Pink & Blue Spring 2026

Spring 2026

A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION

SPRING 2026

Mixed Emotions in Pregnancy

Pregnancy with Diabetes The Mental Load

of Modern Motherhood

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PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

a holistic & life-affirming professional medical & mental health clinic for women WE’RE HERE FOR YOU, EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

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Call: 504.831.3117 - Para Español: 504.372.6401 WomansNewLife.com 4612 S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans, LA 70125

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CONTENTS

INSIDE VOLUME 5

IN EACH ISSUE 6 MOM TO MOM-TO-BE 8 LITTLE BITS 10 BABY LOVE 23 BABY WORLD 28 BELLY LAUGHS 30 BABY FACES

FEATURES

BEYOND THE GLOW: NAVIGATING AMBIVALENT FEELINGS Feeling mixed emotions during pregnancy doesn’t take away from the love—it just shows how much is changing; discover how to handle both the excitement and uncertainty. FACING ANXIETY BEFORE AND AFTER BIRTH Anxiety can show up at any stage of pregnancy and postpartum, especially with so much information out there; see how simple boundaries can help make it feel more manageable. MANAGING YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY WITH DIABETES Being pregnant for the first time while managing diabetes can feel like a lot, but the right support and preparation makes a difference; discover how to move through it with confidence.

PHOTOS BY FREEPIK.COM

FOODS THAT MAY CAUSE ALLERGIES IN BABIES Common foods that may trigger allergies in babies, the symptoms to watch for, and tips for introducing new foods safely. SENSORY-RICH BOOKS FOR BABIES Explore touch-and-feel books designed to help your baby or toddler experience different textures while discovering the world around them. DIY HANDPRINT ART IDEAS Create special and unique keepsakes with these material recommendations and step-by-step instructions. MOM & BABY FITNESS HACKS Simple ways mothers can stay active during postpartum recovery while spending time bonding with their babies. WHAT’S ON THE WEB

POSTPARTUM BODY POSITIVITY The postpartum phase comes with a lot of changes, physcially and emotionally; see how the right support and habits can help make the transition feel a little easier in this new chapter.

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MOM TO MOM - TO- BE Dear Mama, Nesting, Resting, and Everything in Between

A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION AMY L. FOREMAN

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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,

2025

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 mag- azine. 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. Reproduc- tion in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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LITTLE BITS

The 5-5-5 Rule for Postpartum Recovery The “5-5-5 rule” emphasizes five days in bed, five days around the bed, and five days around the home. According to Franciscan Health, while this structure may not be realistic for every new mom, it serves as an important reminder to slow down and allow the body time to heal. Pregnancy and childbirth bring major physical and hormonal changes, and proper recovery is essential. Even if the full 15-day approach isn’t possible, incorporating elements of the 5-5-5 rule can help support healing, reduce complications, and encourage mothers to prioritize rest during a time when they’re often focused on everything else. franciscanhealth.org

“ “Everything grows rounder and wider and weirder, and I sit here in the middle of it all and wonder who in the world you will turn out to be.” —Carrie Fisher

Project M.O.M. Louisiana continues to face one of the highest rates of pregnancy-related deaths in the country, with substance use playing a significant role in maternal mortality. In response, the Louisiana Department of Health launched Project M.O.M. (Maternal Overdose Mortality) in February 2026, a targeted initiative aimed at reducing drug-related deaths during and after pregnancy. The program partners with 11 hospitals across the state—including Touro Family Birthing Center in New Orleans—to expand screening, treatment, and support for substance use disorders, particularly during the critical postpartum period. By focusing on early intervention and coordinated care, it represents a proactive step toward improving maternal health outcomes and addressing one of the state’s most urgent public health challenges. ldh.la.gov

What’s Actually Trending in Maternity Fashion Today’s maternity look is all about showing the bump, not concealing it—with fitted silhouettes that highlight shape rather than disguise it. Details like lace, puff sleeves, and soft textures are adding a more expressive, feminine feel, while bold colors and prints bring energy and confidence to pregnancy dressing. Equally, women are increasingly mixing maternity and regular clothes, choosing pieces they’d wear anyway instead of buying a separate, temporary wardrobe. Much of this shift has been driven by celebrities and influencers who’ve redefined pregnancy style, proving that maternity fashion can be just as bold and creative as any other moment in life.

Photos by freepik.com

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“Birth Ready” Designations in New Orleans The Louisiana “Birth Ready” designation is a state recogni- tion for hospitals

that meet high standards for safe, evidence-based maternity care. Launched by the Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative, hospitals qualify through a rigorous review process focused on clinical practices, staff training, and patient-centered care. As of the latest 2025 designations, 35 of Louisiana’s 46 birthing hospitals have earned either “Birth Ready” or the top-tier, “Birth Ready+” status. ldh.la.gov

Goodbye Scrapbooks, Hello Baby Book Apps Digital baby books are becoming mainstream as many new parents choose digital memory keeping over traditional scrapbooks for convenience, affordability, and sharing. Popular apps including Qeepsake, BabyPage, and various photo-album tools, like Apple Shared Albums, let you save photos, captions, and notes digitally. Rather than relying solely on paper baby books, these applications and tools allow instant photo uploads organized under age or event and make sharing with family easy.

Louisiana’s Top Baby Names The Social Security Administration’s (SSA) most recent data, based on a complete sample of Social Security card applications as of March 2025, highlights the

most frequently given baby names by state. In Louisiana, the top 10 names for girls are Olivia, Amelia, Charlotte, Ava, Evelyn, Emma, Mia, Ellie, Harper, and Eleanor. For boys, the top 10 names are Liam, Noah, Elijah, John, William, James, Oliver, Henry, Levi, and Hudson. ssa.gov

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BABY LOVE

“ “A baby’s sleep is like a soft lulla- by, wrapping the world in calm

Keep your baby calm with the Hatch Go , a mini sound machine made for sleep anytime, anywhere. It features multiple color options, 10 soothing sounds, a clip-on ring, rechargeable battery, and no WiFi or download is needed. $39.99. hatch.co

and love.” - Unknown

Master nightfeeding with the Grownsy Baby Bottle Warmer , designed with a Keep Warm function so milk is always ready. It quickly and evenly heats with precise temperature control and auto shut-off. This all-in-one, bottle warmer and sterilizer ensures worry-free feeding. $49.99. grownsy.com

The Momcozy Coral Fleece Hooded Baby Towel is ultura-soft, super ab- sorbent, and gentle on delicate skin. With cute animal designs, a warm hood, secure snaps, and generous size, it’s perfect for cozy post-bath snuggles. $38.99. momcozy.com

The Haakaa Electric Nail Care Set makes trimming nails safe and easy with gentle speeds and a pressure-activated safety sys- tem. It features a quiet motor, LED light, and multiple heads for different nail care needs, so trimming can be done with focus while your baby stays undisturbed. $18.99. haakaausa.com

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Rely on the Angelcare® Soft Touch Baby Bath Support for those early-stage bathtimes, as the design cradles newborns for safer, easier bath time. The soft-touch material is quickly warmed, keeping your baby comfortable during bathtime. $29.99. angelcarebaby.com

The Dream On Me Skylar Bassinet and Beside Sleeper is a portable, adjustable solution for early parenthood. The tool-free assembly and mobility adds convenience to daily use. With breathable mesh sides, foldable design, and multiple height settings, it makes nighttime care easier. $119.99. dreamonme.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 anxiety surrounding the change in your life. Dr. Jamil Norman, PhD, RN, CNE, a maternal health professional, believes “pregnancy is a pendulum.” There is no right or wrong side to your feelings surrounding your own pregnancy. With all of the change happening in your life and in your body, your feelings may vary from a day-to-day basis. It is normal to feel all of it. Dr. 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 ambivalent about their pregnancy. Your mind might tell you to pick a side, but your feelings are more complicated than that. Human relationships are never black and white, so do not try to push that binary onto your relationship with your child. It can also be a complex, and sometimes guilt-ridden, feeling to be pregnant and experience anxiety about it—especially if you personally know someone who has struggled to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Remember that you do not owe other people your own feelings. Define your own story. The first step is knowing that it’s okay to have a pregnancy that does not conform with society’s views of what it should be like. Whatever your friend’s, sister’s, or mother’s pregnancy story was or is, that does not define yours. Of course, every trimester is different. The first trimester is scientifically a surge of hormones, while outwardly some

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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. 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. 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.

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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

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-criti- cism 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

and birth—and what to add or remove from your life to help you manage it.

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joked when I asked if she’d experienced anxiety while pregnant. My mom also wrestled with intense postpartum anxiety and depression after giving birth to me—and she’s not alone. In fact, the number of women experiencing anxiety during the perinatal period has only gotten worse since COVID, according to an article on post-pandemic 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.

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.

Mental Health Support • Don’t Like? Don’t Click

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

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 help. You are not “less than” for dealing with real, hard emotions. Telehealth is

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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, howev- er, 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

for any red flags that may pose risks. If there are no preexisting-risks, taking the necessary steps to prepare for a safe

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. “Pregnan- cy is already a stressful time, and the thought of closely monitoring every- thing 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. “Once you figure out what works for your body, it gets easier. There may be

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. Big- gio 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 dif- ferently during pregnancy in terms of monitoring diabetes and controlling insulin; it’s just a little more control and an emphasis on monitoring more regu- larly than someone who’s not pregnant,” Dr. Biggio says. Starting a pregnancy with a healthy head start typically leads to a favorable outcome. Real Life, Real Experiences Lindsay Cohen, RDN, LDN, CDCES, and owner of Mama-Betes ,

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Common Challenges (and Reassurance)

some trial and error, but that process builds confidence. It turned into a challenge I could solve, and those lessons still influence how I eat today,” says Jessica. For both Lindsay and Jessica, finding community, joining programs, and lean- ing on support systems of women going through similar experiences helped them feel less alone. Nutrition and Daily Life Tips Adhering to a balanced diet is central during pregnancy, especially when managing diabetes. But many people overestimate how much they need to eat. Dr. Biggio says that in reality, most people only need about 200–300 extra calories during pregnancy. For someone with diabetes, he rec- ommends 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 manage due to reduced appetite.

Jessica followed a balanced approach, pairing protein, healthy fats, and carbo- hydrates at each meal. After eating, she checked her glucose levels to ensure she stayed within her target range. “If my glucose ran high, I adjusted at the next meal. It was all about balance, not perfection.” Planning and prepping meals, 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 impor- tance of timing insulin intake, saying, “As long as you can take the right amount of insulin, it’s okay to indulge occasionally while pregnant.” For most pregnancies, exercise is also beneficial. Dr. Biggio recommends aer- obic exercise over high-impact activity three to five days a week because it helps the body absorb glucose. For both Lindsay and Jessica, walking after meals helped keep blood sugar levels in range.

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.

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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.

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

“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

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outsourcing your power to knowledge that comes from a place outside of yourself is that you leave your own knowledge behind—parents become quick to sacrifice their intuition in favor of the latest science or opinion. The trick to finding your own intuition and leaving behind the doubt is to just do what feels good and right, Lowe 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

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PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Baby World

Adoption Resources A Bond of Life Adoptions ■ (504) 315-1990 ■ abladoptions.com/louisiana-adoptions 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 The Louisiana Adoption Home Study ■ 1 (800) 236-7846 ■ americanadoptions.com/louisiana- adoption/louisiana-adoption- home-study Volunteers of America

Touro Infirmary ■ (504) 897-7011 ■ lcmchealth.org/touro West Jefferson Medical Center ■ (504) 347-5511 ■ lcmchealth.org/west-jefferson- medical-center Breastfeeding Support All Ways Supported Birth ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com Crane Rehab Center Pediatrics ■ (504) 866-6990 ■ cranerehabpediatrics.com La Leche League ■ (504) 333-3212 ■ lllalmsla.org Labor and Love ■ (504) 215-8510 ■ info@laborandlove.org ■ laborandlove.org Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeeding@gmail.com ■ louisianabreastfeeding.org Nola Nesting ■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Ochsner Lactation Services: Baptist ■ (504) 842-5210 ■ ochsner.org/services/lactation- consultants Touro Lactation Center

■ voasela.org/services/adoption Birthing Centers East Jefferson General Hospital ■ (504) 503-4000 ■ lcmchealth.org/east-jefferson- general-hospital Ochsner Hospitals ■ (866) 624-7637 ■ ochsner.org Perkin Alternative Birthing Center ■ (504) 894-2880 ■ ochsner.org/services/midwives-at- ochsner-baptist Saige Birth Center ■ (504) 459-2426 ■ saigebirthcenter.com Touro Family Birthing Center ■ (504) 897-7319 ■ lcmchealth.org/touro/our-services/ family-birthing-center

Southeast Louisiana ■ (504) 812-0159

East Jefferson General Hospital Provides evidence-based maternity care with skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding support, and rooming-in. Recognized as Baby-Friendly and supported by 11 lactation consultants and nearby pediatric services.

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

International Childbirth Education Association ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org Labor and Love ■ (504) 215-8510 ■ laborandlove.org Lamaze International ■ (919) 459-2080

■ (504) 897-8130 ■ babies@touro.com ■ lcmchealth.org/touro

■ louisianabelieves.com Louisiana Department of Health ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov NOLA C.A.R.E.S. ■ (504) 272-7766 ■ wearenolacares.org Child Safety Classes Baby Safety Alliance ■ (856) 638-0420 ■ babysafetyalliance.org Safe Sitter ■ (317) 596-5001 ■ safesitter.org ■ Local Classes: jlno.org/community- projects/safe-sitter The Parenting Center ■ (504) 896-9591 ■ manningchildrens.org/services/the- parenting-center Childbirth Education All Ways Supported Birth Services ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com Bradley Method

Car Seat Inspections Louisiana State Police Troop B ■ Wednesdays: 1–4 p.m. ■ (504) 471-2775 Louisiana State Police Troop L ■ Tuesdays: 2–5 p.m. ■ (985) 302-9272 New Orleans Police Dept. CARFIT ■ 1899 Tchoupitoulas St. ■ Appointments: (504) 658-6205 ext. 6209 or 6210 The Parenting Center ■ Monthly at Manning Family Children’s Hospital Parking Garage ■ Free/Open to Public: 3rd Tuesday of every month; 9–11 a.m. ■ Appointments: (504) 894-5118 manningchildrens.org/the- parenting-center Child Care Resources

■ lamaze.org Nola Nesting

■ (504)-655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Ochsner Health ■ (866) 624-7637 ■ ochsner.org Sista Midwife Productions ■ contactus@sistamidwife.com ■ sistamidwife.com Touro Family Birthing Center ■ (504) 897-7319 ■ lcmchealth.org/touro Children’s Hospitals Manning Family Children’s ■ (504) 899-9511 ■ manningchildrens.org Ochsner Children’s Hospital ■ (866) 624-7637

Agenda for Children ■ (504) 586-8509 ■ info@agendaforchildren.org ■ agendaforchildren.org Child Care Assistance Program

■ (818) 788-6662 ■ bradleybirth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org

■ ochsner.org/locations/ochsner-childrens Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 448-1689 ■ fmolhs.org/locations/greater-baton- rouge/our-lady-of-the-lake- childrens-hospital

■ (877) 453-2721 ■ doe.louisiana.gov Child Care Facility Licensing Information ■ (225) 342-9905

Shriners Children’s ■ (888) 214-4153 ■ shrinerschildrens.org/en Fertility Audubon Fertility ■ (504) 475-1458 ■ audubonfertility.com The Fertility Institute ■ (504) 459-1147 ■ fertilityinstitute.com

Ochsner Health Offers prenatal care through OBs, family doctors, and midwives. Services include screenings, check-ups, and expert delivery support at its Family Birthing Services unit.

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

Tulane Doctors - Reproductive Endocrinology & Fertility ■ (504) 988-8070 ■ tulaneobgyninfo@tulane.edu ■ medicine.tulane.edu/tulane-doctors/ womens-health/services-specialties/ reproductive-endocrinology-fertility Woman’s New Life Clinic ■ (504) 831-3117 ■ womansnewlife.com Foster Care

Perkin Alternative Birthing Center Located at Ochsner Baptist, it’s the only hospital-based natural birthing center in the region. Offers personalized care, water births, wireless monitoring, and lactation support.

Covenant House New Orleans ■ (504) 584-1111 ■ covenanthousenola.org

■ Call/Text: 1 (888) 510-BABY (2229) ■ nationalsafehavenalliance.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

■ gracemidwiferycollective.com Labor and Love ■ (504) 215-8510 ■ info@laborandlove.org ■ laborandlove.org Louisiana Baby Company ■ (504) 264-2832 ■ louisianababycompany.com New Orleans Midwives ■ neworleansmidwives@gmail.com ■ neworleansmidwives.com Nola Nesting ■ (504) 616-7121 ■ serenenola.com Sista Midwife Productions ■ contactus@sistamidwife.com ■ sistamidwife.com Nutrition ■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Serene Nola Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ 1 (800) 251-2229 ■ louisianawic.org SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) ■ louisianabenefits.gov Parent Education & Classes

Crossroads NOLA ■ (504) 482-9135 ■ crossroadsla.org Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services ■ 1 (888) 524-3578 ■ dcfs.louisiana.gov Raintree Children and Family Services ■ (504) 899-9045 ■ raintreeservices.org Therapeutic Family Services ■ (504) 310-6939 ■ ccano.org/tfs Hotlines 24-Hour Haz Mat Emergency Response ■ (800) 262-8200 Kidline ■ 1 (800) 244-5373 Louisiana 211 Statewide Network ■ Call: 211 ■ louisiana211.org Louisiana Coalition Against

■ Call/Text: 988 ■ 988lifeline.org

National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ Call: 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233) ■ Text: START to 88788 ■ thehotline.org Postpartum Support International Helpline ■ Call: 1 (800) 944-4773 ■ postpartum.net Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana ■ Call: 833-LA-CHILD ■ Text: 225-424-1533 ■ preventchildabusela.org Midwifery & Doula Care All Ways Supported Birth Services ■ (504) 233-4114 ■ allwaysbirth.com Birthmark Doulas ■ admin@birthmarkdoulas.com ■ birthmarkdoulas.com DONA (Doula of North America) ■ dona.org Doulas United in Equity New Orleans (DUENOLA) ■ intake@duenola.org ■ duenola.org Grace Midwifery Collective ■ 985) 773-0449

Domestic Violence ■ 1 (888) 411-1333 Louisiana Poison Center ■ (800) 222-1222 ■ Text: POISON to 797979 ■ lsuhs.edu/about/louisiana- poison-center National Safe Haven Alliance

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org Louisiana Baby Company ■ (504) 264-2832 ■ louisianababycompany.com Parent Support Groups & Services Better Family Life (New Orleans Chapter) ■ (404) 693-5414 ■ betterfamilylifenola.org Children’s Bureau of New Orleans ■ (504) 525-2366 ■ childrensbureaunola.org Family Connects New Orleans (FCNO) ■ (504) 658-2598 ■ nola.gov Healthy Start New Orleans ■ (504) 658-2600 ■ nola.gov JNO Diaper Bank - Junior League of New Orleans ■ jlno.org/community-projects/ diaperbank Louisiana Mental Health Perinatal Partnership (LAMHPP) ■ (504) 988-9171

Everything Autism ■ stacy@autism4home.com ■ autism4home.com

■ (985) 626-6538‌ ■ namisela.org Nola Nesting

ExceptionalLives ■ (844) 354-1212 ■ exceptionallives.org/louisiana Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans ■ (504) 888-9111 ■ fhfofgno.org Louisiana Hands & Voices ■ contactus@lahandsandvoices.org ■ lahandsandvoices.org Pyramid Community Parent Resource Center ■ (504) 218-8922 ■ pyramidparentcenter.org The Arc Greater New Orleans ■ (504) 837-5105 ■ arcgno.org Ultrasound Technicians Baby Steps Imaging ■ (504) 494-0144 ■ babystepsimaging.com First Look Ultrasound Nola ■ (504) 264-6076 ■ firstlooknola.com Mommy & Me 4D ■ (985) 788-1185 ■ mommyandme4d.org Nola Diagnostic Ultrasound ■ (504) 500-7870 ■ nolaultrasound.com Pink-A-Blue 4D/HD Ultrasound ■ (985) 231-7660 ■ pinkablue4d.com Sweet Pea 3D/4D Ultrasounds ■ 1 (504) 500-7870 ■ sweetpea3d4dultrasound.com Westbank 3D Ultrasound ■ (504) 309-7055 ■ westbank3dultrasound.com Woman’s New Life Clinic ■ (504) 831-3117 ■ womansnewlife.com

■ (504) 655-1819 ■ nolanesting.com Snuggles & Struggles - New Parent Support Group ■ Weekly at The Parenting Center ■ (504) 896-9591 ■ chparenting@lcmchealth.org ■ manningchildrens.org/services/ the-parenting-center Tulane Building Early Relationships Support & Services (TBEARS) ■ (504) 988-9222

■ tbears.org TLC Moms ■ ldh.la.gov Product Recalls & Standards

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov Special Needs Support Down Syndrome Association of GNO ■ info@dsagno.org ■ dsagno.org/new-parents

■ perinatalpsych@tulane.edu NAMI Southeast Louisiana

Touro Family Birthing Center Offers various birth options including midwives, doulas, hydrotherapy, and nitrous oxide. Custom birth plans accommodate natural, medicated, or water-assisted labor.

PINK&BLUE | SPRING 2026

SPRING 2026 | PINK&BLUE

Belly vs. Bed:

BELLY LAUGHS

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 let- ting yourself drift off to dream- land. Now those days are a distant memory—at least for now. When you’re in the trenches of your third trimester, sleep be- comes 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-preg- nancy isn’t enough anymore. The pillow team now consists of multiple members, and they’re all necessary. There’s the pillow be- hind 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. Some- times 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 readjusted 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 restart 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 every- thing 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 sometimes, 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. Even- tually…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

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