This is one of the main differences between the medical model and the wise woman tradition according to Gail Hart. The old advice of not gaining "too much" is still heavily felt and emphasized in the medical model. In my first pregnancy I didn't really understand why I felt so crappy every time I was told to step on the scale at every appointment. Now I realize because it has the same undertones as fat shaming diet and weight loss culture mixed with the medical paradigm that low key treats women like actual crap. They used to even recommend smoking so the baby dosen't get "too big". Oh yeah and yet they still throw the big baby card out there. In that system many women are treated as if they have no power over their lifestyle, their choices, and their habits. In the wise woman tradition passed down by women over centuries, women know their power and their worth. They know that growing a healthy baby that fills the pelvis is important for preventing pregnancy and birth complications. They know babies are worth the weight. Yes, the weight. Well nourished mamas are less likely to have babies that wind up in the nicu for months, they are at less risk of complications and there for are less likely to need things with in the system. In the wise woman tradition we don't underestimate a woman's true power. AND we appreciate, honor, and respect the woman and her body for carrying this sacred life. If someone is telling you to not "gain too much" in pregnancy that's a red flag. If it feels like crap stepping on a scale maybe DON'T because monitoring weight doesn't actually improve outcomes. It’s more concerning to NOT gain weight. EAT! Eat well, eat often, it's worth it. Your worth it. Preventing complications like hemorrhaging, winding up in the nicu, or with other serious complications is worth it. INSIDE: Mothering the Mother- Restoring the Sacred Magic of the 4th Trimester -- Get the Pregnancy Nutrition Workshop with Maryn for FREE! indiebirth.org/motheringthemother INSIDE: 13 Moons Childbirth Ed Learn about — Nourishment as the foundation of the wise woman model — Wise woman nutritional skills with Lily Nichols — Brewer’s Diet — Food journals + prenatal nutrition hacks indiebirth.org/13moons ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDIK0tE_hkI

Learn more about our new program, Midwifery Magic at: https://indiebirth.org/midwiferymagic ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJCCbFIAXtM