There are so many things we need as new parents: more time, better sleep, another set of arms and someone to tell us we’re doing great. Whatever you’re struggling with, there is no shortage of professionals who can help, from babysitters and night nannies to postpartum doulas and personal assistants. Read on to find out about the newborn and postpartum helpers new parents can turn to for support and guidance when they need it most.
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Lactation Consultant
If you're breastfeeding, lactation consultants help you figure out the basics of nursing, from getting a good latch to how to best position the baby for feeding, as well as recommending foods to support milk production and how to switch between breast and bottle. Lactation consultants can also help pinpoint feeding issues like tongue ties and lend support. Some lactation consultants run groups for Q&As, which is a great place to meet other mothers of newborns. To find one, head to The Lactation Network, the nation's largest network of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants. They can connect you with insurance-covered lactation care and breast pumps to support you in your journey.
Postpartum Doula
Doula means "woman who serves" in ancient Greek. Today, postpartum doulas serve new mothers by filling the support roles they need as newborn and postpartum helpers. Sometimes this means cooking nutritious meals or doing light housekeeping. It can also mean holding an older sibling so the new mom can shower or rest. Postpartum doulas may also provide advice about newborn care and feeding, although they do not provide medical advice. If a new mom needs someone to lean on, a postpartum doula can provide emotional support.
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Mother's Helper A mother's helper can be very useful for new parents who need another set of hands. For example, a mother's helper may rock a baby to sleep to give new parents some time to get other things done. With a mother's helper, a parent typically stays nearby to step in as needed. Some mother's helpers may not change diapers or feed the baby but this varies tremendously. A mother's helper may also do things to make life easier for new parents, such as running errands or fielding phone calls.
Babysitter Babysitters for newborns may be harder to find, but they do exist! This is a great choice when you only need a few hours of kid coverage a week for a date night, work or some "me" time. Before hiring a babysitter for your baby, be sure that they are experienced in newborn care. And make sure you know these babysitter interview tips and must-ask questions.
Night Nanny Sometimes what new parents need the most is sleep. A night nanny can step in to make sure your newborn is cared for throughout the night so you can get some shut-eye. This will help you be at your best during the day to be the best parent possible. A night nanny is sometimes called a night nurse. However, those who fill this role rarely have nursing degrees.
Baby Nurse A baby nurse helps new parents transition into their new roles. Typically, these postpartum helpers assist with all aspects of a newborn's care, from baths and feeding to organizing clothing and diapers. Baby nurses can also help establish sleep routines and stay overnight. Despite the name, most baby nurses do not have any formal medical training. If you want a true nurse, be sure to ask for credentials.
Nanny A nanny is a great choice for parents who need full-time support. Typically, nannies take over all aspects of a baby's care. Depending on the parents' preferences, a nanny can accompany the family on outings to pitch in when needed or watch the baby while the parents work, spend time with older siblings or get other things done. A nanny might also watch brothers and sisters in addition to the baby. A nanny will usually work longer and more regular hours than a babysitter. Some nannies start with a family when they have a newborn and stay for years. Here's how to find the best nanny for your baby.
Personal Assistant A personal assistant may be a great choice for new parents who have more to manage than they can handle. They can make appointments, place orders and more. Some new moms prefer to do these tasks for themselves, but they can be a great back-up for new moms who are comfortable outsourcing.
We all know parents are warriors who can work miracles on very little sleep. But we’re also human, and humans need support sometimes. These online resources can connect you with experts, answer your questions, calm your mind, and provide valuable help to you and your baby.
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The Lactation Network Get the breastfeeding support you need, including 100% health insurance-covered consultations with lactation consultants (in-home, in-office or telehealth), help choosing a breast pump, and lots of useful articles to support your nursing journey.
New Kind Get one-on-one newborn support from certified postpartum doulas with years of experience in feeding, sleep and postpartum issues. Pick a plan, then get matched with an expert and meet them by video call.
Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS) This nonprofit organization provides parents expecting rainbow babies with online support groups, in-person local groups, and an app with a milestone tracker, community support, self-care and coping tools and more.
pumpspotting This breastfeeding app gives you access to experts for virtual consultations and connects you with a community of parents living that nursing life. Read articles tailored to your experience, based on baby's due date and the date you go back to work. There's even a crowdsourced map of places to nurse and pump, with ratings and photos.
Cluster Get answers to all your questions about feeding your baby on Cluster, in a judgment-free, peer-powered community. Brought to you by baby nutrition company ByHeart, Cluster can set you up with appointments, classes and events with experts in the field, along with ways to connect with other parents with similar feeding concerns. Whether you're bottlefeeding or breastfeeding, you'll find answers about feeding and sleep, breast issues, setting schedules, baby digestive issues, bonding, self-care and more.
Motherfigure This maternal wellness startup is committed to supporting mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and raising children through providing them access to care and education. Find childbirth education classes (online or in person); search for doulas, lactation consultants and more in your area; shop for maternity and nursing clothes; and read lots of first-person accounts and reviews.
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Exhale Parent This educational resource gives new parents and parents-to-be the legal and financial information they need. If you have questions about topics such as maximizing paternal leave, writing a contract for a caretaker for your child, budgeting, creating a will or choosing a 529 plan, Exhale Parent can help. The site breaks down topics so they're easier to understand and lets you know the steps involved so you can tackle them efficiently.
boober Founded by a doula, this online marketplace helps expectant and new parents find high-quality classes on childbirth and postpartum support (topics include infant CPR, pumping and newborn sleep), as well as vetted, expert maternal care providers, including lactation consultants, doulas and mental health therapists. Sessions are held in-person or virtually and include free live webinars.
Postpartum Support International This organization offers online support groups, helplines & text services for new and expecting moms to help manage postpartum stress, isolation, anxiety and depression. Call or text the helpline 24/7 to leave a message that will be answered by a trained volunteer. There are weekly online support meetings for a variety of groups, including: pregnancy mood support, perinatal mood support, NICU parents, military moms, pregnancy and infant loss, and black mothers. Dads can also call for support or attend the monthly Just for Dads chat.
Parent Lab Parent Lab offers online parenting courses (online or audio) on a variety of topics geared toward new parents, including dealing with anxiety, increasing quality time, screen time guidance, sleep, and coparenting. The team of experts includes child development experts, behavioral experts and parent coaches.
Nurture by NAPS Founded by two labor-and-delivery nurses, who are also moms, Nurture by NAPS is a subscription service that offers evidence-based, instructional content on pregnancy through the first year of a child's life, including videos from medical professionals, live webinars, weekly live Q&A sessions, and the ability to ask nurses questions and receive an answer within 24 hours.
Tinyhood Tinyhood is an app and website that provides advice and support to parents and parents-to-be. Through live online parenting classes and one-on-one consultations with experts, Tinyhood tackles a ton of topics, including developmental milestones, sleep, introducing solid foods, breastfeeding, your postpartum health and more. The experts range from certified lactation consultants and sleep consultants to pediatric nutritionists and potty-training specialists.
Major Care If you need support as you care for your new baby, consider a doula service like Major Care. This organization matches moms with a certified postpartum doula that can provide 24/7 virtual postpartum care and support. This includes lactation, pumping, perinatal body care, vaginal healing and mood disorder screening and resources. You choose whether you want the services to begin before or after your little one arrives.
Tot Squad This service offers virtual sessions with experts on home safety, sleep issues, lactation, car seat installation checks and doula services (prenatal, early labor and postpartum).
FoodSafety.gov This government website lists exactly which foods pregnant women should avoid and why. There's also a handy graphic you can print out to make it easier.
La Leche League International This nonprofit organization provides education, training and advocacy around breastfeeding. There's extensive information on the website on issues related to breastfeeding, including food allergies, biting, caffeine, alcohol, mastitis, oversupply, reflux, tongue ties, vitamins and weight loss.
Kelly Mom Kelly Mom provides tons of helpful, evidence-based information around breastfeeding, parenting, health and nutrition. Founded by a lactation consultant, the site is organized by topic (including pregnancy and ages & stages), so you can find the information you need.
Healthy Children.org This website from the American Academy of Pediatrics hosts articles prenatal and baby information on a variety of topics. It covers milestones, nutrition, emotional wellness, immunizations, safety, family dynamics and health issues, all from a medical perspective.
Heal Talk to doctors using phone or video chat. The video chat happens within the Heal app so there's no additional software to download aside from the app. Doctors can order labs, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists, making it easy for you to get remote care from the comfort of your own home. Heal also provides mental health services from doctors of clinical psychology. Covered by many health insurance plans (check for yours on the Heal website). Currently available in the following states: Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C.
Keeping your baby healthy and safe involves more than babyproofing. And new technology is here to help. Check out these recently released products that make your life with baby easier, healthier and safer. From thermometers and baby monitors to sanitizers and air monitors, they’re guaranteed to bring you peace of mind.
Sleek Socket Outlet Covers
Hide unsafe outlets with this clever cover! This ultra-thin cover connects to an extension cord with a power strip or surge protector. Keep those cords away from your baby and create a sleeker-looking living space at the same time.
Make sure the items your kids put in their mouth are clean with this compact UV-C sanitizer. It's sleek and small enough to live on your kitchen counter for easy cleaning of toys, bottles and pacifiers—even stuffies and electronic gadgets. This ultraviolet sanitizer and dryer uses ultraviolet C lights to kill germs and bacteria in minutes, without the use of water or heat. Use the sanitizer or dryer on their own or use both combined. When you're not using the sanitizer for baby gear, pop in your cell phone, makeup brushes, shaver or toothbrushes for a cleaning.
Designed by a pediatric ear, nose and throat specialist, the NozeBot takes cleaning boogies to a whole new level. This nasal aspirator uses hospital-grade suction to safely and hygienically clean your child's nose when they're sick. You place two fingers in the ingeniously designed nosepiece, leaving three fingers to help stabilize your child's head. It's portable and rechargeable, and the nosepiece and tubing are dishwasher-safe.
The easiest way to log feedings, diapers, sleep, nursing, pumping and more! Push a button to sync with the app and add any notes in the app at your convenience, so you can track baby's routine and be better prepared for meetings with the pediatrician, lactation consultant or sleep consultant. There's even a miscellaneous button you can use for medication, baths, tummy time or other baby-related tasks you want to keep track of. Attach this user-friendly device to the wall in baby's nursery or bring it with you around the house to help you remember to use it. When you no longer need it, send it back through the company's buyback program.
Available at talli.me, $99 for a new tracker; $69 for a reconditioned tracker; $169 for a two-pack.
Little kids are lightning fast and have a knack for playing with exactly what you don't want them to. Avoid an unfortunate or dangerous situation with the Ally lockable storage container. In it, you can hide away your meds, supplements, passport, valuables, fancy chocolates and anything else you want to keep away from curious kids. The small size (9.25” x 6” x 3.5”) means you can easily tuck it away on a shelf or in a drawer, even the fridge or freezer, but it's sleek enough you won't mind keeping it on display. You choose your three-digit code and can reset it as needed if mombrain makes you forget. Comes in berry, navy and cream and makes an amazing baby shower gift.
Watch Your Mouth USB Safety Cover from Geddy's Mom
Playing with the free end of a plugged-in USB charger can be dangerous for kids, causing electrocution burns in more than 200 kids under age 5 each year. As a doctor of dental surgery, Dr. Sarah Shell had seen the traumatic injuries. And she and her neurologist husband had seen their own son put the loose end of a plugged-in charger in his mouth. So they worked with a team of other doctors, designers and engineers to create a product to keep kids safe. Just snap this safety cover over the free metal connector end of any standard USB cord and you keep curious fingers away from it. The plastic cover has a child-resistant lock and no small parts.
Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced WiFi Baby Formula Dispenser
This is a game-changer for formula feedings: Thanks to the Baby Brezza app (iOS and Android), you can mix water and formula to the perfect consistency from your phone! Meaning, you can prep a bottle for your child from bed, from work, from the car, or wherever else you happen to be. Get alerts on your phone that tell you when the bottle is ready, when you're low on formula or water, or when there's no bottle in the machine. Choose from three temperature settings, and whether you want it to dispense 2-10 ounces of liquid. It works with all bottles and virtually all formula. brands.
Give your baby a warm bottle of formula or breastmilk wherever you are, thanks to this portable, battery-operated bottle warmer. Great for road trips, park visits, camping and all of your daily excursions, the Baby's Brew warms your child's bottle in just 5-10 minutes and keeps it warm for 8-12 hours. Liquids can be warmed to four different temperatures, and it's compatible with many bottle types, either with or without an inexpensive adapter (check the website to find out if you'll need one). The warmer is sold on its own ($75) or in a set with a formula dispenser (pictured; $85).
No more waking a sleeping baby to take a temperature reading or getting up every hour to feel their forehead. Apply the small silicone patch (FDA approved and made with medical-grade adhesive) to your baby's armpit and this wireless thermometer will beep and blink red LED lights if their temperature rises above 100°F. Thanks to a 24-hour battery life, temps will be monitored all night long. The device also notifies you about low battery, disconnection and if the device falls off your baby. The large, backlit temperature reading is easy to see in the dark, or you can move the device to whatever room you're in to track the readings.
Here's what makes this air purifier a game-changer: It uses a separate sensor you can place across the room that measures air quality so the purifier can adapt to clean the air more effectively. The filtration system captures pollutants, allergens, VOC gases, airborne viruses and microscopic particles from every direction and then uses UV-C light to destroy germs and viruses trapped in the filter. Once the air is cleaned, the purifier pushes it out in two directions, so the filtered air flows throughout the room. TruSens also sells filters for specific concerns: pets, odor and allergy & flu. The unit comes in three sizes, for small, medium and large rooms.
Reduce the risk of forgetting your baby in the car with this alert system from American Home Safety Products. Clip this sensor to the straps of your car seat and attach the alarm to the keychain with your car keys on them. If you step more than 10 feet away from your car, an alarm will sound to let you know your baby is still strapped in to the carseat. This alert system comes with one sensor and two alarm key fobs.
This combination video and breathing wear monitor has everything you need for baby’s optimal sleep. The overhead camera allows you to see all that is going on in and around the sleep space and includes two-way audio. The camera also reads the fabric patterns on the included electronic-free breathing wear and sends real-time alerts right to your smartphone. There is a wall mount and a floor stand that keep cords safely out of reach and allow for easy portability when you're on the go. The app can show you all you need to know about baby’s sleep patterns and offers tips for making sure everyone has a good night. The Nanit Plus camera works with Amazon Echo and Echo Spot, and the complete baby monitoring system is eligible for purchase with FSA/HSA healthcare benefits. Add Nanit Pajamas ($29.99) to monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors. The pajamas work exclusively with Nanit cameras.
What sets this breathing monitor apart is the fact that there is nothing for baby to wear. To monitor baby's every breath, the camera checks for movements 20 times per second, detecting motions too small to be seen by the human eye. The HD video streams to your smartphone or tablet and sends notifications for sleep apnea, if breathing falls outside the normal range, and for when baby falls asleep and wakes. There is no need for special sleepwear and the monitor is designed to work when baby is swaddled or in a sleep sack and when baby is in different sleeping positions. Other features include two-way audio, night vision and remote viewing.
Rest assured that the air baby is breathing is safe and healthy with the Airthings Wave Plus indoor air quality monitor. Its sensors check the air for serious air pollutants, like radon, carbon dioxide, and total volatile organic compounds. It also monitors temperature, air pressure and humidity, so you can keep conditions optimal for baby. The app dashboard on your smartphone provides alerts and advanced analytics of air quality and offers tips for improving it. The battery is designed to last for up to two years.
Editor’s Note: Here at Tinybeans, we respect and celebrate every mom’s feeding journey. Bottle? Boob? It doesn’t matter—we believe fed is best. Our Voices Contributor Network is inclusive and open to all parenting journeys—yours, too!
I always pictured my babies to be breastfed. I used to see breastfeeding as this natural and spontaneous thing that both my wife and I were going to experience (my wife carried our first child, I carried the second). I never even considered the scenario where our children would be bottle-fed. Yet, life had different plans: our first daughter ended up being bottle-fed, and I really struggled during the first few weeks of breastfeeding with our second daughter.
What my wife and I experienced with breastfeeding really taught me a lot. I’d love to share with you a list of 6 things I wish I had known about breastfeeding when my wife was still pregnant, before either of us had babies. Had I known these things, I think we could have better prepared mentally for what was coming and avoided so much stress and pain.
1. Breastfeeding does not come naturally. Not always, at least! All those stories of women happily and seamlessly breastfeeding soon after birth are not the norm. The first time I breastfed my daughter I was being stitched up due to a tear during vaginal delivery and the latch hurt like hell. It did not come naturally and it took me several days, a session with a lactation consultant and several midwives showing me how to do it, before I could finally say I got how to hold my baby while breastfeeding.
2. There are multiple positions that you can use to breastfeed your baby. Holding your baby in your arms across your belly, supported by a feeding pillow, is not the only position to breastfeed you baby in! That is the classic “cradle hold” position we are used to seeing in pictures of breastfeeding moms, but it’s not the only one. I was shocked to find out how many different breastfeeding positions there are.
My wife had big breasts and a c-section, so she was shown the “rugby ball hold” When it was my turn, I was struggling with very sore nipples and a midwife must have shown me at least 3 other different positions to try and relieve the pain. Then my lactation consultant showed me the “reclined feeding” position, which totally worked for me and saved my poor nipples. There’s no one right way to breastfeed your baby, you just need to find the one that works for you.
3. It’s important to know of a lactation consultant before you give birth. When my wife gave birth to our first daughter, we didn’t know the importance of seeing a lactation consultant to help us with breastfeeding. It took us several days of struggles, with my wife experiencing extremely engorged breasts before we finally got in touch with one. What we learned from the first appointment with her was priceless. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough and we ended up bottle feeding our baby. But it sure came back in handy with our second child a couple of years later.
When I gave birth to our second daughter and I started experiencing sore nipples we didn’t hesitate one bit and went to see her straight away. I really wish we had known about the benefits of seeing a lactation consultant from the start. Who knows, maybe our journey with our first daughter could have been different.
4. Skipping or delaying feeding is never a good idea. My second daughter was a few weeks old and we were out at a Christmas parade. She started showing signs of hunger, but the wind was blowing and it was so cold: I didn’t feel like feeding her in the open air. So, I decided to walk all the way to the car and feed her there: she was screaming at the tops of her lungs, poor thing. The walking soon turned into running.
By the time I got to the car and fed her, one of my breasts was so huge and hard! That’s when I learnt that skipping or delaying feeding can cause plugged milk ducts, which can subsequently lead to mastitis. I was lucky enough to avoid mastitis, but it took me quite a few days of massaging a very sore breast to get the plugged duct to drain completely.
5. It can take up to five days for your milk to come. I had no idea it could take that long so, when I was at day four postpartum, and all I could see was colostrum, I started panicking. I was so afraid I wasn’t going to produce enough milk and I spend so much time trying to hand express under the shower. Milk eventually came on day five. I really wish I had known better and relaxed a bit more during those first few days after birth.
6. It’s not the end of the world if you can’t breastfeed. When my wife and I came to the realization that she could not breastfeed it was devastating. We really wanted our baby to be breastfed. We didn’t really prepare for any other option. But what we soon realised was that bottle-feeding her was not going to be that tragic. On the contrary, we ended up loving the fact that I could also be more involved with feeding and we could share the night load.
Looking back, it was silly of us to react the way we did. It is definitely not the end of the world if you can’t breastfeed. Whether it’s because of some medical reason, or because it’s just too hard and is not working for you, it’s okay to stop. You can still have a perfectly healthy and happy baby!
Monica is the proud mom of two beautiful girls and author of the blog Conquering Motherhood. Here she shares tips, suggestions and recommendations on how to have the best pregnancy and birth experience, as well as how to survive the first year of motherhood.
My daughter was born 18 years after my son. Just one week before he would attend his senior prom, to be exact. Becoming pregnant with my second child, nearly two decades after my first, was quite the shock. Here we were just a few months away from seeing my firstborn off to college and becoming “empty nesters.” In the months leading up to my son moving out of state for school, I experienced a range of emotions. Some days I was really sad and others, I was excitedly creating Pinterest boards with my future world travels. Somehow, grasping the reality of becoming a mom all over again left me excited yet conflicted. How would I navigate motherhood for a second time, so many years later?
Midway through my pregnancy, I’d read a blog about some of the benefits of babywearing that really resonated with me. With my husband being from Senegal, West Africa, we’d spent a few summers there, and watching the strong Senegalese women wearing their babies from birth while socializing, working, and tending to other children was fascinating to me. Their babies looked happy, safe, and strong! I knew that I wanted this bond with my daughter and wanted to integrate babywearing into our journey. It was an experience that I’d missed out on with my firstborn, and I was excited to try it!
We were gifted our first LÍLLÉbaby baby carrier for our baby shower. To this day, I still say this was the best gift we could’ve received.
Navigating Our Way through the 4th Trimester & Beyond
We owned all the fancy baby equipment- swings, rockers, bassinets that swayed, swaddles to help aid better sleep, but nothing beat the rhythmic motions of holding my baby girl close to me, heart to heart.
Skin-to-skin contact was big for me, and we did LOTS of it in our carrier. The benefits of skin-to-skin contact during the fourth trimester are enormous for both mama and baby. Body temperature regulation, an increase in oxytocin levels (the happy hormone!), and bonding, just to name a few. This was also a huge bonus for my husband in bonding with our little girl.
As she became stronger and more aware of her physical abilities and surroundings, I found that moving her around my body in different positions gave her just what was needed to satisfy her curiosity, give her a front-row seat to the world, and remain confident because mommy was right there.
Nursing in the Carrier Changed Our Life!
Our breastfeeding journey started off rough. By week 2, I was in tears! My toes would curl in agony every time my baby would cry to be fed. We couldn’t get her to latch correctly, and by this time, she was cluster feeding. Exhausted and in pain, I was ready to throw in the towel. Thankfully, I received help from an excellent certified lactation consultant, who I think of as my fairy milk mother, and we were able to continue breastfeeding for an extended time. There’s a learning curve to both breastfeeding and babywearing, but once we got the hang of both and combined the two, this was a total game-changer for us!
Wearing her close to me, I was able to tend to her cues immediately, plus this helped with my milk “let down.” Nursing the baby no longer left me confined to my couch with a pillow for 30 minutes. I could feed her handsfree around while working from home, walking around the mall, or out on the hiking trails. This was such a huge part of our journey, and we successfully did this until she was nearly 3 years old.
Babywearing Gave Me the Ability to Be Hands-Free
We moved my son into his college dorm when she was 4 months old, and I wore her in my favorite emerald green soft structured carrier throughout the entire tire experience. Everyone marveled at the mom who was schlepping boxes and suitcases and participating in NSO week with an infant in tow! Being able to share unforgettable moments like this with both of my children melts my heart.
Precious Bonding Moments That Are Simply Indescribable
I remember hearing so many misconceptions about babywearing, and none of it proved to be true. There’s no such thing as spoiling a baby by holding them too much. But we as parents can give our babies the security of knowing that their needs are being met, and we feel confident in holding our little ones close.
Together we’ve hiked National Parks, traveled around the country, and internationally all while babywearing. There is a closeness that my daughter and I share that is unlike no other. She is now a fearless, confident, strong, and independent 4-year-old. To this day, when I pick her up, she pulls her legs into the most perfect “M” shape as if she’s being worn in a carrier. Occasionally we still babywear when she asks for it. This will forever be our special bonding experience.
Azja Pryor is a trained babywearing educator and a wellness coach residing in beautiful Southern California.
A mom of two, you’ll find Azja in her free time hiking National Parks with her husband and toddler daughter, traveling, or enjoying delicious international cuisine.
Just because breastfeeding is natural doesn’t necessarily mean it comes naturally. Many women struggle with producing enough milk, which can be confusing and frustrating. So, we’ve rounded up all the tips, products and natural supplements that can boost your supply and keep that liquid gold flowing.
We also recommend talking to your ob-gyn and a lactation consultant for more personalized guidance, and to run your milk-boosting plan by them.
Food, Drinks & Supplements
Galactagogues (pronounced gah-lak´tah-gogs) is a fancy word that means a food, herb or supplement that can help increase breast milk supply. Add it to the things you never heard of before you embarked on motherhood but is all of a sudden an essential! Here's a list of the most common and helpful galactagogues:
Fenugreek seed. It has been used since the 19th century and is probably still the herb most associated with increasing milk supply (some say it can increase flow by 900%). It's a common ingredient in Indian dishes and is similar to clover. Steep a teabag of it to get full benefits and a sweet maple syrup taste.
Fennel. It's your choice how you want to take this sweet-smelling, highly nutritious herb: Cook with it, toss it into a salad, or take it in the form of a supplement. It's said to be an excellent, natural way to increase breast milk production. It’s also available in an essential oil form.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil. Flaxseed has phytoestrogens that can influence breast milk production. Flaxseed also contains essential fatty acids.
Oatmeal. This common breakfast food is fantastic for building and maintaining your milk supply; it's also high in iron, which helps new moms who are anemic. Any oatmeal should work—rolled, old-fashioned, steel-cut, even oatmeal muffins.
Alfalfa. Known for its ability to increase breast milk production, alfalfa also provides the body with essential vitamins and minerals. Many midwives encourage their clients to supplement with alfalfa for six weeks before birth and several months afterward.
Brewer's yeast: This healthy nutritional supplement contains B vitamins, iron, protein, chromium, selenium and other minerals. Not only can it help you make more breast milk, it may also give you more energy and have a positive effect on your mood (yes, please!).
H20: Staying hydrated is important for everyone, but especially while breastfeeding. The milk nursing mothers produce is 88% water; when a baby feeds, the mother will lose bodily fluids. Apart from that, you also need to make up for the fluids needed for the body to produce milk.
Techniques to Try
Milk production is all a supply and demand game—the more milk your baby consumes, the more milk your body makes. It sounds simple, but it is oftentimes not. So here are tricks and techniques to encourage your body to produce more milk so you can meet baby's nursing needs.
Breastfeeding on-demand. In the first few weeks after birth, your goal should be 8 to 12 nursing sessions in a 24-hour period. After that, pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues (like lip-smacking, finger sucking and rooting) and feed your babe as often as needed. This number will gradually reduce once your baby becomes more efficient and can drink more milk at each feeding.
Skin-to-skin contact. Research shows that holding your baby skin-to-skin helps increase milk volume by boosting your levels of the milk-making hormone oxytocin—the hormone responsible for milk ejection. Oxytocin is nicknamed the love hormone, and your levels go up when you snuggle up skin-to-skin. Here's to that overflowing love (and milk!).
Power pumping. If your baby isn't with you or has a hard time latching on, try power pumping. To do it, you’ll want to sit down and pump on and off at an interval for about an hour. You can choose the interval that works for you—you can do 20 minutes first and then 10 minutes off and on, 12 minutes on and 8 off, 15 and 5, etc.
Apply heat. Try taking a warm bath or applying a warm compress to your breasts before nursing, as it's an easy way to increase milk flow.
Breast compression. Before pumping or nursing, massage your breasts using the palms of your hands and finger pads. This helps move more milk forward and increases your output. It also helps the rich, high-calorie hindmilk release more efficiently. In addition, with so many milk ducts on the breasts, massaging can help allow for better milk flow when you begin pumping.
Switch sides. It's common for one breast to produce more milk than the other, but it is important to switch sides regularly to increase overall production. The movement of changing sides, plus the change in the flow of breast milk from one breast to the other, may encourage babes to keep breastfeeding. Demand goes up; supply goes up!
Products for Purchase
Motherhood Maternity
Search for products that help stimulate milk production, and you'll find quite a few. We've rounded up ones that are consistently praised by my moms-in-the-know.
Milkmakers. A company that knows how to get a new mom's attention! Milkmakers sells delicious cookies that include ingredients known to increase milk production, like oats and brewer’s yeast. They also contain flax seeds, which provide an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids that pass through the mother’s milk to support proper brain development. In addition to their sweets line, they sell lactation teas and drink supplements.
Legendairy Milk Pump Princess Lactation Supplement. If you're looking for a one-stop supplement, try Pump Princess, which contains a blend of organic ingredients (including black cumin seed, fennel, and dill) designed to optimize breast milk production and support milk flow.
Pink Stork Lactation Sweets: Individually wrapped sweets with a watermelon flavor support breast milk supply with essential herbs. Perfect for on-the-go moms.
Boobie Bar Superfood Lactation Bar: Created by a board-certified lactation consultant, these tasty bars include six organic superfoods that keep the milk flowing.
When it comes to labor and delivery, there’s not much you need besides, well, you. It’s only after baby has arrived that you’ll love having your gear bedside (hello, favorite pillow!). Remember, there’s no way to tell how long you’ll be checked in, so our ultimate hospital bag checklist for expecting moms has a little something for everyone. From important paperwork to your coziest pajamas, keep reading for our guide to the things new moms should consider packing in a hospital bag.
1. Hospital paperwork, ID and insurance info and your birth plan (if you have one). This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a good idea to have all your important documents organized and together for easy access, especially if you’re already in labor and don’t feel like searching through your bags.
2. Robe, cheap slippers and wool socks: Walking around and squatting truly eases the pain of contractions, so make sure you have something warm and full coverage to wear. Even in summer months, the hospital might be chilly.
3. Comfy sleep gear: Hospital gowns, with their open fronts, work beautifully for the baby-pushing situation, but having your own sleep gear helps you feel more at home after Baby arrives. Choose one that opens in the front, pack nursing bras if you plan on nursing, and don’t worry about bottoms.
4. Snacks: Even if the thought of eating during labor seems silly to you, your partner might not feel the same way. There’s no telling what type of vending machine options your hospital offers, so be sure to pack a bunch of your favorite snack foods. Don’t rule out fresh veggies or prune juice, either, because once you have your appetite back, you’ll want to up your fiber intake to get your body moving at a normal pace.
5. Lots of liquids: Labor is hard work, and you’ll want to stay hydrated. If plain H2O doesn’t sound appealing, consider an electrolyte supplement or pack sports drinks like Gatorade.
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6. Clothes to wear home: Don't panic! You will be smaller than when you arrived at the hospital, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to feel like wearing your skinny jeans. It takes time for your belly to return to its previous size and shape. Maternity leggings and a comfy top are the best bet.
7. A car seat: The majority of hospitals will not allow you to leave without a proper car seat for your newborn. Be prepared, and have it installed in advance. To make getting baby in and out of the car easier, we love the Maxi-Cosi® Coral™ XP—the first-ever integrated car seat and carrier nesting system. The Coral™ XP has a lightweight carrier inside the car seat and is removed with the touch of a button, so you're less likely to wake a sleeping baby. And, when you get home, the Coral™ XP fits seamlessly with the Tayla™ XP Travel System by Maxi-Cosi.
8. "Going Home" outfit: Dress baby to impress for his ride home, but make sure it’s comfy enough for that first car seat attempt.
9. An extra bag: Use it to carry home the gifts and freebies you’ll receive while you’re in the hospital. If you can’t carry home your bouquets, give them to the nurses as a thank you.
10. A mini bottle of champagne: You just brought a baby into this world! Take a moment to celebrate the accomplishment with your partner.
11. A bottle for baby: Packing a bottle for the hospital can help you get ahead of the game when it comes to choosing the right one for your family, plus it allows your partner and/or siblings a chance to bond during feeding time. Some bottles are designed specifically for newborns, with a slow-flow feeding system, an "easy-latch" and a valve that eliminates extra air in the nipple so baby can learn to feed with ease.
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12. Camera, smartphone and chargers: You will absolutely cherish these images and videos when you come back from the sleep-deprived zombie world of early parenthood, so make sure you don't run out of battery power.
13. Relaxing music or noise-canceling headphones: Staying relaxed really does make labor easier, so bring these helpful items knowing you might not have the chance to use them. If you can, turn off the lights in your room. Low lighting also helps you relax.
14. Toiletries and makeup: Keep it simple, but definitely bring toothbrushes and toothpaste, moisturizer, deodorant, shampoo, your brush and hair ties. Also, it’s totally ok to want to look good in your baby's first pics, so go ahead and bring that eyelash curler and lip gloss.
15. Pre-made email/phone number list: All those people who’ve been your support system (and sounding board about backaches and swollen ankles) for the last nine months? Thank them by including them on your first birth announcement sent from your (or your partner’s) phone. They’re waiting to hear the good news, and they can't wait to see that first picture of you holding your new baby.
16. Granny panties: These work to hold ice packs and huge maxi pads in place—the hospital will provide disposable ones, but after a day or so, you'll want the real thing. Something else to consider is bringing your own maxi pads (choose the heavy flow kind), as the hospital-provided version comes in a triple-extra large size.
17. Nipple cream: If you intend to nurse your newborn, this stuff is a godsend, and it doubles as a lipgloss.
Also, speaking of nursing, don’t lose the lactation consultant’s number. You might need it once you get back home.
18. Your own baby blankets: You'll want photos of your newborn in the hospital's blankets, of course—there's something so charming about seeing all babies wrapped in the same swaddle—but for a prettier and more professional looking picture, bring a cute swaddle that makes other parents say, "Why didn't I think of that?"
19. Your own pillow: You're going to want to try to get sleep in the hospital while you can, and having your own pillow can make a big difference in the hospital bed's comfort level.
20. Prenatal pills: Doctors advise to continue taking them after delivery. Also helpful, if you’re into it, is Fenugreek for milk production.
21. Newborn pacifiers: Whether it's mom's arms or a tight swaddle, babies liked to be soothed from the very beginning. If you decide to use a pacifier, bring your own to the hospital.
The baby industry is constantly evolving, and it’s because there are some amazing women at the helm. From vegan accessories and revolutionary feeding gear, to back-saving baby carriers, mom inventors are changing the face of what it means to manage the newborn and infant stage. Keep scrolling to see our favorite baby gear products that will have you saying, “oh baby!”
Skin-to-Skin Bonding: Bonsie
Mom of two and former clinical social worker, Anna Turcotte knows the benefits of skin-to-skin contact between babies and caregivers. With her experience, she set out to create babywear that encouraged skin-to-skin contact but also kept babies comfortable. Bonsie, a combination of "bonding" and "onesie" was born! Each onesie is made with double-layered flaps connected by an ultra-soft hook and loop fastener. Once the two flaps are open, baby's chest and belly are fully exposed for skin-to-skin connection. Parents can shop in sizes ranging from newborn to 9 months in comfy bamboo and cotton blends.
Safe Sleeping: Swaddle Sleeves by Two Baby Bears Co.
Umma Shekhani and her daughter loved swaddles, but when it came time to transition out of the original style, they weren't having much luck. All the options kept her too warm or offered just a little too much freedom. In a moment of desperation, Umma sketched and sewed the first version of Swaddle Sleeves, gently weighted sleeves that offer comfort. Since then, Swaddles Sleeves has expanded to even more products that include swaddle pods, sleep sacks, and footie pajamas. Products come with double zippers for quick changes and non-weighted "Mitten Sleeves" that can be worn when weighted sleeves aren't needed.
Healthynest: EWG-Verified Diapers, Cleaning, Skincare and More
Tonje Thilesen
Founded in the Fall of 2020 by Shazi Visram (she’s also the founder of Happy Family Organics and mom to a 10-year-old son and five-year-old daughter), Healthynest is the first brain-forward brand for expectant and new parents to navigate their baby’s developmental health. What does that mean exactly? To start, Healthynest pairs products with science-backed enrichment activities to help parents navigate raising kids starting from day one. So while you place an order for the first-ever EWG-Verified diaper, EWG-Verified cleaning system and EWG-Verified Skincare system, you can also learn how to introduce texture to babies or discover if your tap water is safe to drink thanks to Healthynest’s tutorials and videos.
As a mom of two, Sara Parant was frustrated with all the buttons, zippers and snaps that came on infant clothes. Realizing tons of other parents felt the same way, she set out to design a no-snap onesie that would change the way we dress and change babies. Peasy Co. grew and developed a full line of sustainable, progressive infant basics. The company provides comfort for babes and super quick diaper changes, using hypoallergenic, quick-trying, anti-microbial and breathable fabric.
Amber Thibaut grew up as the daughter of a Maui waterman, which connected her strongly to the island culture. Late one night while nursing her son, she realized the blanket she reached for held no special meaning or connection to Hawaii, which embodied arts, tradition and community. That night, Coco Moon was born. Now, Thibaut's brand specializes in buttery-soft baby goods that are all inspired by memories of a childhood in Hawaii. Parents can shop island-inspired quilts, security and throw blankets, swaddles and clothing with whimsical prints and the softest materials.
Taeler Horak was a first time mom and she already despised trying to snap baby clothes in the middle of the night. Armed with her great grandmother's sewing machine, she set out to make the first ankle to ankle zippered baby romper. When local moms began asking for custom orders, Horak knew she was on to something. After creating her own website, rebranding and a soft launch on Facebook, Zipease, LLC was born. The female-owned and run business now employs four more women who make the company's entire inventory in house.
After having her second child and returning to work, Krystal Nicole Duhaney struggled with her milk supply like many moms. As a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant she knew there were not enough resources for breastfeeding mothers and wanted to come up with a solution for low milk supply. Using her medical background, Duhaney came up with a milk-making cookie recipe and in November of 2015, Milky Mama was born! Today, Milky Mama's product line includes Lactation Cookies, Brownies, Emergency Brownies, Tropical Iced Tea, Lactation LeMOOnade, Lactation Smoothie Mix, and Herbal Supplements. In addition to offering products, the company also facilitates weekly Facebook chats and a lactation support group so women can come alongside each other in support.
Towards the end of her maternity leave, Becca Davidson's mom offered to watch her daughter once a week. Her mom was really looking forward to spending some quality time with her new granddaughter, but soon realized that because of some arthritis in her thumb, she wasn't able to press the red button hard enough to release the buckle on the carseat. After realizing that a federal regulation required 9 pounds of pressure to release the button for safety reasons, Davidson and her mom set out find a solution. As an Occupational Therapist, Davidson's mother created a tool using splint material, which used leverage to reduce the force needed to unbuckle, and UnbuckleMe was born!. The duo refined the design, ran a successful Kickstarter campaign, attended dozens of events, acquired patents and continues to spread awareness.
Susan Bortone's two kids were never good sleepers. They loved to snuggle and always wanted a soft toy to hold but Bortone never wanted to leave an unsafe toy in the crib, which meant they would wake often looking for their lovey. After trying every sleep trick in the book, she started sketching and making a protoype that combined the security of a sleep sack and a safe toy all in one. When her daughter tried it for the first time, shel slept through the night! Now, Snuggy Buddy is in production and taking pre-orders for the breathable sleep snack made from muslin with a weighted butterfly with soft plush wings stitched at chest level. In addition to providing a safe sleep experience, Snuggy Buddy is also partnering with a charity, donating fabric for them to make blankets for babies in need.
Beth Fynbo was tired of the "toddler toss," when littles keep throwing things on the floor or putting their mouth on germy restaurant tables. In response, she created the Busy Baby Mat, a food-grade silicone placemat that firmly sticks on just about any surface including shopping cart handles, floors and tables. The innovative silicone tethers attach to toys to keep them in arms reach and the placemat is perfect for eating, and even drawing on!
Bekah Marsden didn't love when her baby’s bibs or changing mats got stained and gross. As a mom, she set out to create a product that would stand the test of time and look stylish while doing it. That's when she came up with vegan leather bibs and changing mats for her site, Bek & Jet. The amazingly soft products can be easily wiped down after each use––no more stains!
Mom of three Dahlia Rizk was sick and tired of wrestling her kids in and out of coats when it came time to getting into the car seat. She imagined a time when zippers weren't in the middle of coats and then instant excitement came! Rizk applied for a patent and some time later, the world’s first and only car seat-safe winter coat was born. Her genius design means that car seat straps and harnessed go under the coats and not on top, and are crash tested. They passed the first time around! Buckle Me Baby Coats are evaluated by CPSTs, first responders, and EMTs too but her "biggest experts are the kids who love not having coats forced off and on them all the time and parents who love having one less thing to worry about!"
While on a family vacation, Carla Schneider’s infant son could not be consoled. When his pacifer wouldn't stay in his mouth, the mom grabbed the hotel sewing kit and sewed her son’s favorite stuffed toy to a pacifier. Instantly he was comforted, and this was the start of WubbaNub. Twenty years later Schneider still owns and operates the brand while remaining true to her original mission: "Comforting and soothing one baby at a time while raising funds and awareness surrounding illnesses that afflict newborns."
Tammy Rant and Sara Azadi created TushBaby out of complete necessity. Back and hip pain led them to question: was there a better way to carry their kids? When traditional carriers didn't work, the idea to create a strapless baby carrier was born. After pitching their idea on Shark Tank, Tushbaby has taken off, finding a market in the U.S., Europe and Asia. The memory-lined seat comes with extra storage for essentials, and is perfect for any caregivers, from mom and dad to grandparents!
Lisa Sutherland and Kiyah Duffy are moms with seven kids between them. Both women have Ph.D.’s in nutrition and a shared passion for food, creativity and an interest in helping little ones learn to feed themselves. They knew what parents could do to help kids succeed at mealtime and learn to love eating healthy foods but didn't see the right tools to help them do that. Kizingo spoons work with the way young children hold and use utensils, making it easier for them to bring the food from their plate to their mouth! Why is this important? Kids who can feed themselves are less likely to overeat and less likely to become picky eaters because they retain control over mealtime.
When Natalie Riley's daughter was young and riding in a stroller, inevitably, she would demand to be carried. Natalie always ended up carrying her daughter in one arm and pushing the empty set of wheels with the other. The same goes for hiking—Natalie found herself carrying her daughter in her arms with an empty baby transporter on her back. She needed a tiny baby carrier that she could carry in her pocket or use as a purse while her daughter is walking, and so Tady—a baby carrier that can support up to 60 lbs and easily converts into a diaper bag—was born.
Give your babe a leg up in the sleep department with Bumbershoots by Nana. These oh-so-soft sleep sacks are designed and hand sewn by Judy Carr (aka Nana), a grandmother who works out of her Maryland studio using patterns she has made and refined over time. Bumbershoots by Nana was born when her grandson was transitioning out of a swaddle and into a sleep sack. Judy noticed that even more expensive sacks seemed cheaply made and didn't wear well. In part due to her grandmotherly love, and in part due to her entrepreneurial spirit, Judy decided to fix that problem—her high-quality, reverse-lined sleep sacks are functional (they hold up extremely well to machine washes and everyday use) and fun (check out their designs here). Fun fact: Bumbershoots by Nana stocks multiples in each size, but is also able to produce 30 or so a week without assistance.
Lizzy Ellingson co-founded Blueprint Registry after experiencing her own frustrations with traditional wedding registries. She wanted a more fun, visual process—and it turns out she wasn't the only one. After having her first baby, she discovered that the baby registry world had the same problems and so she expanded Blueprint's platform into a baby registry with the goal of helping to educate new moms along the way. New parents can not only rest easy knowing Blueprint has the lowest credit card processing fee in the industry, but they can also shop from a visual blueprint of their nursery and add gifts from any retailer to their registry to fit their needs.
Julie Wilson and Amy Livingston founded Cheeky Chompers while on maternity leave after their first babies were born. They noticed a gap in the market for a teether that attached to a baby and that’s when the innovative Neckerchew was born! What’s a Neckerchew? It’s a highly absorbent, reversible cotton dribble bib with a silicone teether integrated right into the design. After the success of the Neckerchew, they went on to invent the Comfortchew, Chewy the attachable sensory hippo teether, the Cheeky Blanket, the organic MultiMuslin (it’s a nursing cover, stroller cover, teether, burp cloth, swaddle and blanket all in one) and the Muslin Comforter. These two mamas and their innovative thinking are streamlining the world of baby gear.
When TWELVElittle baby bags came on the scene, new moms everywhere sighed with relief. Stylish, practical (read: wipeable) diaper bags and accessories that feel designer-worthy without the outrageous price tag. Mom and designer Julia Min founded TWELVElittle to simplify and elevate new mom style. And she's succeeded! In addition to diaper bags and backpacks that you'll be toting around long after they are potty-trained, they also make backpacks for kids, smaller bags for storage (we love this striped bag trio) and the popular 12 LITTLE WONDERS dangles, inspired by the Chinese zodiac and made to customize any bag.
For any mom who has ever pumped for their nursing babes, you know how precious every drop can be. When her son Henry was born in 2008, Helen Anderson was working as an ER nurse and still breastfeeding. So she came up with a business, Milkies, and a product to help save time and make sure not a drop of the liquid gold was lost: Milk-Saver. The Milk-Saver collects the milk that leaks in between nursing or pumping (you know what we mean).
We’re pretty sure that Ayesha Curry doesn’t sleep. Not only is she a mother of two beautiful kiddos and wife of Golden State all-star Stephen Curry, but she also’s a cookbook author, hosts her own show on the Food Network, Ayesha’s Homemade, and is the co-founder of the recently launched Cheeky Baby. Partnered with Cheeky Kids, this line of reusable, high-quality plastic and silicone dinnerware products are designed just with little ones in mind. They help foster independence at meal-time with trainer and sippy cups, feeding spoons, traditional baby cutlery, and even a line of self-feeding cutlery; non-slip bowls and more, all with whimsical-but-chic patterns and animal characters. And if you need one more reason to love this woman, for every Cheeky Baby item purchased, a meal will be donated to a child in need through No Kid Hungry.
Catherine Merritt has been a long-time supporter of moms: she’s the genius behind MUMZY, the first and only crowdfunding platform for moms. Catherine sold MUMZY last year and is on to her newest venture, Finnbin. Co-founded with Shawn Bercuson (entrepreneur and superdad), Finnbin brings the Finnish tradition to the U.S. for the first time ever. What is a Finnbin? It’s a cardboard box full of newborn items, including bibs, bedding, clothing, a swaddle, bath essentials and more. The best part? The box can actually be used as baby’s first bed. Don’t believe us? The Finns have been doing this for more than 80 years! We love these self-contained boxes that pair down the clutter and focus on what you need for your new arrival, so you can focus on baby! “To play a role in providing the peace of mind to new parents is such an incredible feeling as an entrepreneur and a fellow mom,” says Catherine.
Maya Shalev, founder of Grabease is a problem solver. As a busy lawyer, mediator and mother of three, she experienced all of the typical frustrations of parenting, including watching her little one repeatedly not be able to hold on to the spoon when trying to self-feed. So, she invented a better product: grabease utensils ($14.95), available on Amazon. These adorable fork and spoon sets are squat enough that tiny hands can grasp and control with ease, plus they are safer than regular "toddler" flatware: the handle is ergonomically designed and there's a choke barrier. It comes in several colors (including dark gray, teal, orange and white), and you can even grab a handy carrying pouch that tucks into your diaper bag or purse. The best part? It helps them develop motor skills right before your eyes. BPA free. Grabease also recently launched a 2 in 1 silicone spoon + teether, a double-sided toothbrush that helps helps with baby and toddler oral care and an all-over bib that helps to make the dinner mess less stressful.
You love all the notes and stick-figure drawings, but it doesn’t take long for paper to take over your house. That’s why moms Karla “neatnick” the Losen and Jennifer organization queen” McAllister-Nevins got together and invented The Keepsake Box by Savor, designed to help you keep treasures and cull the chaos. There are two versions: The Library: Baby Keepsake Box and The Library: School Years Keepsake Box. Each box includes a handcrafted, book cloth case; pre-categorized labels; 9 drawers for tiny things and 8 vertical files (baby version) or 16 vertical files (school years); a birthday survey for yearly highlights and more. It’s like scrapbooking without the scrapbooking. Everything is contained, sleek and easy to browse through so you can walk down memory lane anytime. As an added bonus, they look cute on the shelf. Stop shoving those things in a bin and start organizing your treasures! Prices start at $69.95.
You may have a laundry list of questions that have popped up in the hours and days since your little one entered the world, or you may not have any and might be unsure what questions to ask. Either way, we’ve got you covered with topics and questions to ask a pediatrician at your first visit to get the most out of your appointment.
Pro tip: Keep a list of questions on your phone for easy access at the pediatrician’s appointment. And no concerns are too small or unimportant to ask. These experts are there to partner with you in your baby’s health and development. So ask away!
Food
1. How much should my baby be feeding?
2. How long should each feeding take?
3. How often should my baby take a bottle or breastfeed?
4. If using formula: What’s the best formula for my child?
5. If breastfeeding: Do I need a lactation consultant? If so, any recommendations?
6. Any tips on nipple care for breastfeeding?
7. Is it okay to pump and breastfeed at the same time?
Digestion
1. After eating, the baby seems gassy or upset. What should we do?
2. Our baby seems to spit up a lot after eating. Could it be reflux?
3. Any techniques to burping our baby that would be helpful?
4. Where should my baby sleep, and how can we make sure it’s safe?
Diapers
1. How many wet diapers should my baby have each day?
2. How many dirty diapers should my baby have each day?
3. What color and consistency poop should we be looking for?
Weight
1. It looks like our baby has lost weight since birth; is this a concern? Why or why not?
2. If it is a concern, what should we be doing differently?
Vaccines
1. When are the baby’s first vaccines?
2. What side effects can we expect after vaccinations? How should we comfort our baby?
3. How often will baby be scheduled to receive vaccines?
4. Can we discuss specific vaccines and any risk factors to consider?
5. Can we request specific vaccine brands?
6. Is it possible to spread out the vaccines to different appointments? Is it advisable?
Umbilical Cord
1. How long will it take for the cord to fall off?
2. How should we be taking care of the area around the cord?
Circumcision
1. What are the risks and benefits of circumcision?
2. When do you typically do the circumcision?
3. What can we expect after the procedure?
Bath Time
1. How often should we bathe our baby?
2. Where is the safest place to bathe our baby?
3. Any tips on products to use to avoid rashes or irritation?
4. Is lotion recommended after bath time?
Development
1. When should we start tummy time?
2. Why is tummy time important?
3. What things should we be looking for developmentally right now?
Extra Help
1. If we have a concern after office hours, what number do we call?
2. Is a doctor or nurse available for tele-health consultations after hours? If so, how do we access that service?
A Note About New Moms & Mental Health
Women experience a dramatic drop in hormones after giving birth, so it is completely normal to feel out of whack in those first days, weeks and months after having a baby. Sometimes these are simply baby blues that pass as time goes by, but more intense feelings may be postpartum depression and could be dangerous for you and your baby. This happens to many women and is something you should discuss with your OBGYN. While this isn’t a pediatrician concern, it is very important to be in tune with your feelings and emotions during this newborn period and to ask for help when you need it.
As an expecting parent, there are soon to be a lot of new experiences you will encounter. As your baby grows, you will grow with them, taking one step at a time. Carole Kramer Arsenault RN, IBCLC, and founder of Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny, shares her top newborn tips as you enter into the world of parenthood.
The First 48 Hours in the Hospital
Skin-to-Skin: Both you and your baby will most likely be wide-awake immediately after birth so enjoy cuddling skin-to-skin. This will help baby transition to life outside of the womb, regulating their temperature and blood sugar levels. If you plan on breastfeeding, this is a good time to try it out and promote a successful latch. Don’t stress if skin-to-skin or breastfeeding don’t happen immediately after birth; you’ll have plenty of time for both of you to enjoy it in the postpartum room. Partners can offer skin-to-skin time too; it’s helpful while Mom delivers the placenta and gets stitches if required.
Breast Feeding: If you are breastfeeding, remember that although it is natural and has been around forever, it does not come naturally for every mom and baby. Some newborns need a little time to learn how to breastfeed effectively. Stay positive if your baby is not latching immediately; there are many ways to remedy this. Ask your nurse for assistance and be sure to request a lactation consultant stop by as well. The best advice I can give you is that if it hurts for more than 30 seconds after latching then gently edge your clean, pinky finger in between the corner of baby’s mouth and your nipple to break the suction. Take them off and try again. You want your baby to learn a good, deep latch so that they’re getting enough milk and you are both enjoying the experience.
Heading Home as a Family of Three
Bathing Your Newborn: Newborns only need to be bathed every two to three days, in between wipe your baby’s neck and bottom with a warm washcloth, daily. To give a bath, fill the baby bathtub with lukewarm water before placing your baby in. Their head and ears should be well above the water line. Place a warm washcloth on a large exposed area of skin, such as baby’s belly, so they are less likely to become chilled and cry.
Start by washing their face with just water on a washcloth. Then use baby soap on their body and hair. Make sure to get those little crevices and between the toes. Rinse your baby well and try to avoid pouring water down the front of your baby’s face. When you are done, place your hands firmly under your baby’s armpits and use the tips of your fingers to support their neck. Slowly raise your baby up and gently place them onto a prepared towel.
Feeding Baby: Your most important job is to make sure that your baby is getting enough to eat. The goal is to have your baby back at his birth weight at the two-week checkup. If you need to supplement with a bottle as mom’s milk comes in, offer the smallest and slowest paced nipple size. This should help the baby get back on the breast without getting frustrated because it will be a similar paced feed from breast to bottle.
Burp your baby in between breasts if you are breastfeeding. Bottle fed babies will need to get burped more due to more air seeping in through the artificial nipple. During the first two weeks, burp a bottle fed baby every one to two ounces; as time goes on you can burp halfway through the bottle. If your baby fusses or spits out the nipple, try to burp him before finishing the feeding. Burp for about a minute and if nothing comes out, then you’re done. You can burp your baby with him resting up right on your chest or by sitting your baby upright on your lap, using one hand to support his chin and neck and the other to pat his back.
Safe & Comfortable Sleep: Your baby’s crib or bassinet should not contain any wedges, sleep positioners, blankets, pillows, bumpers or stuffed animals. If you follow the list of SIDS-prevention methods, the risks decrease dramatically. Avoid overheating by dressing your baby in cotton to allow air to circulate around baby’s body. As a rule of thumb, dress your baby in one more layer than yourself because they cannot yet regulate their body temperature.
Put your newborn in a bassinet next to your bed and, “sleep when your baby sleeps.” This is especially important in the first couple of months. If he spits up, he will turn his head, or cough and cry. Don’t worry, you will wake up. The bottom line here is that in order to take the absolute best care of your baby, you need to be well-rested.
Set up Baby Stations around Your House: This is especially helpful if your house is more than one level or if you gave birth to multiples. In a basket, put together some of the following supplies: wipes, diapers, cream, burp cloths, swaddling blankets, an extra outfit, a water bottle and a snack for yourself. Remember it’s important to take care of yourself too so you can be the best parent possible for your new baby.
Every new parent runs into one hiccup or another when it comes to how they envisioned their first few days with their baby. Do your best to try and go with the flow—you’ll be much happier if you give yourself some slack right from the beginning! Learn more tips about pregnancy, delivery and the first three months of life from Carole Kramer Arsenault’s parenting book, Newborn 101.
Carole worked as a labor and delivery nurse in Boston. She interacted with many families and saw the need for top-notch newborn care. Carole founded Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny 15 years ago to support new and expecting parents. She has published two award winning books: The Baby Nurse Bible and Newborn 101.
