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How to Choose a Hospital to Give Birth At

by Marketing Manager | Jan 26, 2023 | Babies, Pregnancy

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]U.S. News & World Report recently published an article on ‘How to Choose a Maternity Hospital.’ The article’s purpose is to help pregnant women find the maternity hospital that is best for them by asking questions that give insight into the hospital’s healthcare team, facility outcomes, and labor and delivery details. Read on to learn what factors to consider and what questions to ask.

Factors to Consider

There are several factors to consider when choosing what hospital you are going to give birth at. Some factors may be more important to you than others depending on your preferences. Factors to consider include:

The Maternity Care Team
Quality Metrics
Birthing Experience
NICU and Emergency Capabilities
Breastfeeding Support
Resources

The Maternity Care Team

Oftentimes people choose their maternity hospital depending on where their healthcare provider delivers. When choosing an obstetrician, make sure that they consider your concerns, fears, preferences, and that you feel comfortable with them. When deciding on a maternity hospital consider the following questions:

Does the facility have maternal-fetal medicine specialists or perinatologists (doctors who specialize in high-risk pregnancies)?
Does the hospital offer some other forms of labor and delivery experiences besides traditional physician-led care?
Is there the option for laboring with a midwife or doula?
Do they have group prenatal care?

Quality Metrics

Knowing the data and statistics of the hospital you plan to deliver at is important. Some of the quality metrics you may want to consider are:

C-section rate
NTSV C-section rate (C-section rate for a woman who has never given birth before with low-risk pregnancies)
Early elective delivery rate
Episiotomy rate

Birthing Experience

Do you know what your preferences are when it comes to your birthing experience? Consider and ask the hospital or your doctor the following questions about the birthing experience offered at the hospital:

Am I able to get a tour of the maternity unit?
What pain-control options do you offer, including and beyond epidurals?
What labor positions can I deliver in? Can I walk around?
Do you have birthing balls or birthing tubs?
Do you have private birthing rooms?
How many support people are allowed to be with me?
What factors are considered with induced labor?
Are VBACs an option?
Is delayed cord clamping available?

NICU and Emergency Capabilities

If you have a high-risk pregnancy or you would like to be on the side of caution in case your childbirth has complications it is good to consider what NICU and emergency care is offered at the hospital. You may like to look into the following:

Is there an anesthesiologist in the hospital at all times?
Is there a pediatrician in the hospital at all times?
Does the hospital have a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)? If so, what is the level of that NICU?
If the hospital does not have a NICU and a child needs NICU care, where are they transferred, and how long does that normally take?

Breastfeeding Support and Additional Resources

If you are interested in breastfeeding, inquire if the hospital provides lactation consultants or if they encourage breastfeeding. Many high-quality hospitals also offer additional resources to new or soon-to-be parents such as maternal health navigators or social workers to aid in finding resources for families in need.

The Bottom Line

Although this list contains many questions and considerations, it is important to take the time to learn what your maternity hospital offers and what its standards are. To read the full original article from the U.S. News and World Report, click here.

Resources

Esposito, L., & Rowe, A. (2022, December 1). Checklist for choosing a Maternity Hospital | U.S. news. U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved January 19, 2023

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Breastfeeding Basics

by Marketing Manager | Jan 12, 2023 | Babies

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you are a new mother or soon to be new mother, you may be feeling overwhelmed with how much there is to learn. You have probably thought for hours about what diapers are best, what toys you need, which car seat is safest, and what is my baby going to eat. Fortunately, there are many options out there for families to choose from when it comes to deciding how you are going to feed your baby. Your options and decision will depend on several factors including availability and medical concerns. Breastmilk has been the number one option for many families for many years. If you are a new mom or soon to be mom, you probably have many questions about breastfeeding. Let’s dive into some breastfeeding basics to get you started.

How is Breast Milk Made?

When a female is pregnant there are several changes that happen within the body. The breasts have cells that respond to the pregnancy hormone changes and they will start to get ready to make breastmilk. When the baby suckles, these cells will make breastmilk.

How Do I Know If I Am Making Enough Breastmilk?

In most cases, the more your baby suckles, the more milk your breasts will make. The best way to know if your baby is getting enough breastmilk is by counting the number of wet diapers they have in a day and if they are gaining weight. From birth to three months old, infants normally gain about one ounce a day. Remember that it is also normal for a baby to lose a small amount of weight in the first days after birth.

How Often Should I Breastfeed?

You should breastfeed as soon as possible after birth. After that, you should breastfeed your baby every two to four hours throughout the day and night. Each baby is different and some could require more frequent feedings. There is no time limit or set time for how long a feeding is. Some babies feed for five minutes while others feed for twenty minutes. As time goes on you will learn your baby’s specific habits.

How Long Should I Breastfeed For?

The amount of time you breastfeed will depend on many factors such as work schedules and medical needs. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastmilk should be the only source of food for the first six months of a baby’s life, and to continue breastfeeding until the infant’s 1st birthday or even beyond if preferred by the baby and mother.

Where Can I Learn More About Breastfeeding?

An OB/GYN healthcare provider, pediatrician, and / or certified lactation consultant are the best resources for learning more about breastfeeding. If you are struggling with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Resources

Making breastmilk. Making breastmilk | Office on Women’s Health. (n.d.). Retrieved January 6, 2023

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5 Tips for Breastfeeding Nutrition

by Marketing Manager | Dec 29, 2022 | Babies

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Being a mother is tough, especially if it’s your first time. When having your first baby you learn a lot of new stuff you probably never knew about, like diapers, strollers, baby toys, and more. One of the most intimidating things to learn about as a new mom is breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are many professionals out there to help you learn the ins and outs of breastfeeding. It is amazing that a mother can provide nutrition to her baby with her own body. If you are breastfeeding you may be wondering how your own diet affects your breast milk and your baby’s nutrition. Let’s dive into breastfeeding nutrition tips from the Mayo Clinic.

1. Consume a Few Extra Calories

Your body needs energy and nutrition to produce milk but remember to not go overboard. Approximately 330 to 400 additional calories a day are recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These calories should come from nutrient-rich foods.

2. Focus on Healthy Foods

Nutritious foods help your body produce milk. Choose lean protein-rich foods, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Focus on eating healthy foods that are not processed and provide good nutrition. Eating a variety of foods will change the flavor of your breast milk and allow your baby to try different tastes. While breastfeeding, your healthcare provider may recommend a daily multivitamin to make sure you and your baby are getting all the needed nutrients.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying well hydrated while breastfeeding is essential. If you are wondering whether you are hydrated enough, take a look at your urine. If it appears dark you are probably not consuming enough fluids. Water is the best option. Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks.

4. What to Avoid While Breastfeeding

There are a few things that you should avoid consuming while breastfeeding such as alcohol, caffeine, and some fish. Alcohol transfers to your breast milk and can be passed on to the baby. If you are going to drink alcohol, make sure to avoid breastfeeding until the alcohol has been cleared from your breast milk and consider pumping milk for your baby before drinking. Caffeine should be limited to two to three cups a day. Consuming too much caffeine could irritate your baby and their sleep. Fish is a good source of nutrition but mercury transferring through breast milk is a concern for your baby. Avoid seafood that is high in mercury such as mackerel, swordfish, and tilefish.

5. Pay Attention to What You Are Eating

Pay close attention to what you are eating. Some babies can be irritable, fussy, or have an allergic reaction to the things that you are eating and that is coming through your breast milk. If you think this is the case, keep a food journal to track what you are eating, when you are feeding your baby, and when your baby is fussy. Try to eliminate any foods from your diet that may be irritating your baby. Consult a healthcare provider if needed or if your baby has an allergic reaction.

Resources

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, April 27). What to eat while breastfeeding your baby. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved December 23, 2022

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Help Your Dog Prepare for Your New Baby

by Marketing Manager | Dec 1, 2022 | Babies

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Four steps to help get your dog ready for the arrival of a new baby.

Introducing your new baby to your fur baby can be scary, especially for first-time parents. Bringing a baby into your home causes a lot of changes for you and also your pets. Both your schedule and your dog’s routine will be disrupted. Unfortunately, your dog will likely be getting less attention which may take the dog some adjustment time to get used to. Follow these four steps to help your dog get ready for a new baby.

Step 1: Evaluate and Train Your Dog

Has your dog ever been around children before? Is your dog comfortable around children? Is your dog respectful? Do they have obedience training? Does your dog have any questionable or aggressive behaviors? Evaluate your dog by starting with these questions.

You will need to concentrate on training before the baby is due to arrive. It is best to start the training as early as possible to give your dog time to learn and practice their new skills. General obedience training will be necessary. Mastering the skills of sit, stay, down, and off is essential. Leash training will also be needed if you plan to take both the dog and baby for walks. If you don’t think your dog has mastered these skills or is uncomfortable with children you should get professional dog training help. Find a reputable dog trainer in your area to work with.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dog for Routine Changes

Your dog’s routine is going to be disrupted. It is best to get them used to routine changes before your baby arrives home. The dog needs to learn to be flexible with its feeding, exercise, and sleeping routine. Start making changes to your dog’s routine so disruptions, when the baby arrives, don’t bother them so much.

Step 3: Teach Your Dog the New Rules

If you want to set new rules for the dog such as staying off the couch or staying out of the baby’s room then teach them these rules before the baby arrives. Teaching them these rules beforehand will lessen any frustration or resentment for you and the dog.

Step 4: Introduce Your Dog to Baby Life

Get your dog used to baby life by introducing them to baby sounds, smells, and sights. Show your dog baby supplies such as toys, strollers, and swings. Play videos of babies crying or making noises so your dog can get used to hearing them. It may be a very good idea to practice with a lifelike doll and pretend to care for the doll like you would a baby. Feed, carry, and rock the baby doll. This is a good method to test your dog and see how it may react to a baby.

If your dog does not do well with preparing for the baby, or training, or has a history of aggressive behavior then you will have to consider giving your dog to a loved one to care for. Even though you love your dog, you should never put your child’s safety at risk for a dog. Consult with a professional dog trainer if your dog has any questionable or aggressive behavior.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1618658856512{margin-top: 75px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_text_separator title=”Services We Offer:”][vc_column_text]

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Three Breastfeeding Products You May Not Know About

by Marketing Manager | Aug 18, 2022 | Babies, Pregnancy

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Being a first-time mom can be overwhelming and intimidating because you don’t always know what you’re doing and there is so much to learn. Going shopping for baby gear and supplies can boggle your mind if you don’t have another experienced person with you. There are many needed supplies for a baby and many more products out on the market today compared to twenty years ago. There is a constant flow of products that aren’t recommended anymore and products that are new to the market. You may be asking yourself questions such as: “What is this for?,” “Do I really need this?” and “What does this do?” Let’s dig into some of these products on the market that relate to breastfeeding that you may be wondering about.

1. Nipple Cream

This product is foreign and not known to many women unless you have breastfed previously. Sometimes when breastfeeding your nipples can get sore and cracked. This is especially true at the beginning of the breastfeeding journey when the mom and the baby are just learning how to breastfeed. Nipple cream helps moisturize the nipple to prevent skin irritation and cracking. This product is made by many different brands and is available in-store or online. Some moms may benefit from nipple cream while others may never have a use for it.

2. Nipple Guard or Nipple Shield

A nipple guard or shield is typically made from flexible silicone material in the shape of a nipple. It is placed over the woman’s nipple when breastfeeding to reduce pain, irritation, and / or help with latching problems. These come in different sizes to fit the woman’s nipple. They are usually used under the supervision of a lactation consultant to help aid in any lactation and breastfeeding issues. Not every breastfeeding woman will find a nipple guard necessary.

3. Nipple Formers

Nipples come in all different shapes and sizes. If a woman has inverted or flat nipples, they may benefit from the use of a nipple former. This product helps prepare the nipple so that it is easier for the baby to get a good latch on the nipple to breastfeed. A nipple former is not needed for every single breastfeeding woman. Speak with a lactation consultant if you think you may benefit from a nipple former.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1618658856512{margin-top: 75px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_text_separator title=”Services We Offer:”][vc_column_text]

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Pacifiers…Are They Good or Bad for Your Baby?

by Marketing Manager | Jul 28, 2022 | Babies

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Who knew a small plug that a baby sucks on could cause such a debate? There are some parents that are anti-pacifier and others who are pro-pacifier. Each person has their own opinions on the matter and the decision is yours if you want your child to have one or not. Let’s explore the pros and cons of pacifiers presented by a Mayo Clinic article.

To read the original article, click here.

Pros

Pacifiers are soothing for many babies. It can offer a distraction and help calm them down when they are upset. It helps some children settle down and fall asleep more easily.
There are some studies that have shown that pacifiers may aid in reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Cons

Children can become dependent on the pacifier as a way to soothe themselves when they are upset or want to go to sleep.
Pacifiers can cause ‘nipple confusion’ when a baby is very young and breastfeeding. It is sometimes recommended to not offer a pacifier until a baby is three to four weeks old and already breastfeeding well.
The prolonged use of pacifiers could lead to dental issues such as misaligned teeth when a child gets a bit older.
There are some studies that show that pacifier use may increase the risk of ear infections.

Pacifier Safety and Use

If you choose to use a pacifier for your child you should keep these useful tips in mind.

Keep pacifiers clean. Babies are not born with a strong immune system so it is important to keep anything that goes into their mouths as clean as possible. Make sure to sanitize them regularly.
Don’t put anything on the pacifier such as sugar. This isn’t healthy for a young baby.
Watch for signs of damage and deterioration to the pacifier. If it becomes damaged, throw it away. It could become a safety hazard.
Choose a one-piece pacifier. A two-piece pacifier could break apart and become a choking hazard.
If a child isn’t interested then don’t try to force the use of a pacifier on them.
Use a different type of soothing method such as rocking or softly talking to your child before going for the pacifier. This will help resist pacifier dependence.

Resources

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, February 10). Pros, cons, do’s and don’ts of baby’s pacifier. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved July 21, 2022[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1618658856512{margin-top: 75px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_text_separator title=”Services We Offer:”][vc_column_text]

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Next Entries »

How to Choose a Hospital to Give Birth At

Resources

Breastfeeding Basics

Resources

5 Tips for Breastfeeding Nutrition

Resources

Help Your Dog Prepare for Your New Baby

Three Breastfeeding Products You May Not Know About

1. Nipple Cream

2. Nipple Guard or Nipple Shield

3. Nipple Formers

Pacifiers…Are They Good or Bad for Your Baby?

Pros

Cons

Pacifier Safety and Use

Resources

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