in your face.

We'll be chatting about everything we can think of that relates to pregnancy and early motherhood: whether it's morning sickness or newborn upchuck, cracked nipples or cradle cap. And that's just the fun stuff.

At Brand New Mama you'll find links to the best articles we can find on the web about pregnancy, birth and baby care, no-holds-barred reviews of products you might actually use (and those you'll want to skip), tips, trends and much light relief.

We're not experts and we don't subscribe to any particular parenting method beyond good care, common sense and mother's instinct. Like you, we're mostly making it up as we go along. And loving (almost)every minute of it.

Buckle up. It's gonna be a bumpy ride.

*Photo courtesy of The Baby Website