Tag: maternal health
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After My Family’s Childbirth Crisis, I’m Dedicated to Training Black Dads as Doulas
Read more The journey to parenthood can be filled with immense joy, but it can also lead to heart-wrenching challenges. Two days before Christmas in 2017, my partner and I were overjoyed, anticipating the arrival of our twin boys. However, that excitement quickly turned into unimaginable sorrow when we faced the stillbirth of our first…
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Laxatives During Pregnancy: What You Should Know
Read more Experiencing constipation during pregnancy is a common issue, leading many expectant mothers to wonder about the safety of using laxatives. If natural remedies like increasing fiber intake and drinking more water haven’t provided relief, you might be considering laxatives to alleviate discomfort. However, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before making any…
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Nourishing for Two: The Essentials of Eating During Pregnancy
Read more When you’re expecting, your dietary choices become paramount. The weight gained throughout pregnancy not only supports your growing baby but also prepares your body for breastfeeding. A gradual increase in weight within advised limits can significantly reduce the risks of common pregnancy discomforts such as hemorrhoids, varicose veins, stretch marks, back pain, fatigue,…
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Medications and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know About Safe Medications While Nursing
Read more Navigating medications while breastfeeding can feel overwhelming, but understanding what’s safe for you and your baby is essential. Fortunately, the majority of medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—are compatible with breastfeeding. However, a small number may affect your milk supply or pose risks to your little one. Here’s a helpful guide to help you make…
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Help! My Baby Bites Me While Breastfeeding
Read more “Help! Ever since my daughter got her first two teeth, she has been biting me during breastfeeding. It feels like a game to her, but it’s become so painful that I’m bleeding. What can I do?” ~ Sarah T. It sounds like you’re dealing with a little munching machine! While it might seem…
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Experiencing a Threatened Miscarriage: What You Need to Know
Read more Facing unexpected bleeding or cramping during the early stages of pregnancy can be alarming. It’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider when this happens, as it could indicate a condition known as a threatened miscarriage. While this diagnosis raises concern, it doesn’t always mean that a loss is imminent; many women…
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Pumping Breast Milk: A Complete Guide and Helpful Tips
Read more If you’re planning to pump breast milk, whether for convenience or to maintain your milk supply, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will cover everything you need to know about pumping, including when to start, how to do it effectively, and how to store your precious milk. When Should I Start…
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Do Breastfed Babies Require Vitamins? Vitamin D and Iron for Infants
Read more When it comes to whether breastfed infants need vitamins, the answers can seem confusing. Many new parents wonder about the necessity of vitamin supplementation, especially considering the variety of advice from lactation consultants, fellow moms, and online resources. So, do breastfed babies need vitamins? The short answer is yes, particularly when it comes…
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Foods That May Help Enhance Your Breast Milk Supply
Read more If you’re a breastfeeding mom, chances are you’ve come across the idea that certain foods can help increase your milk supply. But do they actually work? Let’s dive into some options that might give you the boost you’re looking for. Fenugreek: These fragrant seeds are often heralded as powerful galactagogues. They contain compounds…
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Navigating Back Pain During Pregnancy
Read more Hey there, mama! If you’re feeling that familiar ache in your back as you navigate your pregnancy journey, you’re definitely not alone. Back pain is a common companion for many expectant moms, and it can show up in various forms—think stiffness, soreness, or a dull ache in your lower back, upper back, or…