Spring 2020 Pink & Blue

pinkblue SPRING 2020

A B A T O N R O U G E PA R E N T S P U B L I C A T I O N

Let’s Stay Fit,

Mama!

Get Connected in

Baby World

Apps for

Mom to Be

Ultrasound clients receive 10% off their purchase of maternity wear in the bump shop!

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RESERVE EN LINEA

• Personalized Care • Natural Birth • Water Birth • Informed Decisions • Low C-Section Rate

Thank you Baton Rouge for voting us a Family Favorite finalist for Favorite Birthing Hospital and Pre- and Post-Partum Classes

Schedule a tour of our new location!

Look for us on the campus of Woman’s Hospital

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CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE 6 GIVEAWAYS 8

WHOA, BABY!

10

LITTLE BITS

12

BABY LOVE

16

BUMP UP YOUR STYLE

26

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

28

BELLY LAUGHS

30

BABY FACES

INSIDE VOLUME 31

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

PINK & BLUE COVER BABY CONTEST

We’ve had to push back our Cover Baby contest to the Fall due to the pandemic, but if you’re still picturing your baby on the next Pink & Blue cover, there’s a chance for you to make it happen.

Be sure to follow us on social media to know when the search for our next shining star will begin. While you wait for the date, be sure to have a recent photo of your little one ready to go.

We can’t wait for the fun to begin. Follow us today!

■ facebook.com/batonrougeparents 4

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14 | APP’INESS! Apps for moms to be

18 | YOU’RE READY FOR YOUR NEW BABY–BUT IS YOUR DOG? Preparing your pooch for baby’s arrival

20 | LET’S STAY FIT, MAMA! Prenatal fitness and nutrition tips

22 | NESTING VS ANXIETY DURING PREGNANCY Learn the important difference between the two

24 | DAD’S PREGNANCY GUIDE

From dadchelor parties to what to expect after baby’s born

Baton Rouge is OPEN FOR BUSINESS! It’s a new day in Baton Rouge, a new day in business and as a business community we will show the world our resilience and commitment to our community.

Let’s do this together and make Baton Rouge proud!

Let’s shop. Dine out. Celebrate the arts.

Enjoy the outdoors. And BUY LOCAL. A strong economy is important to the future and BR needs our support now.

Be safe, stay healthy—and keep Baton Rouge moving forward.

Together, WE ARE BACK TO BUSINESS.

b2bBR

backtobusinessbr.com

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GIVEAWAYS When you bop around town with baby, you’ll want a stroller that is light, compact, and easy to maneuver, and the Revolve Reversible Stroller by Delta Children is the one for the job. With three ways to ride, its reversible and reclining seat can be positioned facing you or facing the world. It also has an expandable knit canopy with zippered peek-a-boo window and a soft, leather wrapped handlebar and child bar. ■ deltachildren.com

P U B L I S H E R /E D I T O R I N C H I E F A MY F O R E M A N-P L A I S A N C E A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R BRANDON FOREMAN D I R E C T O R O F O P E R AT I O N S A MY L . F O R E M A N E D I TO R I A L M A N A G I N G E D I TO R AMANDA MILLER S O C I A L M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R V I C TO R I A C OT E J A R A R T/P R O D U C T I O N SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER M E LO DY TA U Z I N GRAPHIC DESIGNER CANDACE NALL C O V E R P H OTO G R A P H E R K L E I N P E T E R P H OTO G R A P H Y ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES TERI HODGES RYN WHITESIDE COMMUNIT Y EVENTS MANAGER L A U R I E A C O S TA

Take baby wearing to a new level of comfort with KeaBabies Baby Ring Sling Carrier.

Made with love and dedication, this soft, easy-to-use and breathable carrier allows you to carry your baby wherever you go, both comfortably and easily.

■ keababies.com

COMMUNIT Y OUTREACH ROXANE VOORHIES

C O N TA C T B R PA R E N T S.C O M E D I TO R I A L @B R PA R E N T S.C O M O F F I C E 225-292-0032 11831 W E N T L I N G AV E N U E B ATO N R O U G E, L A 70816-6055

What’s better than a bundle that is perfect for your new little bundle? The Baby Arrival Gift Set from Perry Mackin is stocked full of baby essentials, including a baby bottle, step three nipples, a bottle handle, straw, and a baby pillow. ■ perrymackin.com

Gear up! GIVEAWAYS

Parenting Media Association Design & Editorial Awards 2020 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award Winner

Copyright © 2020. All rights reserved.

ISSN # 1050-8708 Reproduction prohibited without permission. The opinions expressed in Pink & Blue Magazine are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement.

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.”

Winners will be announced at brparents.com on June 20, 2020.

Pink & Blue Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

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Newborn Care Well Check-ups Immunizations Physicals Same-day Sick Appointments Weekend Appointments Ear Piercing

From Infant to Adolescent SAY HELLO TO: APAM Telemedicine visits from the convenience of your home.

Call us for more details!

@apam_pediatrics

(225) 928-0867 www.pediatricsbr.com 8040 Goodwood Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Dr. Rodger Elofson • Dr. Dana Fakouri Dr. Brannon Perilloux • Dr. Lori Cook

Sign up for our

Win Wednesday weekly giveaways! Family-friendly events around town! Access to a digital version of Baton

Rouge Parents Magazine!

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WHOA, BABY!

Mother Nature...

I

t’s a fact of nature that it takes two people to make a baby. It is not a fact that two people are required to physically experience pregnancy and labor together. Even the best hubster can’t fully appreciate the nine months of providing a utero-condominium inside his belly.

From the moment you saw two lines on the pregnancy test, you knew life would never be the same. Tears of joy or shocked awe may have been the responses on your husband’s face at that moment, but pretty soon he realized he was along for the ride.

No matter what.

For months, you waddle around like a duck, sit down like a chicken on an egg, and sweat like a pig, all in consideration of the baby. And for the last three weeks of your pregnancy, you constantly answer friends and family who are on standby waiting for “the word” that you have gone into “real” labor.

You wait and wonder when it will be your turn to deliver. You spend sleepless nights unable to roll over in bed, and every hour on the hour, there’s a trip to the bathroom that leaves you praying that when you return to bed you can find that comfortable position again. You spend months imagining your new baby’s every feature, touching that soft baby skin, and smelling that special new baby smell.

Then the time comes and you go over what you learned in the Lamaze class. “Hee Hee, Hoo, Hoo.” Will it work? It didn’t for me. I forgot how to breathe with the first really strong contraction. All I wanted was an epidural. But the truth is that you will soon find out just how loud a baby can scream and what the sun looks like through your curtains every morning at five a.m. But most of all, you are about to find out just how much you love your baby. Though the process may be painful and uncomfortable, the outcome is pure love.

Amy Foreman-Plaisance Publisher/Editor in Chief

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GET YOUR NOMINATIONS E PARENTS G U

Family s Favorite 2020

AZINE AG M

BATON R O

IN TODAY! ER’S CHOICE R EA D

Vote for your favorites at

ff.brparents.com Nomination period runs from

June 1 – 30, 2020 Photo Credit: David Gallent

Vote for your favorite local family-friendly businesses, restaurants, doctors, camps, and educators in the annual 2020 Family Favorites.

Have your voice heard, and submit your favorites!

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LITTLE BITS

“

Baby brain is real.

I should not be allowed to operate heavy equipment, including iPhones.”

—Olivia Wilde

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Still trying to decide on a moniker for your little one? Here are the most popular names for Spring 2020 to give you some inspiration.

Girl

Adah Reese Mika Paisley Amina Teagan Nova Aura Pearl Billie

Boy

Austin Alva Acacius Tate Diego Easton Lucius Cash Ash Luca

WOMAN’S ENHANCES CRITICAL CARE SERVICES Woman’s Hospital has always provided a unique focus in caring for moms. And now, during the pandemic, Woman’s Hospital has opened a separate unit for patients with COVID-19. This unit is fully capable of caring for patients and their newborns during and after delivery. It also has a separate nursing and medical staff that does not cross over into the regular labor and delivery units. Woman’s is following CDC guidelines using appropriate PPE and infection control measures, and the 12-bed unit has the capacity to expand. “This isolation unit allows us to provide the same safe and excellent quality of care to our patients who are experiencing COVID-19 infection, while preventing exposure to our other patients,” says Barbara Griffith, MD, president & CEO of Woman’s Hospital. ■ womans.org 10

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VIRTUAL BABY SHOWERS It’s likely that your baby shower had to be postponed, or worse, cancelled due to coronavirus concerns. However, with everything going virtual, there’s no reason your baby shower can’t do the same!

While there will be differences, it can still be just as fun. First up, you will need a meeting place. WebBabyShower is set up just for virtual baby showers. It provides an all-in-one experience for shower-goers, including a customizable site, invitations, games, quizzes, and photo album. However, you will still need a place to see each other’s faces!

Zoom, Facebook, Skype, or Google Hangouts are all good options.

Want to add in decorations? You still can! If you already had your balloons and decor ready to go, why not include them in your background? If you want to open gifts, you can do that, too. Have your guests send their gift to you ahead of time, and you can open them during the party. Just don’t forget to send back a thank you card!

TOP FOLATE FOODS FOR MOM TO BE Folate foods are great to eat during pregnancy. Studies show that if women consumed the recommended amount of folic acid before and during early pregnancy, up to 70 percent of all neural tube defects (serious abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord) could be prevented. It’s important that you talk with your doctor to make sure you’re getting enough folate during your pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend folic-acid rich foods, including lentils, spinach, broccoli, asparagus, cantaloupe, and eggs.

BE GONE, MORNING SICKNESS! Morning sickness is no joke, but did you know that eating could be the best thing for you to fight it? However, the foods you choose to snack on make a difference. Next time you feel the sickness coming on, give one of these morning sickness friendly foods a try: salty crackers, pretzels, potato chips, sour candies, sherbert and/or cold foods, popsicles, Jello, gooseberries, fresh lemons in water, herbal tea, and ginger.

CORE AND PELVIC CARE Taking care of your core and pelvic floor during pregnancy is important, and it’s easy to do with these tips from Catherine Middlebrooks, a yoga teacher and postpartum corrective exercise specialist.

First, do five minutes of daily, deep breathing exercises. Middlebrooks shares that the core and pelvic floor muscles work with the diaphragm. Every time you inhale deeply, your core and pelvic floor relax. When you exhale, the core and pelvic floor are engaged. Deep breathing practice helps you maintain core and pelvic floor health.

It will also help you re-establish core and pelvic floor muscle tone faster after the baby arrives. Secondly, strengthen your deep core.

Middlebrooks’s favorite exercise while pregnant is hugging the baby up and in while on hands and knees. When you inhale, let the belly relax and drop down. When you exhale, gently engage your deepest core muscles and hug the baby up toward your spine.

FUN IN THE SUN After being safe at home for over a month, dreaming about a beach trip may be on your mind. However, when it comes time to pack, you will want to have the right sunscreen to bring. Mineral sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

These sit on the surface of the skin and deflect and scatter damaging UVA rays. And, they’re the ones you will want to have in your bag.

According to Dr. Denis Dudley, OB/GYN, they never enter through intact skin, have no adverse effects, and give better protection.

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BABY LOVE

“

I look in the mirror and I think it’s the reverse body dysmorphia, because I can understand what my shape is, but I see Brooke Shields.”

Keep your little one’s hands busy with the Tinkle Crinkle Hedgehog Plush. This incredibly soft plush toy promotes soft, safe, and fun tactile play, and it features colorful eye-catching patterns that will keep your baby’s attention. ■ gund.com

—Kristen Bell

Still in need of a crib for your nursery? Add sophisticated flair to your little one’s nursery with the Delta Children Waverly 6-in-1 Crib. The crib converts to a toddler bed, daybed, sofa, full size bed with headboard and footboard, and a full size bed with headboard only.

■ walmart.com

Self-feeding can be messy, but you can do your part to keep some of it cringe-free with the Munchkin Raise Toddler Fork & Spoon Set. These ergonomically designed forks and spoons fit their hands and mouths to a tee, and they come with a base that keeps utensil tips off the table. ■ munchkin.com

Even babies need to protect their little eyes from the sun! Protect your child’s vision with WeeFarers, sunglasses perfectly designed to provide 100 percent UV protection.

Includes a protective carrying pouch and easily adjustable strap.

■ weefarers.com

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Your babe will be cruising in style with the Chicco Fit4 4-In-1 Convertible Car Seat.

Designed to deliver premier child fit and comfort at each unique stage, this car seat makes it easy to correctly secure your child from birth through booster.

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4DBtarbayWav e s Ul sound Only Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers on Staff Convenient online scheduling Gender Determination starting at 14 weeks Packages starting at $65.00 4521 Jamestown Avenue Suite 3 Baton Rouge, LA 70808

225-256-2554

Giving birth isn’t a walk in the park, but with Pudus Slipper Socks, it at least feels like it could be. Toss these into your hospital bag, so you will have something super cozy and warm for your toes while you bring your little one into the world.

■ ilovemypudus.com

www.4dbabywaves.com 4dbabywaves

WHEN YOU CAN’T BE THERE, WE ARE, BECAUSE

Having an item you can use in a variety of ways is key! Copper Pearl’s 5-in-1 Cover can be used as a car seat cover, nursing cover, shopping cart cover, high chair cover or infinity scarf. It’s made from soft, stretchy fabric in an array of prints.

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THANK YOU BATON ROUGE FOR VOTING FOR US AS YOUR FAMILY FAVORITE CHILD CARE!

A TOTAL CHILDCARE AND DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER Art, Music, Science, Writing, Math, Pre-Reading, Gymnastics, Spanish, Teddy Tennis, Yoga, Happy Feet • Class A Licensed • 6 Weeks to 5 Years • Degreed Pre-School Teachers • Staff Certified in Infant/Child CPR & Pediatric First Aid • Stimulating Infant Environment

• Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum • Video-Monitored • Controlled Access Entry System • Indoor Play Gym

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APP’iness: Apps for Moms to Be

By Morgen Henderson

G

rowing a new human being inside of you is an amazing experience, but it’s also hard.

Especially for first-time mothers, it can be overwhelming at times. Your body is constantly changing and you’re worried about your baby’s growth and development. But now that we have technology at the tips of our fingers, there are apps that make pregnancy much less worrisome and help us keep our sanity (or as much of it as possible). And just like every mom is different, so is every app, and there’s something out there for every mom to be.

Woman’s Pregnancy The Woman’s Pregnancy app has everything you need from the moment you find out you’re going to be a mom until a few weeks after you’ve given birth. Angela Hammett, BSN, RNC-OB, ICCE, LCCE, recommends the app. “There are various tools and trackers, including a feeding and pumping tracker, a diaper changing log, contraction timer, kick counter, among many others.”

Sprout It's really easy to get caught up in your thoughts while you’re expecting your little one, as you think about what lies ahead. Sprout has a pregnancy journal where you can record your personal thoughts and add pictures to see the progress your belly has made.

But besides the documenting features, you’ll also have access to a growth and development timeline, a kick tracker, and a contraction timer.

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BabyCenter Pregnancy Tracker BabyCenter’s app is an all-in-one tracker, which sends you news and development videos, along with offering physical health guidance and exercise help. One mom even likened it to social media. Shelby Hunt loves the app, saying, “It’s like a baby Facebook for moms! You can track baby’s growth and get tips throughout the entire pregnancy, as well as talk to other moms throughout the pregnancy—and even after.”

Laura Page already had her baby and she still uses the app. “It’s really great for anyone who actually wants to be well educated about the changes occurring in their bodies during each stage of pregnancy and wants tips and tricks about all sorts of things,” says Page.

The Bump With this app, you can interact with lifelike graphics of your baby’s development and growth. It sends pregnancy-related articles to read each day and even includes healthy recipes.

It’ll also help you get ready for doctor’s visits and gives you an idea of what to expect based on how far along you are.

Plus, there’s a photo album where you can keep pics of your bump as it grows!

Ovia Along with articles, health advice, milestone tracking, and other personalized features, Ovia offers a community of mothers that you can join for a little extra support. But on this platform, you’re anonymous.

First-time mom Libby Howell used Ovia during her pregnancy. She especially loved the chat sections of the app where you can ask a question and other moms can answer. “It really is so nice to get another perspective from someone else who has gone through what you have or is currently going through it,” says Howell. “I especially love that it’s all anonymous. It makes me feel less dumb about asking questions because no one knows who I am.” So, you’re still getting the support you need, but it’s a little less intimidating.

WebMD Pregnancy WebMD gets kind of a bad rap, but its pregnancy app is surprisingly helpful. You’ve got everything you need to know within the app, plus there’s an appointment calendar, so you don’t need to toggle between a calendar app and your pregnancy tracking. There’s even a place for your notes and questions you have for your doctor so they don’t slip your mind.

Baby2Body When your belly is growing and you’re unfamiliar with what your body is going through during your pregnancy, it can be a little scary to keep up with workouts and know everything you can do to stay healthy for yourself and your little one.

Baby2Body is health and fitness focused, and the app can help you transition your workouts through different stages of pregnancy. It has workouts that are safe for you to do while pregnant, and it guides you through health and nutrition aspects of pregnancy through recipes, breathing exercises, and mental wellbeing tips, so you can maintain a healthy mind, body, and baby.

What to Expect You’ll probably want to know how big your baby is at each development milestone, and this app helps you get an idea of that by comparing it to fruit. Just set your baby’s due date within the app and it will track its growth from wherever you are. It’s also got articles, parenting news, and expert advice to go along with growth stages, so you’ll know “what to expect” at all times.

Pregnancy+ This app helps you learn about your baby while also tracking your own development throughout each trimester. Mom-of-four Jenna Shakespear likes that even the free version of Pregnancy+ has lots of great features, including weekly development summaries and baby milestones. “It also allowed

me to track my weight changes and had helpful hints of things I could do to stay healthy and manage my pregnancy symptoms such as nausea,” explains Shakespear. You can also use the app to track kicks and see what your baby looks like at each stage of growth.

I’m Expecting While other apps offer weekly updates, I’m Expecting gives you daily updates on how your baby is growing, all with the help of articles, videos, and in-depth resources to help you get through your pregnancy. With this app, you can find out more about your pregnancy symptoms, what they mean, and how your body and baby are both changing over time. There are also places for you to keep track of your bump and weight, and there’s even a section for reminders and your to-dos—which you’ll need since “pregnancy brain” is very much a real thing.

Glow Nurture Glow Nurture prepares you for any situation during (and after) pregnancy.

There's pregnancy symptom tracking and insights based on real data, so you’ll get accurate information and tips. There’s an option to receive daily updates and archives of informational articles to help you understand the facts of becoming a mom. There’s also postpartum information and miscarriage help.

No matter which app you decide to use throughout your journey of pregnancy, and even beyond, make sure that you’re always listening to your doctor's advice first. Each pregnancy is different, so your experience may not always line up to what an app is telling you it should be.

“Apps are a great tool to augment the health information given to you by your OB,” says Hammett. Although apps are helpful and fun, the information your doctor gives you is crucial and should always be trusted. ■

Life is a journey.

Help your child soar through it.

Read to your child.

Your public library can help you get started!

Visit one of 14 convenient branches to give children ages 2 and under a head start on reading with FREE: • • • • •

Ongoing storytime and educational programs Online parenting, homework, and tutoring resources “Read to Your Baby” packet Virtual Storytimes on Facebook Get Pre-Literacy Family Activity Prompts sent to your cell phone Thursday evenings.

To get started, text LITERACY to (225) 400-1336, unsubscribe any time by texting OPT OUT. Standard message & data rates may apply.

(225) 231 -3760

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BUMP UP YOUR STYLE

“

I love being pregnant. You can do whatever you want.

You don't feel guilty.”

Maternity Floral Woven Smock Dress.

BooHoo. ■ boohoo.com

—Claudia Schiffer

Add some Spring fever to your wardrobe this season! Adorable dresses, straw handbags, and classic white slip-ons will soon be filling up your baskets as we prepare for some fun in the sun.

Women's Keds x Draper James Double Decker Eyelet. Keds. ■ keds.com

Round Straw Shopper.

H&M. ■ hm.com

Angelina 14k Yellow Gold Band Ring In Blue Sapphire. Kendra Scott.

■ kendrascott.com

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Cropped Distressed Jean Jacket for Women. Old Navy.

■ oldnavy.com

Maternity Ditsy Floral Wrap Dress. BooHoo. ■ boohoo.com

Maternity Twist Front Kimono Sleeve Blouse. BooHoo. ■ boohoo.com

Michael Kors Berkley Espadrille Wedge Sandals. Macy’s. ■ macys.com

Straw Bag. H&M. ■ hm.com

Coolmee Maternity Shirt. Coolmee.

■ amazon.com

Maternity Smocked Flutter Midi Dress. Loft. ■ loft.com

Maternity Over The Bump Maxi Skirt. BooHoo. ■ boohoo.com

Maternity Skinny Jean.

BooHoo. ■ boohoo.com

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You’re Ready For Your New Baby– But is Your Dog?

By Anita RaJean Walker

In many cases, fur babies become part of a family before a human baby enters the fold. Many people do not know how to introduce their pet to the new arrival, or the other way around. It leads many dog owners to rehome or even abandon their furry friends out of the fear of the unknown.

With a smidge of professional guidance and a dash of experienced advice, the addition of a newborn into a family unit can be less stressful and more exciting than you think.

S

tarting with Simple Steps Before sending your pup to doggy boot camp, incorporating a few recommended steps into your daily life might be enough to teach a dog of any age new tricks.

In most cases, there is a forewarning of a new addition, and you can use that time to ready your home and your fourlegged kid for the future.

Obedience trainers and veterinarians agree on the first step–a dog needs a “go-to place.” It's normal to give a dog free reign when it comes to furniture and space. But, having a baby changes things.

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“Dogs learn when their owners use repetitive and straightforward verbal cues,” Elsbeth Martin, a dog trainer says.

“The words ‘place,’ ‘stay,’ ‘good,’ and ‘no’ is a good start when training a pet to follow orders. But, they only work when positive and negative reinforcement is part of the process. Pups need their own space, too. Yoga mats and mobile pet beds are great tools when teaching a dog.”

It begins with pointing to their designated spot in a room while using a command. When the fur kid follows directions, use treats as positive reinforcement. Sometimes, it requires

tons of patience, but slowly they will learn which side of the room is theirs.

Never hit or scream at a pup. It has the opposite effect and scares them. Instead, withhold a reward or take away their toy as negative reinforcement.

The next step is teaching them to stay.

As you extend the time that the fur-friend remains on the placemat each time, give them a new chew toy or rawhide bone to focus attention.

Rounding Out Routine Routines can’t change suddenly when it comes to our furry friends. They are

routine by nature, and not likely on one that works when expecting a new baby.

In truth, it is almost as if you’re training yourself, too. For instance, it is best to change a dog’s sleeping schedule.

It means keeping them up, teaching them to stay until they fall asleep, and monitoring their energy levels. You don’t want them zoom-zooming when you’re trying to rock your newborn to sleep.

Also, you might need to change what times you walk your four-legged kid. It helps them expel energy at the appropriate time, and it sets up a schedule that works for everyone when the tiny human arrives.

Once the furry one learns to obey, prepare them for what is coming. Venture into the nursery, rock in the rocking chair, even roll around an empty stroller so they learn how to react and where they can go when the time arrives.

Another way to prepare a pup is to play baby sounds, like gurgling, crying and whining. It aids them in getting used to the noises, so they don’t react in an

inappropriate way when the real thing comes on the scene.

Lastly, smells are an important thing to remember. Pups are curious, and they tend to follow their noses. Baby lotions, powder, and blankets are all useful to help your pet adjust to new scents.

April A. talks about preparing her furry kiddo, Emma, in the months leading up to the big day, “I would walk around the house like the baby was already here.

I used my phone to play baby sounds while I did dry runs through the nursery, the bedroom, and even outside. I wrapped a baby blanket with lavender lotion around my wrist. At first, she seemed drawn to it, but after a couple of weeks, she did not even sniff at it.”

Additional Attention It is no secret that newborns are a lot to handle, and the last thing you need is a frightened or confused dog. But, following expert advice and tips from people who share the experience will make the transition easier.

About three weeks before the big day, it might be time to start paying less attention to the fur kid. It will be hard, but it will be worth it. Cutting the attention off suddenly from your dog leaves them bewildered and unpredictable.

At the same time, once the human babe becomes real, don’t forget to share the love with your little buddy. A balance does exist for everyone, but it is different with every family.

But, here is the thing; there is no shame in taking your doggy to obedience classes. Tammy B. is thankful to the trainers at Camp Bow Wow. “Chi-Chi was not quite ready when I brought my baby home. We tried to prepare her, but her curiosity made it hard. The certified trainers did a great job, and when Chi got home, it was smooth sailing,” she says.

The truth is, no matter what we do, getting ready for a baby is nearly impossible. But, there is no need to rehome your firstborn fur-kid out of fear.

Instead, a little time and a lot of love will keep your family happy and whole. ■

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Let’s Stay Fit, Mama!

Prenatal Fitness & Nutrition

By Denise Morrison Yearian

Many pregnant women know that maintaining a moderate exercise routine and a nutritionally-sound diet provide both short- and long-term benefits to the mother and baby. But routines and regimens that may be helpful during one stage of gestation may be detrimental during another.

That’s what Hunter Clarke-Fields found. Before becoming pregnant with her second child, she led an active lifestyle. But when nausea and fatigue set in during the first trimester, she was forced to curtail her workouts.

“Somewhere around 13 weeks, I started feeling better, so I eased back into my yoga—which I had stopped altogether— and brought my cardio exercises up to speed,” she says, now 26 weeks pregnant.

Although nausea and fatigue may compromise women’s exercise routines early on, these side effects usually subside by the second trimester. As the fetus grows, however, mothers may find certain positions and movements increasingly uncomfortable, tiring—even harmful.

By the beginning of the second trimester, women should avoid supine and inverse positions as these can restrict the baby’s blood flow, says certified Pilates 20

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instructor Mara Raskin. “During this time, the hormone Relaxin also kicks in, making ligaments looser and joints more vulnerable to injury. And as the belly expands, the body’s center of gravity shifts and can cause stress on the lower back and pelvic muscles,” she says.

At this point, Raskin suggests women focus on the upper and mid back, shoulders and chest muscles. “This will support their shifting weight, help maintain posture and strengthen the muscles that support the spine,” she says.

“Women should also strengthen the pelvic floor muscles by drawing them in and up with Kegel exercises.”

Now 14 weeks pregnant, Rose Willard has altered her routine to prepare her for the road ahead during her pregnancy.

“I start with a five-minute warm up on the elliptical trainer, followed by weight training—using less weights and more

repetitions than before—to strengthen both my upper and lower body,” she says. “I then do transverse abdominal exercises to stabilize my spine and end with another 15 minutes of cardio, making sure my heart rate doesn’t exceed the recommended 140 beats per minute.

To strengthen the pelvic floor and PC muscles, I also do Kegel exercises.”

These days, Clark-Fields is focusing more on her back and her abdominal muscles to help ease her back pain and to also prepare her for when she goes into labor. “In addition to the back and ab equipment I use at the gym, I do a lot of balancing poses and planks to strengthen my abs and back. I also do cat stretches, downward dogs and some gentle side-toside twisting,” Clark-Fields says. “As the pregnancy has progressed, I just listen to my body, and if an exercise doesn’t feel right, I don’t do it.”

Deborah Ehrenthal, MD, FACP, OB/ GYN specialist, says, “If you’re in doubt or feel discomfort, don’t do it. Most important, if you experience bleeding or pain, stop and talk with your doctor.

It may be completely unrelated, but it should be checked out.”

During exercise, wear loose, layered clothing and a supportive bra. Sip on water to stay hydrated, and precede and end your workouts with a small proteincarbohydrate snack to provide quick and long-lasting energy and maintain muscle.

Emily Moore, RD, LDN, prenatal nutrition educator, says small frequent meals are a good remedy for morning sickness and heartburn. She advises women to eat six meals every two to three hours and consume fluids between meals, rather than during. It may also be helpful to eat before getting out of bed.

Moore believes good prenatal nutrition is paramount because it can affect the child’s metabolic and endocrine health throughout childhood and into adulthood.

She suggests choosing whole grain products, fruits and vegetables for its fiber, vitamin, mineral and antioxidant benefits, and low-fat dairy products for its calcium content. Likewise, meat and beans provide protein and iron, which are necessary to healthy cell development and delivering oxygen to the baby.

▪

May improve your ability to cope with the pain of labor.

▪ May make it easier to return to your pre-pregnancy shape.

PRENATAL NUTRITION Prenatal nutrition can affect the child’s metabolic and endocrine health throughout childhood and into adulthood, thereby reducing risk of obesity and chronic disease. Following is a list of recommended foods and daily servings for pregnant women. Supplement intake should be discussed with your provider.

▪ Grains. Choose whole grains such

as brown or wild rice, whole oats, quinoa, barley and popcorn. These contain fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which help regulate blood sugar and keep the mother feeling full longer. They also help to reduce the incidence of constipation.

Don’t confuse the phrases “wheat,” “multigrain” and “whole grain.”

“Wheat” describes the type of flour, “multigrain” has different types of flour but may not be whole grain, and “whole grain” products are only required to be 51 percent whole grain.

To receive the most benefit, choose products with 100 percent whole

peel versus just apple juice. Also, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables in an array of colors. Daily servings: 3 cups vegetables, 2 cups fruit.

▪ Meats and beans. The meat and bean group offers iron and protein, which is important for cell building. Choose low-fat or lean meats and poultry.

Fish and Omega-3 fortified eggs are good sources of the essential Omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, which is important to the development of baby’s brain, eyes and central nervous system. Fish high in mercury has been known to cause birth defects. Good fish options low in mercury and high in Omega-3 include flounder, herring, fresh salmon, sardines, squid and freshwater trout. Avoid those with high mercury content such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, marlin, orange roughy, ahi, bigeye and albacore tuna.

Vegetarian options include dried beans and peas, nuts and seeds, eggs and soy products. To reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses, avoid raw or undercooked meats, poultry, fish, shellfish and eggs, and fully cook leftovers and ready-to-eat foods such as hot dogs and deli meats. Daily servings: 6 ½ ounces.

▪ Dairy. Milk, yogurt and cheese are

"As the pregnancy has progressed, I just listen to my body, and if an exercise doesn't' feel right, I don't do it."

PRENATAL EXERCISE BENEFITS Exercising at least 30 minutes each day provides women with uncomplicated pregnancies with a variety of benefits.

Before engaging in exercise, consult your physician. Benefits include: ▪ Reduces backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling.

▪ May prevent gestational diabetes.

▪ Increases energy.

▪ Improves your mood.

▪ Improves posture.

▪ Promotes muscle tone, strength and endurance.

▪ Helps you sleep better.

▪

grain. Daily servings: 8 ounces.

Fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and high in nutrients. They are also high in fiber, rich in antioxidants and other compounds and contain Vitamins A and C, as well as folate and calcium.

Vitamins A and C are good for healthy cell development, and C aids in the absorption of iron. Iron and folate are found in dark leafy greens such as spinach, and iron is important in delivering oxygen to the baby. To get the most nutrients and fiber, eat whole fruits such as apples with the

always excellent sources of calcium, which is especially important in the formation of healthy teeth and bones.

Adequate calcium can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis for the baby and mother later in life. Choose low-fat sources. Lactose intolerant women can get calcium through other foods such as almonds, dark leafy green vegetables, dried beans, tofu, fortified orange juice or soy milk, canned salmon with bones and sardines. Daily servings: 3 to 4 servings (i.e. 1 cup milk or yogurt, 1 ½ ounces hard cheese). ■ S P R I N G 2 02 0

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Nesting vs Anxiety During Pregnancy

By Janine Kelbach, BSN, RNC-OB

Pregnancy is an exciting yet anxiety-provoking time. The ability to bring life into the world and assume care for another human is truly extraordinary. With that said, women also often feel the pressure to be fully prepared for their baby. Expecting mothers can start to prepare for their unborn child by nesting. However, nesting can sometimes develop into anxiety. Without proper coping mechanisms, this can be difficult to manage. Have no fear, help is here! Here’s the difference between nesting and anxiety, and how you can cope with both.

What is Nesting?

Nesting is a common feeling that most pregnant women experience before they have a baby. Nesting can involve a sudden urge to clean and organize. Usually, nesting occurs around the third trimester of the pregnancy.

After the baby shower, the mother typically prepares the baby’s room. She washes and sorts the clothing, organizes the baby’s supplies, and cleans the room.

Researchers studied the ritual of nesting and found that it is a trait humans inherit from our primitive ancestors.

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primitive animals engage in some form of nesting. The study also demonstrated that in earlier days, pregnant women would “nest” in a corner of a cave for comfort when they knew they couldn’t outrun a predator.

Why Do Expectant Mothers Nest?

Expectant mothers nest for several reasons: ▪ She is bored and frustrated with pregnancy ▪ She wants to prepare for the baby because she knows that making sure everything is ready will take a lot of time

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▪

She is excited for her due date and wants to be ready for her little one's arrival

Pregnancy hormones seem to play a role in the nesting ritual as well. It prompts women to have that nurturing “motherly instinct” that all mammals experience.

The study additionally showed that women would step out of the baby’s room and disinfect screws and knobs, clean things with toothbrushes, and freshen bed linens. So when does it cross the line from nesting to anxiety? It’s important for women to understand the

difference between them to be able to effectively cope.

What Are Prenatal Anxiety Symptoms?

Prenatal anxiety occurs in approximately 1 out of 10 women. In these cases, it is critical to acknowledge your feelings and seek treatment with a mental health provider to care for you and your baby.

Prenatal anxiety will arise with symptoms such as: ▪ No appetite ▪ Panic attacks, which can be described as feeling you cannot catch your breath ▪ Feeling like you will never catch up

▪

As a mother who has experienced prenatal anxiety, Laura notes, “I think the biggest difference between nesting and anxiety is what is propelling it. If you are doing it to get things ready (like clean the clothes, organize the nursery, etc,) this is normal and needs to be done to prepare. However, if you are doing it because you have to do it and find yourself obsessing over re-folding clothes and consistently cleaning, that’s when it crosses the line into anxiety.”

How Do You Nest Safely?

Coping skills help you navigate stress and prepare for the unknown.

▪ Check in with your feelings. Are you nesting and cleaning because you’re feeling nervous about your birth? You can try pregnancy yoga, meditation, or even starting a journal for your baby.

▪ Watch your body mechanics. Consider changing some of your nesting activities if they can cause too much strain.

▪ Relax when you can. Try yoga to relax your body and tension.

▪ Eat well. Increase your amount of fruits and vegetables.

▪ Make a list of things you regularly do. Aim to delegate activities where possible.

▪ Get as much sleep as you can. Try to add naps in during the day.

How Do You Cope?

Coping with prenatal anxiety is similar to standard anxiety.

Here are some tips to help before seeking treatment: ▪ Talk to a friend. Before seeking a counselor, try to find a friend to talk to.

If you need more than a friend, know that a counselor is a professional and private person to listen and help you.

▪ Exercise. Take a walk, go for a light jog, or try simple prenatal yoga at home.

▪ Meditate. Meditation is a useful tool to start practicing to help calm yourself down when you're anxious. Like any skill, it takes practice but can help if you implement it right.

In short, don’t ignore your feelings during your pregnancy. How you feel is just as important as making sure your little one is feeling okay, during and after the pregnancy. If you’re feeling scared, know you're not alone. Women fear childbirth because they feel they lack control over their delivery and don’t have all the answers to the “what ifs.”

Believe in yourself and your ability to go through labor successfully and become an amazing mother–because you will be an amazing mother. Practice breathing techniques, and prepare yourself for motherhood by becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. ■

Overwhelmed emotions to the point of where you can't help but cry ▪ Inability to relax, even when you have tried ▪ Feeling like you will never be a good enough mother, and constantly worried about the baby ▪ Obsessive rituals like washing clean clothes, bottles, etc

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Dad’s Pregnancy Guide: From Dadchelor Parties to What to Expect After Birth

By John Culhane

There may be no greater feeling for a husband than for his wife to tell him, “Honey, we are going to have a baby!” But after the slaps on the back and the congratulatory ceremonies are done, an expectant Dad can be kind of out there alone in left field. Baby showers with Pinterest crafts have been the realm of the Moms, but in recent years some trends have developed to keep Dad in the loop and feeling involved.

Dadchelor Parties The Dadchelor Party can be anything from a get together barbecue to a party with everybody bringing diapers.

Babies need diapers, lots of diapers.

Emily Granger Arostegui from Denham Springs, says, “During showers, the guys would get together to cook and drink while the girls had their fun. For the Diaper Party, people would bring diapers, wipes and Boudreaux’s Butt Paste. My husband loved picking out things for our baby girl, but being at a shower wasn’t his thing.”

While Moms are dealing with getting ready for baby to come, Dads may have problems of their own to deal with and they could end up not knowing how 24

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to handle their feelings at this stage.

Samantha Rauber, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, says, “Oftentimes during pregnancy and postpartum, so much focus and attention shifts to the baby and then to the mother, but often forgotten is the major transition that Dad is navigating as well. Dads need support too, whether they want to admit it or not. Dad/Diaper Parties given by friends are a great way of honing in on the special and vulnerable time that becoming a parent is for him also.”

Expecting Changes Oftentimes Dads are waiting in the dugout, not sure of what they will need to be called to do next during the pregnancy. Rauber wants them to know

they can expect several changes and can be ready for them. She says, “As a woman’s body evolves to meet the needs of the developing baby, she may not be able to carry on life the way she did before being pregnant. Pregnancy comes with a plethora of hormonal, psychological, and physical changes.

They can also expect positive changes that come with great reward also.

Watching a woman’s belly grow with a moving baby can bring much joy and excitement into his next chapter of life.”

Getting Involved Dads don’t need to stay on the sideline either. Rauber has suggestions for how he can be involved by bonding with the

baby in many different ways during the pregnancy, each unique to what fits for that man. “For some, it may be feeling the baby. For others, it may be attending the doctor and ultrasound appointments. Praying for the baby, participating in naming the baby, setting up the nursery, or reading/singing to the babies are further tasks that may deepen the connection to a relationship with the child before it is born. It’s up to Dad which way he wants to take on bonding with his child,” she says.

Being a Team Player Dads may ask themselves how they can be there for their partner during the pregnancy and throughout the delivery.

Rauber adds that this is a complicated time for the Mom. She will be wanting to feel that she is seen and heard.

Rauber says, “Join with her in that experience, even though it may be hard to tolerate. Prepare yourself to be a teammate in the postpartum period.

She will need to rest to recover, and one of the biggest ways to support her is to

encourage her to take breaks and to try and get rest.”

Finally, Dad may really feel left out once the baby is born. Even holding a baby may be uncomfortable for some dads. However, Rauber adds that it is common for them to question how to bond with their baby after birth. It may take some patience, but it is very possible. She says, “It’s never too early to talk to the baby, read or sing to the baby, too. Babies also learn to selfregulate the more Dad is involved in early parenting.”

Babies don’t come with an instruction manual, and being nervous about handling a baby, getting anxious when babies cry and not knowing what to do are all normal things for first time Dads.

Don't fear though! Again, this is normal.

Rauber says, “This is a new experience and that can be met with complicated emotions. Still, change the diaper. Rock the baby. Get involved.

The more you learn that you can do early soothing, the more likely you will continue to build confidence that you can

do this fatherhood thing, and the whole family will benefit because of that.”

Getting the Blues Pregnancy causes Mom’s hormones to go haywire, Rauber cautions, but Dad can also get the blues. She says, “Dads experiencing emotional difficulties after babies are born are more common than we think, so it’s very important for Dad to also seek support if he is concerned about the way he feels. Communication is the real key. Working together will make the whole experience memorable and wonderful!

Mom Shares Kawana Young, from Denham Springs, says, “Firstly, my husband is absolutely my best friend. We never really follow ‘trends’ or social status quo. There is literally no one else I wanted to spend that day with other than him. We love games, but we had the shower in a very nice restaurant in a party room we transformed and it was more of a formal sit down.” ■

HEAD AND SHOULDERS KNEES AND TOES, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. At Magnolia Pediatrics, our doctors do way more than treat coughs and bandage scrapes. We specialize in whole-kid care, from the tops of busy heads to the tips of tiny (and not-so-tiny) toes.

Call 225.744.4484 to join the Magnolia Pediatrics family today.

Andi Ocmond, M.D. Ashli West, M.D. Samantha Gulino, M.D. Abby Andrews, CPNP

225.744.4484 | MAGNOLIAPEDIATRICS.COM 17038 COMMERCE CENTRE DRIVE, PRAIRIEVILLE, LA 70769 S P R I N G 2 02 0

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Baby World

Local Resources for Parents-to-be ADOPTION RESOURCES

■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org

AdoptUSKids ■ (888) 200-4005 ■ adoptuskids.org Beacon House Adoption Services ■ (225) 753-5551 ■ beaconhouseadoption.com Catholic Charities of the Diocese of BR: Adoption and Maternity ■ (225) 336-8708 ■ adoptccdiobr.org St. Elizabeth Foundation ■ (225) 769-8888 ■ stelizabethfoundation.org Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org

BIRTHING CENTERS Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Line ■ (877) 4-LA-LECHE ■ lllalmsla.org Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org Ochsner Lactation Support 26

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Woman’s Hospital Lactation Department ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS Alliance Safety Council ■ (225) 766-0955 ■ alliancesafetycouncil.org Central Fire Protection District #4 ■ (225) 261-2000 ■ centralfd.org Louisiana State Police Troop A ■ (225) 925-6006 ■ lsp.org The Safety Place ■ (225) 372-3991 ■ safetyplacela.org

CHILD CARE RESOURCES Amerigroup Real Solutions in Healthcare ■ (757) 490-6900 ■ amerigroup.com Child Care Assistance Program ■ 1 (888) LAHELP-U ■ dss.louisiana.gov LaCHIP ■ (877) 252-2447 ■ dhh.louisiana.gov Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org

CHILD SAFETY CLASSES American Red Cross ■ (225) 291-4533 ■ redcross.org ISR’s Self-Rescue Program ■ (225) 802-2818 ■ isrbatonrouge.com Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association ■ jpma.org

Louisiana Department of Health ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov Operation Life Saver Training Center ■ (225) 753-7716 ■ operationlifesavertc.com

CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com Bradley Method ■ 1-(800)-4-A-BIRTH ■ bradleybirth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org International Childbirth Education Associatio ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org Lamaze International ■ (202) 367-1128 ■ lamaze.org

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 765-6565 ■ ololchildrens.org

FERTILITY FertililtyAnswers ■ (225) 926-6886 ■ fertilityanswers.com The Fertility Institute ■ (985) 892-7621 ■ fertilityinstitute.com

HOTLINES Chemical Referral Center ■ (800) 262-8200 Kidline ■ 1-(800)-CHILDREN ■ pcal.org Louisiana Poison Center - American

RESOURCE DIRECTORY ■ (800) 222-1222 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ (800) 273-TALK (8255) ■ suicidepreventionlifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ (800) 799-7233 ■ (800) 787-3224 ■ thehotline.org Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana ■ (225) 925-9520 ■ pcal.org

MIDWIFERY AND DOULA CARE Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ (225) 366-8613 ■ batonrougebirthservices.com Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com DONA (Doula of North America) ■ (888) 788-DONA (3662) ■ dona.org

YWCA of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 383-0681 ■ ywca.org

Baton Rouge Center for Autism ■ batonrouge.centerforautism.com

PARENTING SUPPORT GROUPS & SERVICES

Early Steps ■ ldh.la.gov

Capital Area Human Services ■ (225) 925-1906 ■ cahsd.org

Families Helping Families of GBR ■ (225) 216-7474 ■ fhfgbr.org

Grief Recovery Center ■ (225) 924-6621 ■ grcbr.org

From Emotions to Advocacy ■ fetaweb.com/help.htm

LOSFA Start Saving for College ■ (225) 219-1012 ■ startsaving.la.gov

Louisiana March of Dimes ■ marchofdimes.org/louisiana

New Mom’s Hope ■ (225) 658-4587

The Arc Baton Rouge ■ (225) 927-0855 ■ arcbatonrouge.org

Postpartum Progress ■ postpartumprogress.com

The Emerge Center ■ (225) 343-4232 ■ emergela.org

The Life of a Single Mom Ministries ■ (225) 341-8055 ■ thelifeofasinglemom.com

Wonder Baby ■ wonderbaby.org

Trach Mommas of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (504) 723-7193

ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS

Doula Cooperative ■ (585) 234-0164 (Co-op Consultant) ■ doulacooperative.org

PRODUCT RECALLS AND STANDARDS

My Doula Heart ■ (480) 221-5868 ■ mydoulaheart.com

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov

NUTRITION

SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

First Glimpse Prenatal Imaging ■ (225) 927-2454

Autism Speaks ■ autismspeaks.com

Gender Reveal HD Ultrasound ■ (225) 744-3D4D (3343)

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ (225) 342-7988 ■ ldh.la.gov

PARENT EDUCATION AND CLASSES

Angel Prints Ultrasound ■ (225) 769-0000 BabyWaves 3D/4D/HD Ultrasound ■ (225) 256-2554

American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org Attachment Parenting International ■ attachmentparenting.org Family Service of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 924-0123 ■ fsgbr.org Louisiana’s Maternal and Child Health Program ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov Shots for Tots ■ (800) 251-BABY ■ shotsfortots.com The Women’s Help Center ■ (225) 395-9001 ■ thewomenshelpcenter.org S P R I N G 2 02 0

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BELLY LAUGHS

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Things You’ll Definitely Say (and Do) During Labor

By Cori Linder

L

et’s be honest about labor. Squeezing something so big out of something so small is a lot of work. We all know there’s a reason they call it labor.

You’re not exactly picking daisies. You’ve got a lot of cheerleaders, but you sure don’t feel like a cutesy co-ed.

But labor is definitely adventurous. And messy. And long. Sometimes really long.

During all that time in labor, you’re bound to say and do things you never actually planned. Here are a few we’ve heard that are popular:

on during labor, he might be tempted to broadcast your labor experience to just about everybody via social media. But as flattering as a hospital gown, dark circles and expressions of exhaustion are, when you see your husband taking pictures or videos of you in not-so-grand positions, you yell out: “Don’t post that one!” Of course, it won’t be until days later when you have time to check your Facebook profile that you realize that the picture you ordered banned was posted and had 227 likes and 43 comments.

1. You curse your childbirth classes.

Even if you took copious notes during your childbirth classes and paid extra attention to the Lamaze training, there’s a point during labor when you realize you can’t remember anything you learned.

You spend several weeks sitting in a fluorescent-lit room learning childbearing basics and then forget them all when it matters the most. But somehow during the pushing process, a random memory hits you that it’s common for women to poop during labor. This stress-induced awareness causes you to curse those childbirth classes all over again.

3. You ask for more ice chips–or stare them down.

Hopefully you ate a delicious meal before you entered the hospital because you won’t have anything close to it until after giving birth. Except ice chips. Yes, ice chips. Yummy-sounding, I know. They might be the only thing your doctor lets you consume during labor. And somehow, whether it’s from thirst or just a welcomed distraction, those ice chips will suddenly take on much more value– to the point that consuming an entire cup of them feels like a small victory. So you ask for more because, well, you’re an overachiever. Then again, if you’re anything like me who happens to adore eating, you continually glare at those ice chips. No matter the intensity of your stare, the ice never turns into the Cheese Whiz sandwiches you’re craving.

2. You shout out: “Don’t post that one!”

As the excited expectant father cheers you

4. You ask “Is it time yet?”…over and over and over again.

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You’ll likely ask this more than once–and at different points throughout labor. It’s like being in Vegas; you lose track of time. So you ask about time a lot. No, not time as in what your watch is tracking.

You’re wondering about milestones.

Time to have an epidural? Time to start pushing? Interestingly, expectant moms don’t usually ask when it’s time to relax.

5. You yell, “How can you sleep at a time like this?!”

It might feel strange that you’re in a hospital bed and you’re more awake than your husband who is awkwardly crunched up in a chair, neck uncomfortably arched, shoes still on…and sleeping soundly.

You’re about to give birth in hours, maybe even minutes, and so you can’t help but give him the evil eye and ask how anybody can sleep at a time like this.

6. You Google…everything.

You may be a newbie at giving birth.

So you’re more than willing to leverage expertise about the childbearing subject.

So what do you do in a building packed full with medical professionals and experts? You whip out your phone, of course, and query Dr. Google. You ask everything that doesn’t feel right, look right or even smell right. Or you ask things you’d never normally ever, ever ask, like: “What’s going on with my butt?” But then you don’t read the answers for fear they’ll compel you to march yourself right out of the delivery room…baby, butt and all. ■

How did I do Mommy?

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We’re Safe.

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BABY FACES

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY’S PICTURE HERE? Email graphics@brparents.com and attach your photos for consideration.

All photos must be at least 1MB in size.

All photos become property of Pink & Blue Magazine.

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Every child is one of a kind.

Their pediatric care should be too.

Everything a growing child needs is right here at Ochsner.

Convenient Locations Skip the traffic. With locations in Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Plaquemine and Zachary, you’re never far from the care your child needs.

The right care when you need it Offering general pediatrics plus specialty providers to help you face anything, minor or major.

Information at your fingertips Schedule appointments, message your child’s provider, view test results and more – all online.

Schedule an appointment today!

Visit ochsner.org/BRPeds or call 225-240-4604.

We know

babies don’t wait.

Keeping you connected from home before and after delivery to care for your new bundle of joy…

100 Woman’s Way

I

Download Woman’s Pregnancy mobile app

Call your OB-GYN about a telemedicine appointment

Sign up for an e-class or join a Zoom childbirth class

Call our breastfeeding Warmline at 225-924-8239

Text our OB Nurse Navigator at 225-314-8485

Get video breastfeeding support with BreastTime

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