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Navigating Mental Health For Parents With Multiples
Parents of multiples experiences prenatally can also be different. There is often more likelihood of health concerns for you or your babies. Your babies are monitored closely throughout the pregnancy, this just ensures that everyone is healthy. Carrying multiples involves more of a time investment than carrying a singleton due to additional visits and testing. Being a parent to multiples there are financial struggles surrounding the care of your babies and having to provide double the amount of childcare and feeding costs. This increases the likelihood of experiencing anxiety, or PMADs.
Growing Your Postpartum Support System
Having a baby can bring about a lot of changes within your life, some like having to wake up in the middle of the night for feedings, changing way more diapers than you ever thought possible, and learning to have a flexible schedule are all things parents prepare for when having a baby. What is not so common to hear talked about, is how relationships with your partner, family, and friends may change. So what are some of these changes that may happen and what are some ways that you can grow your support system during your pregnancy to be prepared for when these changes may occur?
Non-Medical and Natural Inductions
Are you coming up on your 40 week mark of pregnancy and don’t want to be medically induced? If so then this blog post is for you! The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that 20 to 40 percent of pregnancies are medically induced. While the use of medical care during labor is well-documented, less is understood about the use of non-medical means of labor induction and pain management in the U.S. population.
Hormones and Birth
Have you ever wondered what hormones are released during childbirth? Well, today we are here to tell you about all the exciting hormones that help you during the birthing process. The main hormones during labor and birth are oxytocin, beta-endorphins, relaxin, and adrenaline. One hormone that will be highlighted, which is released during the postpartum period is prolactin. We hope that you find this useful.
Inductions: What Do I Need to Know?
Are you 38 weeks pregnant and your provider has brought up the idea of an induction? If yes, then this blog is for you. Many other mothers may be having the same questions and conversations with their providers. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that 20 to 40 percent of pregnancies are induced. This blog will provide you with some insight into what an induction is, why providers may recommend them and what induction options mothers have if they choose to go that route.
Postpartum Mood Disorders for Dads and Partners
Just like pregnancy can affect the whole family, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders can affect the whole family too. Here are some tips that might help you along the way. Remember that you will get through this with help and support. There is no magic cure and sometimes recovery seems slow, but things will keep improving if you stick to a plan of healthcare, support and communication.
Babywearing: What Carrier is Right For You?
Babywearing is a fun and safe way to carry your baby hands-free. But picking out the best carrier for you and your baby can be a challenge when you don’t know what to look for. With a little help, it can be super easy to choose the best carrier possible!
Babywearing
Do you ever find yourself needing an extra hand? Babywearing is a hands-free way to carry your baby wherever you go! Along with having extra hands, it promotes a healthy attachment between you and Baby, improves Baby’s mood, and promotes better sleep. The best part is that anyone can do it!
The Golden Hour: Skin to Skin
The golden hour for skin to skin contact between mother and baby begins in the first hour after baby is born.
Braxton Hicks Contractions...False Labor or the Real Deal?
It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or midwife when you start having cramps, but don’t panic. You may just be having Braxton Hicks contractions. Many believe that they’re your body’s way of getting ready for the real deal.
Morning Sickness. Not just in the Morning!
Though it is most commonly referred to as morning sickness, nausea and vomiting can happen anytime throughout the day.
Hospital Packing Guide
Don’t forget one of the most important third trimester to dos: deciding what to pack in your hospital bag for you, your baby, and your partner. It can be a little overwhelming at times but you will thank yourself later once you have everything you need packed up!
Thoughts of a Postpartum Doula
As postpartum doulas we can be there to offer emotional support, answer questions you may have, offer basic breastfeeding help, help with light household chores, and so much more.
Diagnosed With Gestational Diabetes…What Now?
The presence of glucose in the blood is crucial since it serves as fuel for your body and provides nourishment to your baby; however, it is important that glucose levels remain within target.
Testing for Gestational Diabetes in Pregnancy
Pregnant women can help control gestational diabetes by eating well, exercising regularly, and taking medication (if necessary). Blood sugar control can help you and your baby stay healthy and prevent a difficult delivery.
Considering a VBAC?...Doulas Are Essential
If you are planning on having more children, VBAC might help you avoid the risks of multiple cesarean deliveries.
Your Baby's in the NICU, Now What?
There are several reasons babies go to the NICU. Some of the most common reasons being:
Postpartum Nutrition: What to Eat After You Give Birth?
Choose a variety of lean proteins, fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats. By sticking with natural, whole foods, you’ll get the vitamins, minerals, and fiber you need to sustain your energy and keep your body well-nourished while nursing.
Tips For Pumping Breast Milk At Work
Many new parents don't know what to expect when it comes to pumping while returning to work after maternity leave. Whether you work part time from home or full time in an office, it doesn’t have to mean the end of breastfeeding.
Labor Playlists: Music can help you no matter what type of birth.
Just like the music playing during our shows and movies, music sets the emotional scene for what the producers and writers want us to feel and experience. It can create the space for you to let go, feel ready, boost energy, instill courage, settle in, release tension, fight hard, dance baby out, focus inward, connect with our baby, master the rhythm, ride the waves, & find our strength.