ML Interest Tag: postpartum-depression

Shop Local: 19 Women-Owned Businesses in Seattle

by Allison Sutcliffe

Whether you’re looking for a good book, a fantastic workout, or a way to reduce waste, make an impact when you shop at one of our favorite local spots

When it comes to innovative ideas, practical products and community-minded missions, you can count on these Seattle-area, women-owned businesses to get the job done. And as far as we’re concerned, there’s no better time to support these enterprising local go-getters than during Women’s History Month. Whether you’re looking for a good book, a fantastic workout or a way to reduce waste, you can make an impact when you shop at one of our favorite spots.

Brick & Mortar Shops We Love

Noir Luxe Candle Co.

Belltown is where you'll find this hot new shop that opened in mid-February. Owner and mom to two kiddos, Colina Bruce started making candles as gifts and party favors for friends. In a short time, she turned her kitchen side hustle into a successful online business, and is excited to bring her soy-based, wood wick candles to her new candle bar. Bruce's candle scents are rooted in nostalgia, self care and good vibes, carefully blended in small batches.

While the new candle bar is a great spot for gal pal get togethers, it's also a new take on a family activity. Pouring sessions are held three to five times daily during business hours, and you're welcome to try you luck as a walk-in or make a reservation online to guarantee your spot. After you arrive, it's time to pick your vessel and your fragrances. There are over 50 scents to choose from. Bruce recommends blending up to three in a single candle. The whole process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. If you've got an event coming up in the future (think: birthday bash or baby shower), the space is available to rent, with or without a pouring session.

Insider tip: Future store pop-ups featuring local BIPOC-owned small businesses are on the horizon.

3020 Warren Pl.
Seattle, WA
Online: noirluxcandleco.com

Mimi's Zero Waste Market

Saving the planet just got a little easier, thanks to Mimi's Zero Waste Market, Seattle's newest bulk and plastic-free shopping experience. The store opened in October 2021 by Seattle mom Heather and her daughter Berenice, and it's made its mark in just five short months. Heather estimates they've saved 740 potential single use containers from going into the waterways and trash. Not bad for a shop that started as a hobby during the pandemic. The store is stocked with sustainable household products and all kinds of organic bulk pantry staples you need to cook, bake and create in the kitchen. To shop here, all you need to bring are clean containers (think: mason jars, steel canisters, even reusable takeout containers) and your shopping list. Don't have any? Not to worry, you can purchase what you need at the store.

Pro tip: If you're not sure where to start, but you know you're ready to dive in to the zero waste waters, Heather suggests starting simple and small. For example, eliminating plastic containers full of products that are mostly water (like liquid laundry detergent) is a good place to start. Consider replacing your usual with a powder or concentrated form instead.

7749 15th Ave. N.W., Unit B
Seattle, WA
Online: mimiszerowastemarket.com

Three Trees Books

If a new book is what you need, head to this woman-owned Burien bookstore that just celebrated its third year in business. It's an old-school book shop that's all about community, from the free lending library you'll find on-site to the secret books they hide in Free Little Libraries around the city (psst..they're usually wrapped in brown paper packaging with colorful bakers twine). You'll find a diverse selection of kid's books here alongside playful gifts. And the staff is always ready to help with suggestions when you need them.

2118 S.W. 152nd St.
Seahurst, WA
Online: threetreesbooks.com

Marination Ma Kai

Marination Ma Kai has long been one of our favorite spots to dine outdoors in Seattle. What started as a food truck has grown into a brick and mortar with three Seattle locations. If you haven't been, it's time to check out this woman-owned, laidback restaurant perched on West Seattle’s shore that boasts unparalleled views of the city skyline. The menu plays with Korean Hawaiian Asian fusion food. Tacos are a popular choice, though the fish and chips (only available at this location) are another reliable favorite. Kids may enjoy the salty Spam musubi, the perfect precursor to the syrupy Hawaiian shave ice for dessert (psst..they make it boozy too). Board the water taxi from downtown for a door-to-door adventure.

Insider tip: Count on the line being out the door on summer weekends. Visit mid-week or when the weather isn't so inviting for faster service with the same amazing views.

1660 Harbor Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA
Online: marinationmobile.com

Macadons

Macadons owner Donna Chen spent a year perfecting her macarons, but it wasn't until she leaned in and embraced her heritage that she was able to break through. She found that by adding unique, Asian-inspired flavors like taro, durian, lychee and green tea to her delicate macarons, she created something different. Now you'll find all kinds of inventive flavors. many with intriguing printed pictures on them, at the flagship store in White Center. They come in all shapes and sizes; some are even filled with ice cream. Speaking of ice cream, Macadon's is hard to beat. It makes a great base for dunking delicate cookies, or so we're told.

9828 16th Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA
Online: seattle.macadons.com

The Barre

Belly up to the barre for fitness, friendship and fun. The Barre, a Mill Creek-based fitness studio and lounge, promotes overall wellbeing by encouraging community and emphasizing physical and mental health. This boutique studio specializes in barre and cycle classes, but also offers yoga and TRX taught by instructors with extensive experience. Each instructor puts their own spin on the class, so you’re guaranteed a great workout every time. What sets The Barre apart from other fitness facilities? Its lounge. The Barre hosts happy hours, coffee dates, small business shopping events and more. Their lounge and peaceful outdoor patio space are also available to rent for your next event.

16709 9th Ave. S.E., Ste. B
Mill Creek, WA
Online: thebarremillcreek.com

Spruce Apothecary

Spruce Apothecary is a skincare studio that focuses on clean and effective beauty products, holistic wellness and sustainable lifestyle goods. Book a service including facials, waxing, sugaring and more or check out their many product lines. Located in West Seattle, this studio supports small businesses who prioritize protecting the environment and creating sustainable goods. Spruce Apothecary sources non-toxic products created from ingredients that are healthy for our bodies and our planet. Spruce Apothecary prioritizes women-owned, BIPOC-owned and queer-owned product lines.

4156 California Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA 
Online: spruceapothecary.co

Jenny Cookies

From a blog to a nationally recognized brand, Jenny Cookies has grown from a small operation to serving up deliciousness at two brick-and-mortar locations in Lake Stevens and Alderwood Mall. Jenny Cookies specializes in creative and delicious desserts for any occasion. From crispy cubes to classic cookies, cupcakes to frosted sugar cookies, Jenny Cookies has something for every sweet too. Themes and flavors change periodically, so visit often. Don’t forget to pick up some of their must-have merch. As far as we're concerned, everyone needs to sport an “Eat Cookies, Be Happy” sweatshirt. Jenny Cookies also offers pre-orders for pick up and ships some products across the country.

Alderwood Mall
3000 184th St. S.W.
Lynnwood, WA

Lake Stevens Bakeshop
12420 20th St. N.E.
Lake Stevens, WA
Online: jennycookiesbakeshop.com

SpoonFed Training

Former track and field athlete and American Ninja Warrior contestant, LaTaunya Witherspoon, opened SpoonFed Training to provide a friendly, non-intimidating environment for health seekers to achieve their goals. Trainers at this Renton-based gym work with people to help them reach their goals, providing support and accountability along the way. SpoonFed Training offers a variety of class formats, including cardio boxing, speed and agility training and live virtual classes. With over 14 years of experience in fitness and sports, Witherspoon has a natural passion for supporting and encouraging others on their health and wellness journey.

2000 Benson Rd. S., #183
Renton, WA
Online: spoonfedtraining.com

Find What You Need Online

Sproutable

women-owned-businesses-seattle
courtesy Sproutable

For parents with Littles, Sproutable has long been a reliable resource that's helped get them through the most challenging stages (we're looking at you, threenagers) with a level head and practical skills. And as of last month, they're offering the same positive parenting approach to parents with middle and high school aged kids. In February, Sproutable merged with the adolescent parenting company, Joyful Courage. Now these three founding women are bringing their expertise and tips to Seattle parents through online courses, videos, podcasts and more so you can be the best parent for your kiddo, no matter what their age or stage. 

Online: besproutable.com

SimplyFun

If you're looking to game on with your kids, there's no better spot to find a fresh, new game than Bellevue-based SimplyFun. Guided by President and CEO, Patty Pearcy, the company publishes award-winning educational games for kids ages 3 and up. To find a just-right game for your kiddos, start with one of the four learning categories: Life and Thinking Skills, Reading and Language Arts, Social Sciences and Studies or Math and STEM. Then it's as easy as finding a game that piques your interest. The company's latest game, SavannaScapes explores the biodiversity of the Serengeti-Mara in a wildly entertaining way. 

Online: simplyfun.com

Ember Community Kits

Born in 2020 in the middle of the COVID pandemic, Ember Community Kits' goal is to build strong communities. These kits are on a two-fold mission: to support local businesses and makers and to spread joy and cheer throughout Seattle when people receive their kit. Choose from a variety of kits including housewarming essentials, pantry staples, ultimate ice cream sundae toppings and self-care. Send to a friend’s front door (Seattle deliveries are free, but they also ship anywhere in the United States) or treat yourself. Most products are hyper-local to Seattle, and the handmade kits include a write-up of products and a little introduction to the business. Ember Community Kits are a fantastic way to get to know Seattle-area makers, while receiving high-quality products and gifts. Bonus: partial proceeds from each kit sold are donated to a local organization in need.

Online: embercommunitykits.com

Elementary Innovators

Through birthday parties and at-home makerspace kits, Elementary Innovators encourages exploring, learning and sharing through hands-on projects. As a former teacher, owner Angie O’Malley is passionate about teaching kids to be creative and fearless when learning something new. Creating a collaborative environment for kids to play, discover, and of course have fun, is the primary goal of each event (whether it’s in-person or virtual). Elementary Innovators presents Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) principles in an engaging platform that fosters confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Online: elementaryinnovators.com

Swoop Bag

Inspired by her grandmother and her kids' obsessions with LEGOs, Seattle mom Sarah Kirk released the Swoop Bag over ten years ago, and it's been a parent favorite ever since. This LEGO storage bag's brilliance is in its simplicity. Kids can easily clean up what feels like an entire swimming pool's worth of LEGOs by gathering them onto the bag and then "swooping" them up. We're pretty sure even toddlers can handle this one. All of the bags are made right here in Seattle and can help kids (and parents!) store all kinds of odds and ends using these colorful, durable pouches.

Online: swoopbags.com

L'Avant Collective

If you have little ones around, there is one thing you are guaranteed to be doing often: cleaning up after them! L’Avant Collective, founded by two local moms, realized the struggle is real and a solution was born. L’Avant Collection cleaning products are non-toxic, plant-based and highly effective. The products are sustainably-sourced and packaged in subtle, stylish, refillable bottles. Products are sold individually or bundled together. Order the Discovery Bundle to get a taste of everything. L’Avant Collective also offers a CLEAN subscription program. Your favorite products, like dish soap and multipurpose cleaner will be delivered to your door at the frequency you need. Bonus: subscription members receive a 15 percent discount.

Online: lavantcollective.com

Product of the North

women owned businesses seattle
Product of the North

What's the one parent product you can't live without? If your diaper bag is the first thing that popped into your mind, we're right there with you. We're crushing on the functional, hands-free Elkin diaper bag from Product of the North. The bags are made with sustainability in mind from recycled water bottles, and their gender-neutral colors go with whatever spit-up stained top you (or your better half) happen to be wearing. Plus, the easily-cleaned lining means you don't have to worry about spills when they happen. Our favorite part? That the bag's neutral design allows it to be used as an everyday backpack once you're past those basic baby stages.

Online: productofthenorth.com

Useful Subscription Boxes

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baby doc box

Years of experience as a pediatrician led Alison Scott to launch babydocbox in 2020. It’s a thoughtfully curated subscription box that puts a pediatrician’s expertise at parents’ fingertips. Each themed box focuses on a different first-year developmental milestone, like sleep, feeding or illness. The boxes are filled with high-quality, safe, practical and fun products from local small businesses (and a few big ones too), alongside practical tips and advice straight from the pediatrician’s mouth. There’s a little something for moms in there too. (As a doctor, Scott realizes the seriousness of postpartum depression and includes postpartum resources and information in each box.) A year’s subscription includes six boxes, but parents can jump in any time during those first twelve months to get in on the action.

Online: babydocbox.com

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Mother Snacker

Every mom needs a “sweet” break from the chaos of motherhood. Mother Snacker is a dessert gift and subscription box made exclusively for moms by Bothell mom, Leah Brushett. Each box is filled with decadent sweets, self-care products and more, sourced from female-founded companies and socially-responsible brands. Choose from a one-time gift or start a subscription for a well-loved mom in your life. Mother Snacker can accommodate allergies and dietary needs. Moms have one of the toughest jobs on the planet and they all deserve some pampering!

Online: mothersnacker.com

Outside the Box Creation

Share the love of art with a child in your life. Outside the Box Creation provides kid art subscription boxes. No prior art experience or talent needed–just a love of creating and a great imagination. Purchase a month-to-month subscription or a one-time box. All you need is scissors and a pencil and your box will come with everything else you need. This Langley-based company values creativity through art expression and memory-making experiences. Outside the Box Creation actively gives back to the community by donating boxes and art supplies to local non-profit organizations. Boxes are filled with quality, non-toxic products that are sustainably-sourced and eco-friendly. Create a masterpiece and some memories with a kid art box.

Online: outsidetheboxcreation.com

—additional reporting from Abbey McGee

 

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These Comics Absolutely Nail What It’s Like Being a Mom

by Tinybeans Team

Somewhere between the imaginary bliss of new motherhood and the darkest places of postpartum depression lies the typical experience of motherhood. Landscape architect, illustrator, and mom of two Paula Kuka—in total multitasking mom-boss fashion—has nailed what it’s like to navigate the joys, strains, and surprises of motherhood in a totally relatable way.

“I’m terrible at keeping baby books up to date,” (we really, really like her) “so I decided to document those early days with illustrations,” Kuka told HuffPost. “I wanted to record the funny things my kids did and said, the milestones, the blissful moments, the chaos.” And when one of her illustrations went viral on BabyCenter, she decided to share more of them publicly.

“We compare ourselves to the perfect image of motherhood we often see on social media. I want parents to know that just because you have moments of boredom or frustration or where you would rather be hiding in the garden drinking wine than playing yet another game with your kids, it doesn’t mean you love them any less,” she said. Can we get this lady a mike?

Her illustrations resonate with parents because they don’t play into parenting stereotypes, nor do they trivialize the stress that parenting young children can cause. They’re simply relatable and funny. “I didn’t realize there was a huge middle ground, and I believe this with where most mums fit. I hope that my work celebrates and normalizes this middle ground.”

Considering the overwhelming feedback she’s received from parents who’ve thanked her for making them feel less alone, we think she’s done a fine job of what she set out to do.

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Study: 74% of Working Moms Would Have No Cash Left after 8 Weeks of Unpaid Maternity Leave

by Julie Scagell

A new study on unpaid financial leave shows just how devastating it is to be a new mom in the U.S.

Breeze, a disability and critical illness insurance company, conducted the recent study on unpaid family leave, surveying 1,001 women between the ages of 18 and 44. A reported 54% of those surveyed said they’d “consider a personal loan to cover unpaid maternity leave expenses,” while 49% would consider “drawing from their retirement funds.” Another 47% would take “a 5% pay cut if their employer offered paid maternity leave.”

Included in the study is the sobering fact that just 19% of U.S. workers have access to paid family leave through their employers at all. That means millions of women are faced with the choice of starting a family or continuing to earn money to live.

Regardless of how much you save in anticipation of being off work without pay, having to take weeks off to heal, care for a new baby, establish a routine, and feel emotionally or physically ready to be back in an office leaves most moms without any savings to speak of, if not in debt as a result. Add in any complications from birth, postpartum depression, lack of social or family support, and limited daycare options (most won’t accept an infant under six weeks of age), and the outlook becomes even more concerning for new parents.

Most of the women surveyed said taking unpaid leave would be a “permanent setback” to them financially, and 74% admit they wouldn’t have “any cash savings left after 8 weeks of unpaid maternity.” Over half (56%) would consider taking on an “uncomfortable amount of credit card debt” to cover expenses incurred from unpaid leave, only exacerbating financial instability for months and years to come.

It’s worth repeating that the U.S. is the only industrialized nation that does not require companies to issue paid family leave. As a result, one in four women go back to work just two weeks after giving birth, according to the advocacy group Paid Leave US (PL+US). Two weeks.

To underscore the importance of having this critical paid time off after having a child, 38% said they would work an extra ten hours a week to have that time covered and not deal with the overwhelming stress of such a financial burden. Given one study shows working moms actually “work” 98 hours a week, it’s anyone’s guess where this additional time can be found.

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Catherine Reitman: ‘Being a Working Mother Is Impossible’

by Julie Scagell

If you’ve seen the Netflix hit show Workin’ Moms, you instinctively know that star and creator Catherine Reitman doesn’t hold back. During a recent interview, she talked in depth about motherhood and the attempt to balance work and parenting her two sons, Jackson, nine, and Liam, six. “Being a working mother is impossible,” she said, and moms everywhere know truer words have never been spoken.

“I’m not angry at the question,” she told Romper of the age-old “how do you balance” inquisition every working mom eventually gets. “I’m angry at the answer, only because I don’t think it exists.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CW6W3WoBHdu/

Reitman and the rest of the cast have made the first six seasons of Workin’ Moms a huge success. Since 2017, the series, which has been renewed for a (final) seventh season, hasn’t shied away from topics ranging from postpartum depression, marriage ebbs and flows, family leave, nuanced friendships, the mental load, and the politics of parenting. But Reitman made sure the show’s focus—for the most part—centered around the women’s careers.

“If you actually watch our show, the storyline percentage of us interacting with our kids is probably less than 20%,” she said. “This is really a show about women outside of their nurseries. It’s about women who happen to have the identity of mothers going after their dreams unapologetically.” It’s that unapologetic part that’s so important, because, why can’t we want more than one thing?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfcmKDeJAms/

“When we sold the show initially, my only knowledge of what this show could be with the identity crisis of the first time you returned to work after having a baby, that’s all I knew,” she continued. “And then, of course, as the show progressed, so did my children. Early on you’re dealing with the fellow mothers at Mommy & Me and your transition back into the workplace to now, oh my god, I’m dealing with principals of my kids who are currently in first grade and the realities of my children’s schedules are demanding more of me or less of me. It’s all these sort of natural flux of parenthood that goes as your kids get older.”

She also knows it’s the show’s honesty and rawness that’s connected fans of the show and leaves us wanting more. “This is why the show is successful: it’s not because I’m some person who understands motherhood in a more complex, interesting way than anybody else,” she noted. “It’s just like, of course, this is draining!”

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Hayden Panettiere Shares Her Struggles with Opioid Addiction and Postpartum Depression

by Kristina Johnson

Hayden Panettiere is opening up about the heartbreaking struggles that derailed her career and her life. The 32-year-old actress revealed to People magazine that she spent years in the throes of an opioid and alcohol addiction, then spiraled into postpartum depression after the birth of her 7-year-old daughter, Kaya, in 2014.

The Nashville star said her introduction to drugs came at just 15 years old, when a member of her team gave her “happy pills” to give her energy before a red carpet appearance. “I had no idea that this was not an appropriate thing, or what door that would open for me when it came to my addiction.” She said as she got older, drugs and drinking came to feel like an indispensable part of her life.

Panettiere said she was able to stay drug-free during her pregnancy, but after giving birth and experiencing postpartum depression, things got even worse. “I never had the feeling that I wanted to harm my child, but I didn’t want to spend any time with her,” the actress explained. Things got so bad that she eventually made the heartbreaking choice to hand custody of her daughter to her ex-fiance, Vladimir Klitschko, in 2018. He raised their daughter in Ukraine until the war broke out there earlier this year.

“It was the hardest thing I ever had to do,” Panettiere said of that gut-wrenching decision. “But I wanted to be a good mom to her, and sometimes that means letting them go.”

The actress’s situation rapidly worsened over the next few years. She landed in an on-again, off-again abusive relationship and drank and used drugs so heavily that doctors said her liver might fail and put her life in jeopardy. With the help of rehab and lots of therapy, however, Panettiere has been able to turn things around.

As she’s recovered and gotten herself healthy, Panettiere said her mother-daughter relationship with Kaya has been able to flourish. “I was just with her. She’s just an amazing child. She’s smart and she’s funny and for whatever reason, she still loves me.”

Panettiere is now ready for a comeback. She’s currently filming the next installment in the Scream franchise, reprising her role as Kirby Reed. It’s a job she reached out to the film’s producers on her own to land.

She told the magazine she is optimistic about her future, despite everything she’s been through. “I don’t regret even the ugliest things that have happened to me. I feel incredibly accomplished. And I feel like I have a second chance.”

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Rihanna & A$AP Rocky Welcome a Baby Boy!

by Julie Scagell

After months of spotting Rihanna enjoying her pregnancy all over the globe, the singer-songwriter and her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky welcomed a son this week!

The much-anticipated arrival happened on May 13 in Los Angeles, according to TMZ. While there are no pictures (yet) or a name announcement, the news is thrilling for all her millions of fans around the world.

The couple first announced that they were expecting in January 2022, when the singer bared her growing belly to celebrity photographer Miles Diggs. The photographer shared a gorgeous shot of her bump on his Instagram page, captioning the series of gorgeous photos, “SHE IS,” and Rihanna proudly showed off her pregnancy from then on.

The new mom and nine-time Grammy winner has shared a bit about her excitement and fears during her pregnancy, telling Vogue earlier this year that she is worried about postpartum depression. “Will I feel out of control emotionally?” she said. “Those are the stories I hear from other women that scare me.” She was also playful about her pregnancy, like most first-time moms sometimes looking at your body in disbelief. “As much as it’s happening, it’s also not happening,” she said of her belly. “Sometimes I’ll walk past my reflection and be like, ‘Oh shi*!'”

Fans flocked to social media once the news of his birth was announced:

For his part, A$AP Rocky told GQ he’s equally excited to be a father, especially when you’ve found the the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. (It’s) much better when you got ‘the One,’ he said. “She amounts to probably, like, a million of the other ones. I think when you know, you know. She’s the One.”

Rihanna has also been open about watching her child grow up, telling Vogue, “They’re going to teach me more than I could ever teach them. And I want them to go for it. I want to see who they are in the world, who they become. Because I’m just here to keep them on the rails—a passenger as much as the driver.”

Here’s hoping the new parents are soaking in every second of “firsts” with their baby boy and that, when they’re ready, grace the rest of us with a picture (or two) of their son.

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Your Guide to Well-Baby Doctor Visits in Baby’s First Year

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

Experts recommend 6-8 well-baby visits during the first year. If you’re thinking, what’s up, doc, you’re not alone. Read on to find out what to expect from each doctor’s appointment, what you should bring and how to get the most out of your visit.

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What to Bring with You

Reference documents: driver’s license, insurance card, hospital documents from baby’s birth, information about family members’ health history and allergies

Baby necessities: burp cloths, extra diapers and wipes (the doctor will remove baby’s diaper), hand wipes, baby bottle, a blanket in case baby gets cold, a lovey or favorite stuffed animal, a pacifier if you use them

Mom necessities: an extra shirt in case of spit-up, water and a snack in case you have to wait for the doctor. Once your baby is eating solids, bring snacks for them too.

Questions: Keep a list on your phone or in a small notebook so you can jot down questions when you think of them. Bring a printed version of the questions to your appointment so you don’t forget anything and can write down your doctor’s answers.

What Happens at a Well-Baby Pediatrician Appointment

Each appointment will vary depending on baby’s age, but here's what you can expect:

○ Measurement of your baby’s height, weight and head circumference to monitor your child’s growth curve; plus a discussion of that curve

○ A head-to-toe physical exam, including eyes, ears (and hearing), mouth, neck, skin, heart, lungs, abdomen, hips, genitalia and legs

○ A discussion of your child’s physical and cognitive development

○ Vaccinations, at most visits, if you’ve chosen them

○ Time for you to ask questions and bring up concerns

Read on for specifics of each visit.

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Day 3-5 Well-Baby Visit

In the first week of your child’s life, pediatricians will do a physical exam; measure baby’s height, weight and head circumference; and observe baby’s behavior, reactions and reflexes.

Don’t sweat it: It’s common for babies to lose some body weight after birth. They typically gain it back by the time they hit two weeks old. As your doctor tracks your child's physical growth and tells you which percentile they're in, remember that the actual numbers and percentages are usually less important than whether your child is growing steadily along their curve.

Topics to discuss:

○ SIDS and creating a safe sleep environment

○ How often and how much your child eats

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movement look like

○ Your child’s growth curve

 

1-Month Well-Baby Visit

At this visit, in addition to taking measurements, doing a physical exam and checking development, your doctor may give your child a second hepatitis B shot (they typically received the first right after birth).

Don’t sweat it: It’s normal for your child (and you!) to cry when they get shots. Shots are typically done at the end of the visit so you can comfort your child with cuddles and nursing or a bottle before you leave.

Topics to discuss:

○ What to do if your child is inconsolable in the evenings (aka the witching hours)

○ If your child is dealing with diaper rashes, baby acne or cradle cap, the doctor can give you advice on how to treat these conditions

○ How often you're doing tummy time

○ Whether your child needs vitamin D drops

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child feeds

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movements look like. Hard, dry poop could indicate constipation, and mucousy, soft stools can signal a food intolerance.

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2-Month Well-Baby Visit

Your child will likely receive immunizations at this visit, if you've chosen them. The doctor will also check your baby’s head control and posture.

Don’t sweat it: Some babies feel discomfort in the day or two after shots, so be prepared to notice a change in your child’s behavior and energy level. Offer extra cuddles and comfort, and clear your schedule if you can.

Topics to discuss:

○ If your child is dealing with colic, constipation, diaper rashes, baby acne, reflux, sleep or feeding issues, the doctor can give you advice

○ Whether your child needs vitamin D drops

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child feeds

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movements look like

○ Whether your baby smiles yet

○ How you characterize your baby’s temperament. If your child seems weepy, restless or uncomfortable, your doctor can explore possible causes

○ How you’re feeling. If you’re experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, you should bring it up to your child’s doctor and your own.

 

4-Month Well-Baby Visit

Your child will receive more immunizations, if you've chosen them, and may receive a hemoglobin screening to test for anemia. The doctor will also begin looking for, and discussing with you, age-appropriate milestones for your child.

Don’t sweat it: Babies develop at their own pace, so don’t assume the worst if your child hasn’t reached a certain milestone. Tell your doctor if your child is losing skills they once had or if you’re concerned about any aspect of their development (like crawling, talking, hearing, eyesight).

Topics to discuss:

○ Whether your child needs vitamin D drops

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child feeds

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movements look like

○ Age-appropriate milestones, such as whether your child can roll over, sit up with support, push up from their belly, grab items and kick with both legs.

○ Whether your baby communicates by babbling, squealing, laughing, copying caregivers’ facial expressions and sounds

 

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6-Month Well-Baby Visit

More standard tests and (sorry) immunizations. Your doctor may also do a lead screening, as older homes can have lead paint, which, in high doses, can be harmful to babies. Your child may also receive a tuberculosis test and, if any teeth have popped through, your doctor will want to see them. Since babies are likely to crawl soon, it’s a good time to talk to your doctor about ways to childproof your home.

Don’t sweat it: Childproofing your home doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money. Here are 14 DIY babyproofing tricks to make your home safe as your baby gets more mobile.

Topics to discuss:

○ If it’s time to start your child on solid food. And, if so, which foods your doctor recommends

○ If your child has teeth, how you should care for them

○ Age-appropriate milestones, such as whether your child is rolling over in both directions, sitting up without support, showing interest in their environment, babbling and imitating sounds and expressions

○ Whether your baby needs vitamin D drops

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child feeds

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and how bowel movements change after introducing solid foods

 

9-Month Well-Baby Visit

In addition to the standard tests, a review of baby’s oral health and perhaps immunizations, your doctor will look more closely at your baby’s development. The doctor will likely ask you questions about how your child moves and interacts with you.

Don’t sweat it: If your child has any developmental delays, your pediatrician can give you valuable resources. Early intervention in the form of physical therapy or speech therapy can help your child develop new skills.

Topics to discuss:

○ Age-appropriate milestones, such as crawling, saying words, responding to their name, pointing, using the pincer grip, feeding themselves, playing games with you or others

○ If your child is experiencing separation anxiety or fear of strangers

○ How you should care for your child’s teeth

○ Whether your baby needs vitamin D drops or gets enough from solid foods

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child eats (breastmilk/formula and solids)

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movements look like

 

12-Month Well-Baby Visit

You’re a pro at this point and know what to expect at these doctor visits. But as you've learned with babies, they're always learning new things and changing their routines, so you'll have lots to discuss at this and future appointments.

Don’t sweat it: You’ve almost made it through year one, with all the big changes and sleeplessness that goes along with it. You can handle whatever year two throws at you.

Topics to discuss:

○ Age-appropriate milestones, such as whether your child is pulling themselves up, cruising along furniture, walking, pointing, saying words, responding to what you say, playing games with you or others

○ How you should care for your child’s teeth

○ Whether you should introduce cow's milk into baby's diet

○ Whether your baby needs vitamin D drops or gets enough from solid foods

○ How your baby is sleeping

○ How often and how much your child eats (breastmilk/formula and solids)

○ Frequency of wet diapers and bowel movements, and what bowel movements look like

 

 

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Rachel Platten Shares Her ‘Incredibly Painful’ Postpartum Battle

by Tinybeans Team

Rachel Platten is a fighter. Her hit song Fight Song from 2015 inspired scores of listeners with its message about self-empowerment, and she very likely hummed it a time or two during the first six months of daughter Sophie’s life. In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Platten recently posted about the postpartum depression she experienced following Sophie’s birth. She referred “an incredibly painful battle with my mental health, long days that felt impossible and tears that wouldn’t stop coming and nights that felt never ending when my poor scared body wouldn’t let me sleep.” Girl, yes.

“Sophie is 6 months old today. Wow,” she writes. “I tried every tool possible, even ones i was previously scared of, and finally now im feeling consistent joy, ease, power and real hope again. Actually f that it’s not even hope, it’s bigger. It’s a KNOWING. i know my strength. I know my worth. I know who I am and i love myself. Not because of what I achieve or how i look or external stuff anymore. I love this human life underneath all of those labels.”

Platten, 40, announced the news of the Sept. 9 birth on Instgram, sharing the first photos of her and husband Kevin Lazan’s newborn daughter, Sophie Jo. This is Platten’s second time becoming a mother. Big sister Violet Skye was born in January 2019. Last year, Platten released a children’s book called You Belong which “explores the myriad of emotions expectant parents experience… The dreamy illustrations capture the magic and wonder a parent has for their precious one before they arrive, and the person they envision as they grow up in the world.”

On her most recent post, Platten talks about acceptance. “I know all my insecurities and weaknesses and all my glorious sunny parts too and i welcome them all. That is where my true power has always come.” She continues, “But mostly, i just want to reach a hand back into the darkness if any of you reading this are still there💔. I promise, It’s possible for you to feel joy again. I’m here as an example that you can do this. You can be your own hero and you can learn to love all of you and i believe in you.”

 

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A Third of New Moms During Early COVID Had Postpartum Depression

by Karly Wood

A new study out of the University of Michigan School of Nursing has some insightful information regarding new mothers and the pandemic. From February through July 2020 (i.e. the start of the pandemic), 670 postpartum U.S. patients were surveyed and found to have nearly triple the amount of postpartum depression symptoms than pre-pandemic levels. Shocked? We aren’t.

Titled “Postpartum depression and associated risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic,” the research is part of larger study called “COVID-19 MAMAS (Maternal Attachment, Mood, Ability, and Support),” a body of work that focuses on pregnancy and postpartum experiences during COVID.

All in all, one in three new mothers screened positive for postpartum depression and one in five had major depressive symptoms. Lead author of the study and assistant professor of nursing at U-M, Clayton Shuman noted: “We also found that almost 1 in 5 participants who screened positive for postpartum depression reported having thoughts of harming themselves. This is very concerning given that prior to the pandemic, Dr. Lindsay Admon and colleagues from U-M found the rate of suicidality among prenatal and postpartum patients is on the rise in the U.S.”

photo: iStock

The study found more factors that led to a positive screen of postpartum depression. Formula moms were 92% more likely to experience postpartum depression and were 73% more inclined to have major depressive symptoms than those who breastfed.

Shuman believes a lack of breastfeeding support resources during early COVID may have been stressful so moms switched to switch to formula, only to experience supply chain problems like formula shortages. Additionally, studies have shown that breastfeeding has the potential to protect against postpartum depression.

photo: iStock

Unsurprisingly, moms of NICU babies and those worried about contracting COVID were more likely to screen positive, by 74% and 71% respectively.

According to Shuman, screening is merely the first tool in the process of aiding moms. “Treatment is pivotal to recovery. Resources and education about postpartum depression must be better disseminated and implemented. These resources should be shared with the general public to reduce stigma, and shared with those who provide social and emotional support to postpartum patients, such as partners and family members.”

 

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