Fall 2024
FALL 2024
NOLA FAMILY
Capture Moments, Skip the Book Smooth Transition: Sibling Jealousy
Expecting After 35? What to Know
Community Sponsor
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@pinkandbluela.com
WHAT’S ON THE WEB 10 MUST-HAVE ITEMS FOR YOUR NEWBORN’S NURSERY We compiled some of our favorites to help set up your nursery for success.
BANNED BABY NAMES IN THE US Here are the names that you can’t name your baby.
BONDING WITH BABY This is how you can build a connection with your baby before delivery day. 7 POSTPARTUM PRODUCTS YOU’LL WANT These products help make the postpartum experience a little easier.
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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 27 RESOURCE DIRECTORY 32 BELLY LAUGHS 34 BABY FACES
INSIDE
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SIBLING RIVALRY and The New Baby: What to Do and Say 5 SIMPLE ALTERNATIVES to Baby Books That Won’t Stress You Out BABY ON A BUDGET: Save a Bundle OLDER MOMS: Pregnancy After Age 35
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GIVEAWAYS
Make baby feeding chal- lenges a little easier with Comotomo Baby Bottles. comotomo.com
AMY L. FOREMAN PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR SANONNA AL TAWEEL AMANDA CIANI VICTORIA MIKOTA JULIANNA STEEN
MADISON VOORHIES ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION ALEX HERRING SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER TOM GONZALES MADISON GRAHAM MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY
Made from silky bamboo rayon, Kyte Baby Zippered Rompers are an instant outfit. kytebaby.com
JENNIFER HOFFMANN ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES 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 ADMINISTRATOR MAKAYLEE SECREST ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER
The Lansinoh Postpar- tum Care & Recovery Kit includes a Peri Bottle, Herbal Postpartum Spray, and ready-to-freeze Postpartum Padsicles. lansinoh.com
ELISABETH BARRETT KAYLEIGH MONTANA CLIENT SUCCESS SPECIALISTS EMMY LOGAN ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR CONTACT EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055
Color Me Pregnant: A Funny Activity Book for Pregnant People is your hilarious companion to help you get through the maze of emotions that is impending parenthood. quarto.com
PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE is published biannually by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Sub- scriptions 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 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 unsolicited mate- rial. PINK & BLUE MAGAZINE Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
Visit pinkandbluela.com to register for a chance to win! Winners will be announced at pinkandbluela.com on November 25, 2024. Gear up! GIVEAWAYS
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MOM TO MOM-TO-BE
Why I Hated Being Pregnant
P regnancy is supposed to be a magical time. You’re sup- posed to be glowing, excited for the little flurries of baby kicks. But what if it’s not for you? What if you just don’t enjoy the experience? What if you just wanted the gift at the end, the healthy baby in your arms? It’s been a hot minute since I was pregnant, but it is an ex- perience I will never forget. Not the first, second, nor the third pregnancy. My first experience was amazing until it wasn’t. Ev- erything was going smoothly, no aches, no pains, and just a little discomfort. About five months along, I realized I had a kidney stone. Nothing can be done with a kidney stone while you are pregnant except manage the pain. So, I had this complication for several months, but everything else was going great. I was gaining weight but was so done with growing this little human in my body. Finally the due date came…and it went. This little girl was stubborn from the beginning. Several phone calls and lots of tears later, we were heading to labor and delivery to begin the delivering journey. Let’s just say 23 hours later, she finally made her appearance. Pregnancy two seemed to be a breeze, no complications, I was measuring on time, and life was great. Until it wasn’t. There wasn’t a heartbeat at 16 weeks. I can honestly say this was something I never thought would happen to me. I was shocked. I remember just being a shell of myself and going through the motions. This happened around Thanksgiving so I was numb all through the holidays, which is difficult with a four-year-old daughter who had many questions that I just couldn’t answer for her. Finally, my double blessing. There was someone who worked with my husband who said, “God will give you double for your trouble.” We never thought anything of it until we had the first ultrasound. Have you ever actually planned a pregnancy? Like, “I am going to get pregnant on this date, which will put me hav- ing a January baby, or whatever month baby?” Well somehow I managed that. We got pregnant in April and I would have a January baby…except I didn’t, because they were twins and came four weeks early! This was a very interesting pregnancy and I was not the happiest. Despite all my problems being pregnant, I would do it again to have a healthy baby sleeping in my arms. Maybe I don’t really hate being pregnant; I just dislike the complications that I expe- rienced. I know I’m a bit of a unicorn when it comes to complica- tions, but I’d do it all again if it meant having my littles with me.
Amy Foreman Publisher
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LITTLE BITS
“ The best kind of parent you can be is to lead by example.” — Drew Barrymore
Autumn-Inspired Baby Names
Carter Ember Finley/Finn Hawthorn Jasper Marigold Sabrina Sage Sienna Skylar
Leading Pediatric Care in Louisiana For the fourth consecutive year, Ochsner Children’s Hospital has been named the No. 1 children’s hospital in Louisiana, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-2025 Best Children’s Hospital rankings. The hospital has also earned national recognition for its excellence in three specialties: pediatric cardiology and heart surgery, pediatric gastroenterology and gastrointestinal surgery, and pediatric orthopedics. Serving over 100,000 children annually, Ochsner’s team of more than 200 pediatric specialists provides unmatched care in the Gulf South, including Louisiana’s only pediatric heart and liver transplant program. This continued recognition highlights Ochsner’s unwavering dedication to advancing pediatric healthcare. ■ ochsner.org
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Making Pregnancy & Motherhood a Breeze with Technology Pregnancy is a transformative experience, often accompanied by joy, anxiety, and a range of health risks, particularly for those in rural areas lacking emergency care. Approximately 15% of pregnant women face life-threatening complications, highlighting the critical need for accessible healthcare solutions. Fortunately, advancements in health technology, especially in the realm of Femtech, are revolutionizing maternal care. Femtech encompasses a variety of products and services designed to support women’s health during pregnancy and beyond, including medical apps for tracking health and prenatal progress, virtual clinics that provide remote consultations, and innovative medical devices. ■ reanfoundation.org
5 Must-Have Items For Parents During Cold And Flu Season With cold and flu season swiftly approaching, you need to be prepared for whatever your child comes down with. Here are five items you can keep on-hand. Always contact your pediatrician before giving medicine to
babies. ■ childrens.com - A Working Thermometer - Saline Spray And Nasal Bulb Syringe Or Aspirator - Fever-Reducing Medications - Sore Throat Remedies - Hand Soap And Cleaning Products
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Winter Is Coming: Are You (and Your Belly) Ready? As winter arrives, pregnant women may experience discomfort from swelling feet and coats that won’t fit. While there are concerns about the cold season’s effects on pregnancy, winter offers enjoyable activities like snowshoeing and walking. However, women should avoid risky activities such as downhill skiing and shoveling snow. To stay healthy, practicing good hygiene, and consulting with a doctor before starting new workouts are recommended. ■ utswmed.org
Managing Stress and Pregnancy This Holiday Season It can be stressful for mothers to juggle pregnancy challenges with festive demands. Dr. Andrew Satran of Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland highlights signs of stress like fatigue, mood swings, and sleep issues. To manage this, he advises delegating tasks, practicing relaxation techniques, limiting commitments, and seeking support. Balancing holiday joy with self-care is key for both mother and baby’s health. ■ doctorsatran.com
Snuggles and (Hopefully Not Too Many) Struggles Every Tuesday this Fall, The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital New Orleans will host its Snuggles & Struggles: New Parent Group. This hybrid, weekly support group will provide learning opportunities and socialization with other new parents and their babies. Call (504) 896-9591, or email chparenting@LCMChealth.org for more information. ■ chnola.org/TheParentingCenter
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BABY LOVE “ No matter how bad my day’s been, it takes one little kick to make everything feel alright.” —Unknown
Snooze and self-soothe with this chill penguin and its adorable igloo! The VTech® Baby Soothing Starlight Igloo™ projects a starry sky with twinkling lights on the ceiling or can be used as a simple night light. The igloo comes with a removable and machine-washable plush penguin. $19.99. ■ amazon.com
Made of the softest premium bamboo, the Forever French Bamboo Zip Pajamas are durable and cozy. The smallest sizes feature rollover cuffs on the hands, and the one-piece sizes have cuffs on the feet too. $37. ■ foreverfrenchbaby.com
The Aspen 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Underdrawer features two drawers for all your storage needs and easily converts to a toddler bed, daybed, or sofa when your child is ready. $999.99. ■ bellini.com
Soak up every moment with your newborn with the Peekaboo Pillow Original. The pillow features two pockets and two pacifier loops and helps you hold your baby securely. $149. ■ peekaboopillow.com
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The Love to Dream Swaddle Up™ collection keeps a baby’s arms by his or her side or across his or her chest. The unique arms-up design has patented wings that allows babies to sleep in their natural position. $37.95. ■ lovetodream.com
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The BabyBuddha 2.0 is versatile and grows with moms as their needs change throughout their pumping journeys, whether they are supplementing or exclusively pumping. The pump combines all of the loved features of the original with setting enhancements to make pumping even more comfortable. $199.99. ■ amazon.com
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5 Simple Alternatives to Baby Books That Won’t Stress You Out By Pam Moore
Photo by freepic.diller on Freepik.com
A s a kid, I would flip through my baby book, hoping my mom had filled in some of the blanks while I was sleeping or at school. But every time I took the book off its shelf, I saw the same barren pages between the faded pale yellow covers. Listed were the date and time of my birth, my birth weight, a lock of hair from my first haircut... and that was all. I promised myself that if I ever became a parent, I wouldn’t start a baby book if I couldn’t commit to the project. As an adult, I know that I’m amazing at starting projects. But finishing them? Not so much. This is why I’ve never owned a baby book. It turns out, I’m not alone. In the age of the smartphone, many parents are finding the traditional baby book just doesn’t make sense. That doesn’t mean those of us who are sans baby books aren’t capturing the important moments. There
2. Type them up and send them off.
are plenty of ways to hold onto the milestones, the mispronunciations that are too cute to correct, and everything in between–while letting go of the pressure to fill in the blanks. 1. Write them down. Instead of baby books, I have a blank, lined journal for each of my two daughters. When I feel inclined to record a precious moment, I simply open the book and write it down. There is no schedule, so I never feel like I’m “behind.” Each entry is dated. Some are briefer than others. Some note milestones like the first step or the first three-word sentence. Others capture funny conversations or serve as a brain-dump of every word they pronounce incorrectly. Sometimes I’m just saying, “I love you.” I plan to give each girl her book when she’s an adult… but not before photocopying one for myself.
You’re never too young for an email address. At least that’s what dad Joe Meyers thinks. When his son Aden was still in the womb, Meyers set up an email account for him. Since then Meyers and his wife have been sending three-year-old Aden all kinds of emails, ranging from medical records and party invitations to notes regarding milestones, including his first dessert (mocha ice cream). This will be the fourth consecutive year the Meyers are requesting family and friends send emails in lieu of birthday cards. 3. Box them up. Boxing memories means no pages to put in order or blanks to complete, and you can include anything you want. Best of all, a memory box serves as an actual treasure chest. At her daughter’s birthday parties, mom Tangela Walker-Craft has each
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guest write a message on a small piece of paper and then collects them in a jewelry box. “The message can be a favorite Bible scripture, a serious personal message, or a favorite motto or quote,” she explains. Walker-Craft says she and her daughter enjoy reflecting on the memories and the messages, particularly the ones from Walker- Craft’s late grandmother. Stacy Haynes is a mom whose kids, ages 10 and 11, each have a simple plastic storage bin for memorabilia. Organizing them is easy; Haynes simply drops the most recent items on top. “We have everything from soccer shirts to baby teeth and school report cards, all in two bins. So on moving day, after college, and when they move into their own place, their memories are already packed away.” The simple box is a family tradition; Haynes says
her mom gave her the memory box from her childhood once she was married with children. 4. Film them. There is nothing quite like a video to preserve a moment. At the end of each year, Bailey Gaddis, mother and author of Feng Shui Mommy, creates a “Year in Review” video montage of all the short takes she’s recorded of her four-year-old son throughout the year. Not only does the video showcase milestones and random sweet and funny moments, Gaddis loves that they double as holiday gifts for the grandparents. As an added bonus, videos won’t create clutter. 5. Collect them (Dr. Suess style). My husband bought each of our kids a copy of Dr. Suess’s Oh the Places
You’ll Go. Once a year, he makes sure it’s signed by the important people in their lives, including ourselves, extended family, close friends, regular babysitters, and teachers. The inscriptions are reminiscent of the sentiments you’d see in a yearbook. My husband plans to give the girls their books when they graduate high school. Meanwhile, the books have been sitting on my desk for four weeks, and my husband has been gently nudging me to write my annual messages. I can only be responsible for one thing, it seems. (See #1). There were many things I did not know before I became a parent. One thing I did know was that I never wanted an abandoned baby book in my home. It turns out, there’s no one right way when it comes to parenting or capturing memories.
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Baby on a Budget: Save a Bundle By Janeen Lewis
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Photo by Freepik.com
C ongratulations! You either have a new bundle of joy or will bring one home soon. Having a baby is such an exciting time, but it can feel a bit stressful too. With all there is to learn and prepare for, finances shouldn’t get in the way. Here’s thrifty advice for every stage of bringing home a baby. BEFORE THE BABY Budget early. The secret to saving and finding the best deals on quality items is planning, researching, and comparing prices. Estimate costs you might incur, and write a spending plan. While everything won’t unfold as expected, some things may work out better. If the stork sneaks up on you, start planning as soon as possible. REVIEW HEALTH insurance and savings plans. Choose a plan in which the premium to deductible ratio is the best price and value for pregnancy and childbirth care. Most health insurance policies cover the cost of breast pumps. Make sure yours does. If you have disability insurance, it may pay for maternity leave. Most impor- tantly, start saving. Savings give a sense of peace and keep the focus on the baby in your arms instead of on financial burdens.
“Flex” financial muscles. Check to see if your employer offers a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account. These pre-tax dollars can be used to buy prenatal vitamins, breast pumps, breast milk storage bags, thermometers, and more. While you can purchase over-the-counter baby pain relievers, teething gel, and fever reducers with an FSA or HSA, check with your in- surance company. Some require prescrip- tions for over-the-counter medications. Calculate the cost of different types of childcare. Think about which option of childcare makes the most sense for your family: staying at home with the baby, a daycare facility, nanny, or nanny share. Research the costs associated with these options. The U.S. Department of Health and Hu- man Services considers childcare afford- able when it accounts for no more than 7 percent of a family’s household income. Try to keep your childcare costs within that range. DURING THE PREGNANCY Create a chic nursery without the designer price tag. You don’t have to be a celebrity to design a beautiful nursery. Start with a safety-ap-
proved crib and add another desirable piece. This is what Emily Zolan did. Zolan is mom to Julia and Anna Katherine. “I researched and found a particular crib that I knew was safe,” Zolan says. “I found it on Facebook Marketplace for $200 when it is usually $1,000. Then I got a glider from Costco.” Zolan recommends buying a nice rocker. “You are going to be sitting in the nursery a lot, so you want to love it.” Register and be rewarded. Create a baby registry at Amazon, Wal- Mart, Target, or Buy Buy Baby and receive free baby goodies and other benefits like coupons and discounts on the items left unpurchased on your registry. The free gifts usually include samples of products you can try out when the baby arrives. You can decide what works best before you spend money on baby items you won’t use. “Be choosy with your registry,” Zolan sug- gests. “People naturally like to give sweet baby clothes and fun gifts. Pare down your registry to the necessities, and you may still get the fun, cute things you want.” Spend modestly on maternity clothes. You’ll only be wearing them for a few
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months. Budget more for maternity clothes for work than for working out. Buy staple pieces that can function for dif- ferent events and activities. You can also find maternity clothes at some children’s consignment stores. For lounging around the house, baggy sweats and t-shirts are comfortable. AFTER THE ARRIVAL Don’t let diapering a bottom affect your bottom line. If friends ask to give you a shower, con- sider having a diaper shower or make a diaper raffle part of a shower. Guests who bring a package of diapers in addition to their gift are included in a drawing for a prize.
Norris discovered this with her second child. “As first-time parents, we were nervous, so we paid more for the name brand,” Norris says. “I talked to my pedia- trician, and we used the store brand with our second child, and she’s been fine.” Norris says she did a side-by-side compar- ison of the name brand formula with a store brand. “They both had the same ingredients.” Check out consignment sales and stores. The beautiful thing about consignment is that you can get designer and name- brand clothes, gear, furniture, and toys at a fraction of the original cost. Baby items
if you don’t feel deprived. With a smart financial plan in place, pick out an extrav- agant or convenient, time-saving item like a car seat stroller combo, a bottle warmer, a monogrammed diaper bag, or a kids’ sound machine. “The Baby Brezza is amazing,” Lamar says. This product works like a Keurig but with formula. Norris loves the Owlet, a sock baby monitor. Parents track their baby’s sleep patterns on their smart- phone. Norris says it gives her peace of mind. “When Sadie had RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), I knew she was breathing fine.” Zolan recommends Magnetic Me, baby clothing that comes with magnetic fasten- ers instead of snaps. “It makes dressing a baby faster,” she says. “When they are little, they don’t like to get cold.” Babies don’t have to break the bank. With a specific savings plan, you can save a bundle without skimping on the things you love. More Ways to Save If you are looking for additional ways to cut costs, remember little things add up and these ideas can bring big savings over time. -Don’t remove tags. If you don’t use something or it doesn’t fit, you may be able to take it back or consign it for a higher price. -Buy gear that grows with your baby. -Invest in a battery charger and rechargeable batteries. -Don’t buy shoes until your baby walks. -Buy diaper pails that use any trash bag, or throw diapers away in a trash can with a lid. -Specialty diaper pail bags are more expensive. -Buy gender neutral if you plan to have more than one child. -Buy diapers, formula, and wipes in bulk at a wholesale warehouse club. -Don’t buy a lot of bottles until after the baby arrives. You don’t know what the baby will prefer. -Breastfeed or pump if you are able to. -Make your own baby food. -Host a swap party. -Check out freecycle.com, a place to give away or find items you need for free.
are outgrown so quickly that they are usually in good shape even if they are used. And once your baby is fin- ished with an item, you can consign it. Consignment shops usually let patrons choose to receive cash
Amazon has a group gift- ing feature that allows expectant moms to set up a diaper fund. Friends
“Babies don’t have to break the bank. With a specific savings plan, you can save a bundle without skimping on the things you love.”
and family give to the fund and the money is loaded on to the expectant parents’ gift card balance.
or store credit for the items they sell and sweeten the pot by giving a higher amount for in-store credit. Find high-end baby clothing on the cheap. Wait until the end of the season and buy for the next year to get upscale or design- er clothing at rock bottom prices. If your child outgrows the size you buy before the next year, you can always consign the items or regift to another expectant parent. Check out Facebook Marketplace to buy boutique baby clothes for less. Swap babysitting. Even the cost of paying a neighborhood teen has increased dramatically. Trade babysitting with another couple and you can still enjoy a night on the town without the expense of childcare. This also helps your baby to feel comfortable with other adults, which can be a game changer in case of an emergency if you don’t have family that lives close by. Invest in an item that’s worth the splurge. You’re more likely to stick to your budget
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Sikedra Lamar, mom to Ailani, used this strategy. “I like the diaper fund be- cause I can buy diapers as I need them,” Lamar says. Brooke Norris, mom to Wyatt and Sa- die, suggests having shower guests put a sticky note on diaper gifts labeling where the diapers were purchased in case you need to return for a different size. Disposable diapers like organic, plant- based, or chlorine-free can be pricey. Try a diaper subscription to cut down on costs if you want these specialty diapers. It’s okay to be frugal when it comes to formula. Breast milk is free and has tremendous nutritional benefits, but it doesn’t work out for every mom. Save on formula with- out skimping on what your baby needs. If you buy a name brand, go to the company website and sign up for coupons and online deals. Ask your doctor for free samples and ask other moms for samples they don’t want. Keep in mind that all baby formula is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration to meet certain nutritional requirements.
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Older Moms: Pregnancy After Age 35 By Betty Casey
Photo by Freepik.com
M any women are delaying careers and completing education to better birth control and better health. The average age of pregnancy today is 27. Fifty years ago, it was 21. Dr. Erin Brown, an assistant professor, residency program director, and department chair in Obstetrics and Gynecology, says that women are considered “advanced maternal age” if they are age 35 or older at the time of delivery. She has seen more older patients, and more women delaying pregnancy among friends and colleagues, but women should know that it is not without risk. “It’s safer to have a baby now than in the past,” Dr. Brown says, “but the risk is still there.” Better technology, more data, and better, more specific medical pregnancy for a number of reasons, from establishing
interventions have all made it possible to give older moms and their babies the best possible outcomes. Older women are often more settled in careers and relationships, giving them more resources to care for a child. However, older moms need to be aware that they have a higher risk of problems with pregnancy and delivery. What are the risks? “Pregnancy risks to women over age 35 increase with age, in general,” Dr. Brown says, “but we’re able to delineate more exactly what is age- based risk or if individual patients have other conditions that contribute to risk.” Some of the complications for women during pregnancy include gestational diabetes, hypertension, miscarriage, cesarean delivery, and
preeclampsia (a serious form of high blood pressure). “As a mom develops hypertension or gestational diabetes, we have research and data to monitor her more closely,” Dr. Brown says. “For example, we may do fetal monitoring on a weekly basis.” Women over 35 are at a higher risk of having a stillbirth or labor and delivery complications, such as postpartum hemorrhaging. Knowing the risks, doctors can plan the timing of delivery to improve the outcomes for mom and baby. Other risks for babies of older moms include birth defects, Down syndrome, or other genetic abnormalities. Because the complications for both moms and babies increase as mothers age, it is important for women to see
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their OB/GYN very early in pregnancy, even if they have had a healthy prior pregnancy. Doctors can discuss available tests and screenings that can help identify possible problems. “Ultrasounds can find abnormalities,” Dr. Brown says. “Getting in early is really important. There is non-invasive testing for Down syndrome. We also do an anatomy scan in the second term that gives you an opportunity to pick up birth defects or abnormalities.” Have a preconception appointment All women can benefit from a preconception appointment, but it’s especially important for women over 35. Women who are considering getting pregnant should have a health screening with their general practitioner to review medical history and surgical history, and to help
establish a healthy lifestyle prior to pregnancy. “The primary care doctor can screen for any condition like diabetes and also give recommendations for a healthy weight,” Dr. Brown says. “An OB/GYN can do a well-woman exam and counsel you on what to do.” Dr. Brown encourages any woman anticipating pregnancy to start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. Women should get to a healthy weight and make necessary lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and alcohol or other drugs and starting a healthy diet. She points out that obesity exacerbates problems such as diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy. Doctors can also do genetic testing for many conditions, including cystic fibrosis. The bottom line Dr. Brown says women should know the risks of pregnancy at an older age and how those risks increase as
women approach age 40 and older. “If you are considering being pregnant over 35,” she says, “talk to your doctor. The overall risk is still low; it’s just an increased risk. Even if you’re healthy without pre-existing conditions, you’re still at increased risk because of your age.” Your doctor can educate you on potential problems, assess your individual risk, and talk to you about screenings, tests, and how various conditions and difficulties can be handled. “People do need to know the risks of miscarriage, birth defects, chromosome problems, and pregnancy complications, such as hypertension and gestational diabetes, as well as risks at the time of delivery,” Dr. Brown says. “If you are 35 or older, your pregnancy will be monitored more closely. Get early prenatal care. There’s a lot we can do early, screen for, and watch for.”
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Sibling Rivalry and The New Baby: What to Do and Say “Despite your best efforts to make your other kids bond with the baby, they’re likely to experience frustrations...” By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
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F ew things are more important to parents than having their kids get along well together. Nev- ertheless, it can be difficult for kids, especially toddlers, to accept new additions to the family. “Where they were once the center of your world, now they’re forced to share the spot- light,” as Sophie Bell of BabyCentre puts it. Let’s consider what you can do and say to reduce the amount of sibling rivalry following the arrival of a new baby. Here’s what the experts suggest. Tell your kids that you’re pregnant Experts agree that you should tell your kids that you’re pregnant before you tell other family members and friends. Bell says that doing so will make your kids feel special and inspire a sense of “ownership” that’ll
Involve them in taking care of the baby
reduce any sibling rivalry. Dr. Hindie Klein, a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, adds that you can foster such a sense of ownership by referring to the new baby as “our baby” instead of “the baby.” The point is to make your kids feel that they’re participants as op- posed to passive spectators to “this new and exciting experience,” as Dr. Klein puts it. Prepare them for the baby Create a sense of ownership, Bell says, by letting your kids feel the baby kicking in your stomach and talking to the baby, and by show- ing them photos of when you were pregnant with them. If your kids are toddlers or preschoolers, Dr. Klein adds to tell them about their own birth and read books with them about what it’s like to be pregnant.
Once you and the newborn are safely home from the hospital, involve your kids as much as possible in taking care of the baby. Among many other things, they can fetch diapers and hold towels at bath time, talk gently, or sing to the baby when the baby cries, and hold the baby in their lap, assuming that they’re properly propped up in an armchair or couch with big pillows on either side. The latter suggestion is especially import- ant since babies give off pheromones that, when inhaled, make us fall in love with and become protective of them. “The more your older child snuggles the new sibling, the better their relationship is likely to be,” says Dr. Laura Markham, a well-known clinical psychologist and author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings .
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Focus on sibling bonding Regardless of how you choose to in- volve your kids in caring for the baby, always point out how much the baby loves the attention of its brother(s) and sister(s). This enhances their bonding and reduces any sibling rivalry. Say things like: “Look at how she smiles for you!” (Bell) or “My, he loves it when you sing to him!” (Dr. Markham). Spend extra time with your kids Taking care of a baby is time-con- suming, and it can be hard to find any extra time to spend alone with your other kids. But to the extent possible, try to carve out a little time, even if it’s only 10-15 minutes a day, just for them. Those few minutes can do wonders in terms of reducing any sibling rivalry. “Every child needs a full tablespoon of Mommy all to herself,” as Dr. Fran Walfish, a clinical
psychologist and author of The Self- Aware Parent , puts it. Reinforce your love for them Assure your other kids that the baby hasn’t changed your feelings for them. If anything, you love and appreciate them even more now that they’re big brothers or sisters who help take care of the baby so well. You want to emphasize, as Dr. Markham explains, “all the wonderful things about who they are and how they contribute to the family.” Don’t underestimate the importance of extra cuddles and kisses for the other kids. “Even if they’re too young to fully understand,” Bell says, “They’ll appreciate the cuddles and kisses that come with this special time to bond with you.” Acknowledge their feelings Despite your best efforts to make
your other kids bond with the baby, they’re likely to experience frustra- tions that, if left unacknowledged, can lead to sibling rivalry. It’s always a good idea to acknowledge those frustrations. “Encourage older chil- dren to talk about their feelings and conflicts and assure them that they can have these feelings and still be a wonderful older brother or sister,” says Dr. Klein. If your other kids are toddlers, help them put words to their frustrations if they’re unable to do so themselves. For example, if the baby’s crying a lot and it’s interfering with your ability to take care of them, you could say: “She does cry a lot, doesn’t she?” (Bell) The point, Dr, Markham says, is to “give your child words for her feelings, because that helps her manage them rather than having to act them out.”
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Baby
World
ADOPTION RESOURCES A Bond of Life Adoptions ■ (985) 674-1818 ■ abladoptions.org Adoption Home Studies
Ochsner Hospitals ■ (866) 624-7637 ■ ochsner.org Perkin Alternative Birthing Center ■ (504) 894-2880 ■ ochsner.org Saige Birth Center ■ (504) 459-2426 ■ saigebirthcenter.com Touro Family Birthing Center ■ (504) 897-7319 ■ lcmchealth.org
Touro Infirmary ■ (504) 897-7011 ■ lcmchealth.org West Jefferson Medical Center ■ (504) 347-5511 ■ lcmchealth.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT All Ways Supported Birth Services ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com
■ (985) 264-8982 ■ lahomestudy.com AdoptUSKids ■ (888) 200-4005
■ adoptuskids.org Catholic Charities of New Orleans ■ (504) 885-1141 ■ ccano.org/adoption St. Elizabeth Foundation ■ (225) 769-8888 ■ stelizabethfoundation.org Volunteers of Louisiana Southeast Louisiana ■ (504) 482-2130 ■ voasela.org/services/adoption
BIRTHING CENTERS East Jefferson General Hospital ■ (504) 503-4000 ■ lcmchealth.org
East Jefferson General Hospital It offers comprehensive maternity support, including early skin-to-skin contact, rooming- in, cue-based feedings, and breastfeeding, and promotes evidence-based care. With eleven board-certified lactation consultants, mothers receive ample support. The hospital provides individualized care for birth preparation, labor, delivery, and postpartum, with nearby Children’s Hospital New Orleans available for pediatric care.
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Crane Rehab Center Pediatrics ■ (504) 866-6990 ■ cranerehabpediatrics.com La Leche League Breastfeeding Support ■ (877) 4-LA-LECHE ■ llalmsla.org Labor and Love
La ■ M ■ ■ N ■ ■ O ■ ■ To ■ ■ C H C N
■ lcmchealth.org CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS
■ (225) 342-3906 Child Care Facility
Licensing Information ■ louisianabelieves.com LaCHIP ■ 1 (877) 252-2447 ■ ldh.la.gov CHILD SAFETY CLASSES Juvenile Products Manufacturers Associatio ■ joma.org Safe Sitter ■ jlno.org/community/safe-sitter The Parenting Center ■ (504) 896-9591 ■ chnola.org/TheParentingCenter
Buckle Up Louisiana ■ (504) 702-2296 ■ facebook.com/BuckleUpLouisiana Louisiana State Police Troop L ■ Tuesdays: 2-5 p.m. ■ (985) 893-6250 The Parenting Center ■ Monthly at Children’s Hospital Parking Garage ■ Appointments: (504) 896-2927 ■ chnola.org
■ (504) 215-8510 ■ laborandlove.org Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeeding.org Nola Nesting
■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Ochsner Lactation Services: Baptist ■ (504) 842-5210 ■ ochsner.org Touro Lactation Center ■ (504) 897-8130
CHILD CARE RESOURCES
Agenda for Children ■ (504) 586-8509 ■ agendaforchildren.org Child Care Assistance Program ■ (225) 376-6060
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION All Ways Supported Birth Services ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com Bradley Method ■ (800) 4-A-BIRTH ■ bradleybirth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network
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■ (800) 686-4226 ext. 240 ■ ican-online.org/batonrouge International Childbirth Education Association ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org Labor and Love
Sh fo
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Ochsner Health At Ochsner, expectant mothers receive top-notch prenatal and maternity care from a team of specialists, including obstetricians, family medicine physicians, and certified nurse midwives. Throughout pregnancy, they get guidance on health, regular check-ups, and screenings. The Family Birthing Services unit ensures a high standard of care during delivery, supported by various medical professionals.
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■ (504) 215-8510 ■ laborandlove.org
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Lamaze International ■ lamaze.org Mindful Birthing Nola ■ (504) 473-6311 ■ mindfulbirthingnola.com Nola Nesting ■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Ochsner Health ■ (866) 624-7637 ■ ochsner.org Touro Family Birthing Center ■ (504) 897-7319 ■ lcmchealth.org CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS Children’s Hospital New Orleans ■ (504) 822-6272 ■ chnola.org Ochsner Children’s Hospital ■ (866) 624-7637 ■ ochsner.org Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 374-4325 ■ ololchildrens.org Shriners Hospital for Children ■ (800) 237-5055 ■ shrinershospitalsforchildren.org FERTILITY
The Fertility Institute ■ (504) 454-2165 ■ fertilityinstitute.com Tulane Doctors - Reproductive Endocrinology & Fertility ■ (504) 988-8070 ■ TulaneObGynInfo@Tulane.edu Woman’s New Life Clinic ■ (504) 831-3117 ■ womansnewlife.com
Raintree Children and Family Services ■ (504) 899-9045 ■ raintreeservices.org Therapeutic Family Services ■ (504) 310-6939 ■ ccano.org/tfs Upbring BeREAL New Orleans ■ (504) 931-3408 Emergency Response ■ (800) 262-8200 Crisis Teen Textline ■ Text: 833-TXT-TEEN Kidline ■ 1 (800) CHILDREN Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence ■ (888) 411-1333 ■ upbring.org HOTLINES 24-Hour HazMat
FOSTER CARE Covenant House New Orleans ■ (504) 584-1111 ■ covenanthousenola.org Crossroads NOLA ■ (504) 482-9135 ■ crossroadsnola.org Louisiana Department
of Children and Family Services ■ dcfs.louisiana.gov
Perkin Alternative Birthing Center The Perkin Alternative Birthing Center offers a unique natural birthing option for mothers in Southeastern Louisiana. It’s the only hospital-based alternative birthing center in the region, providing comprehensive care for both mother and baby. With personalized options like water birth and wireless monitoring, along with lactation assistance, it caters to individual labor and delivery preferences.
Audubon Fertility ■ (504) 475-1458 ■ audubonfertility.com
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Louisiana Poison Center ■ (800) 222-1222 ■ Text: POISON to 797979 ■ lsuhs.edu/about/louisiana-poi- son-center National Safe Haven Alliance ■ Call/Text: (888) 510-BABY (2229) ■ nationalsafehavenalliance.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ Call: 988 ■ 988lifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ Call: 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233) ■ Text: START to 88788 ■ thehotline.org Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana RESOURCE DIRECTORY
MIDWIFERY & DOULA CARE
Nola Nesting ■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com
SP N
All Ways Supported Birth Services ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com DONA (Doula of North America) ■ dona.org
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NUTRITION
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ (504) 568-8229 ■ louisianawic.org Parent Education & Classes American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org
■ ■
Grace Midwifery Collective ■ (985) 265-4032 ■ gracemidwiferycollective.com
Ev ■ ■ Ex ■ ■
Labor and Love ■ (504) 215-8510 ■ laborandlove.org
Louisiana Baby Company ■ louisianababycompany.com PARENTING SUPPORT GROUPS & SERVICES NAMI Family Support Group ■ Mid-City: (504) 896-2345 ■ Westbank: (504) 368-1944 ■ namineworleans.org
Louisiana Baby Company ■ louisananbabycompany.com
New Orleans Midwives ■ NewOrleansMidwives@gmail.com ■ neworleansmidwives.com
■ Call: (833) LA-CHILD ■ Text: (225) 424-1533 ■ preventchildabusela.org
Nola Nesting ■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com
Snuggles & Struggles - New Parent Support Group Weekly at The Parenting Center ■ (504) 896-9591 ■ CHParenting@lcmchealth.org ■ chnola.org/TheParentingCenter Product Recalls & Standards U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov
Saige Birth Center Saige Birth Center provides a tranquil environment for expectant mothers to labor and deliver in two spacious suites equipped with large tubs, comfortable beds, and seating for family. Amenities include a full kitchen and a cozy waiting room. Prenatal visits cover routine tests, ultrasounds, newborn procedures, and birth planning.
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SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT
FHF of Greater New Orleans ■ (800) 766-7736 ■ fhfogno.org
First Look Ultrasound Nola ■ (504) 264-6076 ■ vagaro.com/firstlooknola
Arc of Greater New Orleans ■ (504) 267-7741 (Metairie) ■ (504) 897-0134 (Uptown) ■ arcgno.org Down Syndrome Association of GNO ■ (504) 259-6201 ■ dsagno.org/new-parents
Pink-A-Blue Ultrasound & Boutique
Louisiana Hands & Voices ■ (504) 388-5712 ■ lahandsandvoices.org Pyramid Community Parent Resource Center ■ (504) 218-8922 ■ pyramidparentcenter.org
■ (985) 231-7660 ■ pinkablue4d.com
Sweet Pea 3D/4D Ultrasounds ■ Text: (504) 500-7870 ■ sweetpea3d4dultrasound.com Westbank 3D Ultrasound ■ (504) 309-7055 ■ westbank3dultrasound.com
Everything Autism ■ (504) 952-2304 ■ autism4home.com
ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS
ExceptionalLives ■ (844) 354-1212 ■ exceptionallives.org/louisiana
Baby Steps Imaging ■ (504) 494-0144 ■ babystepsimaging.com
Woman’s New Life Clinic ■ (504) 831-3117 ■ womansnewlife.com
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BELLY LAUGHS
Cravings Gone Wild
THE FOODIES “Mine wasn’t too weird, but it was specific. I would always crave a McDonald’s ice cream cone with a large Coke. It had to be McDonald’s.” – Kayla V. “I once dipped pickles into whipped cream. I don’t know why, but at the time, it felt like a stroke of genius!” – Jessica H. “Hot Cheetos in chocolate pudding was my go-to snack during pregnancy.” – Emily T. “Buddy the Elf knew what he was doing when he combined spaghetti with syrup. At the time, it was the perfect mix of sweet and savory, and now I can’t even think about it!” – Megan F. “I would always crave salt with watermelon and chocolate ice cream.” – Joyce M. “Milk, and I never liked milk before then.” – Jamie R. “Chinese food and mashed potatoes!” – Claire S. “I once ate an entire jar of olives and then had chocolate cake after.” – Kelly T. OUT-OF-THE-FRIDGE MOMS “I craved dirt. Like actual dirt. I never ate it though.” – Amanda G. “The urge to chew on rubber bands was strong. Also ice.” – Jessica R. “I couldn’t stop craving sand. I tell myself it’s because I love the beach so much.” – Lisa M. “I wanted to eat sponges, but I never did. Maybe it was the idea of the texture?” – Christina S. “The smell of cleaning products, not for eating, just smelling.” – Karen C. If you have a funny pregnancy craving, share it with us at editorial@frg.inc.
What Moms-to-Be Really Want... By Amanda Miller
Pregnancy brings forth a lot of changes, which is to be expected. However, many moms-to-be aren’t fully expecting how wild their pregnancy cravings can get. From pickles and peanut butter to fresh lemons or even dirt, there are a wide variety of weird cravings being reported by moms during their pregnancies. Here are a few cravings shared with us. Fair warning, they may provide inspo for something even more wild or maybe even make you hungry!
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BABY FACES
Visit pinkandbluela.com and click on Upload Snapshots. All photos become property of Pink&Blue Magazine, a division of Family Resource Group Inc. WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY’S PICTURE HERE?
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