The Pregnancy Pillow pattern is about to change

My pregnancy pillow sewing pattern that I designed in 2012 has had rave reviews. People in countries who cannot order pillows like these have especially told me of how they appreciate what a great pattern that this is. It has helped many mamas through their pregnancies when they didn't have another option.
Sadly though, the makers of a similar pillow have accused my design to be too much like theirs. Not that the pattern itself is a problem, but that I am "encouraging people to infringe on" their said patent.  I want  other wahms to feel free to sew any of my designs to sell without worry of infringement. Also, as a wahm myself, I absolutely do not want to be in a business rivalry, so I need to make a few modifications to my design.
I will look into this issue further, but for the time being, the current pregnancy pillow pattern will be retired as of July, 2013.

Although I love this design, I am forced to re-visit the pattern to try to adjust the shape so as to not infringe on any patents.

In the mean time, I would love to hear personal reviews of the pregnancy pillow pattern, the likes and dislikes, new ideas for a replacement pillow design and of course.....(drum roll)....Pictures! I would love to see some pictures of your pregnancy pillow that you have sewn from this or any other pattern.

Although it might take a while, keep a lookout for the next full body pregnancy pillow design. Someday I'll get another one out there. :)

UPDATE - The new pregnancy pillow pattern can be found here: 

New Pregnancy Pillow Pattern

Best pads for after birth

Using pads for after birth can be daunting for some. Which pads work best after birth? Here is a great solution for all of the women out there who are wanting to know what are the best pads for after birth.

I know that I have written about postpartum pads before....but now that the newest addition of our family has arrived (Claire Belle), I have had the opportunity to test out the best pads for after birth. Made with soft and absorbent bamboo fleece, incredibly absorbent Zorb and waterproof PUL, the Mamma Can Do It postpartum pad design is as soft and gentle as it is absorbent. It wicks moisture away from mama's skin and even keeps the gushes in check.

The first 24 hours after birth is the heaviest flow. A heavy duty pad and shell for after birth is required. The best pad for after birth has a waterproof shell that the wearer can put a cloth or disposable pad inside. The shell has gussets that keep gushes in place so there are no leaks and no stains. If the wearer prefers disposable pads, it is simple to remove and stick into the shell. The cloth option has a snap that snaps into place into the shell. What's even better is the 'ice pocket' that is built into the shell. Painful tears and stitches are no match to this pad system.

Once the gushes subside, there will be a few weeks of heavy bleeding. A heavy, yet manageable all in one pad for after birth is required. The best pad for after birth has a waterproof outer layer, soft bamboo fleece and absorbent zorb fabric. It is the perfect shape to fit any panty and even has 3 size options for wings to snap into place. The pad for after birth is extremely comfortable as well as manageable for a busy lifestyle. When postpartum bleeding is done, simply use these pads for excessive bleeding or overnight pads.

My personal experience - December 2012:

I designed these pads, yet I still started out with disposables when my latest daughter was born. My midwife had disposable pads and Depends ready for me promptly after birth. I wasn't going to argue. When I did change into my postpartum pad system, I was pleasantly amazed at the difference! They fit better since I used my own underwear. They absorbed faster and kept me feeling dry better. The best part about the cloth pad after birth was the comfort. Oh my...these postpartum pads for after birth are so comfortable. Softness on the skin after such a traumatic time is worth every second to make them. I will be sharing my experience with my midwife so that she can hopefully help others have a more comfortable experience as well.

My only concern with using these was the washing. My solution: I have decided to keep a small tote under my sink with water and vinegar to put the pads for after birth into. Although I prefer to wash my pads & diapers every other day, by keeping them in water and vinegar will prolong the washing to a week. This way I won't have to depend on other people to wash them for me.

Overall, the pads for after birth pattern rocks! Try it out - you'll wish you had!

Postpartum Pad Pattern is ready!

I finally have the cloth postpartum pad pattern ready to use! It includes a waterproof shell, insert and AIO postpartum pad pattern (doubles as an overnight pad). There are gussets to keep the first week messes into place as well as an INCREDIBLY absorbent insert (a whopping 8 oz).

After a woman has a baby (postpartum), she needs quite a bit more flow protection than normal. Not only is postpartum flow protection expensive, but most pads are not even practical for the “gush” that happens. By choosing reusable cloth postpartum pads, you will be saving your body against chemically infused materials, you will have a pad that is adequate to handle your flow postpartum, you will have a soft and comfortable pad against your sensitive skin AND you will save an incredible amount of money.

This postpartum pad pattern is a 3 part system to give you all the protection you need after having a baby. 

The Postpartum Pad Shell Pattern:

This postpartum pad shell is designed to keep either disposable or cloth pads in place during the first week after a baby is born. This is the most 'messy' time for a new mom. During this time, you will find that the gussets of the shell keep the “gush” moments in place without fear of soiling clothing. There is a built in pocket for putting a baggy full of crushed ice, a snap for holding a cloth insert into place (if you choose to use cloth), and double snaps with three size settings for keeping the shell attached to your panties.
The postpartum pad shell is designed to be washed in the washing machine when soiled, however – you should get many pad changes out of one pad shell. Simply unsnap the insert if using cloth, or remove the disposable pad. Wipe the pad shell with toilet paper if there is anything on it and add a clean insert or pad. This saves time, cost to make and patience. 

The Postpartum Shell Insert Pattern:

This shell insert (the soaker) is to be used with a shell. It does not have a waterproof layer so it is important that it snaps into the shell to stay into place. If this insert is made with recommended fabrics it can hold up to 8 ounces of fluid – this absorbency is double then the leading disposable overnight maxi pads. The recommended soft fabric gives your sensitive skin a break from harsh disposable pads. 

The AIO (all in one) Postpartum Pad Pattern :

When the first week postpartum is over, blood flow slows down considerably. This is the time to switch to an 'overnight' pad. The AIO postpartum pad makes it easy to switch! 

The AIO postpartum pad has the absorbency and leakproofness built right in. It has wings that have  double snaps with three size settings for keeping the pad attached to your panties and in place. 

If you choose to use the recommended fabrics, the AIO postpartum pad will hold up to 4 oz of fluid. This is the same absorbency as the leading disposable brand, yet MUCH more soft and comfortable.

When your postpartum flow is over, simply use these pads for heavy days or overnight.

THIS POSTPARTUM PAD PATTERN & TUTORIAL INCLUDES

A tutorial for a postpartum shell pattern – use with cloth or disposable pads

• Step by step directions with crisp, real life images for each step
• Snapped wings with 3 size adjustments
• Gussets

A tutorial for a postpartum shell insert pattern – perfect fit for the shell

• Step by step directions with crisp, real life images for each step
• Snap in insert stays in place
• Holds 8 oz of fluid

A tutorial for the AIO postpartum pad pattern (also doubles as an overnight pad)

• Step by step directions with crisp, real life images for each step
• Snapped wings with 3 size adjustments
• Holds 4 oz of fluid

Printable pattern pieces

• Postpartum pad shell
• Postpartum pad shell insert
• AIO postpartum pad (overnight pad)
• Gussets

Recommended fabrics 

Budget friendly fabric & notion ideas

Cutting charts to get the most out of fabric

Tips on how many pads to make

Tricks on how to sew recommended fabrics, using snaps & places to buy supplies for best prices

100% support from a professional seamstress



Want to check it out? Visit my website for the postpartum pad pattern!

Postpartum Pad pattern coming up!

Postpartum Pad Pattern coming soon!

This postpartum pad pattern makes it easy and cheap to make your own soft, comfortable, and absorbent postpartum pads.

After countless hours of ideas, research and trials,  I have come up with a new idea - a new postpartum pad pattern. It will be available soon (hopefully next week) on my website, www.mammacandoit.com.

What is bleeding like after birth?

I'm not going to lie: it's terrible. Any period that you have ever had could not compare to what you are going to experience. The first 3 days are the worst, then it slows considerably. 

During the first 3 days it is not uncommon to soak the largest pad available upon standing. Because the vagina is actually shaped like a 'cup', blood pools up inside of a woman. When she stands, it is common to feel as if blood is pouring out of the vagina. Many times it will leak out of the sides of a pad and cause a huge mess.

After the first 3 days, the bleeding becomes slowed a bit, but is still comparable to your heaviest period ever. You will still need pads that have optimum soaking capability. 

In my experience, if I stay in bed for the first 7-10 days (torture) after birth, bleeding will be completely stopped by 3 weeks. However, I have also experienced "toughing it out" and not getting optimum rest...the bleeding did not stop until 8 weeks. 

Try your best to get someone to help you during that first two weeks so that you will not be handicap with bleeding, otherwise, be prepared for a murder scene in the bathroom for the first 2 months or so.

Why use cloth after birth?

-Not only is cloth a cost effective way to deal with postpartum (after birth) bleeding, but it is incredibly comfortable. Comfort in such an 'uncomfortable' time is the number one reason why anyone would use cloth.

-Did I mention cost effective? The typical cost of disposable postpartum protection is about $150-$200 depending on what products that you use and how long bleeding lasts. By using cloth, you can make your own postpartum pads for $30 or less....AND they'll be available for heavy period days as well as the next time you get pregnant.

-Stay dryer longer: My soaker (insert) pad that is included in this postpartum pad pattern holds up to 8 oz of fluid. To compare I tested an Always maxi overnight....but it only held 4 oz. That's double protection!

-The gussets are reason enough! Disposable pads don't have them....you absolutely can't go without gussets the first 3 days after birth.

-Disposable paper products have been shown to tear out stitches and it also does not absorb quite enough, fast enough the first few days. Thus you will encounter leaks. By using my suggested fabrics you will not encounter leaks because these are designed to readily soak up the quick postpartum flow.

-Disposable paper products have been treated with multiple chemicals - by using cloth, you will save your sensitive skin from being exposed to these harsh chemicals. 

-There are few, if any products available in supermarkets that are designed specifically for postpartum bleeding protection. By making your own postpartum pads, you will have unlimited access to products designed specifically for after birth mamas.

Postpartum Pad Pattern Features

This postpartum pad pattern is designed for convenient, cost effective, safe protection after a baby is born. It features a two part system: an outer, waterproof shell and a snap in super soft and absorbent soaker to keep you comfortable and dry.

This postpartum pad pattern has a wipeable, outer, waterproof shell. This not only saves on the cost to make these pads, but also will save time in the bathroom. Simply snap in an absorbent pad inside the shell and voila - safe and secure protection. The outside of the postpartum pad shell is a cute cotton print so you can feel feminine even in an uncomfortable time.

Don't worry about 'side leaks' - this postpartum pad pattern includes directions on how to make leakproof gussets. This is worth it's weight in GOLD the first 3 days after giving birth.

The postpartum pad pattern also has optional wings to snap the postpartum pad to panties so that you don't have to worry about shifting.

Ice packs are wonderful the first couple days to calm sore tissues, so this postpartum pad design has a pocket to place an icepack to keep you cool in sensitive areas.

The snap in soaker in this postpartum pad pattern design is designed to be absolutely wonderful. The fabrics that I suggest using will keep you feeling dry and pampered by how comfortable it is (so so soooo much better than disposables).

Among all of these features, I will also be including an "all in one" pad pattern and tutorial for after the heaviest flow (lochia) has slowed down. This pad will also double as a superior overnight pad or incontinence protection.

Also included in the postpartum pad pattern & tutorial will be printable pattern pieces, step by step images for each step, budget friendly fabric suggestions, helpful hints and tips and so much more!

Pregnancy support belt - make a sewing pattern?

Lately I've been wondering about pregnancy support belts. I've looked for sewing patterns online and I can't find any...so I think I should make a pregnancy support belt pattern!
As my comfort in this pregnancy decreases, I am finding that I would LOVE to have an 'extra set of hands' holding my belly up. I think a pregnancy support belt is my ticket to comfort. Maybe.
I've looked at some versions online that are for sale and they look like more of a CONTRAPTION then a support....not to mention they are EXPENSIVE! Holy moly!
I think that a pregnancy support belt might be the only way I could stay on my feet for longer periods of time, and I also think it would be a great way to help hold up the maternity pants (I can't keep them up no matter what I do!).
Any thoughts on this?

How to make a Pregnancy Pillow

Making a pregnancy pillow is easy when you have a pregnancy pillow pattern!

Get comfortable regardless of how far along in the pregnancy you are. Support your head, neck, upper back, lower back, hips, chest and growing tummy with ONE pillow instead of 5.

When I was designing this pregnancy pillow pattern, I researched the most popular pregnancy pillows on the market. I saw what was great about the best pregnancy pillows and I also read about what the 'best' ones were lacking. 

What I came up with: the "Snoogle" was the top pregnancy pillow. There were down sides to the snoogle pillow though. Here's the downsides of the snoogle and similar shapes:

1. Even from the pictures of the snoogle and comparative pregnancy pillows, I could see that there wasn't enough tummy support. 

2. I love knowing my that my Superman is sleeping next to me...but I could see from the width of some of the most popular pillows on the market that he would be banished to the couch. Not okay with me. I needed something that was supportive but compact enough to stay on my half of my queen size bed.

3. An end to snuggling? I wanted to come up with a design that would allow hubs and I the ability to snuggle even WHILE I was wrapped up in comfort. 

4. Head support. This was the biggest issue that I saw with the snoogle reviews: mama's were mentioning how uncomfortable the 'headrest' of the pregnancy pillow was. My design isn't too wide or high. I stuffed it to my liking and recommend that my customers stuff it to their comfort as well!

Here is the finished product.......(drum roll)......

This pregnancy pillow does EVERYTHING that I want! 

It is supportive on the head, neck, upper back, lower back, hips, CHEST and tummy. The pillow isn't too wide so it allows a partner to still cuddle next to you without feeling a huge barrier. The width of the finished pillow is slimmer and less space taking then the snoogle and similar pregnancy pillows. 

The BEST part of this pillow though is the tummy support. Adjust the "leg loop" on your body to fit your comfort level perfectly and support that growing tummy like nothing else you could imagine.

Cost wise, you can't go wrong using this pregnancy pillow pattern. Costing under $20 to make, this pregnancy pillow will not only be worth it to make so that you can have everything you could ever want in a pregnancy pillow, but it will save you a ton of $ then if you bought one premade.

All in all, this is one happy mamma and I can't wait to share this pregnancy pillow pattern with you!

There is a new, updated version of this pregnancy pillow. 

See the pregnancy pillow pattern

Best Pregnancy Pillow Pattern - Coming up!

As I was looking at my blog traffic today, I came across a search of how to make a pregnancy pillow. I've heard about these strange looking contraptions, so I did a little research to find out more about them. WOW! I NEED ONE! As I'm in my 30th week of pregnancy right now, getting comfortable seems like a thing of the past, but this pregnancy pillow thing sure makes it look easy!

To see how my pregnancy pillow turned out, check out my Pregnancy Pillow Pattern Post or The Pregnancy Pillow Pattern itself!

Unfortunately though, with a price tag of $60 plus shipping, it is not something that I would just go out and buy without much research....if I even ended up buying one at all.

After looking into them a bit, I discovered that there are a few different brands of pregnancy pillows. Which is the best pregnancy pillow? I searched google, forums, ebay, amazon shopping and reviews from previous buyers. From what I can see, here is top 3 list of pregnancy pillows. #1 is the most popular.

#1. This is the leachco snoogle pregnancy pillow. 
This is rated the best pregnancy pillow.

It has an odd shape to it that bends and turns with the pregnant mamma to get into a comfortable sleeping position. This pregnancy pillow is by far the most purchased pillow in the usa. My favorite features: It won't take up the whole bed, and it is long enough that many sleeping positions can be comfortable with it.

#2. This is the Boppy prenatal pillow.

I can see that it would be comfortable when facing it, but it wouldn't be comfortable to sleep with your back to it (compared to #1), I also don't think this pregnancy pillow looks like it has as much length to it as #1, which could make it less less likely to be more comfortable. It is a bit more bulky in the leg area which could be more comfortable depending on the user's body shape.

#3. This is the leachco back n belly contoured body pillow.

My first thought when I saw this was, "HOLY CRAP! I have to have this!" Could you imaging how incredibly comfortable this pregnancy pillow would be?! I love being snuggled and this would not only provide the 'snuggling' but also the much needed pregnancy support! 

Then when I started to think about it more, I realized that my husband would be sleeping on the couch if I had this as it would take up our entire queen size bed.

This pregnancy pillow may also make a pregnant mama feel a bit claustrophobic and may actually cause her to wake up more during the night because of it. I can't image that rolling over would be easy at ALL using this pillow.
After careful consideration, I have changed my initial view and agree with the market, this would be pillow #3 to me as well.... definitely not the best pregnancy pillow.

All in all, this was good research for me to decide what type of pregnancy pillow I wanted. However, I still can't justify spending $60 on something that I "think" might make me feel more comfortable. What if it didn't? What if my uncomfortableness is simply due to the pregnancy in general?

After carefully thinking it through a bit more, I've decided that I need to make a pregnancy pillow pattern and make one of these maternity pillows myself. I think that a pregnancy pillow pattern would be an excellent addition to mammacandoit.com as there isn't any other patterns available on the market. I'm sure people would love to be able to learn how to make a pregnancy pillow. 

I think I will make a pattern to be similar to the snoogle. Not only is that the most popular, but it seems to be what I want for myself as well! Of course I will have the option of a pregnancy pillow cover as well.
Judging from the size of the pillow, I think the cost to make a snoogle pregnancy pillow will be around $20 or a tad bit less. Of course in the pregnancy pillow pattern I will include directions on where to purchase fabrics and supplies so that you don't have to worry about overspending. 

I can handle spending $20 on a snoogle pregnancy pillow. 

What about the pregnancy pillow cover? I looked them up too - they cost anywhere from $20-$30 a piece + shipping costs. I think we can probably make a snoogle pregnancy pillow cover for about $10. $15 should be enough to give you a designer look!

This will be my next project! I'd love to hear thoughts on the pregnancy pillow pattern idea. If you think you'd like to see a pattern that isn't a 'snoogle' type of shape, link to the ones that you do like. I'd love to know what people are using or what they'd like to sew!

Update: Click here to make check out the pregnancy pillow pattern