Pink&Blue Spring 2026

SPRING 2026

A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION

Redefining BEAUTY After Baby

Navigating Diabetes, First Baby

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

CONT ENT S MAY 2026

INSIDE

in each issue 6 Mom to Mom-to-be 8 Little Bits 10 Baby Love 20 Baby World 24 Belly Laughs 26 Baby Faces

12 BEYOND THE GLOW: NAVIGATING AMBIVALENT FEELINGS

Pregnancy can bring complex, conflicting emotions like ambivalence, and embracing these feelings without guilt is an important part of navigating the journey into parenthood.

Photos by freepik.com

14 An honest look at prenatal and postpartum anxiety, showing how social media and stigma can worsen it while reminding readers that these struggles are common and treatable. FACING ANXIETY BEFORE AND AFTER BIRTH

what’s on the web

TOP 10 NEW-PARENT MISTAKES No parent is perfect—don’t let Instagram fool you. So don’t get too hung up by the bumps along the way like these common (and sometimes funny) new-parent mistakes.

Managing diabetes during a first pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but with careful planning, monitoring, and support, it’s entirely possible to have a healthy and confident pregnancy journey. NAVIGATING YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY WITH DIABETES

BIRMINGHAM’S BEST BABY BOUTIQUES Discover local shops offering adorable clothing, toys, and essentials for babies (and moms!).

8 THINGS TO DO IN BIRMINGHAM WITH A BABY A roundup of baby-friendly outings including parks, play spaces, and parent-baby activities.

18 Postpartum body image and identity shifts can bring unexpected grief and pressure, but embracing self-compassion, redefining personal worth, and seeking support can help new parents navigate these changes. POSTPARTUM BODY POSITIVITY

PREPARING OLDER SIBLINGS FOR A NEW BABY Practical ways to help children adjust to welcoming a new baby into the family.

CONNECT WITH US

/BirminghamParentmagazine

/birminghamparent

/bhamparent

/birminghamparentmagazine

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

MOM TO MOM - TO- BE

A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION AMY L. FOREMAN

Dear Mama, Nesting, Resting, and Everything in Between

PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS

AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN PRODUCTION MANAGER KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MORGAN ESPENAN DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER MERCEDES MITCHELL SABRINA SMITH BREE WRAY CLIENT SUCCESS REPRESENTATIVES JILLIAN NORMAN PRODUCTION INTERN CRYSTAL BARRETT ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN MARKETING COORDINATOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LAURIE ACOSTA DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS GAYLE GAUTHREAUX DIRECTOR OF FINANCE ALEXIS ALEXANDER SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR CONTACT EDITORIAL@FRG.INC JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ELISABETH BARRETT CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816

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—get- ting organized, prepping for baby, nesting like your life depends on it. And sometimes, you are. Other times, you’re on the couch Googling, “Is it nor- mal to be this tired?” for the fifth time today. Both are completely valid. Because let’s be honest—just because everything around you feels fresh and new doesn’t mean pregnancy suddenly becomes magical. It’s still a mix of “this is incredible” and “how are 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 grow- ing 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,

PINK & BLUE is published biannually by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. 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. publications, including print and other digital formats. FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. does not endorse or evaluate 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. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any solicited materials PINK & BLUE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

Amy L. Foreman Publisher

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

Photo by Carli Brasfield

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

From 1 Lb to Thriving: Barrett Brasfield’s Miracle Journey Barrett Brasfield was born at only 26 weeks, weighing barely one pound. The odds were

stacked against him—he only had a 20 percent chance of survival. Homewood residents Carli and Roman Brasfield prayed harder than ever. Fast forward many long months, Barrett was finally released to go home after 403 days in the hospital. During his time at the hospital, he experienced many early infections, sepsis, and underwent two surgeries, including receiving a tracheostomy. Now, “Barrett is almost 14 months old, and he is thriving,” Carli shares in a Facebook post. “He rolls, pushes up, smiles, plays. He’s learning something new everyday. He’s growing. He’s passed his vision and hearing tests. He’s silly, determined, and joyful. He is already exceeding expectations—and he’s just getting started.” If you’re in a dark place, Carli encourages you to cling to God’s faithfulness, even when you can’t feel it. “If you’re walking through a hard season right now, I see you. I remember. Keep going. It won’t always feel this way. Seasons change. God’s love does not,” she writes. Read their full story on her blog ourstorytobear.wordpress.com.

One Month. $20 Million. Alabama Shows Up for Rural Hospitals This January, the Alabama Rural Hospital Investment Program launched to help at-risk rural hospitals across the state stay afloat. The program enables taxpayers to donate to eligible rural hospitals and receive a full, dollar-for-dollar state tax credit. The Alabama Health Research & Education Foundation will serve as one of the third-party partners who will distribute the funds to 50 rural hospitals based on financial need. And here’s what’s crazy—within just one month of the program opening, the $20 million tax credit cap for the year was fully met! alaha.org

Urgent Recall: All Byheart Infant Formula Pulled After Infant Botulism Outbreak If you’ve bought any All ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, stop using them immediately—they have been recalled by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) based on an outbreak of infant botulism. According to the FDA, symptoms include “constipation, poor feeding, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing, which can progress to difficulty breathing and respiratory arrest.” Botulism can be fatal, so seek medical attention immediately if your infant is experiencing signs and symptoms of botulism. fda.gov

Vaccine Divide: AAP Breaks from CDC Guidance The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is breaking up with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because of the organization’s views on childhood vaccines. The CDC recently made changes to how it prioritizes certain vaccines. The AAP, on the other hand, claims that nothing has changed in childhood illness prevention—meaning children should still be vaccinated for diseases like hepatitis A and B, RSV, and the flu, which the CDC dropped from its immunization schedule. While most of the vaccines recommended (like MMR, DTaP, polio, etc.) are largely unchanged, the AAP does not currently endorse the Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule that’s published by the CDC. Of course, it’s not the first time the AAP has made a break for it: just last year, AAP boycotted the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting. Let’s just say… they’re no longer on the same dose of advice. For now, the two agencies are far from immune to disagreement. publications.aap.org

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

Photo Courtesy of UAB

Two Lives Saved: UAB Team Removes Cancer During Pregnancy Heidi Neas was 16 weeks pregnant when she was referred to UAB Medicine after receiving some abnormal genetic results from a routine test. After a brief mention of family history with kidney cancer, MFM physician Carolyn Webster, M.D. went ahead and scanned Neas’ kidneys “just in case.” They were both surprised to discover a large mass in her kidney—an 11-centimeter cancerous tumor. The team at the UAB O’Neal Cancer Center determined it would be safest for her and the baby to surgically remove the tumor. Fast forward a few months after her successful surgery, Neas was able to safely deliver little Abram. uabmedicine.org

New Bill Aims To Expand Heart Health Care For Alabama Women “Jump Rope for Heart” and other efforts by the The American Heart Association (AHA) were fun and cute when you were in elementary school… but did you know that the AHA claims that 6 in 10 women will have a heart disease by 2050? That’s no laughing matter. Not to mention that Alabama has one of the highest mortality rates for heart related deaths in the US. Needless to say, heart health is important—especially for women. Senator Katie Britt, R-Al- abama, is advocating on behalf of women with the proposal of the “Women’s Heart Health Expansion Act of 2026” Act. The legislation aims to provide free preventative health services, including cardiovascular risk screenings, to low-income and underinsured women aged 35 to 64 across the state. This Act will provide essential care to many women who lack access or funds for health care. If approved, the Act would go into effect in October and employ $250 million to expand the CDC’s Wisewoman program, which currently only provides screenings to women who have been referred by the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Read the full Act on congress.gov.

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

BABY LOVE Once you have kids, you never pee by yourself again. ” – Jennifer Garner “

The Snugghug TM Nursing Cover Breastfeed anywhere with this nursing cover that’s worn on the arm rather than over the head or shoulders. This arm-worn innovation provides privacy and support while allowing mothers to maintain eye contact, respond to cues, and move through public spaces with comfort. Made of recycled fabrics, Snugghug is soft and easily fits in a

purse or diaper bag. $178, snugghug.com

Graco ® Pack ‘n Play ® This full-size bassinet really packs a lot in one: Not only does it have an easy-to-reach and easy-to-view spot for your baby to sleep, it also includes an integrated diaper changer, a mesh storage pouch for baby essentials, and converts into a toddler playard. Press the push-to-fold button to fold the wheels and feet for compact travel. $119.99, amazon.com

Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail No need to buy fancy, special trash bags: You can use the ones from your kitchen with this diaper pail. The steel and rubber seal design effectively trap the smells inside, as does the sliding lid design. Plus, the childproof lock keeps out tiny hands. $66.49, amazon.com

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

AngelCare Baby Bath Wash your infant (up to 6 mo. or 20 lbs.) in the sink or the bathtub with this fuss-free, mesh bath support. It cradles baby, leaving your hands free to wash and play. Plus, it saves you from storing a completely separate bath just for those first few months before they can sit up. $19.78, amazon.com

Gaiatop Mini Portable Stroller Fan With Alabama summertime comes the heat! Attach this stroller fan to the stroller or car seat to ensure baby doesn’t get too hot. The battery-operated clip-on fan has three speeds and can rotate 360º. The shell is made of baby-safe food-grade silicone, and the fan’s cover has gaps too small for infant fingers. When charged, it can last up to 10 hours. $15.58, amazon.com

Haaka Manual Breast Pump Just squeeze, attach, and let natural suction gently do its thing to use this manual breast pump. It’s a great way to get a freezer stash of milk without using an electric pump. Plus, the Haaka is lightweight and portable, no cords or assembly required. It’s made from high quality food grade silicone, and cleans with a simple boil. $12.94, amazon.com

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

Beyond The Glow: NAVIGATING AMBIVALENT FEELINGS By Jillian Norman Photo by Unsplash

T . here’s an idea surrounding pregnancies 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 simultaneous 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 anxi- ety 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. Norman 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 ambiva- lent 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 anx- iety 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 preg- nancy 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 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 trimester is usually uncomfortable, sleep and rest become rare, and fear for labor ramps up. These are all normal experiences.

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

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 recommended 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 experience pregnancy in all stages of it. The only wrong thing to do would be to not let yourself feel your emotions and speak about them freely. Society, as well as healthcare, needs to be more aware of the complexities mothers face before, during, and after pregnancy. That change can start with you as well.

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 slowly along with your baby.

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

FACING Anxiety Before & After Birth

By Julianna Steen Photo by Unsplash

I . 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 sunshines, 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. Does Social Media Help Or Hurt

Pregnancy Anxiety? Birth story videos are trending, leading researchers to question if digital birth narratives are actually helpful for women who fear childbirth. For instance, one study found that women consistently 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, misinformation, and comparison can all lead to increased anxiety. What’s more, the algorithm picks up on what you interact 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-

criticism 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, depression, intrusive thoughts, and mood disorders are common—but they’re often still under-screened and under-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 include extreme sadness, anxiety, fatigue, loss of appetite, insomnia, irritability, suicidal thoughts, and diffi- culty bonding with your baby. But these emotions can develop during the preg- nancy, not just in the 12 months fol- lowing 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. 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

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

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 maternal 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 article called “Digital mental health for postpartum women: perils, pitfalls, and promise.” If you’re experiencing birth anxiety, it might shapeshift into other concerns after birth. Nevertheless, it does not last forever—if it’s treated. Psychotherapy is the go-to treatment. 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

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 National 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.

If you’re scrolling, don’t interact with content you don’t want more of—or else, you may end up only seeing

similar content. • Ask Questions

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. • Be Honest with Your Community Sometimes, you just need a good listening 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

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

MANAGING YOUR 1 ST 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 managing 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 transform blood sugar into energy in our bodies; with diabetes, insulin has to be managed manually rather than naturally. 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 pregnancy 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 evaluate their diabetic history and look

CES, 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 monitoring—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 learning. Testing her glucose four times a day felt like a personal experiment, and tracking her meals and results taught her which food combinations worked best.

for any red flags that may pose risks. If there are no preexisting-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 pregnancy 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 regularly than someone who’s not pregnant,” Dr. Biggio says. Starting a pregnancy with a healthy head start typically leads to a favorable outcome. Real Life, Real Experiences Lindsay Cohen, RDN, LDN, CD-

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

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 plan- ning around endless visits with a phy- sician. But these days, many of these visits can be done virtually, or through sharing blood sugar logs and data from continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), which are a helpful tool for maintaining control, notes Dr. Biggio. It’s normal for things to feel challeng- ing at times. But with guidance from healthcare professionals, support from others who have been there, and the right tools, care, and mindset, moms can move forward with confidence and focus on the joy of welcoming new life.

manage due to reduced appetite. Jessica followed a balanced approach, pairing protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates 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, carrying 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 importance 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 activity three to five days a week because it helps the body absorb glucose. For both Lindsay and Jessica,

“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 leaning 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 bedtime. This helps spread calorie intake throughout the day while avoiding triggers like nausea or reflux, which can make blood sugar harder to

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

POSTPARTUM BODY By Amelia Roessler Positivity

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 pregnancy, 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 confusing or even shameful. But it’s also deeply human—and worth talking about. Amy Lowe, a therapist and director at a Colorado 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 neurochemical 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 them and what the value of their 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 looking 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. body is besides how they look. AGE OF INFORMATION 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

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

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 acknowledges. She has found in her field that when a parent is separated from what feels right, there is a dissonance that leads to constriction, fear, and insecurity. “When we ask clients to tap into their knowing and bring it into their consciousness, the body feels really 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 diagnosed postpartum depression. “Disordered means that what’s

happening 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 emotions permission to be here,” Lowe emphasizes. “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 behavioral 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. All those things can make a change to your mood and thought process. If things are sticking around for longer than seven days in a row, 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.”

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

RESOURCE DIRECTORY Baby World

ADOPTION RESOURCES AdoptUSKids ■ (888) 200-4005 ■ adoptuskids.org Agape for Children ■ (205) 733-9755 ■ agapeforchildren.org Alabama Foster And Adoptive Parent Association (AFAPA) ■ (888) 545-2372 ■ afapa.org Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC)

Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) ■ 1 (800) 252-1818 ■ alabamapublichealth.gov Alabama Medicaid Agency ■ 1 (800) 727-7848 ■ medicaid.alabama.gov Alabama Regional Medical Services (ARMS) ■ (205) 407-6900 ■ alabamaarms.org Alabama WIC Program ■ 1 (888) WIC-HOPE (942-4673) ■ alabamapublichealth.gov/wic Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank ■ (205) 607-2112 ■ bundlesdiaperbank.org Cahaba Medical Care ■ (205) 926-2992

Bethany Christian Services ■ (770) 455-7111 ■ bethany.org Children’s Aid Society of Alabama ■ (205) 251-7148 ■ childrensaid.org Embrace Alabama Kids ■ (205) 837-0141 ■ embracealkids.org Families 4 Alabama’s Kids ■ (866) 425-5437 ■ dhr.alabama.gov Gateway Family Services ■ (205) 510-2600 ■ gway.org Heart Gallery Alabama ■ (205) 445-1293 ■ heartgalleryalabama.com Lifeline Children’s Services

■ (866) 803-2722 ■ childrensaid.org American Adoptions ■ 1 (800)-ADOPTION ■ americanadoptions.com Family Adoption Services ■ (205) 612-0238 ■ familyadoptionservices.com Lifeline Children’s Services

■ cahabamedicalcare.com Easterseals West Alabama ■ (205) 759-1211 ■ eswaweb.org Her Choice Birmingham Women’s Center ■ (205) 252-0706

■ (205) 967-0811 ■ lifelinechild.org SAFY of Alabama ■ (205) 945-7483 ■ safy.org Youth Villages ■ 1 (888) MY-YV-KID ■ youthvillages.org PREGNANCY RESOURCES

■ (205) 967-0811 ■ lifelinechild.org FOSTER PARENT AGENCIES & SERVICES

■ herchoicebirmingham.org Kid One Transport System ■ (205) 978-1000 ■ kidone.org March of Dimes ■ 1 (888) 663-4637 (888-MODIMES) ■ marchofdimes.org Nurse-Family Partnership of Greater

Alabama Baptist Children’s Home ■ (205) 982-1112 ■ alabamachild.org Agape for Children ■ (205) 733-9755 ■ agapeforchildren.org

Alabama DHR’s Baby Box Initiative ■ (334) 353-3477 ■ dhr.alabama.gov

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

Alabama – Central Alabama ■ (205) 937-4157 ■ changent.org Positive Choices ■ (205) 836-0564 ■ pregnancybirmingham.com Pregnancy Test Center ■ Crestwood: (205) 961-2700 ■ Fultondale: (205) 808-9001 ■ Vestavia: (205) 979-0302 ■ alabamapregnancytestcenter.com BIRTHING HOSPITALS Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital ■ (877) 909-4233 ■ baptisthealthal.com Grandview Medical Center ■ (205) 971-1000 ■ grandviewhealth.com UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham ■ (205) 939-7000 ■ uabstvincents.org UAB Women & Infants Center ■ (205) 934-3411 ■ uabmedicine.org CHILD CARE RESOURCES Alabama Child Care Subsidy (Child Care Financial Assistance) ■ (334) 242-9300 ■ dhr.alabama.gov Alabama Department of Human

■ lllalmsla.org Lamaze International ■ (202) 367-1128 ■ lamaze.org UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham

■ eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov CHILD SAFETY CLASSES American Red Cross ■ 1 (800) 733-2767 ■ redcross.org CPR Certification Birmingham ■ (205) 784-3223 ■ cprbirmingham.org Children’s of Alabama Children’s Health Education and Safety Center ■ (205) 638-6339 ■ childrensal.org Safe Kids Alabama ■ (202) 875-6330 ■ safekids.org UAB Community Education / Safe Kids programs ■ (205) 934-4068 ■ uabmedicine.org The YMCA of Greater Birmingham Certifications & Trainings ■ Phone number varies by location ■ ymcabham.org CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Bradley Method ■ 1-(800)-4-A-BIRTH ■ bradleybirth.com Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital ■ (205) 877-1000 ■ baptisthealthal.com Grandview Medical Center ■ 1(844) GMC-DOCS (462-3627)

■ (205) 212-MOMS ■ uabstvincents.org UAB Women & Infants Center ■ (205) 996-BABY (2229) ■ uabmedicine.org CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS Children’s of Alabama ■ (205) 638-9100 ■ childrensal.org FAMILY SERVICE CENTER

Children’s Harbor ■ (205) 638-6123 ■ childrensharbor.com Family Guidance Center of Alabama ■ (334) 270-4100 ■ familyguidancecenter.org One Place Family Justice Center ■ (205) 453-7261 ■ oneplacebirmingham.com Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama ■ (205) 638-7255 ■ rmhca.org FERTILITY Alabama Center for Reproductive Medicine ■ (205) 307-0484 ■ alabamareproductive.com Alabama Fertility ■ (205) 874-0000

Resources (ADHR) ■ (334) 242-1425 ■ dhr.alabama.gov Childcare Resources ■ (205) 945-0018 ■ (205) 941-6077 ■ ccr-bhm.org ChildCare.gov ■ (202) 690-6782 ■ childcare.gov

■ grandviewhealth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org

■ alabamafertility.com Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology ■ (205) 933-8334 ■ birminghamobgyn.com

International Childbirth Education Association ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org La Leche League of Alabama

Head Start & Early Head Start ■ 1 (866) 763-6481

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

United Way of Central Alabama ■ 211 ■ uwca.org MIDWIFERY AND DOULA CARE

Thrive Pediatric Nutrition Specialists ■ (205) 704-1641 ■ mythrivenutrition.com Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham ■ (205) 536-7676 ■ whsbham.com PARENT EDUCATION & CLASSES American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org Alabama Parent Education Center ■ (866) 532-7660 ■ alabamaparentcenter.com Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital ■ (205) 877-1000 ■ baptisthealthal.com Childbirth Education Classes at Grandview ■ 1 (844) GMC-DOCS (462-3627) ■ grandviewhealth.com EPIC Parenting PAGES (Parent and Guardian Educational Support) Group ■ (205) 638-9193 ■ childrensal.org Pampers’ Birthing Classes ■ pampers.com Taking Cara Babies ■ takingcarababies.com UAB Expectant Parent Classes ■ (205) 996-BABY (2229) ■ uabmedicine.org UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham ■ (205) 212-MOMS ■ uabstvincents.org PRODUCT RECALLS AND STANDARDS ■ (205) 251-7148 ■ childrensaid.org

Innovative Fertility Specialists ■ (205) 509-0700 ■ ifsinvo.health Reproductive Health Medicine & Gynecology ■ (770) 450-8677 ■ rhmgyn.com UAB Department of Obstetrics

Aurora Midwifery ■ (205) 941-8396 ■ aurorabhm.com

& Gynecology Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility ■ (205) 996-3130 ■ uab.edu HOTLINES Alabama Department of Child Abuse and

Birmingham Home Midwifery ■ facebook.com/birmingham homemidwifery Birthright Birmingham ■ birthrightbirmingham.com BHM Born ■ bhmborn.com By Design Birth Doula Services ■ bydesignbirthdoulaservices.com Crown of Glory Birth Services ■ (205) 894-1191 ■ (205) 240-5848 ■ eleisondoula.com For Birth Givers Midwifery ■ (205) 381-8127 ■ forbirthgivers.com Nurtured Mama ■ (480) 322-3553 ■ nurturedmamapostpartum.com Oasis Women’s Health ■ (205) 291-3058 ■ oasiswh.org NUTRITION Alabama Public Health ■ 1 (800) 654-1385 ■ crownofglorybirth.com Eleison Doula Services

Neglect Prevention ■ (334) 262-2951 ■ ctf.alabama.gov Alabama Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Line

■ (334) 242-9500 ■ dhr.alabama.gov Alabama Poison

Information Center ■ 1 (800) 222-1222 ■ childrensal.org/apic ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline ■ (800) 422-4453 ■ childhelphotline.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ 988 ■ 988lifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ (800) 799-SAFE (7233) ■ (800) 787-3224 ■ thehotline.org National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) ■ (800) 656-HOPE (4673) ■ rainn.org Postpartum Support International ■ (800) 944-4773 ■ postpartum.net

■ alabamapublichealth.gov Children’s of AL Clinical Nutrition Office ■ (205) 638-9204 ■ childrensal.org

U.S. Consumer Product

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS) ■ (205) 290-4550 ■ rehab.alabama.gov/nevertooearlyal Arc, The ■ (205) 323-6383 ■ arcofcentralalabama.org Autism Speaks ■ autismspeaks.org Autism Support of Alabama ■ 1 (877) 4-AUTISM (28-8476) ■ autism-alabama.org Children’s of Alabama –

Easterseals of the Birmingham Area ■ (205) 942-6277 ■ eastersealsbham.org HANDS Program, The ■ (205) 733-0976 ■ thehandsprogram.org Mitchell’s Place ■ (205) 957-0294 ■ mitchells-place.com United Ability ■ (205) 944-3900 ■ unitedability.org ULTRASOUND / IMAGING SERVICES 4D Mommies ■ (205) 326-BABY (2229) ■ 4dmommies.com American Health Imaging of Birmingham ■ Birmingham: (205) 251-1300 ■ Brookwood: (205) 414-9850

■ americanhealthimaging.com

Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology ■ (205) 933-8334 ■ birminghamobgyn.com

Peek at Me 4D ■ (205) 635-6252 ■ peekatme4d.net Sonos Imaging ■ (205) 453-7525 ■ sonosimaging.com

Southern Radiology Specialists ■ (205) 823-3366 ■ birminghamphysiciansimaging.com

Vestavia Hills Imaging Center ■ (205) 824-8262 ■ capitolimagingservices.com Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham ■ (205) 536-7676 ■ whsbham.com

Developmental & Therapy Services ■ (205) 638-6289 ■ childrensal.org

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

BELLY LAUGHS

Belly vs. Bed:

The Third Trimester SLEEP Olympics

By Amanda Miller R emember when going to bed was easy? Perhaps not that easy, but it usually consisted of deciding you wanted to go to sleep, lying down, fluffing the pillow (maybe), and then letting yourself drift off to dreamland. Now those days are a distant memory—at least for now. When you’re in the trenches of your third trimester, sleep becomes less of a restful experience and more of an athletic event. Here’s how. PILLOW PROBLEMS Finding a comfortable sleeping position is impossible without the proper equipment. Enter: the pillow team. Your singular pillow that was fine and dandy pre-pregnancy isn’t enough anymore. The pillow team now consists of multiple members, and they’re all necessary. There’s the pillow behind the back, the pillow between the knees, the pillow under the belly, and the alternate pillow for whenever one of them just isn’t molding how you want it to and needs to be swapped out

for the night. Sometimes the team can be downsized to one, which is the body pillow, but you may need a bigger bed to fully accommodate everyone. With this method, you’ll get a few hours of sleep— until you have to… TURNING OVER TROUBLES Turning over while pregnant isn’t the most graceful experience. Some may liken it to a full three-point maneuver that requires planning and momentum. What used to be a quick flip now takes the precision of parallel parking…not to mention readjusting the pillow team once you’ve completed the turn. That’s a whole experience in itself. Once you’re read- justed and ready to sleep again, culprit number three of sleep disruption enters the chat… THE BLADDER BATTLE You’re finally comfortable, but sadly not for long. Now that you’ve readjusted, of course it’s time for your bladder to shift and let you know that it’s time to get up and make the trek to the bathroom. Unraveling yourself from all the pillows is a task in itself, but you eventually make it

there, make it back to bed, and then re- start the “Let’s get comfortable!” process all over again. Once you’ve returned to your bliss and are just about to doze off, the final struggle is ready to be overcome… MENTAL GYMNASTICS If you’re not experiencing insomnia, you may be making every to-do list you’ve ever wanted to make at this point. You’re probably also questioning everything you did—or didn’t—do that day. Did I schedule my appointment? Do we have everything for the nursery? What if the baby never sleeps? What if I never sleep again? The thoughts go on and on some- times, and it’s usually happening at the worst times, such as 2 a.m., or every hour on the hour. Despite all of this happening, your part- ner is right next to you the entire time… having the best sleep of his life. Eventual- ly…hopefully…you finally drift off to sleep though. It may not be the best sleep, but it’s all yours. At least until you want to turn over again.

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

BABY FACES

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY’S PICTURE HERE? Visit birminghamparent.com and click on Baby Faces. All photos become property of Pink&Blue Magazine , a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

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

We can help, but you have to take the first step. We’re here for you.

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

800-992-9392

www.StutteringHelp.org

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28

birminghamparent.com

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator