| Day | Event | Details | |-----|-------|---------| | | First Mating Attempt | If the dam is in early proestrus (progesterone 1–2 ng/mL), a “preview” mating can be performed to assess compatibility, but no semen is deposited. | | –8 to –6 | Repeat Progesterone Test | Confirm rising trend; aim for 2–3 ng/mL before the first real mating. | | –5 | First Real Mating | When progesterone ≈ 3 ng/mL (early estrus). Use a fresh, high‑quality ejaculate (≥ 200 M total sperm, ≥ 70 % motility). | | –3 | Second Mating | Progesterone ≈ 4–5 ng/mL (mid‑estrus). | | 0 (LH Surge) | Ovulation Confirmation | Positive LH test → optimal fertilization window opens (≈ 24–48 h post‑surge). | | +1 | Third Mating | Immediately after LH surge (within 12 h). | | +3 | Fourth Mating (Optional) | If previous matings were with sub‑optimal semen quality, repeat. | | +5 | End of Planned Mating Window | No further matings unless a veterinarian recommends a later attempt (e.g., if progesterone plateaued). | | +14–21 | Early Pregnancy Check (Ultrasound) | Transabdominal ultrasound to confirm fetal heartbeat (≥ 25 days gestation). | | +30–35 | Mid‑Gestation Assessment | Re‑check BCS, weight gain, and overall health; adjust nutrition accordingly. | | +55–63 | Pre‑Whelping Preparation | Set up whelping area, review emergency contacts, finalize neonatal care kit. | | +63 | Estimated Whelping Day | Monitor for signs of labor (temperature drop, nesting behavior). |

| Date | Event | Hormone Level (Prog) | LH Test | Mating # | Sire ID | Semen Quality | Notes | |------|-------|----------------------|---------|----------|---------|----------------|-------| | 2026‑04‑01 | Progesterone test | 1.8 ng/mL | – | – | – | – | Early proestrus | | 2026‑04‑04 | First real mating | 3.2 ng/mL | – | 1 | MomComesFirst | 250 M/70 % motility | Dam calm | | 2026‑04‑06 | LH surge | 5.0 ng/mL | Positive | – | – | – | Ovulation confirmed | | 2026‑04‑07 | Second mating | 5.4 ng/mL | – | 2 | MomComesFirst | 240 M/68 % motility | Good mount | | 2026‑04‑23 | Ultrasound | – | – | – | – | – | 4 fetuses with heartbeat | | … | … | … | … | … | … | … | … |

As the "MomComesFirst" movement continues to grow, Sasha Pearl invites mothers from all walks of life to join the conversation. By sharing their stories, experiences, and tips on social media using the hashtag #MomComesFirst, mothers can connect with one another, support one another, and inspire positive change.

Pearl's journey to this point has been shaped by her own experiences as a mother. Like many women, she found herself juggling the demands of work and family life, often feeling overwhelmed and guilty about not being able to do it all. However, as she navigated the challenges of motherhood, she began to realize that the societal expectations placed on women were not only unrealistic but also damaging.