Balancing Birth To Baby Blog
When your baby is in the NICU
By Bronwyn Addico |
When Your Baby is in the NICU: What to Expect, How to Cope, and Preparing for the Journey HomeHaving a baby in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) is something no parent hopes for, yet it’s a reality for many families. Whether your baby was born prematurely, experienced complications at birth, or needs extra monitoring, […]
Prenatal Class FAQs
By Bronwyn Addico |
We often hear from expecting families that they feel overwhelmed with all the information and advice about birth and their baby. Many families aren’t sure if they need a prenatal class or which one to take. We aim to cut through the overwhelm and all the noise to give you the best and most relevant […]
You’re Pregnant! Now What?
By Jane Hammond |
Congratulations! What an exciting time for you! I’m sure there are a million thoughts and feelings running through your brain right now. Let us take care of some of the work for you – here’s a handy list of things you need to do in the first few weeks and months of pregnancy. First things […]
What Is a Doula (and Why You Might Want One)?
By Bronwyn Addico |
If you’ve ever heard someone mention their doula and found yourself wondering, “What exactly does a doula do?” you’re not alone. The word “doula” often conjures up an image of a mystical guide to all things birth and baby, but we’re here to set the record straight (and maybe add a sprinkle of magic along […]
Books for Babies
By Bronwyn Addico |
Books are a great way to help your baby develop and become a reader for life! At birth a baby has all the brain cells they need for life, but they need to develop the connections (or synapses) between these cells. These connections are the keys to learning. The brain’s ability to grow these connections […]
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 […]
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 […]
Sibling and New Baby Tips
By Jane Hammond |
Bringing a new baby home brings many joys, but also many challenges. If you have older children, one of those challenges may be helping your toddler or older child accept the new baby. This is a tough transition for many families, so you are definitely not alone in the struggle! Here are all our doula-approved […]