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Are You Scared To Give Your Baby A Pacifier?

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Soothies, binkie, paci...whatever you call it in your family, pacifiers have been used for generations.

Before polymers were used from the discovery of rubber trees, cultures around the world used things like beads made of wood, or other things like ivory, mother-of-pearl, bone, or coral, were used on the opposite end of a rattle, or the "gum stick" to help soothe a baby.

Modern pacifiers in the United States undergo an immense amount of regulation. Early models proved two-piece pacifiers and hard plastic pacifiers posed too much risk and required oversight. Today, the worry isn't so much in the material that is used, but IF pacifiers should be used! Concerns like "nipple confusion" or of orthodontic damage done if they are used too long into adolescence.

The concern about “nipple confusion” stems from trouble breast- and chest-feeding families may have if a pacifier is introduced too soon after birth. The thought is that a baby will be soothed by sucking and waive their natural cues to eat.

The other concern is that a baby will become used to sucking on the pacifier, and "forget" how to feed from the breast, making it harder for families to sustain that form of nutrition. We want to dispel the notion of "nipple confusion" for all those families who feel afraid to introduce a pacifier or bottle for fear of sabotaging a breastfeeding relationship.

Your baby is smart. Your baby is not confused!

Your baby understands that eating from a bottle is easier than latching and suckling. It isn't nipple confusion - it's nipple preference! So let's celebrate your smart baby! And we can support their need to suckle, and your desire to feed at the breast. Both can happen! To counter the smooth flow of milk from a bottle, we suggest you introduce Paced Bottle-Feeding.

If you want to use a pacifier, we recommend using it only when you know the pacifier is not delaying a feed. The need to suck is a real comfort, and some babies need to suck more than others. Pacifiers are a great way to help those babies find comfort in between feedings.

As for the type of pacifier to use, you may be feeling overwhelmed with the options!

Some brands you may consider:

One last note on pacifier use and when to introduce them:

Just like breastfeeding is a skill that your baby has to develop, learning how to suckle a pacifier and have the ability to hold it in one’s mouth is a skill that has to be developed! Many families wait to introduce a pacifier for fear it can damage a breastfeeding relationship, and inadvertently miss the window of opportunity to introduce its use.

So! We recommend introducing pacifiers (and bottles if you plan to use them AT ANY TIME in your feeding plan) between 6-10 weeks of age. They don’t have to be used all the time, but without at least some sporadic use, you will never get the benefits of these tools.

What Should You Bring To Your Hospital Birth?

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There are so many ways to pack for your hospital birth.

Do you like to have options?
Do you feel best being prepared for any possible need?
Do you need fewer options, so you feel less overwhelmed?


Only you know how you operate best in stressful situations. 

Your hospital bag can serve so many other functions, too, besides holding all your stuff!
Is planning your bag something that helps you relax in the days leading up to labor? Does it make you happy to put it together? Do you like a challenge to start with ALL the things and then whittle it down to what will fit in your ideal case?

OR

Do you see birth as a short overnight trip away from home and pack economically?


Packing your hospital bag can be a “labor project” or something that helps you take your mind off some of the stress the end of pregnancy can place on you.

Here is the part where we reassure you and offer the reminder that people often have babies at inopportune times. And the hospital has things to help everyone - not just people with their overnight bag. Things like toothpaste and toothbrushes, towels and wash rags, and those lovely hospital gowns to keep your clothes as fresh as possible. 

But let's hope you won't need to walk into a hospital off the street, and you'll have time to go to the hospital in the way and manner of your dreams. With that as the plan, what would you bring? 

The items below are listed as a building set. Based on our experiences, we have seen families use the following items and appreciate their being with them from "Essential" to "All The Things." Have fun reading through, and if you think of something that would be perfect for you and it isn't here - pack that too!

What To Pack For Your Hospital Birth

Essential:

  • Wallet: medical card, ID, Debit or Credit card

  • Cell phone & charger

  • 2 Shirts

  • 2 Pants with elastic waist

  • Slip-on shoes

  • Dop Kit: toothbrush & toothpaste, chapstick, any medication & glasses

  • Carseat

Added comfort: 

  • Robe

  • Slippers

  • Book/magazine

  • 2 Nursing bras

  • Dop Kit: lotion, facial cleansing cloths, brush, hairbands, shampoo & conditioner

  • Hand fan

  • Water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Headphones

  • Baby: going home outfit, muslin blanket

  • Underwear for going home

A bit more for the unknown:

  • A printed copy of your birth plan

  • Pillow

  • Preferred nipple cream

  • Breast pads

  • Tissues

  • Extra outfit for baby

  • Essential oils

  • Belly Band

  • Hand cream

  • Battery-powered fan

  • Towel

  • Bluetooth speaker

  • Flipflops

Details for all the things you want: 

  • Any tools you imagine for pain management: birth ball & pump, tennis balls and/or massage tools

  • TENS Unit

  • Rebozo or woven scarf

  • Heating pad

  • Meditations and/or affirmations

  • Eye mask & earplugs

  • Props/outfit for newborn photos

Alternatives to Glucola for Diabetes Testing

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Of all the tests pregnant women go through, the Glucose Challenge Test is arguably the one you hear about most often. Down an electric orange drink, wait, and have your blood drawn...sounds fun, right? Some people don’t mind the drink (called Glucola) while others search for alternatives. There are alternate options for both what you consume and how you test.


Guidelines currently call for a glucose challenge test around 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. The test is typically drinking a sweet drink and then having a blood test done an hour later to determine blood sugar levels. This test is used to help determine the occurrence of Gestational Diabetes which can pose a host of issues to both mom and baby during pregnancy.


If the pregnant person passes this test, they won’t be re-tested. Should they fail it, they’ll have to pass a longer test that involves a higher level of glucose.


Rates of GD have risen in recent decades so it is important to get tested. It’s estimated that anywhere from 5-10% of pregnant people have Gestational Diabetes and it’s important that those people be identified and treated to avoid complications.


Some people just hate the way Glucola tastes, some take issue with the ingredients...for whatever reason, there are definitely people searching for alternatives. The research put out found that the important part of the test was the 50g of sugar, not the source, and concluded that results were the same when a group of women given Glucola was compared to a group of women given Jelly Beans. The tests were the same.


It’s important to always refer back to your OB or Midwife when considering alternatives.


Common alternatives include:


6 oz Orange Juice and 1 Banana

28 Jelly Beans

A Soda with 50g Sugar

16 oz Orange Juice


These are options used by doctors and midwives around the country and definitely worth exploring.


Alternate ways of testing include Blood Sugar Monitoring as well as Hemoglobin A1C Testing. These both require much more testing, more time, and more involvement for you and your healthcare provider and it’s important to consult them on your options.


Blood Sugar Monitoring is exactly what it sounds like. You’ll monitor your own blood sugar levels by pricking your finger multiple times a day for a week and using a blood sugar testing unit.


Hemoglobin A1C Testing is a draw that monitors blood sugar levels over a three month period. It has been used as an alternative to the normal Glucose testing and is routinely used for those with Diabetes outside of pregnancy.


It’s also important to remember that the GD testing is a screening process and not an actual diagnostic. If you happen to fail the first screening, don’t panic immediately. It’s possible that you’ll be fine with the more extended testing!


Gestational Diabetes is something we should definitely monitor and treat but there are alternatives to the traditional screening. By working together with your provider to create a plan for you, you’ll find the perfect way to monitor and ensure your health is optimal and your baby is thriving through your whole pregnancy.


Your Day With a Postpartum Doula

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“Good morning!”


“Good morning, how was your weekend?”


It’s Monday morning and your brand new baby has come home. You’ve been up what seems like every two hours feeding them and getting them back to sleep. Birth has, as it usually does, taken a toll on you, and you’re feeling the pressure of getting back to “normal”.


But it’s not normal.


Your Postpartum Doula knows this and soon you will too.


Settling into the new normal can often be a challenge for parents. As much as people wax poetic about what happens before and during the birth of your baby, it seems few talk about what happens when your baby comes home.


No worries. You’ve come prepared.


A day with a Postpartum Doula is a day with far fewer worries, far fewer stressors, and far more relaxation.


Your Doula, for example, might walk in and know right of the bat what needs to be done. They’ll usually run through the “normal” list of what might need attention.


Are there dishes in the sink? Is there laundry in the hamper? Are there bottles or pumped parts that need to be washed? Has everyone had something to eat?


A skilled Postpartum Doula will walk through these general touch points and be able to quickly assess and address anything that needs attention.


“Let me fill that water for you,” she may say, as you hold your baby in bed, “Is there a snack I can get you while I’m there?”


She’ll pop into the kitchen to grab whatever is needed, return and you’ll chat a bit. Maybe about your birth, maybe about how your baby is doing, maybe about how you’re feeling.


Whatever.


Your doula is sort of like your fill-in for the day-to-day housework and baby care that you may need a break from to rest. Our goal? To make sure your family eases into your new normal as peacefully as possible. That may include laundry, dishes, washing bottles, folding baby laundry, grabbing you a snack, or just holding your newborn while you take a shower for as long as you need.

“See you tomorrow!”


You’ve completed your first shift with your doula and, honestly, wouldn’t have it any other way.


Investing in Postpartum Support is investing in your health and sanity and it’s a beautiful gift to yourself and your family.


Enjoy your folded laundry. We’ll see you tomorrow.


OUCH! Is Breastfeeding Supposed to Hurt?

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Your baby has entered the world and your breastfeeding journey has begun!


It’s going along and all of the sudden OUCH!


Out of nowhere, pinching or bleeding...is it supposed to be like this?


There’s a misconception surrounding breastfeeding that because it’s the biological norm it’s somehow effortless. Breastfeeding parents are often thrown for a loop when they figure out that isn’t the case and that, yes, it can even be painful.


While slight discomfort may be normal, extended pain is definitely not. Nor is bleeding, cracking, or extreme soreness.

Common Issues

Improper Latch

Dealing with the issues starts at the source. If you notice your nipples are excessively sore, cracked, or bleeding, it’s important to address the source of the discomfort. Often this ends up being a shallow or improper latch, causing baby to pull in areas they aren’t meant to. To avoid this, ensure baby is latched fully when nursing and that the areola is deep inside baby’s mouth. If these things aren’t the case, unlatch and try starting again.


If you aren’t sure, chat with your doula or a Lactation professional! Usually these things are quick and easy fixes but sometimes further evaluation into why the baby isn’t latching properly is necessary. It’s possible the root problem is a lip or tongue tie that will need to be diagnosed and possibly revised by a doctor.


Thrush


If you have persistent cracking and bleeding that doesn’t seem remedied, it’s possible you may have Thrush.


Yes, anyone can get it, not just babies!


Thrush is a yeast overgrowth that typically occurs in warm, moist places (like cracked nipples and baby mouths). Usually yeast are kept at bay but babies and newly postpartum mothers have compromised immune systems, leaving them susceptible to issues like Thrush. If this sounds like you, let your doctor know. You’ll need a prescription cream to kick that mess.


Engorgement

If your breasts feel rock-hard and sore, you may be engorged. Engorgement occurs when your breasts are unable to fully empty before they produce more milk. While it can be sort of normal in the early days once your milk fully transitions from Colostrum, it’s important to make sure you’re avoiding it. Persistent Engorgement could be a signal that you have Overproduction issues or Latch issues (a lot of it goes back to baby’s latch!).


If you’re engorged for an extended amount of time it’s possible to develop Mastitis. Mastitis is a nasty infection that you definitely don’t want to get with flu-like symptoms and rapidly spiking fevers. If you suspect you have it, contact your doctor ASAP. You’ll need Antibiotics to kick it.


Fixing the Problems


Now, you’re probably thinking, “Okay, that’s great that I know why but what can I do right now?


Dry Healing


While in the past we were told to douse ourselves in Lanolin and Coconut Oil, new research suggests that dry healing is best. Keep nipples clean and dry aside from when you’re nursing.


Warm Showers, Baths, or Compresses


If you find yourself with soreness or engorgement, try a warm shower, bath, or compress to provide some relief. Engorgement or blocked ducts can also be helped by combining one of these options with massaging any sore spots toward the nipple.


Fix Baby’s Latch


Chat with a Lactation professional and have them evaluate how your baby is doing with latching. If the issue is latch, they’ll be able to adjust it and get you on the road to healing. An incredible local resource is Carolyn Honea of Lake Norman Breastfeeding Solutions! Visit her site here.


Contrary to what many older generations tell us, Breastfeeding pain is not normal nor should you suffer through it! Cracked and bleeding nipples, extreme soreness, and prolonged discomfort are not normal parts of breastfeeding and there is help to fix it!

Birth Options: Use Your BRAIN!

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Pregnancy and birth can be an experience full of tons of different emotions. One we see frequently is worry! What procedures are “okay”? Which options do you have? With everything you need to decide, it seems impossible to know the “right” answers to each and every question. In most cases, though, there isn’t a “right” answer, just an answer that is right for you!


As doulas, we have a brilliant method of helping you explore your options. Simply use your BRAIN!


No, really. B.R.A.I.N.


This is a really quick and easy way to explore what your options are and make a choice that works for your family.


Let’s use an Epidural as an example and walk through what it might look like to use your BRAIN to make a quick decision.


Benefits


Ask “what are the benefits of this procedure/decision?” Answers are often health of baby, comfort of mom, or improved outcome overall. The


In our scenario, the benefits of an epidural might be increased comfort of birthing person which could result in sleep, allowing them to recover the strength they need for pushing in the event of a long labor.


Risks


What are the risks of the decision? The risk of an epidural might be decreased feeling which leads to less control during pushing, loss of mobility (meaning the rest of the labor will continue in bed), and inability to use a shower/bath as a means of comfort.


Alternatives


What are the alternatives? In the example of an epidural, alternatives may be any other physical comfort measure that provides relief. A warm bath or shower, counterpressure, massage, distraction, Rebozo, or position change could all be considered alternatives.


Intuition


What does your intuition say? We are often more in tune with our bodies than we give ourselves credit for and taking a moment to pause and reflect may give you a great idea of what the right decision is for you.


Nothing


What happens if we do nothing? In the case of an epidural, doing nothing does...well, nothing. If we do nothing we could wait an hour and come back to the option again. It doesn’t take it off the table, just changes the timeline.


This super simple system (try saying that five times fast!) is an easy way to explore your options quickly and help you make a decision. Sometimes we have more time to research and don’t need a snap decision. In these instances, using BRAIN will still help walk you through exactly what you need to research.


Making the right decision for your family is important! Exploring your options for laboring, birthing, pushing, feeding, and even birthplace often leads to feeling more empowered, more secure, and having a better birth experience. Whatever you decide, we’re here!


Sick and Pregnant: Safe Cold and Flu Remedies

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With cold and flu season upon us, we’re all taking precautions. Vitamin C, soup, supplements...anything we can do to avoid catching the nasties floating around.

When you’re pregnant, your immune system is actually slightly lowered. Pregnancy also doesn’t allow for most common remedies. What’s an expectant person to do if they catch the dreaded bug? We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves to help ease the struggle of being sick and get you back to normal.

 

While the old adage is to drink Orange Juice or pop some Vitamin C, Zinc is actually the supplement you want. It’s been clinically proven effective at shortening the length of colds. Ideally it should be taken within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms. Options include capsules and even kind of delicious lozenges and it’s completely safe for pregnancy. Some foods rich in Zinc are lamb or beef, Yogurt, and Dark Chocolate. So the next time you get a craving, grab some dark chocolate and tell yourself it’s for your immune system.

 If you find yourself with a cough, the best recommendation (even from doctors) is honey. Dark honey is generally regarded as best but any honey will do. If you’re looking for some soothing for a sore throat, add some honey and lemon into some hot water. For a kick of flavor and a natural antibiotic add a slice of ginger root as well. Kick up your feet, turn on a movie, and enjoy some honey and lemon tea. You deserve it.

 

When it comes to medication, some of them are actually considered low-risk for pregnancy. Generally speaking, it’s recommended to avoid all medication if possible before 12 weeks of pregnancy and caution is advised after week 28. Common ones that are generally regarded as safe are Acetaminophen (for aches and pains), plain cough syrup (not multi-symptom ones), and cough drops. It’s very, very important to check with your doctor before taking any medication.

 

Hot Tip: Download the app MommyMeds for a quick reference of meds you can take that are GRAS (Generally regarded as safe) for both pregnancy and for breastfeeding.

 

We’re hoping you stay healthy this season but should you find yourself with the dreaded cough or flu, never fear! There is hope!


Our Favorite Toddler Shows (without Talking Animals)

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Team Umizoomi

This cute show features two main characters, Milli and Geo, and a robot named Bot. Together they soar through space and explore math concepts. From counting to simple addition and subtraction, this show is a well done dive into prepping kids to enter preschool by introducing numbers in a fun way.


Little Einsteins


An oldie but a goody, Little Einsteins is based on the ideas behind the Baby Einstein franchise. This show’s main characters are Leo, Annie, June, and Quincy. They fly in their rocket and solve puzzles in each episode. Weaving classical paintings and music into each adventure, this show also introduces concepts like patterns, colors, and shapes.


Sid the Science Kid


In classic Ed Henson style, Sid the Science Kid features human-like characters who are very...well, Muppet-inspired. They are definitely kids and Sid, the lead, loves to explore new scientific questions, theories, and concepts. Touching on a range of subjects, this show is full of fun characters and learning.


Yo Gabba Gabba!


Okay, this show isn’t *technically* talking animals because they’re…..well, we don’t know what they are. But the’re not animals. Yo Gabba Gabba is a brilliantly colored show full of electronic music, emotions, and fun dances. While not educational in a school sense, it touches on everyday skills like sharing, brushing teeth, and getting ready for bed. Plus it features some of our favorite bands. This is one we’ll actually watch too.


Charlie and Lola


The misadventures of Charlie and Lola are somehow soothing and precious as these siblings stumble through life learning together. This UK-based show features soft colors, life lessons, and main characters with British accents. This one’s pretty sweet.

Top 5 Books for New Big Siblings

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Becoming a big sibling can bring a range of emotions from excitement to fear. An incredible way to help kids talk about those things? Books! Read your littles stories of big brothers and big sisters to help them understand and relate to what the characters are going through. We’ve gathered 5 great options for your bedtime stories to add to your library.


1. Lola Reads to Leo by Anna McQuinn :


This sweet book highlights the main character, Lola, and her love of reading. She, of course, wants to introduce that love to her new baby brother. From bringing a soft book to her new brother’s crib to reading him a book in the evening, she thinks being a big sister is the “best gift of all”. This story promotes a love of reading and a love of sharing with the new baby, making it the perfect addition to your library.


2. The New Small Person by Lauren Child :


This story is a very familiar tale for many families. An older sibling and an unwelcome change to their dynamic. Elmore Green takes to calling his new sibling “it” and recounts the tale of how “it” licks his jelly bean collection! The shift from only child to older brother can be a tricky one and this book does a beautiful job of combining a common struggle with beautiful imagery and finally reaching the resolution of a new small person being a friend.


3. Once Upon a Baby Brother by Sarah Sullivan:


Older siblings can have very conflicting thoughts about a new baby joining their family. They have typically been the sole focus of their parents for their whole lives! With that shift comes a new dynamic. Sarah Sullivan tells this story from Lizzie, a celebrated and gifted storyteller’s perspective. It’s a sweet and helpful way to introduce the concept of a baby to a sibling who might be old enough to understand just what’s going on.


4. Outside Over There by Maurice Sendak :


A strange fantasy tale, this book is one full of differing emotions from love to resentment. When goblins steal Ida’s baby sister to make her a goblin bride, Ida must go “outside over there” to get her back. This may seem a weird addition to this list but everything that a new sibling goes through, emotion-wise.


5. Ish by Peter H Reynolds :


This book makes the list for the middle siblings. A story about Ramon and his love of drawing, his hopes, dreams, and joy are all dashed in a split second by a comment made by his older brother. When he realizes his art isn’t perfect, he plans to destroy it all until his younger sister steps in and helps him see that art doesn’t have to be perfect, it can be “-ish”. This story highlights both the importance of celebrating imperfections and the bond between siblings.

Questions to Ask Your Placenta Encapsulator

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Placenta Encapsulation has been a hot topic for pregnant people and healthcare providers alike recently. With families in Charlotte often calling us to learn more, we decided to compile a list of questions you should be asking before you book your Placenta Encapsulation. Uptown Doula makes it top priority to ensure the safety of each of our clients that books this service with us and we believe in asking the right questions!


1. Where do you Encapsulate?

Where your encapsulator processes your placenta is incredibly important. Do they have a dedicated space or will their family be eating dinner next to your placenta? Do they have pets that could introduce different microbial elements to the delicate microbiome of your placenta?

Uptown Doula will only process your placenta in your home. We feel it is the safest for our clients as it ensures that there are not foreign elements to your placenta and it never leaves your possession. There is no risk of it being confused with someone else’s and you also get to watch the sanitization process.


2. What is your process?


Your encapsulator should be able to walk you through each step of the process they will be performing.


Uptown Doula completes a thorough sanitizing of the area we’ll be working in, and steams, dehydrates, grinds, and encapsulates the placenta over the course of two days.


3. Can you guarantee a certain number of pills?


Unfortunately, it’s impossible to guarantee a certain number of pills. The yield from the process varies based on the size of your placenta. If anyone gives you a guaranteed number, run! There’s a possibility they will add herbs or other foreign substances to increase the number of pills.


4. Are you Blood Borne Pathogen Certified?


BBP certification is important to ensure the proper disposal and cleaning of any organ that contains blood. The proper procedures should be employed to make sure that there is no cross-contamination and pathogens have been destroyed.


5. Will you use a raw or low temp method?


Knowing this is key to making sure you’re using someone you trust. Doing your own research on this topic is key. A raw or low-temp method is supposedly less invasive and yields more capsules. However, a raw method does leave you open to the risk of pathogens that cannot be destroyed using low temperatures.


Uptown Doula will not use a raw method of encapsulation, we use a method close to the Traditional Chinese Method.


6. Who are you trained through?


There are encapsulators who process Placentas with no formal training. Asking this question leaves nothing to chance, and gives you the information you need to make the best decision for you.


7. At what point would you not encapsulate?


If a fever occurs during labor, your placenta should not be processed. There are a few other situations in which safety is in question, and these should definitely be discussed.


Placenta Encapsulation has been reported to aid in healing, milk production, energy, mood stabilizing, and more. The benefits of this process are many but the safety of it is often debated. By asking the right questions, you can take your safety into your own hands, leaving nothing to chance. Your safety is the absolute top priority of Uptown Doula when you’re finding your Postpartum Placenta Specialist in Charlotte.

Interested in placenta services? If so, you can do that right here! We are standing by to answer all your questions and help point you in the right direction.

I Want to be Daniel Tiger's Mom

Photo Credit: https://www.fredrogers.org/

Photo Credit: https://www.fredrogers.org/

Who is your mom hero?


Mine is easy and also doesn’t actually exist. My mom hero?


Daniel Tiger’s mom. Easy answer.


First of all, Daniel and Margaret are adorable. They’re always dressed, bathed, fed healthy foods, and learning important life lessons. While they learn them everywhere, their mom is always there with a calm word and a song to help them.

Daniel’s mom (whose name is actually Collette, fun fact!) is always there with a kind word and a tune to sing. She gets two kids, a baby and a toddler, no less, ready for the day without tears, angst, or frustrated words. She never gets angry, she meets her offspring with an incredible amount of kindness even though she’s asked her son to put his shoes on literally 10 million times.


Goals.


If you’ve ever parented a baby and a preschooler you know that shit’s hard. Dealing with a teeny human and a slightly-less-teeny human is a whole thing. Between getting dressed, the resistance to getting dressed, mealtime, the resistance to mealtime...I think you see the pattern...getting two small ones ready and out the door can be a nightmare. Daniel Tiger’s Mom, however? She somehow always responds in kindness.


Wow.


Can we talk about her voice? She’s literally constantly kind. Her voice communicates kindness, love, and support each and every freaking time. She has a soothing, perfectly motherly voice that makes us want to either fall asleep or roll our eyes. We’re not sure. Probably both.


Literally, how?


We’re doulas here, let’s chat about pregnancy and childbirth. Momma Tiger carried that baby with more grace than we’ve probably ever seen. She then birthed that baby and walked home. Genuinely impressed (and don’t recommend, to be honest, but we digress). She was an inspiration of calm, even when she knew she was bringing Baby Margaret into the world that day!


Remember Banana Swirl?? That’s some Pinterest Mom shit. How were we supposed to know you could freeze bananas and fool your kids into thinking it was actual ice cream? We’re literally still not sure that would fly in our house. So not only is she brilliant, she’s brave AF for trying that one.


Basically she’s our shining example of what a mom should be. Kind, loving, patient, always ready with a teaching moment, and adorable. Thank you, Mama Tiger, for showing us all what we should aspire to (and how to be kind to ourselves when we mess up).

Cheers! Alcohol and Breastfeeding!

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After 9 months of politely saying no to every cocktail and toast, is it ok to finally say yes if you are breastfeeding?

How harmful could it be to have one glass of wine, pop open a beer, have one Cosmo.  Being a new mom is, well, stressful. You could sure use a little libation to take off the edge. Or, perhaps raise your glass to cheers in victory of a milestone.  Besides isn’t is recommended to have a glass of wine a day?

Studies have shown breastfeeding or not, all alcohol is best consumed responsibly in moderation.

Most sources say that drinking is left up to the discretion of the mother, and most medical professionals have suggested all birthing parents to avoid alcohol for the first 3 months postpartum.

Of course, we are discussing taking part in an occasional drink.  Not daily drinking or getting drunk regularly. To be clear we are talking about a glass, not, a bottle of wine. A beer, not, a six pack.

There is a lot of truth in the belief that what you take into your body in turn comes out of your breast milk.

The alcohol that enters your blood stream measures the same as the alcohol that enters your breastmilk. Even though one drink may not affect you it could affect your babies sleep pattern or appetite. An infants’ liver is not mature enough to process alcohol. Regular ongoing consumption has been seen to cause developmental delays.

Being informed about these possibilities is important when making a decision to partake. As, said before the choice is truly up to the parent who is breastfeeding.

Speak to you physician get their take on it if you are truly concerned. You and only you know what is best for your baby and what is safe for your body. Pay attention to cues if you may be planning on drinking perhaps switch your baby over to formula for that time as to ensure they will not be receiving any breastmilk during this period of time.

It is never a bad idea to take precautions.