Women have been combining work with motherhood for thousands of years. Since babies get their nutrition directly from their mothers, society expected moms and babies to be literally joined at the hip for the first year or more. It's only been in recent history that “going back to work” has been a...
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Placenta Previa
One of my closest friends, who is pregnant for the first time, called me the other day in a panic to let me know she was experiencing spotting in her second trimester. Since her doctor's office was closed, she made the good decision to go to her local emergency room and find out what was going on....
The Hazards of Nipple Shields
As I've stated many times to anyone who will listen, nipple shields can be helpful if a baby is having trouble breastfeeding. In the wrong hands, however, they can be downright dangerous. Just today I saw 2 moms who were given nipple shields in the hospital within 48 hours of their babies' birth....
What is a Nipple Shield?
Nipples shields are molded silicone “nipples” that fit over a natural nipple. They look a bit like a sombrero, and the rim or base of the shield extends out about an inch to adhere to the breast. There are usually 4 holes in the nipple that mom's milk can flow through. They are very thin and made...
Filling Up On Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are the cornerstones of a balanced diet. In fact, your hormones are stored in your fat and there is evidence that shows having either too much or too little may just impact your fertility. Women who do not eat enough healthy fat sources often lack the necessary body fat to sustain a...
How do I Increase my Milk Supply?
Sometimes, despite doing all the “right” things, you may find yourself producing less milk than your baby needs. Here are some things you can try: Go to bed with your baby for a whole day and breastfeed and sleep. Arrange for help so that you are not getting up for anything but bathroom breaks....
Spirit Babies by Walter Makichen:
I recently re-read Walter Makichen's book Spirit Babies which is offers an insightful metaphysical viewpoint of conception. I first met Walter while working at a Fertile Soul Retreat. At the time, I didn't know much about him except that he was a clairvoyant and I had not yet read his book. There...
Vertigo
Vertigo is a common pregnancy complaint during the first trimester. A new mom, on top of all the other pregnant side effects, may often feel a little light-headed and dizzy. This is most likely because the blood flow in the body is changing, as it is diverted to the growing uterus and fetus....
Working and Breastfeeding: A Checklist
You CAN combine working and breastfeeding. It just takes a little preparation and some extra planning. Here are some helpful tips from moms who have done it. Purchase the best breast pump you can afford. You will need a double pump. Avoid used pumps. Make sure the pump fits you well and you know...
Cookie for Milk Supply?
I am a lactation consultant in private practice. I see many moms struggle with milk production. As you can imagine, (and as many of you know!) it's very frustrating to do everything “right” and still not have enough milk for your baby. Moms know that breast milk is the best thing for babies, yet...
Storing Human Milk
One of the beautiful things about breastfeeding is that there are no worries about cleaning containers, refrigeration or expiration dates! Even so, many moms find it necessary or convenient to express milk for their babies when they’re away. In those situations, it’s important to know how to...
Coping with Miscarriage
An estimated 1 in 5 pregnancies end in miscarriage, defined as the loss of pregnancy prior to 20 weeks. Whether expected or unexpected the loss of pregnancy can be an absolutely devastating experience for a woman. Though everyone reacts differently, there is often a deep wondering of what could...