Balancing Birth To Baby Blog
Collecting Colostrum During Pregnancy
By Bronwyn Addico |
If you’re expecting a baby, you may have heard about the benefits of collecting colostrum before birth, also known as antenatal colostrum harvesting. Colostrum is the first milk your body produces, often called “liquid gold” for its rich concentration of nutrients, antibodies, and protective properties. Collecting colostrum in the weeks leading up to your baby’s […]
Planning for your Postpartum
By Bronwyn Addico |
So much time, effort and energy goes into planning for pregnancy and planning for the birth of a baby. Often what is neglected is planning for the postpartum period. We get so caught up in waiting to have a baby that when they actually come there is an awful “Aha!” moment of “Well what do […]
Empowering Black Mothers: Overcoming the Barriers to Breastfeeding in the Black Community
By Christina Iaboni |
This post was written by Desiray Tynes, dietetic student and reviewed by Christina Iaboni, RD Black Breastfeeding Week 2024 runs from August 25-311. This annual event celebrates and supports Black mothers in their breastfeeding journeys. Despite the health benefits of breastfeeding, Black mothers often face unique challenges. To help, we need to address these barriers […]
Foods to Avoid during Pregnancy
By Christina Iaboni |
You probably know that food plays an important role in your pregnancy. You want the best for your baby, and that’s why you’re likely busy making sure you’re getting those extra calories from a well-balanced diet and taking all your prenatal vitamins. But did you know that there are foods you should avoid during your […]
Supporting Postpartum Mood Disorders
By Bronwyn Addico |
Welcoming a baby into the world is a life-changing experience filled with joy, excitement, and sometimes unexpected challenges. For some new parents, those challenges include navigating postpartum mood disorders, which are more common than many people realize. While the “baby blues” are short-lived, postpartum mood disorders like postpartum depression can last much longer and make […]
Postpartum Depression in Partners is Real
By Bronwyn Addico |
Postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety, can affect not only the birthing parent but also their partner. While postpartum mood disorders are often associated with mothers, it is important to recognize that fathers and partners can also experience emotional challenges during the postpartum period. Fathers and partners may not experience the […]
How to Troubleshoot Crying
By Bronwyn Addico |
Your baby knows how to cry from the moment they are born. Crying helps a newborn take in their first breaths and expand their lungs. The transition from the womb, where oxygen is received through the placenta, to breathing air is a significant change. Crying helps clear the airways and facilitates the exchange of oxygen […]
Top Pumping Tips from a Doula
By Bronwyn Addico |
Pumping can be a dire task sometimes. Finding extra time to sit and pump can be difficult. Even more so can be having enough milk in your body after feeding your baby to be able to extract anything more than a few drops. There are lots of things you can do to help boost your pumping efforts and make them more worthwhile.
Hospital Checklist: Preparing for the Big Day!
By Bronwyn Addico |
Feeling prepared and ready for your baby’s arrival can give you some peace of mind. Packing the hospital bag is one step to getting ready for your big day! For some expecting families, everything will be packed and ready before week 37, when you are considered “full-term”. If you normally like to procrastinate and fly […]
Induction and Epidural Tips
By Jane Hammond |
Has your doctor or midwife brought up the possibility of having an induction with you? There are several reasons why an induction may be indicated, from being overdue, to having a health condition that makes it safer for you and your baby to deliver earlier. While it’s not essential to have an epidural if you […]
Introducing a Furry Family Member to Your Baby
By Bronwyn Addico |
As a former Veterinary Technician, a Doula, and a beloved pet owner, Stephanie E. finds that clients often worry about how their furry members will feel about a new baby. This is a valid concern. Here are her top tips to prepare and introduce your pet to the new baby: First off, does your pet […]
Freezer Meals for Expecting Parents
By Christina Iaboni |
Taking time to prepare nutritious and comforting freezer meals before your baby arrives can be a huge advantage in those first few weeks of postpartum. Settling into a new routine with a baby is a time of great joy but it can also feel overwhelming. You probably won’t want to spend too much time thinking […]
