Breastfeeding can seem like a simple task, but the reality for a lot of breastfeeding moms is that it can be tough to figure out. Those early days are a huge adjustment period, filled with constant learning and practice as your newborn feeds every two to three hours. While you learn to position yourself, your baby, understand hunger cues, manage your milk supply and take care of your breast health, you are likely wondering, “Does this feel right?”
Read MoreLow milk production is one of the most common and understandable worries of breastfeeding moms. Unlike with bottles, you can’t see the amount of breastmilk consumed, so it’s easy to wonder, “Is my baby getting enough?”
Read MoreProper hydration during pregnancy not only facilitates the absorption of essential nutrients, but also creates a protective environment for your baby in the womb. Neglecting hydration can lead to complications and affect your baby's development, so it’s important to understand why and how to prioritize hydration throughout your entire pregnancy journey.
Read MoreDuring pregnancy, a baby is contained in a sack of amniotic fluid that helps them move and grow while protecting them from outside germs. For the majority of pregnancies, that amniotic sack breaks at some point during labor from the pressure of contractions. This is also known as “membrane rupture” or “water breaking.” However, in 8-10% of pregnancies, the water breaks before the start of labor.
Read MoreYay - you’re pregnant! Now that you know you’re pregnant, you might start to feel overwhelmed by what nutrients you need on a daily basis for your body to handle the extra demands of pregnancy – nourishing both yourself and your growing baby. No need to stress though! I’ve broken down pregnancy nutrition into 3 easy steps.
Read MoreAnxiety in particular is one of the most common mental health conditions that pregnant women suffer from and, if ignored, can have adverse effects on outcomes. In a study conducted by American Psychological Association and Society for Health Psychology, research shows the correlation between anxiety during pregnancy and preterm births, emphasizing the importance of prenatal mental health screenings and interventions.
Read MoreIn many cultures, the first 40 days of the postpartum period are considered an incredibly sacred time for the birthing parent. La Cuarentena, The Jappa, Zuo Yue Zi, Lying In. Each of these terms hold the same meaning: a 40-day rest period following labor and birth. 40 days to rest, recover, bond with baby and allow your village of friends and family to care for you and help with day to day responsibilities.
Read MoreAs people living in a hyper connected world, we are constantly bombarded by the "highlight reels” of others. In particular, there is an emphasis on social media of what appears to be the picture perfect pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience. This constant display of “perfection” during these vulnerable periods can lead to unreasonable expectations and ultimately to disappointment, shame, anxiety and potentially the onset of Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). Let’s examine some common expectations in the postpartum period versus the reality-based perspectives.
Read MorePreparing for the postpartum period is a bit like preparing for a series of inclement weather. With weather, we can make preparations based on forecasted events, location, and prior storm activity. With the postpartum period, we can prepare ourselves based on our own predictions of how we may feel, the amount of support available to us, and prior experience with mental health or medical challenges.
Read MoreCommunication is key, we hear this phrase a lot, but in the delivery room, it’s imperative. As childbirth complications and maternal mortality continue to challenge health systems across the country, certain hospitals are looking at communication as a way to improve the safety and quality of maternity care.
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