Pink & Blue Spring 2026

Spring 2026

SPRING 2026

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CONTENTS

VOLUME 43 INSIDE

IN EACH ISSUE

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 MOM TO MOM-TO-BE 8 LITTLE BITS 10 BABY LOVE 27 RESOURCE DIRECTORY 32 BELLY LAUGHS 34 BABY FACES

Cover baby Madison is eight-and-a-half months old. She loves to smile and laugh, and her favorite “toys” are her own feet and her daddy’s hair! She also enjoys spending time in her bouncer.

FEATURES

12 BEYOND THE GLOW: NAVIGATING AMBIVALENT FEELINGS Embracing ambivalent pregnancy feelings and navigating anxiety, guilt, and societal expectations. 16 FACING ANXIETY BEFORE AND AFTER BIRTH Understanding, managing, and seeking support for perinatal mental health. 18 NAVIGATING YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY WITH DIABETES Discovering expert guidance, real stories, and tips for healthy management. 22 POSTPARTUM BODY POSITIVITY Navigating identity, body changes, and mental health while building confidence and self-compassion.

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WHAT’S ON THE WEB BABY NAME TRENDS & TIPS Discover popular names and choose a meaningful one. BUDGET-FRIENDLY BABY PREP Save money on baby clothes, gear, and essentials.

DIY BABY SHOWER FUN Easy games and crafts for shower entertainment.

HOSPITAL BAG ESSENTIALS Stress-free checklist for moms-to-be.

CONNECT WITH US

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MOM TO MOM - TO- BE Dear Mama, There’s something about this time of year that makes everything feel possible again. The days feel a little fuller, your to-do list suddenly looks manageable (or at least less offensive), and you get the urge to reset—your home, your routines, maybe even your mindset. Or maybe it’s just me finally getting around to things I said I’d do months ago. Pregnancy during this season hits a little different. There’s this quiet energy in the air that makes you feel like you *should* be doing all the things—getting organized, prepping for baby, nesting like your life depends on it. And some- times, you are. Other times, you’re on the couch Googling, “Is it normal to be this tired?” for the fifth time today.a Both are completely valid. Because let’s be honest—just be-

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cause everything around you feels fresh and new doesn’t mean preg- nancy suddenly becomes magical. It’s still a mix of “this is incredible” and “how area my shoes already tight?” I’ve been there more than once, and while I can laugh about it now, I remember how real those moments felt. This season is a good reminder that growth doesn’t happen all at once. It’s slow, sometimes uncomfortable, and not always pretty—but it’s still progress. Your body is doing something amazing, even on the days it doesn’t feel like it. So give yourself some grace. Tackle what you can, leave what you can’t, and don’t feel guilty about it. You’re already doing enough. I mean, you are literally growing a human being—organs, bones, a whole personality—and somehow still expected to answer emails and remember what you walked into the room for. That alone deserves a nap and a snack. This time won’t last forever—even though some days feel long. So take the moments as they come, laugh when you can, and know you’re not alone in any of it. Love always,

2025

PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE is published bi-annually 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 FRG publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or eval- uate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

Amy L. Foreman Publisher

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LITTLE BITS “ No matter how bad my day’s been, it takes one little kick to make everything feel alright.” —Unknown

Photo by DopFone

New App Lets Phones Monitor Baby’s Heartbeat

Photo by freepik.com

Most Popular Baby Names of 2026 BabyCenter’s annual popularity list shows both classic and fresh favorites topping the charts for babies born in 2025 and into 2026, reflecting continuing trends in timeless names parents love. Here are the names that are trending right now:

A new mobile app called DopFone allows pregnant women to measure their baby’s heartbeat using just a smartphone. Developed by Georgia Tech researchers, the app turns a phone speaker into a Doppler device, detecting fetal heart signals with- out extra attachments. Early testing showed results within two beats per minute of clinical standards, giving parents reliable information between doctor visits. While not a substitute for in‑clinic monitoring, the app may offer reassurance for those experiencing pregnancy anxiety and could expand access in areas with limited healthcare. ■ dopfone.app

Boys Noah Liam Oliver Elijah Mateo Levi Lucas Ezra Asher Luca

Girls Olivia

Amelia Sophia Emma Isabella Charlotte Eliana Ellie Aurora Mia

Trump Accounts: $1,000 for Every Newborn A new initiative from the U.S. Treasury is giving every American child born between 2025 and 2028 a $1,000 head start on their financial future. The funds are placed in a tax-advantaged investment account in the child’s name, with parents as custodi- ans until age 18. Families can contribute up to $5,000 per year to accelerate growth, or simply let the account grow automat- ically. At 18, the child can use the money for education, a first home, or continue investing, learning financial literacy along the way. ■ trumpaccounts.gov

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Mindfulness & Meditation Apps for Pregnancy Stress AI‑guided meditation and mindfulness apps are helping pregnant women manage anxiety, stress, and sleep disrup- tion with tailored audio tracks and daily practices. Popular options include Zen Pregnancy and similar hypnobirth- ing‑focused tools that combine meditation with breathing exercises, Pregnancy App for trimester‑matched medi- tations and relaxation, Expectful for pregnancy‑specific guided sessions, and MamaZen for quick stress relief and emotional support. These apps offer accessible support anytime, and they’re perfect for calming the mind during pregnancy’s ups and downs.

Photo by freepik.com

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Safe Sleep Made Simple with Sleep Sacks The Foundation for Woman’s provides new parents with sleep sacks and safe sleep education as part of its Safe Sleep initiative. Sleep sacks are wearable blankets that keep babies warm and cozy while reducing the risk of suffocation and SIDS. They allow babies to move their arms and legs freely, regulate body tempera- ture, and support consistent sleep routines. Over 4,000 families have benefited so far, gaining comfort, confidence, and safety for their newborns. ■ womans.org

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Digital Tools Support Healthy Pregnancy Weight A new Philips review published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research shows that digital lifestyle programs—like apps and online platforms—can help pregnant women achieve healthy weight gain. Features like self-monitoring, goal-set- ting, personalized feedback, and educational content support lasting healthy habits. Healthy gestational weight gain lowers risks of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and birth complica- tions. While more research is needed, digital tools are proving to be an accessible way to guide moms-to-be through preg- nancy, offering support anytime, anywhere. ■ philips.com Your Brain Changes Again in a Second Pregnancy A new Nature Communications study shows that a second pregnancy reshapes the brain in ways both similar to and different from the first. Changes occur in areas linked to attachment, emotion, and attention, helping moms adapt to multitasking and respond to the world differently than first‑time moms. These shifts may also support maternal bonding and mental health, showing that pregnancy doesn’t just grow a baby, it literally reshapes the brain for each new arrival. ■ nature.com

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BABY LOVE

Hope&Plum’s Sprout Newborn Carrier offers an adjustable fit for babies 7–24 pounds, with supportive cross-back straps, breathable woven fabric, and a postpartum-friendly waistband designed for everyday babywearing. $114, hopeandplum.co

“ Pregnancy is the only time when you can do nothing at all and still be productive.” – Evan Esar

The E-Ladybug Wearable Electric Breast Pump by Haakaa offers hands-free pumping with ultra-soft silicone flanges, three modes, and 12 suction levels, delivering a qui- et, comfortable, and customizable experience for busy breastfeeding parents. $189.99, haakaausa.com

HoopDee Hoops help parents track and organize breast milk or formula bottles using color-coded rings and the HoopDee App, making it easy to monitor expiration dates, inventory, and usage. $49.99, gethoopdee.com

The TernX Travel Diaper Bag is a lightweight, water-resistant backpack designed for parents on the go, featuring smart compart- ments, a clamshell opening, laptop sleeve, and travel-friendly details like a trolley sleeve and AirTag pocket. $179, ternx.com

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The TernX Carry On Luggage Stroll- er is a hybrid suitcase‑to‑stroller that converts in seconds, meets airline carry‑on size standards, offers 18 L of built‑in storage, and provides a smooth, certified ride for toddlers on travel adventures. $599, ternx.com

This Portable Bottle Warmer quickly heats breast milk or water with dual modes and precise temperature con- trol. Its 17-ounce capacity, long-last- ing battery, and insulated stainless steel design make on-the-go feed- ings easy for busy parents. $49.99, amazon.com

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Beyond the Glow: Navigating Ambivalent Feelings By Jillian Norman Photo by Unsplash.com

T here’s an idea surrounding pregnan- cies that when finding out about being pregnant the only emotions the mother can feel are joy or despair. However, there is a less conversed feeling: ambivalence. Ambivalence is simultane- ous and contradictory feelings towards an object, person, or action. Whether you’ve planned your pregnancy down to the minute or are just as shocked as the next person, it is normal to feel anxiety surrounding the change in your life. Dr. Jamil Norman, PhD, RN, CNE, a maternal health professional, believes “pregnancy is a pendulum.” There is no right or wrong side to your feelings surrounding

your own pregnancy. With all of the change happening in your life and in your body, your feelings may vary from a day-to-day basis. It is normal to feel all of it. Dr. Nor- man gives a few steps on how to come to terms with your varying feelings surrounding pregnancy. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO YOUR AMBIVALENCE. Many expecting mothers believe that because they want their baby so badly, they have no reason to feel ambivalent about their pregnancy. Your mind might tell you to pick a side, but your feelings are more complicated than that. Human relationships

are never black and white, so do not try to push that binary onto your relationship with your child. It can also be a complex, and sometimes guilt-ridden, feeling to be pregnant and experience anxiety about it— especially if you personally know someone who has struggled to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Remember that you do not owe other people your own feelings. DEFINE YOUR OWN STORY. The first step is knowing that it’s okay to have a pregnancy that does not conform with society’s views of what it should be like. Whatever your friend’s, sister’s, or mother’s pregnancy story was or is, that does not

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define yours. Of course, every trimester is different. The first trimester is scientifically a surge of hormones, while outwardly some people can’t see the visual difference. The second trimester is usually a good time for some people: The bump is showing and the pregnancy glow is glowing. The third trimes- ter is usually uncomfortable, sleep and rest become rare, and fear for labor ramps up. These are all normal experiences. Feeling fear in any stage of pregnancy is normal. There is now a whole other human to take care of and account for in a way you may have never experienced. While change is the only constant in life, it can still be scary. FEELINGS DURING PREGNANCY DON’T DEFINE YOUR FUTURE IN PARENTING. The second step is knowing that just because you don’t love pregnancy or are feeling unsure, that doesn’t mean that you will not be a good parent or love your child. There are plenty of wonderful mothers who did not love pregnancy. My mother, for instance, had a rough pregnancy with my younger sister and wanted nothing more than to be done with it, and in the last 13 years, I have seen her be the best mother

I could imagine. Sure, parenting is never perfect, but what truly is? On the other hand, there are plenty of mothers who do not immediately fall in love with their baby. Sometimes the love you have for your baby grows over time. Allow yourself to grow

yourself feel your emotions and speak about them freely. Society, as well as healthcare, needs to be more aware of the complexi- ties mothers face before, during, and after pregnancy. That change can start with you as well. LOCAL MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Baton Rouge Perinatal Counseling batonrougeperinatalcounseling.com Louisiana Maternal Mental Health Hotline (833) 943-5746 Maternal Love

slowly along with your baby. PREGNANCY DOESN’T HEAL ALL WOUNDS.

The next step is realizing that pregnancy does not heal all wounds. If you are battling with depression or anxiety, that will still be present. So then, of course, the next step is to find help in whatever way possible. For most people, this doesn’t mean counselling. While therapy is recommend- ed and helpful for most, it is not feasible for some people. Find a friend or family member that you are not afraid of saying the hard truth to. Don’t be afraid to voice what is going through your mind. Keeping it bottled up helps nobody and hurts you. Find someone who can understand your perspective, be a listening ear and—if you want—can give you sound advice. There is no right or wrong way to ex- perience pregnancy in all stages of it. The only wrong thing to do would be to not let

maternallovebr.com Postpartum Support International (PSI) Helpline (800) 944-4773

TLC Moms – Louisiana Department of Health ldh.la.gov Woman’s Perinatal Mental Health Unit womans.org

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Facing Anxiety Before & After Birth By Julianna Steen Photo by Unsplash.com

DOES SOCIAL MEDIA HELP OR HURT PREGNANCY ANXIETY?

t often happens like this: On your social media feed, all you’ve ever seen are pregnant moms that seem to supernaturally glow with the joy of their ever-growing baby bump or the postpartum tired-but-happy soft smiles of new mothers. Naturally, you assume pregnancy is rainbows and sun- shines, minus that tiny little part about giving birth. Then, all of a sudden, you’re pregnant and you start to panic. Whether it’s baby numero uno or number five, the reality sets in as you’re scrolling through TikTok at 2 a.m. All of a sudden, your feed only shows you horror stories of deliveries-gone-wrong via BirthTok. Or, worse yet, you finally deliver your little chunky piece of sunshine, only to discover you no longer feel the same joy you used to have… instead, you’re a bundle of anxious thoughts and depressed emotions. The myth that pregnancy is automatically a happy time keeps a lot of people silent and unsupported. Whether you’re in the thick of it or not, let’s talk about the unmentioned anxiety surrounding pregnancy and birth—and what to add or remove from your life to help you manage it.

with and will feed you more. It may start with only two trauma stories, but soon that may consume your feed. Studies have also shown that digital storytelling leads to increased self-crit- icism in new mothers. That said, social media can be beneficial when used with caution in moderation, alongside the opinions of trusted medical professionals. IS MY ANXIETY NORMAL? In short, yes. Prenatal anxiety, depres- sion, intrusive thoughts, and mood disorders are common—but they’re often still under-screened and un- der-treated. Perinatal depression, also known as postpartum depression (PPD), is a serious but treatable mood disorder that affects about one in seven pregnant women. Symptoms can in- clude extreme sadness, anxiety, fatigue, loss of appetite, insomnia, irritability, suicidal thoughts, and difficulty bonding with your baby. But these emotions can develop during the pregnancy, not just in the 12 months following it. According to JAMA, perinatal depression occurs in up to 18 percent of women—and more than 75 percent of these women aren’t treated.

Birth story videos are trending, leading researchers to question if digital birth narratives are actually helpful for wom- en who fear childbirth. For instance, one study found that women consis- tently exposed to positive birth stories became less anxious compared to their peers. THE PROS: Watching or sharing stories helps many people realize their worries, symptoms, or fears are common and that they’re not alone. Moreover, social media can create a sense of community where pregnant people connect, ask questions, and receive encouragement. Not to mention the tips you can learn and the basic, important information at your fingertips. THE CONS: Nonetheless, there is also a downside to social media: Information overload, exposure to worst-case scenarios, mis- information, and comparison can all lead to increased anxiety. What’s more, the algorithm picks up on what you interact

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DOES IT GO AWAY AFTER BIRTH? Most moms experience the “baby blues” for a few weeks after birth, but many moms go on to experience PPD. “I didn’t start taking anxiety meds until after I had kids,” a friend recently joked when I asked if she’d experienced anxiety while pregnant. My mom also wrestled with intense postpartum anxiety and depression after giving birth to me—and she’s not alone. In fact, the number of women experiencing anxiety during the perinatal period has only gotten worse since COVID, according to an article on post-pandemic mater- nal mental health from The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine . “Postpartum depression alone affects at least 14 percent of new mothers and their families,” states authors Natalie Feldman and Sarah Perret in an arti- cle called “Digital mental health for postpartum women: perils, pitfalls, and promise.” If you’re experiencing birth anxiety, it might shape-shift into other concerns after birth. Nevertheless, it does not last forever—if it’s treated.

Psychotherapy is the go-to treat- ment. Medicines are also commonly prescribed to help get your hormones back in whack. In the meantime, here are some practical tricks to address or reduce pregnancy-related anxiety. MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT ■ Don’t Like? Don’t Click If you’re scrolling, don’t interact with content you don’t want more of—or else, you may end up only seeing You can’t always trust the internet, and every situation is different. When you’re afraid or uncertain, don’t spiral (for too long) before asking your doctors or sharing your concerns. similar content. ■ Ask Questions ■ Be Honest with Your Community Sometimes, you just need a good lis- tening ear; other times, you need a wise friend to remind you of what is true and calm you down. Regardless, you can’t do this alone. ■ Ask for Help Don’t let shame’s chokehold prevent

you from reaching out when you need help. You are not “less than” for dealing with real, hard emotions. Telehealth is a great option, and there are many free helplines for those struggling with mental health, including the Nation- al Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA), SAMHSA, and Postpartum Support International (PSI) (1-800-944-4PPD). ■ Utilize Technological Resources “Not all digital resources are good resources,” Feldman and Perret warn— so be smart. But there are some really cool programs out there like the free PSI app and Mothers and Babies Internet Course. Other technological advances like digital phenotyping, which uses passive data to screen for mental health conditions like mood disorders, may be worth checking out. No matter where you are on your journey, as the Mayo Clinic so aptly put it, “Postpartum depression is not a character flaw or a weakness.” It’s okay to feel anxious, but don’t stay there.

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Navigating Your First Pregnancy with Diabetes

By Madeline Pistorius

F inding out you’re pregnant for the first time comes with a mix of excitement, nervousness, and a million questions. That’s normal for every woman. But for a woman man- aging diabetes, that moment may bring an extra layer of concern. With the right planning and support, however, a diabetes diagnosis won’t define the pregnancy journey. UNDERSTANDING DIABETES IN PREGNANCY Diabetes comes in three different forms: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational. According to the CDC, diabetes occurs when the pancreas makes either very little insulin or none at all. Simply put, insulin is a messenger that helps trans- form blood sugar into energy in our bodies; with diabetes, insulin has to be managed manually rather than natu- rally. Type 1 is typically diagnosed early in a person’s life, while Type 2 develops later on. Gestational diabetes, rather, develops in pregnant women who have never had the disease. As of 2025, diabetes during preg- nancy is reported to affect about one in six pregnancies. Joseph R. Biggio, MD, chair of women’s services and mater- nal-fetal medicine (MFM) at Ochsner Health, explains that, for someone with diabetes deciding whether to pursue pregnancy, it’s important to talk to their OB-GYN and endocrinologist, who can

REAL LIFE, REAL EXPERIENCES Lindsay Cohen, RDN, LDN, CDCES, and owner of Mama-Betes, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in her youth. During pregnancy, she had to adjust her day-to-day habits to fit a new routine. Lindsay was surprised by how quickly her blood sugars changed and how frequently insulin adjustments were needed. She shares that it means going back to the basics: carb counting, weighing in and measuring foods, and focusing on insulin timing. She even tracked her blood sugars and insulin dosages on paper to review weekly with her MFM team. “I constantly reminded myself of the ‘why’ behind the constant monitor- ing—a healthy baby was more important to me than anything else. I knew that once the baby was born, I could be a bit more lenient with my blood sugar control,” says Lindsay. When certified culinary scientist, food scientist, and author Jessica Gavin of jessicagavin.com was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, she felt guilty, overwhelmed, and surprised. “Pregnancy is already a stressful time, and the thought of closely monitoring everything I ate felt daunting,” she reflects. But she leaned into learn- ing. Testing her glucose four times a day felt like a personal experiment, and tracking her meals and results taught

evaluate their diabetic history and look for any red flags that may pose risks. If there are no preexist- ing-risks, taking the necessary steps to prepare for a safe experience is the next step. FIRST STEPS TO CONSIDER Start by coming off any medications used to treat diabetes that are not recommended during pregnancy, and transition to a safe alternative. Dr. Biggio also recommends taking folic acid at least three months prior to preg- nancy to reduce the risk of spina bifida or neural tube defects. “We know that people who have blood sugars that are significantly elevated around the time of conception are at an increased risk for miscarriages, as well as an increased risk of having babies with structural problems,” he says. The most important thing to do is to maintain tight control of blood sugar levels—even before attempting conception. “Not much is dramatically done differently during pregnancy in terms of monitoring diabetes and controlling insulin; it’s just a little more control and an emphasis on monitoring more regu- larly than someone who’s not pregnant,” Dr. Biggio says. Starting a pregnancy with a healthy head start typically leads to a favorable outcome.

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her which food combinations worked best.

bedtime. This helps spread calorie intake throughout the day while avoiding triggers like nausea or reflux, which can make blood sugar harder to manage due to reduced appetite. Jessica followed a balanced approach, pairing protein, healthy fats, and carbo- hydrates at each meal. After eating, she checked her glucose levels to ensure she stayed within her target range. “If my glucose ran high, I adjusted at the next meal. It was all about balance, not perfection.” Planning and prepping meals, carry- ing snacks, and staying consistent with healthy options are key—especially when cravings hit, and they will. When Jessica wanted something indulgent, she kept portions small, and paired them with protein and fiber to minimize spikes. Lindsay emphasizes the impor- tance of timing insulin intake, saying, “As long as you can take the right amount of insulin, it’s okay to indulge occasionally while pregnant.” For most pregnancies, exercise is also beneficial. Dr. Biggio recommends

aerobic exercise over high-impact activ- ity three to five days a week because it helps the body absorb glucose. For both Lindsay and Jessica, walking after meals helped keep blood sugar levels in range. COMMON CHALLENGES (AND REASSURANCE) Diabetes may be part of the journey— but it doesn’t define it. It’s important to remember that you’re doing the best you can and to avoid self-blame. “It’s hard not to blame yourself when something doesn’t go as planned,” Lindsay says. For a diabetic, it can be stressful planning around endless visits with a physician. But these days, many of these visits can be done virtually, or through sharing blood sugar logs and data from continuous glucose monitors, which are a helpful tool for maintaining control, notes Dr. Biggio. It’s normal to feel challenged. With guidance from professionals, support, and the right tools and mindset, moms can move forward with confidence.

“Once you figure out what works for your body, it gets easier. There may be some trial and error, but that process builds confidence. It turned into a challenge I could solve, and those lessons still influence how I eat today,” says Jessica. For both Lindsay and Jessica, finding community, joining programs, and lean- ing on support systems of women going through similar experiences helped them feel less alone. NUTRITION AND DAILY LIFE TIPS Adhering to a balanced diet is central during pregnancy, especially when managing diabetes. But many people overestimate how much they need to eat. Dr. Biggio says that in reality, most people only need about 200–300 extra calories during pregnancy. For someone with diabetes, he recommends eating three smaller meals a day with snacks in between meals and

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One of the Most Important Decisions You’ll Make as a Parent

Bringing home a new baby comes with a lot of firsts ... and a lot of questions. One of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is choosing your baby’s pediatrician. Establishing that relationship before your baby is born can bring peace of mind and ensure your child’s care is seamless from the very first day. At FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health, we make it easier for families to feel confident in that choice, with trusted pediatricians and compassionate care for every stage of childhood.

Find Your Pediatrician Now Choosing the best care for your baby is an important step, and you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule your complimentary prenatal visit today and feel confident about your decision long before your little one arrives. Learn more at ololchildrens.org/find-your pediatrician.

Choose Your Pediatrician Before Baby Arrives When your pediatrician is selected in advance, they can care for your newborn in the hospital, meaning they’re familiar with your baby’s health from the very beginning. There are important medical benefits, too. Some newborn screening results aren’t finalized until after hospital discharge. If a test comes back abnormal, those results need to reach the right physician quickly to avoid delays in care. Early follow-up is especially important for conditions like jaundice, where timely treatment can prevent complications. By choosing your pediatrician ahead of time, you help ensure test results go directly to the doctor who will continue caring for your baby, prioritizing your child’s health from day one. A Relationship That Grows with Your Family Your pediatrician will likely be part of your family’s life for the next 18 years, supporting you through well-child visits, vaccinations, growth milestones and unexpected illnesses. Finding a provider you trust can make all the difference, especially during those early months of parenthood. When choosing a pediatrician, consider asking friends, family or coworkers for recommendations. Your OB- GYN may also suggest pediatricians whose approach complements their own. And don’t forget to confirm your provider is in-network with your insurance plan.

Find Your Pediatrician Now

What Now? A Guide for New Parents Bringing Baby Home

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Postpartum Body Positivity

By Amelia Roessler

B ecoming a parent doesn’t just change your daily life—it reshapes how you see yourself. Even in the glow of a wanted, healthy preg- nancy, many new parents find themselves quietly grieving—missing the body they knew, the independence they once had, and the version of themselves that felt familiar. In a culture that celebrates “bounce back” transformations, that grief can feel confus- ing or even shameful. But it’s also deeply human—and worth talking about. Amy Lowe, a therapist and director at a women’s center, says they serve women with postpartum depression quite a bit. They also serve women with feelings of being overwhelmed, a sense of pressure around how to do it all, and a struggle to abandon self care in order to keep up.

Postpartum depression can come from a variety of reasons, including the neuro- chemical or hormonal impact or imbalances of pregnancy, the loss of the experience of the child in the womb, and/or undischarged or suppressed grief about the major changes that have just occurred. “Some mothers hormonally are so on point when they are pregnant and after the delivery, the system sort of crashes because it’s not dedicating all the resources to that life inside,” Lowe states. “Another form of grief can be the loss of the experience of the child in the womb. I had a little bit of that. I had this unexpected episode of deep grief that I would not feel that close to this human ever again. I did not expect it.” Along with postpartum depression, there is also the clinging to the “me I was before.”

Lowe points out that she sees suffering from women who cling to that old version of self and want to get back to who they were before the life-changing moments. “That can be a set up for suffering because it will never be true,” she says. However, it can open a door to changing the relationship with that story. “What are the aspects of your old self that you love that you’re bringing forward? How are you going to upgrade and evolve now that you’re a mother?” Lowe asks her clients. Regarding their body, Lowe knows a lot of moms attach their value to how they look and how they’ve been programmed to feel about how looks are their value. She says some new moms have to form new relationships with what health looks like for

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them and what the value of their body is besides how they look. AGE OF INFORMATION In a social-media world portraying the “bounce-back” culture, Lowe says she asks clients what their motive is when it comes to looking to social media. If it is externally driven, like comparing yourself, it can be harmful. If it’s implicitly inspiring, like look- ing at a woman, a mom, who did something cool and thinking that you can do it too because you know you are capable, and it feels right and good, then Lowe says it can be helpful. We live in an age of information, and Lowe says that helps us know so much more than we used to. She notes that an unexpected consequence of outsourcing your power to knowledge that comes from a place outside of yourself is that you leave your own knowledge behind—parents become quick to sacrifice their intuition in favor of the latest science or opinion. The trick to finding your own intuition and leaving behind the doubt is to just do what feels good and right, Lowe acknowl- edges. She has found in her field that when a parent is separated from what feels right, there is a dissonance that leads to constric-

tion, fear, and insecurity. “When we ask clients to tap into their knowing and bring it into their consciousness, the body feels re- ally full of love and compassion and almost a sense of confidence and clarity.” TOOLS TO HELP Typical adjustment to postpartum life is characterized by everything being a little off kilter, but having a general sense of the direction you’re going and staying on track with that. If it deviates from that, then it can lead to an adjustment disorder or diag- nosed postpartum depression. “Disordered means that what’s happen- ing is significant enough in my day to day that I’m starting to fall behind. I am starting to struggle in my sense of self. I’m not really keeping up with how I want to as a mom. I’m not able to return to work, or I’m struggling with hygiene,” Lowe explains. If feeling disordered, Lowe recommends getting blood work done to make sure to rule out any medical explanation such as hormone imbalance. She says especially in the postpartum realm, hormones are quite affected. Additional resources are to seek therapy or a support group. “But really it is also about normalizing the experience and then giving the emo-

tions permission to be here,” Lowe empha- sizes. “A lot of mothers fear the stigma of ‘I’m supposed to be happy, I’m supposed to be excited, I’m supposed to want this and I’m scared to death,’ or ‘My body’s in shock, and I don’t know where to go to not feel judged.’” Tools that Lowe gives her clients include mindful self compassion, cognitive behav- ioral therapy, identity work, and mostly just talking. “If someone doesn’t feel their symptoms warrant talking to a therapist, a simple thing a person can do is talk to someone who loves them and cares about them and helps them remember who they are, helps them remember their strengths, helps them remember their goals, their why.” Move your body, go for a walk, get good sleep, eat, and drink water. Those things can make a change. If things are sticking around for longer than seven days, it might be something more than a typical adjustment. “Anything that can be discussed can be healed,” says Lowe. “So just talk about it and know that there is a place to do that. You’re not alone.”

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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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FertililtyAnswers ■ fertilityanswers.com Louisiana Women’s Healthcare Associates ■ (225) 201-2000 ■ lwha.com Ovation Fertility Baton Rouge ■ fertilityinstitute.com 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 ■ ovationfertility.com The Fertility Institute ■ (504) 233-6789 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

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.

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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

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 ■ bedtimeblissconsulting.com Blooming Butterflies Maternity Home ■ bloomingbutterfliesbr.org Capital Area Human Services ■ cahsd.org Conscious Moms ■ (225) 916-7909 ■ consciousmomsla.org Family Road Healthy Start ■ familyroadgbr.org Grandparents Raising Grandchildren ■ lagrg.org Grief Recovery Center ■ (225) 924-6621 ■ grcbr.org LOSFA Start Saving for College

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■ thelifeofasinglemom.com Trach Mommas of Louisiana ■ (225) 200-5178 PRODUCT RECALLS AND STANDARDS U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ cpsc.gov SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT Advocacy Center ■ ldh.la.gov Autism Society Greater Baton Rouge ■ autismsocietygbr.org Autism Speaks

■ ochsner.org Shots for Tots ■ shotsfortots.com

The Women’s Help Center ■ thewomenshelpcenter.org

■ autismspeaks.com Center for Autism & Related Disorders ■ centerforautism.com Disability Rights Louisiana ■ disabilityrightsla.org Early Steps ■ ldh.la.gov FHFGBR & Early Steps (0-3) ■ fhfgbr.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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The Emerge Center ■ emergela.org

The Magnolia Rose Foundation ■ magnoliarosefoundation.org ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS BabyWaves 3D/4D/HD Ultrasound ■ 4dbabywaves.com Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ birthcenterbr.com First Glimpse Prenatal Imaging ■ firstglimpsebr.com Gender Reveal HD Ultrasound ■ genderrevealultrasound.com Look At Me e4D Imaging ■ lookatme4dimaging.com Woman’s Hospital ■ womans.org

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.

Grace Therapy Center ■ gracetherapycenter.com In Loving Arms Pediatric Day Health Center ■ inlovingarmskids.com Louisiana March of Dimes ■ marchofdimes.org NeuroTherapy Specialists ■ neurotherapyspecialists.com

PediaTrust ■ pediatrustkids.com Pointe Coupee Autism Advocates ■ pcaca.net The Arc Baton Rouge ■ arcbatonrouge.org

The ATA Lopez Foundation ■ atalopezfoundation.org

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