Quantcast
Channel: Postpartum Doula  NJ - Blog
Viewing all 52 articles
Browse latest View live

Gassy Babies Don't Smile

0
0
 A newborn smiles...Someone, somewhere must utter the obligatory phrase: "It must be gas."  I've got such a bone to pick about this old saying!  

First, I've worked with hundreds and hundreds of babies.  I've never seen one baby with gas smile.  Have you?

Second, when a newborn screams or cries, who doubts the authenticity of that emotion?  Most people trust that a baby is legitimately unhappy....So, why can't that same baby be genuinely happy?

I think the basis of this old myth is that a newborn baby just isn't developmentally capable of a full range of human emotion.  I disagree.  

There is a different quality to the 'Social Smile' that usually emerges around 6 weeks.        This smile is more purposeful and used for  interaction.  Smiles seen in the first weeks seem to be more internal and not seeking a response.  

While I'm waiting for Developmental Psychologists to back me up on this, I'll stand firm in my opinion that babies are whole people.    





Diaper Bag Crash Course

0
0
      First-time moms often want to know what to put in the Diaper Bag.  Your needs vary, according to your baby's age, method of feeding and diapering.  But, here's Crash Course.  
       If you're still pregnant, I highly recommend packing the diaper bag now (or at least soon).  (It's not unusual to have a weight-check or appointment within 2-3 days of the birth.)  Either way, you'll be glad your Diaper Bag is stocked and ready to go.

ESSENTIALS:
*4-6 Diapers
*Wipes
*Burp Cloth
*Receiving Blanket
*Change of clothes
*Extra Socks (can double as mittens)
*Hat 

*Snack (i.e. granola bar, trail mix, crackers--non-perishable)
*Nursing Pads
*Water Bottle
*Sanitary Pads
*Gum/Mints

Formula Feeding:
2 disposable nursers OR
Sterilized or bottled water, pre-measured powder formula
2 Bottles
Bib

Cloth Diapering:
You'll need a 'wet' bag 
Bigger Diaper Bag
Highly Suggest checking out:  Snooty Booty Diapers

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
Rash Ointment
Bib
Plastic Bag 
Pacifier (not for use in the first 3 wks, if you're breastfeeding)
Sling/Baby Carrier
Nursing Cover
Cash 
Brush-ups 

     It might be tempting to skip over things like "gum/mints".....But, after you've fed, changed and prepped the baby and barely made it out the door, there's a decent chance you'll be in the waiting room and realize you haven't even brushed your teeth.  Or, you might be equally grateful for the granola, particularly if you're a nursing mama who fed her baby but not herself!

      Depending on how frequently you go out, it's good to get in a regular habit of taking stock of your bag: have enough diapers?  Do the change of clothes still fit?  Is the hat/blanket warm enough?  

        Love to hear from you....If you have a comment or question, please share!

Birthing Crash Course

0
0
A very close friend is expecting her first baby....Here is my advice.

Dear Sweet Friend,
   I know you will make the best choices for you and your baby--she/he picked you for a reason!  The right birth for you is whatever works.  

STEP 1: Be EDUCATED!
    Be an informed consumer.  Do your research before the 3rd trimester.  Know the risks to unnecessary ultrasounds, induction, early cord clamping,etc.  At minimum, watch The Business of Being Born
Read: Gentle Birth Choices by Barbra Harper OR
            Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
     I can give you a few more resources, but these are ESSENTIAL!

STEP 2: Take care of YOURSELF!
     The best thing you can give your baby is a happy, healthy mama.  Make time to do things that truly make you feel good.  Get a foot massage.  Do yoga.  Walk outside.  Watch movies that make you laugh.  (If you must watch baby/birth things on TV, please try to view some empowering natural birth videos, too!  Subconscious cultural programming about fear/pain is a lot to overcome.)  
      Consider seeing a chiropractor.  This can help the baby's position, your balance/coordination, etc.  If you're totally freaked out by it, skip it.

STEP 3: CHOOSE your provider.
     Ideally, you've selected an OB/GYN or Midwife who doesn't do routine episiotomies, inductions, and has a low c-section rate....It's never too late to switch to a provider who supports your choices and knows how to help you achieve the birth you want.

STEP 4:  Assemble your support team.
        Help your partner prepare.  He should hopefully watch/read the minimum resources AND read Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way.  (That would be book #3 on the must-read list. There are some great counter pressure techniques in there!)  
 
        Consider a Birth/Labor Doula.  A good doula can help you navigate hospital procedures and use comfort measures and positions to ease labor, and be a consistent calming presence for you both.  At minimum, make sure all present at your birth make you feel calm, secure and believe in your judgement.

STEP 5: Prepare to surrender.  
      Once you've done your homework, let your baby do the rest.  Babies know when they are ready and will initiate labor.  Relax, relax, relax.  Your body knows what to do.  (just as your mother's, grandmother's, and great-grandmother's did!) 
      Labor at home as long as you can.  (you'll labor more efficiently and have less disruptions there!)
        
    I will love and support your choices--be it an epidural, induction, etc.  I don't presume to know what will be the best birth for you and your baby.  My wish for you is a birth that makes you feel empowered as a woman and a mother.  If you make informed choices in your care, feel like your voice was heard, your desires honored in the birth, you'll treasure the journey....And begin the 4th Trimester in a position of strength.

       Hugs & excitement for you!!!  

If YOU have any advice, resources, or things you think I missed, please comment below!


When Breast Milk Thaws....

0
0
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, many mamas face the additional stress of losing their stash of frozen breast milk.  If you have lost power, please don't dump your milk....At least not yet. 

Unfortunately, there is a lack of research on safety of previously frozen breast milk.  But, here's what HAS been studied so far:

*Breast milk that is still slushy or has crystals is still considered frozen.  Simply re-freeze it as soon as possible.

*Breast milk that has been thawed and un-refrigerated for up to 8 hours can be refrozen.
 
If your frozen milk thawed, but is still cold, consider refreezing.  A study in Breastfeeding Medicine (Rechtman, Lee & Berg 2006) measured bacteria levels, Vitamins A & C, as well as Fatty Acids in thawed breast milk in various conditions.  The study included milk that was thawed and refrozen repeatedly....And guess what?  That milk was still safe to use!
http://www.dors.it/latte/docum/Unpasteurized%20Donor%20Human%20Milk.pdf 

In determining the fate of thawed milk, use common sense.  Smell it.  Breast milk will separate (it's unpasteurized!) that's not an indication of whether the milk is still good to use.

To all the parents who are dealing with power outages and property damage in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, your family will be in my thoughts.

Mom Support in Monmouth County

0
0
"Motherhood is a role where we expect perfection....And yet, often do it in isolation." --Ina May Gaskin

Support and resources for mothers are booming in Monmouth County.  Get out there and connect with other mothers!  You'll feel better and your baby will thank you!

Mother Support Groups in Monmouth County:

New Moms Network at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.  Call for info: 732.776-4281   Free Support Group For All New Mothers.  

Jersey Shore Dar a Luz Network.  Meets 3rd Weds. 6:30pm  in Belmar.  Free Support Group for All Mothers/Pregnant Women.  www.jerseyshoredaraluz.blogspot.com

Moms Group at The Nest.  Meets Tuesday 9:30am in Little Silver.  Free Support Group for New Moms.  The Nest.

Accepting the Unexpected.  Meets 1st Saturday 9:30-11:30am in Manasquan.  Free Supportive Space to Share Birth Stories.  Contact Rebecca at 973-876-4283 prior to attending.  Natural Beginnings NJ. 

ICAN of Monmouth County.  Cesarean Awareness Network.  Meets monthly in Manalapan.  ICAN NJ

Mother to Mother Support Group.  Meets Mondays 11-12:30pm in Long Branch.  Free. To register, call 732. 923-6990.  Monmouth Medical 

Breastfeeding Support Groups in Monmouth County:

Bosom Buddies.  Free Group meeting Wednesdays 11-12:30 in Colts Neck.  Bosom Buddies

La Leche League.  Free Group meeting in Wall and Freehold.  La Leche League NJ

Milk Mama Cafe.  Free Group meeting in Manasquan Thursdays 9:30-11am.  Natural Beginnings NJ.

If you know of a mother support group in Monmouth County that I missed, please comment and share!  There are many fitness and mommy & me classes available, too.  

 Cesarean Recovery Basics

0
0
New Jersey has the highest C-Section Rate in the US (39.9%), so  I've helped a lot of recovering mamas.  Here are a few tips to share with any mamas who are or will be recovering from a Cesarean...And their partners or families!

1--Take it slow.  While you had 40 weeks to adjust to pregnancy, your body shifts to non-pregnancy in minutes.  Huge hormonal shift + major abdominal surgery + newborn care.  Do as little as possible--if you push until you feel it, it's too late.  By resting and letting your body recover, you'll reduce your risk of infection and other complications.

2--Probiotics.  Your digestive system was artificially stopped and you may have had antibiotics.  Get some good probiotics (acidophilus, etc.) ASAP.  This will make you more comfortable, help protect you from thrush/yeast, and support your immune system.

3--Epsoms. If you've had IV fluids, you might be more swollen now than before the surgery.  Soak your feet in epsom salt bath.  (Pour up to a pound in a pot or foot bath and soak for 20 mins.  Available at all pharmacies and almost all grocery stores in the first aid section.)  Most moms see improvement the first use, but you can do it 2-3 times a day.  (Assuming your partner or helper is filling it for you!)

4--Support belt or postpartum support.  Most moms have discomfort when their incision-site is moving around.  The support will prevent unnecessary motion and offer some mild counterpressure.  You can ask for one at the hospital.  (Many cultures traditionally wrap all postpartum moms.) 

5--Connect with other moms.  Especially if you are having a difficult time processing your hospital experience or C-Section--the sooner you share your feelings in a supportive place the better you'll feel.  Check out your local ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) or any of these great resources in Monmouth County: Mom Support Resources.

Sometimes, being still is harder than being busy.  Acknowlede the limitations, give your body the time and energy it needs to heal properly, be gentle to yourself....Your baby needs you to be healthy and strong.  By taking proper care now, you'll have a better recovery.  

Feel free to comment or share your tips!  If you (or someone you know) had a C-Section, what helped them the most? 


Baby's MVP

0
0
Pssssst. If you're close to someone who is pregnant or has a baby, this is for you. 

New parents are in a sensitive state: sleep deprivation, the emotional
rollercoaster of birth and the pressure of trying to maintain their households (or jobs) takes its toll.  Most cultures do not expect people to resume their former lives after the birth.  They have traditions for supporting the growing family.  

Mothers are strained the most--babies require round the clock care when new mamas are recovering from birth. Breastfeeding takes up a lot of time and energy in the first few weeks.  Because our culture does not recognize the need for extra help in a baby's first weeks, many moms feel inadequate. 

Here's how you can help. 

*BE GENTLE!  HOW you offer help is as important as WHAT you offer.  Be sure to listen to what they want.  Be respectful of their space and time--as much as they want to share their baby with you, they also need to rest.

*FOOD:  New parents need to eat, but have little to no time to shop, cook or prepare food.  There are many ways options: home-cooked casseroles, frozen foods, take-out.  The point is to get them food and not expect to be entertained in the process.  Drop it on their porch or have it delivered. 

*HOUSEHOLD HELP: This is can be a little more complicated, depending on how well you know the new parents.  If they aren't using a service, they'll definitely appreciate help with laundry, running dishwasher, vaccuuming, and generally straightening up.

*ERRANDS:  Running to the store, dry cleaner, can become very challenging with a newborn.  Ask if they need anything from the drug or grocery store. 

*OLDER CHILDREN/PETS: If this is not their first baby, the older children will really need extra attention.  Playdates and park outtings can be a real life saver.  Additionally, if they have pets, offer to help with their needs, too.

By giving REAL help, you take the pressure off of parents who may feel overwhelmed and not know how to ask you to bring them lunch or take their two year old to the playground.  It's too vague to say, "Let me know if you need anything."  Step up with specific suggestions. 

I'll be sharing more specific techniques on how to assemble or be a part of a Welcome Baby Team at Natural Beginnings on Feb. 28, 2013 at 8pm.  If you're expecting  your first (or third) or if you know someone who is, please come!  This presentation is for the whole Welcome Baby Team--Grandparents, relatives, neighbors are encouraged to attend.  Donations will benefit the Having Healthy Babies Foundation.  For more information:  www.naturalbeginningsNJ.com


Soothing a Fussy Baby

0
0
If your baby is fussing, here are my go-to calming strategies.

1) Motion.  Hold your baby (most prefer upright, against your shoulder with their tummy on your upper chest) and walk around.  If this doesn't cut it, pat their back gently, too.

2) Sound.  White noise can help a baby settle.  There are apps, but most also love a good stove exhaust fan.  Music is another alternative.

3) Water.  Depending on your baby's age and level of upset, try standing in front of  a running faucet/shower, or put their feet in warm water.  Most newborns enjoy having running water on their scalp, too.  (added bonus: doesn't require full outfit change--just wrap a towel around their body and tilt the back of their head under warm running water.)  For bouts of gas, serious need to reset, a bath may be in order.

4) Wear your baby.  If your baby is 0-3 months old, try a sling.  (i.e. Maya sling, Over-the-Shoulder Baby Holder)  If your baby is bigger or 3 months old or older, the Boba Baby or Ergo  carrier is simple to use and very comfortable for mom or dad.  (There are countless instructional youtube videos or you can go to a Moms' group for hands-on instruction.)    

5) A change in scenery.  Sometimes simply going outside is enough to distract your baby from whatever is causing distress.  Often stepping out onto the porch for a few minutes is enough.

If your baby is fussing frequently and not easily soothed, consider food sensitivities.  
For a more complete listing of "Colic Causing Foods in Breastfeeding" please visit Dr. Sears' website:
http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/feeding-eating/breastfeeding/common-problems/colic-causing-foods-breastfeeding  

Babywearing for Beginners

0
0
How'd you like two free hands and a calmer, quieter baby?  Wearing your baby in a sling or carrier makes life simpler.  Here are the 3 most basic types of carriers and a few things to keep in mind:

*It may take practice to get the hang of it.

*You'll probably want to try more than 1 type of carrier.

*If possible, learn in-person.  If you don't have any friends who wear their babies, try a moms' or breastfeeding group.  If not, youTube will suffice.

1: Sling.  This is the simplest design & easiest to put on.  Literally, put the sling over one shoulder and put the baby in it.  Great for babies 1-12 months & 6-12 pounds.  (Intuitive/Right-brained types find this easier.)

2: K'Tan.  This is a hybrid between a sling and a wrap.  It does require a few more steps to put on, but it offers more even weight distribution, better support for preemies, and you can wear twins.  (up to 10 lbs. each)  Great for preemies through 18 months.  

3: Structured Carrier.  I love Boba & Ergo.  Both allow you to wear your baby on the front, back, or hip and breastfeed.  It takes about as many steps as a K'Tan, but some prefer the clips to all fabric....And honestly, for babies upwards of 15 pounds, it's much more comfortable.  Ideal age 2 months (for Boba) through 3 years! (or 35 pounds.)  (Linear/Left-brained types tend to prefer this style.)

There are so many babywearing options available.  I reserve wraps for special requests--I love them for twins or heavy young babies that you'll wear for close to an a hour....Otherwise, it's not usually worth it.

Jersey Shore Dar a Luz has all of these options available to try out at monthly meetings (for free).  Members can borrow carriers for 2 months to really try it out and get a feel before buying.  

Have questions or a comment?  Please leave it below or email me directly.  Love to hear from you. 

(Disclaimer: The contents of this blogpost are based on my experience of 12+ years wearing babies.  I do not represent or sell any baby carriers--just advocate for making life with baby easier!)

Gassy Babies Don't Smile

0
0
 A newborn smiles...Someone, somewhere must utter the obligatory phrase: "It must be gas."  I've got such a bone to pick about this old saying!  

First, I've worked with hundreds and hundreds of babies.  I've never seen one baby with gas smile.  Have you?

Second, when a newborn screams or cries, who doubts the authenticity of that emotion?  Most people trust that a baby is legitimately unhappy....So, why can't that same baby be genuinely happy?

I think the basis of this old myth is that a newborn baby just isn't developmentally capable of a full range of human emotion.  I disagree.  

There is a different quality to the 'Social Smile' that usually emerges around 6 weeks.        This smile is more purposeful and used for  interaction.  Smiles seen in the first weeks seem to be more internal and not seeking a response.  

While I'm waiting for Developmental Psychologists to back me up on this, I'll stand firm in my opinion that babies are whole people.    




Diaper Bag Crash Course

0
0
      First-time moms often want to know what to put in the Diaper Bag.  Your needs vary, according to your baby's age, method of feeding and diapering.  But, here's Crash Course.  
       If you're still pregnant, I highly recommend packing the diaper bag now (or at least soon).  (It's not unusual to have a weight-check or appointment within 2-3 days of the birth.)  Either way, you'll be glad your Diaper Bag is stocked and ready to go.

ESSENTIALS:
*4-6 Diapers
*Wipes
*Burp Cloth
*Receiving Blanket
*Change of clothes
*Extra Socks (can double as mittens)
*Hat 

*Snack (i.e. granola bar, trail mix, crackers--non-perishable)
*Nursing Pads
*Water Bottle
*Sanitary Pads
*Gum/Mints

Formula Feeding:
2 disposable nursers OR
Sterilized or bottled water, pre-measured powder formula
2 Bottles
Bib

Cloth Diapering:
You'll need a 'wet' bag 
Bigger Diaper Bag
Highly Suggest checking out:  Snooty Booty Diapers

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
Rash Ointment
Bib
Plastic Bag 
Pacifier (not for use in the first 3 wks, if you're breastfeeding)
Sling/Baby Carrier
Nursing Cover
Cash 
Brush-ups 

     It might be tempting to skip over things like "gum/mints".....But, after you've fed, changed and prepped the baby and barely made it out the door, there's a decent chance you'll be in the waiting room and realize you haven't even brushed your teeth.  Or, you might be equally grateful for the granola, particularly if you're a nursing mama who fed her baby but not herself!

      Depending on how frequently you go out, it's good to get in a regular habit of taking stock of your bag: have enough diapers?  Do the change of clothes still fit?  Is the hat/blanket warm enough?  

        Love to hear from you....If you have a comment or question, please share!

Birthing Crash Course

0
0
A very close friend is expecting her first baby....Here is my advice.

Dear Sweet Friend,
   I know you will make the best choices for you and your baby--she/he picked you for a reason!  The right birth for you is whatever works.  

STEP 1: Be EDUCATED!
    Be an informed consumer.  Do your research before the 3rd trimester.  Know the risks to unnecessary ultrasounds, induction, early cord clamping,etc.  At minimum, watch The Business of Being Born
Read: Gentle Birth Choices by Barbra Harper OR
            Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
     I can give you a few more resources, but these are ESSENTIAL!

STEP 2: Take care of YOURSELF!
     The best thing you can give your baby is a happy, healthy mama.  Make time to do things that truly make you feel good.  Get a foot massage.  Do yoga.  Walk outside.  Watch movies that make you laugh.  (If you must watch baby/birth things on TV, please try to view some empowering natural birth videos, too!  Subconscious cultural programming about fear/pain is a lot to overcome.)  
      Consider seeing a chiropractor.  This can help the baby's position, your balance/coordination, etc.  If you're totally freaked out by it, skip it.

STEP 3: CHOOSE your provider.
     Ideally, you've selected an OB/GYN or Midwife who doesn't do routine episiotomies, inductions, and has a low c-section rate....It's never too late to switch to a provider who supports your choices and knows how to help you achieve the birth you want.

STEP 4:  Assemble your support team.
        Help your partner prepare.  He should hopefully watch/read the minimum resources AND read Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way.  (That would be book #3 on the must-read list. There are some great counter pressure techniques in there!)  
 
        Consider a Birth/Labor Doula.  A good doula can help you navigate hospital procedures and use comfort measures and positions to ease labor, and be a consistent calming presence for you both.  At minimum, make sure all present at your birth make you feel calm, secure and believe in your judgement.

STEP 5: Prepare to surrender.  
      Once you've done your homework, let your baby do the rest.  Babies know when they are ready and will initiate labor.  Relax, relax, relax.  Your body knows what to do.  (just as your mother's, grandmother's, and great-grandmother's did!) 
      Labor at home as long as you can.  (you'll labor more efficiently and have less disruptions there!)
        
    I will love and support your choices--be it an epidural, induction, etc.  I don't presume to know what will be the best birth for you and your baby.  My wish for you is a birth that makes you feel empowered as a woman and a mother.  If you make informed choices in your care, feel like your voice was heard, your desires honored in the birth, you'll treasure the journey....And begin the 4th Trimester in a position of strength.

       Hugs & excitement for you!!!  

If YOU have any advice, resources, or things you think I missed, please comment below!


When Breast Milk Thaws....

0
0
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, many mamas face the additional stress of losing their stash of frozen breast milk.  If you have lost power, please don't dump your milk....At least not yet. 

Unfortunately, there is a lack of research on safety of previously frozen breast milk.  But, here's what HAS been studied so far:

*Breast milk that is still slushy or has crystals is still considered frozen.  Simply re-freeze it as soon as possible.

*Breast milk that has been thawed and un-refrigerated for up to 8 hours can be refrozen.
 
If your frozen milk thawed, but is still cold, consider refreezing.  A study in Breastfeeding Medicine (Rechtman, Lee & Berg 2006) measured bacteria levels, Vitamins A & C, as well as Fatty Acids in thawed breast milk in various conditions.  The study included milk that was thawed and refrozen repeatedly....And guess what?  That milk was still safe to use!
http://www.dors.it/latte/docum/Unpasteurized%20Donor%20Human%20Milk.pdf 

In determining the fate of thawed milk, use common sense.  Smell it.  Breast milk will separate (it's unpasteurized!) that's not an indication of whether the milk is still good to use.

To all the parents who are dealing with power outages and property damage in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, your family will be in my thoughts.

Mom Support in Monmouth County

0
0
"Motherhood is a role where we expect perfection....And yet, often do it in isolation." --Ina May Gaskin

Support and resources for mothers are booming in Monmouth County.  Get out there and connect with other mothers!  You'll feel better and your baby will thank you!

Mother Support Groups in Monmouth County:

New Moms Network at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.  Call for info: 732.776-4281   Free Support Group For All New Mothers.  

Jersey Shore Dar a Luz Network.  Meets 3rd Weds. 6:30pm  in Manasquan.  Free Support Group for All Mothers/Pregnant Women.  www.jerseyshoredaraluz.blogspot.com

Moms Group at The Nest.  Meets Tuesday 9:30am in Little Silver.  Free Support Group for New Moms.  The Nest.

Accepting the Unexpected.  Meets 1st Saturday 9:30-11:30am in Manasquan.  Free Supportive Space to Share Birth Stories.  Contact Rebecca at 973-876-4283 prior to attending.  Natural Beginnings NJ. 

ICAN of Monmouth County.  Cesarean Awareness Network.  Meets monthly in Manalapan.  ICAN NJ

Mother to Mother Support Group.  Meets Mondays 11-12:30pm in Long Branch.  Free. To register, call 732. 923-6990.  Monmouth Medical 

Breastfeeding Support Groups in Monmouth County:

Bosom Buddies.  Free Group meeting Wednesdays 11-12:30 in Colts Neck.  Bosom Buddies

La Leche League.  Free Group meeting in Wall and Freehold.  La Leche League NJ

Milk Mama Cafe.  Free Group meeting in Manasquan Thursdays 9:30-11am.  Natural Beginnings NJ.

If you know of a mother support group in Monmouth County that I missed, please comment and share!  There are many fitness and mommy & me classes available, too.  

 Cesarean Recovery Basics

0
0
New Jersey has the highest C-Section Rate in the US (39.9%), so  I've helped a lot of recovering mamas.  Here are a few tips to share with any mamas who are or will be recovering from a Cesarean...And their partners or families!

1--Take it slow.  While you had 40 weeks to adjust to pregnancy, your body shifts to non-pregnancy in minutes.  Huge hormonal shift + major abdominal surgery + newborn care.  Do as little as possible--if you push until you feel it, it's too late.  By resting and letting your body recover, you'll reduce your risk of infection and other complications.

2--Probiotics.  Your digestive system was artificially stopped and you may have had antibiotics.  Get some good probiotics (acidophilus, etc.) ASAP.  This will make you more comfortable, help protect you from thrush/yeast, and support your immune system.

3--Epsoms. If you've had IV fluids, you might be more swollen now than before the surgery.  Soak your feet in epsom salt bath.  (Pour up to a pound in a pot or foot bath and soak for 20 mins.  Available at all pharmacies and almost all grocery stores in the first aid section.)  Most moms see improvement the first use, but you can do it 2-3 times a day.  (Assuming your partner or helper is filling it for you!)

4--Support belt or postpartum support.  Most moms have discomfort when their incision-site is moving around.  The support will prevent unnecessary motion and offer some mild counterpressure.  You can ask for one at the hospital.  (Many cultures traditionally wrap all postpartum moms.) 

5--Connect with other moms.  Especially if you are having a difficult time processing your hospital experience or C-Section--the sooner you share your feelings in a supportive place the better you'll feel.  Check out your local ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) or any of these great resources in Monmouth County: Mom Support Resources.

Sometimes, being still is harder than being busy.  Acknowlede the limitations, give your body the time and energy it needs to heal properly, be gentle to yourself....Your baby needs you to be healthy and strong.  By taking proper care now, you'll have a better recovery.  

Feel free to comment or share your tips!  If you (or someone you know) had a C-Section, what helped them the most? 



Baby's MVP

0
0
Pssssst. If you're close to someone who is pregnant or has a baby, this is for you. 

New parents are in a sensitive state: sleep deprivation, the emotional
rollercoaster of birth and the pressure of trying to maintain their households (or jobs) takes its toll.  Most cultures do not expect people to resume their former lives after the birth.  They have traditions for supporting the growing family.  

Mothers are strained the most--babies require round the clock care when new mamas are recovering from birth. Breastfeeding takes up a lot of time and energy in the first few weeks.  Because our culture does not recognize the need for extra help in a baby's first weeks, many moms feel inadequate. 

Here's how you can help. 

*BE GENTLE!  HOW you offer help is as important as WHAT you offer.  Be sure to listen to what they want.  Be respectful of their space and time--as much as they want to share their baby with you, they also need to rest.

*FOOD:  New parents need to eat, but have little to no time to shop, cook or prepare food.  There are many ways options: home-cooked casseroles, frozen foods, take-out.  The point is to get them food and not expect to be entertained in the process.  Drop it on their porch or have it delivered. 

*HOUSEHOLD HELP: This is can be a little more complicated, depending on how well you know the new parents.  If they aren't using a service, they'll definitely appreciate help with laundry, running dishwasher, vaccuuming, and generally straightening up.

*ERRANDS:  Running to the store, dry cleaner, can become very challenging with a newborn.  Ask if they need anything from the drug or grocery store. 

*OLDER CHILDREN/PETS: If this is not their first baby, the older children will really need extra attention.  Playdates and park outtings can be a real life saver.  Additionally, if they have pets, offer to help with their needs, too.

By giving REAL help, you take the pressure off of parents who may feel overwhelmed and not know how to ask you to bring them lunch or take their two year old to the playground.  It's too vague to say, "Let me know if you need anything."  Step up with specific suggestions. 

I'll be sharing more specific techniques on how to assemble or be a part of a Welcome Baby Team at Natural Beginnings on Feb. 28, 2013 at 8pm.  If you're expecting  your first (or third) or if you know someone who is, please come!  This presentation is for the whole Welcome Baby Team--Grandparents, relatives, neighbors are encouraged to attend.  Donations will benefit the Having Healthy Babies Foundation.  For more information:  www.naturalbeginningsNJ.com


Soothing a Fussy Baby

0
0
If your baby is fussing, here are my go-to calming strategies.

1) Motion.  Hold your baby (most prefer upright, against your shoulder with their tummy on your upper chest) and walk around.  If this doesn't cut it, pat their back gently, too.

2) Sound.  White noise can help a baby settle.  There are apps, but most also love a good stove exhaust fan.  Music is another alternative.

3) Water.  Depending on your baby's age and level of upset, try standing in front of  a running faucet/shower, or put their feet in warm water.  Most newborns enjoy having running water on their scalp, too.  (added bonus: doesn't require full outfit change--just wrap a towel around their body and tilt the back of their head under warm running water.)  For bouts of gas, serious need to reset, a bath may be in order.

4) Wear your baby.  If your baby is 0-3 months old, try a sling.  (i.e. Maya sling, Over-the-Shoulder Baby Holder)  If your baby is bigger or 3 months old or older, the Boba Baby or Ergo  carrier is simple to use and very comfortable for mom or dad.  (There are countless instructional youtube videos or you can go to a Moms' group for hands-on instruction.)    

5) A change in scenery.  Sometimes simply going outside is enough to distract your baby from whatever is causing distress.  Often stepping out onto the porch for a few minutes is enough.

If your baby is fussing frequently and not easily soothed, consider food sensitivities.  
For a more complete listing of "Colic Causing Foods in Breastfeeding" please visit Dr. Sears' website:
http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/feeding-eating/breastfeeding/common-problems/colic-causing-foods-breastfeeding  

Babywearing for Beginners

0
0
How'd you like two free hands and a calmer, quieter baby?  Wearing your baby in a sling or carrier makes life simpler.  Here are the 3 most basic types of carriers and a few things to keep in mind:

*It may take practice to get the hang of it.

*You'll probably want to try more than 1 type of carrier.

*If possible, learn in-person.  If you don't have any friends who wear their babies, try a moms' or breastfeeding group.  If not, youTube will suffice.

1: Sling.  This is the simplest design & easiest to put on.  Literally, put the sling over one shoulder and put the baby in it.  Great for babies 1-12 months & 6-12 pounds.  (Intuitive/Right-brained types find this easier.)

2: K'Tan.  This is a hybrid between a sling and a wrap.  It does require a few more steps to put on, but it offers more even weight distribution, better support for preemies, and you can wear twins.  (up to 10 lbs. each)  Great for preemies through 18 months.  

3: Structured Carrier.  I love Boba & Ergo.  Both allow you to wear your baby on the front, back, or hip and breastfeed.  It takes about as many steps as a K'Tan, but some prefer the clips to all fabric....And honestly, for babies upwards of 15 pounds, it's much more comfortable.  Ideal age 2 months (for Boba) through 3 years! (or 35 pounds.)  (Linear/Left-brained types tend to prefer this style.)

There are so many babywearing options available.  I reserve wraps for special requests--I love them for twins or heavy young babies that you'll wear for close to an a hour....Otherwise, it's not usually worth it.

Jersey Shore Dar a Luz has all of these options available to try out at monthly meetings (for free).  Members can borrow carriers for 2 months to really try it out and get a feel before buying.  

Have questions or a comment?  Please leave it below or email me directly.  Love to hear from you. 

(Disclaimer: The contents of this blogpost are based on my experience of 12+ years wearing babies.  I do not represent or sell any baby carriers--just advocate for making life with baby easier!)

Baby Thrival Guide, Coming October 2014

Baby Skin Basics

0
0
Of course you want to keep your baby clean!  But, many mainstream baby skin care products can actually make their skin dry, rough, cause rashes....Or worse.   
Everything you put on your baby's skin is absorbed into their body.  Some very popular products contain BPA, parabens and other chemicals we wouldn't choose to expose our children to.  

Fortunately, the Environmental Working Group (a non-profit consumer advocacy organization) has made finding safe products completely effortless! Use their Skin Deep Database to instantly get a safety rating and list of hazardous chemicals.  Their free app allows you to scan bar codes with your phone.  

*Stick to the basics--the fewer the ingredients, the better!  

*Also, double check your detergent....Like me, you might be shocked by Dreft's rating!!  Fabric softener is unnecessary--skip it.

*Newborn skin is delicate--limit bathing to twice a week (or less). 

*Extra Virgin Olive Oil is an great moisturizer and works wonders on cradle cap, too!  (Apply generously to flaky parts of scalp.  Allow to saturate for 10-20 mins.  Then, brush gently with baby brush to remove debris or bathe them to remove.)





Viewing all 52 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images