Pink & Blue Spring 2024

Spring 2024

pinkblue SPRING 2024 A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION

Baby Blues or PMD? Epidurals What to Expect

5 Unique Gender Reveals

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WHAT’S ON THE WEB

@pinkandbluela.com

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BEDSIDE SLEEPER. Determine which sleeping arrangement is right for you.

ALL ABOUT BABY NAPS How long should a baby nap?

HOLY CALORIES: HOW MUCH ENERGY GROWING A BABY TAKES. Here’s how much energy our body uses to grow a baby.

ARE BABY SWINGS SAFE? Here’s how to use a baby swing safely.

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CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE 4 WHAT’S ON THE WEB 8 GIVEAWAYS 10 MOM TO MOM-TO-BE 12 LITTLE BITS 14 BABY LOVE 35 RESOURCE DIRECTORY 40 BELLY LAUGHS 42 BABY FACES

INSIDE VOLUME 39

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GENDER REVEAL IDEAS Not your typical gender reveals! | | | | | DEMYSTIFYING EPIDURALS Eight common questions answered. THE BABY BLUES Postpartum depression is more than the baby blues. BACK TO THE BASICS Embracing the fully natural birthing experience. DAD’S PREGNANCY GUIDE What Dad can expect after birth.

ON THE COVER Cover Baby Kyeson J. is five months old and is a ball of joy. He loves to laugh and stick his tongue out, and he has the cutest dimple! He’s a fan of his Mickey Mouse and Goofy stuffed animals and always giggles when he looks at them.

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GIVEAWAYS

A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION AMY L. FOREMAN

Make eating on the go easy for your littles with the PAPERCLIP Silicone Plate with Reusable Snack Bag . This plate is made with non-toxic, food-grade silicone and features a powerful suction cup, a reusable snack bag, and a heat-activated color reveal. ■ amazon.com

PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AUSTRIA COHN CAROL EVANS VICTORIA MIKOTA

MADISON VOORHIES ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION ALEX HERRING SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER TOM GONZALES MADISON GRAHAM MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT

Keep baby’s hair soft and shiny with this KeaBabies Baby Wooden Hair- Brush Set . Each brush is handmade with love and perfectly safe for newborns, toddlers, and kids. Use for a gentle scalp massage after a bath, aiding relaxation and a restful sleep. ■ amazon.com

KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN AMY PHILLILPS SHANNON VICARI ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MEGAN LEE SALES TEAM PERFORMANCE COACH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LAURIE ACOSTA DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS ALEXIS ALEXANDER SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER KAYLEIGH MONTANA CLIENT SUCCESS SPECIALIST EMMY LOGAN ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR CONTACT EDITORIAL@FAMILYRESOURCEGROUPINC.COM

The Soothie Sleeve is a pediatri- cian-designed stuffed animal that is meant to comfort your child with your scent when you are apart. ■ amazon.com

OFFICE (225) 292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

Parenting Media Association Design & Editorial Awards 2022 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award Winner

2022

With the Eli & Elm Pregnancy Pil- low , moms will discover the soothing benefits of better alignment as this unique pillow has a full-sized bed pillow attached to ensure proper support for the head, back, hip, and knees. ■ amazon.com

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PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE is published biannually by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the adver- tisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editori- ally on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

Gear up! GIVEAWAYS Visit pinkandbluela.com to register for a chance to win! Winners will be announced at pinkandbluela.com on June 24, 2024.

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There are many effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.

THE S TUTTERING F OUNDATION A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947— Helping Those Who Stutter ®

800-992-9392 www.StutteringHelp.org

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MOM TO MOM-TO-BE

Everywhere I turn, there seems to be a new baby. My daughter even has baby fever, and she is only 16. She loves little babies, and all little ones seem to flock to her. While we were at Target the other day, she made a friend with a little two-year-old boy. Looking back on my experience, I’ve noticed just how much has changed since I brought my own babies into the world. All this new technology brings some amazing gadgets for new parents. I mean, they have a formula dispenser Baby Fever now, and the other day I saw that they make a device that holds the bottle for the baby. I laugh because I remember when my twins were little,

my husband and I would use blankets rolled up to help prop bottles for an extra hand. It’s not easy to feed two at the same time, especially if one wants to breastfeed and the other wants a bottle. The bouncy chairs out now even bounce themselves! We used to use one of my husband’s ties to tie around their seats, and we would each take a tie and get our arm workout in as they bounced themselves to sleep. I am kind of jealous of these new parents who get to use some of these new gadgets. With this summer issue of Pink and Blue hitting the streets, we have rounded up some of those must-have items, along with all the local resources you may need during your pregnancy and after. We also discuss mental health awareness during and after pregnancy. There is a difference between the baby blues and just being exhausted! Throughout your pregnancy, remember to take care of yourself and allow others to help. Having a baby takes a toll on our bodies, and in order to be the best mom or dad you can be, you have to make sure that you take care of yourself.

Amy Foreman Publisher

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LITTLE BITS

“ You are the clos- est I will ever come to magic.”

—Suzanne Finnamore

TOP 10 BABY NAMES IN 2024 Naming your newborn baby has to be one of the most exciting parts of having a baby–aside from the baby of course! We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 baby names in 2024. Does your baby have this name? Here they are: Olivia Ava

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LEAPFROG GROUP’S MATERNITY CARE TOOL The Leapfrog Group has a Maternity Care Tool that you can use to search for hospitals in your area, according to your unique needs. The search includes hospitals that meet Leapfrog’s quality standards or offer services such as having certified nurse-midwives, a doula, or breastfeeding/lactation assistance. You can find a hospital near you and filter by their maternity care services. ■ hospitalsafetygrade.com

Asaad Noah Apollo Scarlett Luna Kai Evelyn Benjamin.

P ATHWAYS.ORG ANNOUNCES NEW APP At the touch of a button, parents can track and meet baby’s developmental milestones with the Pathways app. Similar to having a healthcare provider in your back pocket, the Pathways app provides a variety of resources, including 300+ games, articles, and video tutorials developed with and approved by expert pediatric physical and occupational therapists and speech pathologists. All milestones within the app are backed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, making the app reliable. ■ pathways.org

HAVE YOU HEARD OF RADICAL FERTILITY SMOOTHIES?

Radical Fertility Smoothies are a great way to transition to a fertility diet, rich in whole foods and key nutrients. These smoothies are easy to make and provide your body with an abundance of fortifying nutrients and vitamins. Plus, they’re yummy! Each smoothie is packed with nutrient-dense fruits, veggies, and seeds, which will keep you fuller for longer. One smoothie takes just five minutes to prepare. ■ natural-fertility-info.com

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10 OCHSNER HEALTH FACILITIES RECEIVE 2024 BIRTH READY DESIGNATION The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative (LaPQC) recently recognized 10 Ochsner Health and Ochsner partner facilities that have achieved 2024 Birth Ready Des- ignation for committing to better birth outcomes for mothers in Louisiana. ■ ochsner.org

MOSQUITOES LOVE PREGNANT WOMEN

Being pregnant in the summer has a lot of cons––it’s hot, you’re sweating a bunch, and the mosquitoes seem to come to you in droves. If you’re a Louisiana native, you know the summers (and mosquitoes) here are no joke. However, did you know that your pregnancy actually attracts mosquitoes more than normal? It’s true, mosqui- toes love pregnant women. So if you ever thought that they were specifical- ly seeking you out––you’d be correct.

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STOP USING THESE NEWBORN LOUNGERS If you’ve ever purchased a pillow or newborn lounger–pay atten- tion. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and The Boppy Company of Golden, Colorado, there is a recall for Boppy Original Newborn Loungers, Boppy Preferred Newborn Loungers, and Pottery Barn Kids Boppy Newborn Loungers. These newborn loungers were recalled due to risks associ- ated with infant suffocation, if they roll, move, or are placed on the lounger in a way that obstructs breathing. The Newborn Loungers have not been legal for sale since they were recalled. ■ cpsc.gov

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BABY LOVE

The Bayletto “Kiwi” Electronic Power Recliner is a nursery essential. It swivels 270 degrees, glides back and forth, reclines at the touch of a button, is water-repellant, and includes a built-in USB charging port. Engineered with baby’s safety in mind, this recliner meets the flammability requirements and is free of unnecessary chemicals. ■ amazon.com

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“ No matter how bad my day’s been, it takes one little kick to make everything

feel alright. —Unknown

The Natural Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib features stylish rounded spindles and is made with solid New Zealand pine wood. With an included conversion kit, the bed will grow as your babe grows. ■ wayfair.com

This UPPABaby Travel System features a full-size, reversible Toddler Seat which allows your growing child to ride forwards, backwards, completely upright, reclined, and anywhere in between. The 50+ SPF canopy provides sun protection while keeping your baby cool and comfortable. In addition, the Cruz V2 Stroller features a variety of luxurious fabrics and is REACH-certified. ■ amazon.com

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Keep baby’s nursery room fresh and clean with this steel Ubbi Diaper Pail . This pail features an innovative sliding lid, a child-proof safety lock, and holds up to 55 newborn diapers. ■ potterybarnkids.com

Say “sweet dreams!” with this expert-curated sound machine. The Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine comes fully loaded with white noise, ocean, wind, fan, heartbeat, rain, and lullabies, and will coax your baby into a soothing good night’s sleep. ■ amazon.com

The Everyday Diaper Backpack 2.0 features premium easy-to-clean fabric and durable aluminum hardware. It seamlessly blends into the hustle and bustle of everyday life. ■ meethuhu.com

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Dad’s Pregnancy Guide: From Dadchelor Parties to What to Expect After Birth By John Culhane

T here may be no greater “Honey, we are going to have a baby!” But after the slaps on the back and the congratulatory ceremonies are done, an expectant Dad can be kind of out there alone in left field. Baby showers with Pinterest crafts have been the realm of the Moms, but in recent years some trends have developed to keep Dad in the loop and feeling involved. Dadchelor Parties The Dadchelor Party can be anything from a get together barbecue to a party with feeling for a husband than for his wife to tell him, everybody bringing diapers. Babies need diapers, lots of diapers. Emily Granger Arostegui from Denham Springs, says, “During showers, the guys would get together to cook and drink while the girls had their fun. For the Diaper Party, people

would bring diapers, wipes and Boudreaux’s Butt Paste. My husband loved picking out things for our baby girl, but being at a shower wasn’t his thing.” While Moms are getting ready for baby to come, Dads may have problems of their own and they could end up not knowing how to handle their feelings. Samantha Rauber, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, says, “Oftentimes during pregnancy and postpartum, so much focus and attention shifts to the baby and then to the mother, but often forgotten is the major transition that Dad is navigating as well. Dads need support too, whether they want to admit it or not. Dad/ Diaper Parties given by friends are a great way of honing in on the special and vulnerable time that becoming a parent is for him also.” Expecting Changes Oftentimes Dads are waiting in

the dugout, not sure of what they will need to be called to do next. Rauber wants them to know they can expect several changes and can be ready for them. She says, “As a woman’s body evolves to meet the needs of the developing baby, she may not be able to carry on life the way she did before being pregnant. Pregnancy comes with a plethora of hormonal, psychological, and physical changes. They can also expect positive changes that come with great reward also. Watching a woman’s belly grow with a moving baby can bring much joy and excitement into his next chapter of life.” Getting Involved Dads don’t need to stay on the sideline either. Rauber has suggestions for how he can be involved by bonding with the baby in many different ways during the pregnancy, each unique to

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what fits for that man. “For some, it may be feeling the baby. For others, it may be attending the doctor and ultrasound appointments. Praying for the baby, participating in naming the baby, setting up the nursery, or reading/singing to the babies are further tasks that may deepen the connection to a relationship with the child before it is born. It’s up to Dad which way he wants to take on bonding with his child,” she says. Being a Team Player Dads may ask themselves how they can be there for their partner. Rauber adds that this is a complicated time for the Mom. She will be wanting to feel that she is seen and heard. She says, “Join with her in that experience even though it may be hard to tolerate. Prepare yourself to be a teammate in the

postpartum period. She will need to rest to recover, and one of the biggest ways to support her is to encourage her to take breaks and get rest. Finally, Dad may really feel left out once the baby is born. Even holding a baby may be uncomfortable for some. Rauber adds it is common for them to question how to bond with their baby after birth. It may take some patience, but it is very possible. She says, “It’s never too early to talk to the baby, read or sing to the baby, too. Babies also learn to self-regulate the more dad is involved in early parenting.” Babies don’t come with a manual and being nervous about handling a baby, getting anxious when babies cry and not knowing what to do are all normal things for Dads. Rauber says, “This is a new experience and that can be

met with complicated emotions. Still, change the diaper. Rock the baby. Get involved. The more you learn that you can do early soothing, the more likely you will continue to build confidence that you can do this fatherhood thing, and the whole family will benefit Pregnancy causes Mom’s hormones to go haywire, Rauber cautions, but Dad can also get the blues. She says, “Dads experiencing emotional difficulties after babies are born are more common than we think, so it’s very important for Dad to also seek support if he is concerned about the way he feels. Communication is the real key. Working together will make the whole experience memorable and wonderful! because of that.” Getting the Blues

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5 Fun and Unique Gender Reveals He or She, what will it be?

By Austria Cohn

F inding out there’s a baby on the way is like unlocking a treasure chest filled with excitement, a dash of overwhelm, and just a hint of terror. Suddenly, you’re plunged into a whirlwind of crib comparisons, stroller dilemmas, and a never-ending quest for pacifiers and diapers. The to-do list seems to stretch to infinity, with every tiny detail needing attention before the little one makes their grand entrance. As magical as pregnancy is, it’s also exhausting. Many moms-to- be reach a point where they’re counting down the seconds until they can finally meet their tiny human and bid farewell to the bump. Yet, amidst all of the chaos, there are small things that make the pregnancy journey loveable. One is the gender reveal announcement! Whether it’s the expecting parents planning to surprise their loved ones or the soon-to-be grandparents or

aunties planning, these gender reveals are sure to be memorable. From sweet treats to colorful bursts of excitement, here are five fun and unique gender reveal ideas to add a sprinkle (and mystery) to your celebration. 1. A Delicious Twist What better way to announce the gender of your bundle of joy than with a sweet treat? Whoever plans the reveal can have a baker prepare a batch of vanilla and chocolate cake pops with pink and blue frosting. But here’s the twist– hidden inside one lucky cake pop is the big reveal, either pink or blue cake batter. So when the lucky person bites into the treat, the gender is revealed! It’s a gender reveal that’s not just fun but also full of suspense. Everyone will be on the edge of their seats until the lucky pop is uncovered. This fun twist on the traditional cake reveal adds a

touch of elegance and mystery to the celebration. 2. Balloons and Confetti, Oh My! Get ready for a burst of excitement with a balloon or confetti pop gender reveal. Fill a large black balloon with either pink or blue confetti, and when the big moment arrives, give it a satisfying pop to reveal the gender in a dramatic and festive way. It’s a simple yet thrilling way to share the news and create lasting memories with your loved ones. If you opt for the balloon route, be sure to anchor it down to prevent any unexpected takeoffs. Alternatively, you can snag confetti poppers from Amazon for a hassle-free experience. Let eager siblings reveal the confetti, or have the expecting parents share the excitement together. 3. On Your Mark, Get Set, Reveal For sports-loving families, a

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sport-related gender reveal adds an extra layer of excitement to the celebration. Whether it’s shooting a basketball into a hoop filled with pink or blue powder, kicking a soccer ball to reveal the gender hidden inside, or hitting a baseball to release a burst of colorful confetti, there are endless possibilities to score a winning gender reveal moment. It’s a playful and energetic way to announce the newest team member and kick off excitement for the future sports star. Pro Tip: Plan to do this activity outside in a designated area so no one is hurt. Consider providing parents with sunglasses so they don’t get powder or confetti in their eyes. 4. The Color Chaos Unleash your inner artist with a paint-themed gender reveal! Wear white and let the kids in the family

spray everyone with the color of paint to reveal the gender (the bottles are taped and decorated so the color is hidden). An alternative way is to fill balloons and pin them to a blank wall. As guests use creative methods to pop the balloons, the paint will splatter across the canvas, revealing the gender in a vibrant and visually stunning display. It’s a messy yet memorable way to celebrate the newest addition to the family and create a work of art the family can cherish forever. 5. Brothers, Sisters, and Baby Bliss Involve the soon-to-be sibling in the gender reveal with a special shirt announcement. Have a shirt specially made for the sibling with a playful message like “I’m Going to Be a Big Brother/Sister” or “Team Pink/Blue.” When it’s

time for the reveal, the sibling can proudly wear the shirt, unveiling the gender. Not only does this make the siblings feel included and excited about the new arrival, but it also helps them bond with their future brother or sister from the very beginning. Bonus Reveal: Gender Reveal Candle For family and friends who cannot attend the event in person, a gender reveal candle offers a sweet and intimate way to share in the excitement from afar. The expecting parents can send out specially-crafted candles with a hidden color or message that will be revealed as the candle burns. It’s a thoughtful gesture that allows loved ones to participate in the celebration and feel connected to the joyous moment, no matter the distance.

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By Amanda Miller Demystifying Epidurals 8 Common Questions Answered

brain lesion, like a brain tumor or something like that, where entering into that space of place, an epidural would cause increased pressure. 3 Can it be “too late” to receive an epidural? Dr. Wiley: I usually tell my patients, as long as you can sit still, you can get an epidural. So, if you can’t sit up and sit still because the baby’s coming out, it’s a little too late, but you could be any dilation to get an epidural. 4 How long will epidurals last? Dr. Wiley: When epidurals are placed, the anesthesiologist puts the needle in, they put the medicine in, and they leave a little catheter in the back, and basically, that continues to infuse medicine. An epidural can last the entire length of a woman’s labor. 5 Will epidurals slow down labor? Dr. Wiley: Overall, no. There is some evidence that says that getting an epidural can actually shorten the time from when your cervix starts dilating to the time when you’re complete. An epidural can actually make that length of time shorter, because you’re more relaxed. The time from whenever your cervix is

W hen it comes to putting together a birth plan, many moms-to-be opt to factor in an epidural. For those moms who are still undecided and want to learn more about epidurals, Dr. Lorene Wiley, OB/ GYN and Medical Director for OB/ GYN at Baton Rouge General and teacher with the Family Medicine Residency Program, provides insight into common questions and concerns when it comes to epidurals. 1 What does an epidural do? Dr. Lorene Wiley: An epidural is a form of regional anesthesia, or neuraxial anesthesia, in which a needle is placed through the vertebrae or the bones in your back, and medicine is administered through that needle to deliver pain relief in labor. The medicine that’s in the epidural is a combination of a local anesthetic and usually an opioid. This acts to give pain relief to a woman in labor.

2 Can anyone receive an epidural? Dr. Wiley: Yes and no. Epidurals are appropriate and should be offered to laboring women, regardless of how many babies they’ve had, how far dilated they are, or how high up in the birth canal the baby is, unless there’s a true contraindication to it. Commonly, contraindications are rare, but the things that are really important are women who have bleeding disorders. We also think about women who have coagulopathies, low platelets, and there are cut-offs for how high your platelets or blood counts have to be to be able to get an epidural. If a woman’s recently taken blood thinners, those blood thinner injection theories on why a woman wouldn’t be able to get one depending on the timing of when she’s had one. If someone were to have a big infection, like over the back or in the area where we will want to place the epidural, that will also be a contraindication. If someone had some type of

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completely dilated to the time that the baby comes out, it can lengthen that amount of time. So overall, yes and no. It can shorten it, or it can extend it, but overall, it’s not a significant thing. 6 What are some of the risks and side effects? Dr. Wiley: Overall, epidurals are pretty safe. There’s a low risk of morbidity and mortality as far as mom is concerned. We think about common side effects with epidurals with things like headaches, sometimes we’ll see the baby’s heart rate change, or the baby’s heart rate decrease. Even with the baby’s heart rate decreasing, there’s no increased risk of having a C-section. Itching is also commonly seen. We think about other things like the serious risks that are associated with them; it’s very rare, this is like less than 1 percent. We think about things like blood clots inside the spine, and that’s where we kind of go back to not wanting people who

have low platelets or who’ve been on blood thinners to get them. We also think about infection, so the women who’ve had infections and whatnot around their back. And nerve damage, I feel like that’s one of the big, scary ones. Everyone has heard of someone who has been paralyzed from an epidural, and that is so, so rare. A lot of times if we see anything like nerve damage, it’s very temporary and resolves within a few days. 7 Can epidurals not work on everyone? Dr. Wiley: That can happen, and that also is one of the more rare things. Things we think about when that needle and that catheter are placed, like let’s say it’s not placed in the right spot, or if it were to move out of place, then that would be a reason for it not to work. Let’s say a woman comes in and her cervix is changing rapidly and she’s headed towards like a quick delivery, sometimes you might not

have enough time for the epidural to actually kick in. Sometimes we’ll see, just depending on the position of the baby, because the epidural is working to decrease pain in a specific area, some people will talk about if your baby’s coming out sunny side up then you might feel like more pressure in back and more pain from the epidural because it may not work as well. 8 Are there other options for pain relief? Dr. Wiley: There’s some data that says over 60 percent of women currently in the United States get epidurals. We know that is the most effective method of pain control, and it is overall safe. Other than epidurals, there are some other options, such as IV pain medicines. There’s also nitrous oxide, like laughing gas. There’s some local blocks we’ll do in the vagina, that’ll kind of help, but we know overall, epidurals are the most effective form of pain meds.

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The Baby Blues Masquerading as a Perinatal Mood Disorder By Victoria Mikota

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P regnancy , from start to finish, is a massive change for mothers. What begins as a positive pregnancy test, eventually leads to morning sickness, mood swings, cravings, and of course— that beautiful baby bump! All of these things are just a small part of growing a living human and will stay with you up until you give birth. While birth is a wonderful experience, it is an extremely emotional adjustment, so much so, that new mothers may experience a tumultuous time of fluctuating hormones that can unfortunately last long past the postpartum period. A 48-Hour Emotional Rollercoaster Birth requires a tremendous recovery period. Most obviously, the physical challenges of birth are the recovery after vaginal birth or a Caesarean section.

Emotionally, birth is also a great adjustment. At no other point do a woman’s hormones plummet so fiercely as they do in the 48 hours after delivery. When a woman gives birth, because of that hormonal drop, there’s a tremendous shift in her emotions. For the first two weeks postpartum, the baby blues develop— tearfulness, overwhelming emotions, incessant crying, happiness, sadness, and a lot of other emotions. When these feelings last past the two-week postpartum period, it would be classified as a perinatal mood disorder. Anxiety, OCD, depression, and psychosis all fall under the postpartum depression umbrella. “It’s not just depression,” says Samantha Rauber, LPC-S, NCC, PMH-C, and Founder of Baton Rouge Perinatal Counseling. “A lot of the symptomatology that women experience during the postpartum

period includes intrusive thoughts and anxiety.” Normal Postpartum Issues or a More Serious Problem? During the postpartum period, women can expect that there will be adjustment symptoms that occur during recovery, given the tremendous physical experience of giving birth. What differentiates normal adjustment to a more serious postpartum situation depends on the length of the symptoms and if these symptoms interfere with daily life. Up to 85 percent of new mothers experience what is known as the “baby blues,” a mild form of depression caused by hormonal changes. The baby blues can cause a range of emotions, including sadness, anxiety, crying, irritability, and mood swings. While these feelings can be uncomfortable, they shouldn’t last longer than two weeks.

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How to Manage Postpartum Anxiety and Depression. According to Rauber, about one out of five women will not bounce back in their endocrine system after giving birth. This means that one out of five women will need support during the postpartum periodMany women during the postpartum period struggle to do any amount of self-care inside or outside of the bathroom. What postpartum self- care comes down to is working with a support system. For dads helping postpartum moms, this could look like extending patience, being compassionate, being encouraging, being supportive, and helping to meet her needs. In addition, parents should set up an alternating six- hour baby sleep schedule to help ward off depression caused by sleep deprivation. These small things can make a huge impact on recovering moms.

Make a Plan for the Postpartum Period As with pregnancy, making a plan to deal with

At the two-week mark, if a woman is experiencing difficulty sleeping, ruminations, hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, frequent crying, anger, rage, shame, or guilt, this is a sign that something more serious is going on. Red Flags During Postpartum When it comes to mental health, everyone is different. However, if a new mother is feeling suicidal, this is an immediate need for help. “If a new mother is concerned about how she feels, that itself is a red flag, and it might be time to seek help or counseling,” says Rauber. “A lot of these postpartum issues are treatable through counseling with a therapist.” If you are struggling, please reach out to The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1-833-943-5746 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

the postpartum recovery period is imperative for mothers who are processing the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum emotions. If a woman doesn’t have emotional support, the best thing to do is to acknowledge that a perinatal mood disorder is happening. A lot of women with PPD know they don’t feel good, but can’t figure out what the problem is. In order to take control of the situation, sometimes naming the problem can help women find relief. “I encourage anybody who is trying to plan for children or in the process of pregnancy to educate themselves about these disorders after pregnancy. Anyone is at risk,” says Rauber. “The earlier you learn and have a therapeutic relationship, the better.”

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Back To The Basics of Labor and Delivery

C hildbirth has got to be, hands-down, the most challenging, painful experience a woman may endure– and we’ve been doing it for centuries! Most parents come up with a birth plan ahead of their new bundle of joy’s arrival, and whether they arrive via cesarean section (c-section), vaginally, in a hospital, in the water, or at home, that’s completely up to mom. It’s also completely up to mom whether she wants to receive pain meds (more specifically, an epidural) during labor or go au naturale. Did you know the earliest use of pain relief during labor and delivery dates all the way back to the 19th century? Chloroform became popular after being used during Queen Victoria’s childbirths, and WhatToExpect.com shows how it evolved from there. It explains how the early 1900s saw increased use of other drugs to relieve pain. As the 20th century progressed, several feminist movements swept through and paved the way for By Madison Voorhies

today’s labor and delivery methods and practices. Amid these diverse childbirth options, a flourishing movement exists now toward embracing the natural, unmedicated birthing experience. Shanika Valcour-LeDuff, a family nurse practitioner and doula at Labor & Love in New Orleans, is here to shed light on the essence of this transformative journey. At Labor & Love, Valcour-LeDuff facilitates a holistic approach to childbirth, emphasizing mental preparedness, physical support, and trust in the body’s innate abilities. Her insights illuminate the profound beauty inherent in every birth, regardless of the chosen path. Choosing the Natural Path Natural birth typically refers to having a vaginal birth without pain medication or routine medical interventions. According to Valcour-LeDuff, although this approach may involve discomfort and pain, women who opt for it often feel a sense of strength and fulfillment with the proper preparation and support. Women

opt for unmedicated childbirth for myriad reasons, including faster recovery times and a better sense of connection with the birthing process. “I always tell moms, you [contractions], and then we have our break,” she explains. “During that break, we regroup, and we figure out our next steps. So, whatever positions you want to use to be comfortable, breathing techniques, aromatherapy, massage, anything that’s going to help get you through.” Another perk for mothers who choose to forego epidurals is the postpartum recovery time. Valcour-LeDuff explains that most women who deliver unmedicated feel immediately better after the baby is out. Your body still needs time to heal though; you can just get started faster and truly embrace only have to get through that moment of intensity motherhood without delay. Natural childbirth is not a limited method, meaning any woman can do it. Sometimes, childbirth happens so fast that it

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You Got This, Mama! Valcour-LeDuff has met a lot of patients who believed natural childbirth was something they couldn’t do. “They want an unmedicated birth, and their family or friends who have had babies before scare them and put that fear into them,” she explains. You have to trust yourself and trust that your body is doing what it was created to do. You can always change your mind too. “You are in control,” assures Valcour- LeDuff. “The only time you cannot get the epidural is if the baby is coming out.” Remember, all births are beautiful. Regardless of the chosen path, the journey through childbirth is a testament to the strength, resilience, and beauty of the human body. With each birth, a new chapter unfolds, filled with love, joy, and the promise of new beginnings.

can happen anytime, anywhere, even if it’s not what the mother had originally planned. In the end, Valcour-LeDuff says, “There’s no right or wrong way to do it.” How to Prepare Laboring without an epidural demands mental fortitude and a robust support system. Perhaps the most important thing is being mentally prepared to navigate the physical and emotional intensity of childbirth. Doulas, nurses, partners, and family members form the cornerstone of this support network, offering comfort, encouragement, and guidance throughout the process. Valcour-LeDuff emphasizes that contractions, while intense, are transient, so remember you will have moments of respite in between. This is where you will really start to lean on those around you.

As with all childbirth methods, preparation classes (like those offered at Labor & Love, other birthing centers, and hospitals) are extremely informative and helpful for both mom and her partner. Many birth centers and hospitals will offer group classes for families and couples, as well as hands-on technique classes to prepare you for the entire labor and delivery process. Researching and meeting with a midwife or doula is also a wise decision, so you’re guaranteed a partner who will continue to educate and support you throughout your birthing experience. Of course, if you have a home birth, that will be unmedicated. But hospitals and birthing centers will also give you the option to go the natural route if that’s what you choose.

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Baby

World

Local Resources for Parents-to-be ADOPTION RESOURCES AdoptUSKids ■ (888) 200-4005 ■ adoptuskids.org Beacon House Adoption Services ■ (225) 753-5551 ■ (888) 987-6300 ■ beaconhouseadoption.com

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Capital Area Breastfeeding Alliance ■ cababatonrouge@gmail.com La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Line ■ (877) 4-LA-LECHE ■ lllalmsla.org Louisiana Baby Company ■ (504) 264-2832 ■ louisianababycompany.com Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org Magnolia Lactation Consulting ■ (225) 230-9054

■ magnolialactation.com Ochsner Lactation Support ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital Lactation Department ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org CAR SEAT

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge: Adoption and Maternity ■ (225) 336-8708 ■ adoptccdiobr.org St. Elizabeth Foundation ■ (225) 769-8888 ■ stelizabethfoundation.org

INSPECTIONS Alliance Safety Council ■ (225) 766-0955 ■ alliancesafetycouncil.org

Central Fire Protection District #4 ■ (225) 261-2000 ■ centralfd.org

Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org

BIRTHING CENTERS Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

Woman’s Hospital Woman’s has everything mom needs for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience. Woman’s is a Level III Regional Referral facility for obstetrical and neonatal care–the highest care designation a hospital can receive. From natural deliveries to epidurals, from doula- assisted labors to cesarean deliveries, Woman’s expertise and advanced technology allows mom to have several birthing options.

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY Louisiana Baby Company ■ louisianababycompany.com Louisiana State Police Troop A ■ (225) 754-8500 ■ lsp.org The Safety Place ■ (225) 372-3991 ■ safetyplacela.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

CHILD SAFETY CLASSES American Red Cross ■ (225) 291-4533 ■ redcross.org Infant Swimming Resource’s Self-Rescue Program ■ isrbatonrouge.com Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association ■ jpma.org Louisiana Department of Health ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov Operation Life Saver Training Center ■ (225) 753-7716 ■ operationlifesavertc.com CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com

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Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com Bradley Method ■ bradleybirth.com International Cesarean

Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org

International Childbirth Education Association ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org Lamaze International ■ lamaze.org Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS Children’s Hospital New Orleans ■ (504) 822-6272 ■ chnola.org Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 374-4325 ■ ololchildrens.org Shriners Hospital for Children ■ (800) 237-5055 ■ shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

CHILD CARE RESOURCES Child Care Assistance Program ■ (877) 453-2721 ■ louisianabelieves.com Child Care Facility

Licensing Information ■ louisianabelieves.com LaCHIP ■ (877) 252-2447 ■ dhh.louisiana.gov Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org

FERTILITY FertililtyAnswers ■ fertilityanswers.com Louisiana Women’s Healthcare Associates

■ (225) 201-2000 ■ lwha.com Ovation Fertility Baton Rouge

Ochsner Health System The Ochsner Family Birthing Center puts moms-to-be in the center of one of the nation’s top-ranked health systems. Moms can design their own birthing plan to make sure their delivery day meets all of their expectations. And, the center supports each mom’s choice including natural birth, water birth or medicated birth. Birthing tubs, showers, birth balls, and birthing chairs are available, as well as monitoring that allows patient mobility.

■ ovationfertility.com The Fertility Institute ■ (504) 233-6789 ■ fertilityinstitute.com

■ ■

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FOSTER CARE Brave Heart Children in Need ■ braveheartchildren.org Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services ■ dss.state.la.us Louisiana Foster Care ■ louisianafostercare.com The Foster Village ■ (225) 431-0846 ■ fostervillagebatonrouge.org Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org/children-and-families HOTLINES 24-Hour HAZMAT Communications Center ■ (800) 262-8200 Kidline ■ 1-(800)-CHILDREN Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence ■ (888) 411-1333 Louisiana Poison Center - American ■ (800) 222-1222 National Safe Haven Alliance ■ 1-888-510-BABY (2229) ■ Text SAFEHAVEN to 313131 ■ nationalsafehavenalliance.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ Call 988 ■ 988lifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ (800) 799-7233 ■ thehotline.org Prevent Child Abuse America ■ preventchildabuse.org ■ info@preventchildabuse.org

MIDWIFERY AND DOULA CARE A Caring Season Doula ■ acaringseasondoula.com ■ (337) 356-2516 Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com DONA (Doula of North America) ■ (888) 788-DONA (3662) ■ dona.org Louisiana Baby Company ■ louisianababycompany.com Maternal Love ■ maternallovebr.com My Doula Heart

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ ldh.la.gov PARENT EDUCATION AND CLASSES American Academy of Pediatrics ■ aap.org Attachment Parenting International ■ attachmentparenting.org Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge

■ (225) 201-8888 ■ familyroadgbr.org Family Service of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 924-0123 ■ fsgbr.org Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org

■ (480) 221-5868 ■ mydoulaheart.com NUTRITION Village Kids WIC Clinic ■ thevillagekids.com

Lane Regional Medical Center The decision of where to have your baby is certainly not one to take lightly. Moms-to-be want a skilled and knowledgeable team at hand for both her and the baby’s health, and that can be found at Lane Regional Medical Center. The center features large, well-appointed facilities that allow new mothers to enjoy the childbirth experience in a non-stressful way.

The Grace Program ■ (225) 924-8574 ■ womans.org

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY LA Maternal and Child Health Program ■ ldh.la.gov Ochsner Health System

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Grandparents Raising Grandchildren ■ lagrg.org Grief Recovery Center ■ (225) 924-6621 ■ grcbr.org LOSFA Start Saving for College

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ cpsc.gov SPECIAL NEEDS

■ ochsner.org Shots for Tots ■ shotsfortots.com

SUPPORT Advocacy Center ■ ldh.la.gov Autism Speaks ■ autismspeaks.com Center for Autism & Related Disorders ■ centerforautism.com Disability Rights Louisiana ■ disabilityrightsla.org Early Steps ■ ldh.la.gov FHFGBR & Early Steps (0-3) ■ (225) 216-7474 ■ fhfgbr.org From Emotions to Advocacy ■ fetaweb.com/help.htm Genesis Behavioral Health ■ gracetherapycenter.com In Loving Arms Pediatric Day Health Center ■ inlovingarmskids.com Knock Knock Children’s Museum ■ knockknockmuseum.org LA Disability Talk ■ fhfofgno.org Louisiana Believes ■ louisianabelieves.com Louisiana March of Dimes ■ marchofdimes.org Moreau Physical Therapy ■ moreauapt.com NeuroTherapy Specialists ■ neurotherapyspecialists.com ■ genesisholisticbr.com Grace Therapy Center

■ startsaving.la.gov Maddie’s Footprints ■ maddiesfootprints.org Pregnancy/Infant Loss Support ■ (800) 944-4773 Postpartum Progress ■ postpartumprogress.com Resilient Chiropractic

The Women’s Help Center ■ thewomenshelpcenter.org Woman’s Hospital ■ womans.org YWCA of Greater Baton Rouge ■ ywca-br.org

PARENTING SUPPORT GROUPS & SERVICES Angels Among Us ■ aaula.org Bedtime Bliss Pediatric Sleep Consulting

■ resilientchiro.com Sweet Sleeping Baby ■ sweetbabysleeping.com The Life of a Single Mom Ministries ■ thelifeofasinglemom.com Trach Mommas of Louisiana ■ (225) 200-5178 PRODUCT RECALLS AND STANDARDS

G H ■

■ bedtimeblissconsulting.com Capital Area Human Services

■ cahsd.org Family Road Healthy Start ■ familyroadgbr.org

Baton Rouge General Medical Center Baton Rouge General’s birthing suites bring together state-of-the-art technology and hotel- like rooms to all new moms. Certified Birth Center staff provide moms-to-be with all the tips, tools and techniques needed for caring for their new bundle of joy at home. Moms are able to personalize their birthing experience through natural births, water births, or traditional births.

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PediaTrust ■ pediatrustkids.com The Arc Baton Rouge ■ arcbatonrouge.org The Emerge Center ■ emergela.org Wonder Baby ■ wonderbaby.org

ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS BabyWaves 3D/4D/HD Ultrasound ■ 4dbabywaves.com Care Pregnancy Clinic ■ (225) 275-0100 First Glimpse Prenatal Imaging ■ firstglimpsebr.com Gender Reveal HD Ultrasound ■ genderrevealultrasound.com

Birth Center of Baton Rouge The Birth Center of Baton Rouge allows you to create the birthing experience of your choice, whether that be through water births or traditional births. All of the rooms are furnished with regular beds, large tubs for water labor and birth, and large attached baths. There is plenty of room for family members, but also a waiting area outside when moms want privacy.

Look At Me 4D Imaging ■ lookatme4dimaging.com Woman’s Hospital ■ womans.org

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BELLY LAUGHS

The Mommy Diaries: Tales of Chaos and Comedy By Madison Voorhies

PHOTO BY LESENFOX ON FREEPIK.COM

ottoman, back to the fireplace, win- dow, wall. This pattern repeated itself a few times, and for some reason, “to the windowww, to the wall, to the wall,” started playing in my head, and I began cracking up while my poor kid was having a meltdown. This was at eight in the morning, and it was all over a piece of sausage.” - Katherine N., Houston, TX We Call This: Mommy Brain “I only got about three hours of sleep last night because I’m struggling with insomnia. This morning, I sat on the floor with my seven-month- old daughter to play with toys. She grabbed this music projector toy –that I didn’t even know she could pick up– and smacked herself in the face. Hard. She instantly started screaming, and I started to comfort the toy instead of her.” - Mallory O., Charleston, SC Most Important Meal of the Day “While holding my 11-week-old and a plate of pancakes, I stood up from the couch. She pushed off my chest, and fearing I’d drop her, I pivoted to the side. Unfortunately, I forgot about the pancakes. As I held onto her legs, she fell backward onto the pancakes and syrup. Despite feeling guilty, her indignant look was memorable. She smelled pretty yummy the rest of the day though.” - Haley N., New Orleans, LA

W elcome to motherhood! In this wild, but wonderful, new chapter of your life, you’ll experience many things, like how to stride through chaos with grace and comedic timing, and will often find yourself knee-deep in sce- narios that could rival any sitcom plotline. You’ll also find yourself failing. A lot. But, it won’t always feel so bad. In fact, sometimes those moments of imperfection may just bring the most joy and laughter. So, grab your coffee (or non-caffeinated beverage for you brave souls living on the edge) and join us as we delve into the hilarity and heartwarming mishaps from our fellow warriors in the trenches of child-rearing. The Great Cupcake Debate “I offered my 12-month-old four different meals, and she refused each one. I got stressed, so I pulled out a chocolate cupcake to eat. Guess who had a chocolate cupcake as their only meal that day? My 12-month-old.” -

my pump, phone, boppy, etc., and got ready to feed my two-month-old. All’s good. I got comfortable on the couch, ready to go: warm blanket on, boppy on top… then I realized I forgot one thing: my son.” - Morgan M., Baton Rouge, LA Tales from the Diaper Pails “With my baby just a week old, I was sleep-deprived and dealing with his extremely watery poops. One mo- ment, I picked him up when he was hungry and set him on the bed while I grabbed something. Later, as I tried to feed him, I couldn’t get comfortable, so we moved to the nursery. While feeding him in the rocking chair, I suddenly felt something wet on my butt. Confused, I finished feeding him, only to discover a poop trail from the bassinet to my bed, where I had un- knowingly sat on it. His watery poop had spilled down his back, leading to the unexpected mess.” - Heather W., New Orleans, LA Get Low… I Guess..? “My 14-month-old was throwing a hissy fit and kept throwing himself around the living room: first to the ottoman, then to the fireplace, then to the wall, the windowsill, back to the

Olivia N., Baton Rouge, LA Forgetting Something?

“I went through my usual morning routine today: grabbed some water,

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