A “no” uttered from the deepest conviction is better and greater than a “yes” merely uttered to please, or what is worse, to avoid trouble.
~ Mahatma Gandhi
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Jackie and Matt are one of the warmest couples I have ever met. I imagine they are just one of those couples that everyone just loves because they're love for each other and for their children is so apparent and contagious! So when I was invited to the birth of their second child, I was thrilled.
The story of their birth of daughter Claudia was positive and they seemed very happy with how it all unfolded. Jackie's plans were pretty simple for this delivery. She wanted a natural, unmedicated, supported birth. We met a few times to discuss the "logistics" and practiced some imagery exercises for the pregnancy and upcoming birth. It was quite nice to see how confident Jackie was feeling about her body and her inner strength to get through another birth completely naturally.
March 22nd was the day I got the call from Jackie. She had been contracting quite a bit but wasn't feeling the intensity yet. She happened to have an appointment with the midwives that day and they determined she was 4-5 cms dilated. So they midwife sent her to the hospital being that this was her 2nd baby - it could be quick! So I met Jackie and Matt a few hours later at the hospital. We did some visualizations, some hula-dancing, some of this, some of that. But, contractions seemed to peter out and not much was happening - baby wasn't ready! Jackie and Matt were disappointed but decided it would be good to go home and rest while they had the chance. We all went home and got some sleep (I slept, I'm not so sure about the excited parents!)
The next morning, I heard from Jackie around 6am. Sure enough the contractions had intensified and she knew "this was it." so I met the soon-to-be parents of 2 at the hospital. Jackie was visibly in real active labor at this point. She was managing the contractions incredibly -- breathing through each one with her eyes closed, very focused. Matt and I applied a lot of counter pressure and hip-press action along with some massage. Jackie was so strong. Any nurse who walked in couldn't believe she was in active labor because she was so calm and collected. By 10am, she was ready to have her baby. We all "geared up" and helped Jackie into a comfortable pushing position. She pushed only a couple of times before she and Matt met their beautiful, healthy 9 pound baby boy -- Matthew Jr. How perfect it was. Jackie and Matt were overjoyed as they stared into the eyes of their boy and one another. It was a truly blissful experience.
The story of their birth of daughter Claudia was positive and they seemed very happy with how it all unfolded. Jackie's plans were pretty simple for this delivery. She wanted a natural, unmedicated, supported birth. We met a few times to discuss the "logistics" and practiced some imagery exercises for the pregnancy and upcoming birth. It was quite nice to see how confident Jackie was feeling about her body and her inner strength to get through another birth completely naturally.
March 22nd was the day I got the call from Jackie. She had been contracting quite a bit but wasn't feeling the intensity yet. She happened to have an appointment with the midwives that day and they determined she was 4-5 cms dilated. So they midwife sent her to the hospital being that this was her 2nd baby - it could be quick! So I met Jackie and Matt a few hours later at the hospital. We did some visualizations, some hula-dancing, some of this, some of that. But, contractions seemed to peter out and not much was happening - baby wasn't ready! Jackie and Matt were disappointed but decided it would be good to go home and rest while they had the chance. We all went home and got some sleep (I slept, I'm not so sure about the excited parents!)
The next morning, I heard from Jackie around 6am. Sure enough the contractions had intensified and she knew "this was it." so I met the soon-to-be parents of 2 at the hospital. Jackie was visibly in real active labor at this point. She was managing the contractions incredibly -- breathing through each one with her eyes closed, very focused. Matt and I applied a lot of counter pressure and hip-press action along with some massage. Jackie was so strong. Any nurse who walked in couldn't believe she was in active labor because she was so calm and collected. By 10am, she was ready to have her baby. We all "geared up" and helped Jackie into a comfortable pushing position. She pushed only a couple of times before she and Matt met their beautiful, healthy 9 pound baby boy -- Matthew Jr. How perfect it was. Jackie and Matt were overjoyed as they stared into the eyes of their boy and one another. It was a truly blissful experience.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Breastfeeding Baby Doll
Hooray! A doll that simulates breastfeeding and sends positive messages to young girls and boy!. After all, females are more likely to breastfeed if they have been exposed to it as children. Another plus is this baby doll now allows older siblings to breastfeed their doll while their mommy nurses a new brother or sister. So often we see children do this with their dolls and stuffed animals when a new child is introduced to the family. It's quite adorable actually.
On the other hand, I find the controversy over a breastfeeding baby doll absurd. Get real people -- there are more important things to worry about! Like the tall, thin, blonde, big-boobed, completely unrealistic Barbie doll our children idolize.
If you want to purchase the doll check it out at Amazon
On the other hand, I find the controversy over a breastfeeding baby doll absurd. Get real people -- there are more important things to worry about! Like the tall, thin, blonde, big-boobed, completely unrealistic Barbie doll our children idolize.
If you want to purchase the doll check it out at Amazon
Come visit the Vitamin Shoppe in Merrick on Saturday, April 16th for the Health Fair from 12-3
Come visit the Vitamin Shoppe in Merrick on Saturday, April 16th for the Health Fair from 12-3
2100 Merrick Road
MERRICK, NY 11566
http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/content/en/stores/store_detail.jsp?sn=38
I will be there with a table and free samples!!
2100 Merrick Road
MERRICK, NY 11566
http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/content/en/stores/store_detail.jsp?sn=38
I will be there with a table and free samples!!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Epidurals & the facts
Epidural! The on-going debate in obstetrics! Let's face it, most women who give birth in a hospital receive a planned epidural. I have heard women say things like "I wanted my epidural at 8 months!" or "I can't do it without an epidural". Unfortunately, many of the women make the decision to get an epidural long before they do any research about the subject. Often times, scary stories and a lack of support from friends, family, and their medical care providers reassure women's fear-based thoughts about childbirth.
I wish, I wish there were more positive birth stories. I wish women supported each other and helped one another realize how powerful they are. I wish care more providers REALLY were "open to anything" as they often times tell the mommies.
Do the research and find the facts! An epidural might be the right choice after all but you should know all of the pros and cons!
Here is an article by Henci Goer author of "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth" about Gilbert Grant's new book, "Epidural Without Guilt, Childbirth Without Pain": http://www.scienceandsensibility.org/?p=2215
If you decide you do not want an epidural, you are not alone.
And if you change your mind in labor, you are definitely not alone. Almost all women ask for some kind of pain relief during labor. This is why you surround yourself with positive people who believe in you and your ability to give birth the way you want! But ask yourself, how do I want my birth team to respond when I ask for drugs? Do you want them to help you through another 5 contractions? Do you want them to remind you of your plans? Do you want them to shut up and get you an epidural? It is YOUR BIRTH -- you decide!
I wish, I wish there were more positive birth stories. I wish women supported each other and helped one another realize how powerful they are. I wish care more providers REALLY were "open to anything" as they often times tell the mommies.
Do the research and find the facts! An epidural might be the right choice after all but you should know all of the pros and cons!
Here is an article by Henci Goer author of "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth" about Gilbert Grant's new book, "Epidural Without Guilt, Childbirth Without Pain": http://www.scienceandsensibility.org/?p=2215
If you decide you do not want an epidural, you are not alone.
And if you change your mind in labor, you are definitely not alone. Almost all women ask for some kind of pain relief during labor. This is why you surround yourself with positive people who believe in you and your ability to give birth the way you want! But ask yourself, how do I want my birth team to respond when I ask for drugs? Do you want them to help you through another 5 contractions? Do you want them to remind you of your plans? Do you want them to shut up and get you an epidural? It is YOUR BIRTH -- you decide!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
natural remedies!
natural remedies! my favorite!
Here is a great midwifery today article about how to cure a vaginal infection and/or reverse GBS with garlic. Try it!
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/garlic.asp
Here is a great midwifery today article about how to cure a vaginal infection and/or reverse GBS with garlic. Try it!
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/garlic.asp
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Postpartum Mama
I met with a mama this past week who gave birth to her 2nd baby recently. It was so lovely to see her! She is a beautiful, strong mama who has really gone through some challenging times these past few months - everything from breastfeeding problems to her own health issues. And through it all, she kept up with breastfeeding. We talked about how and why she kept plugging away when many mamas may have given up. She mentioned how important it was for she and her baby in so many ways to fight through the issues, get help and to not give up. This is a true lesson for all new moms. You are not alone! Being a new mom is no walk in the park but there are many ways to find support.
I am so proud of her for working through everything. Now things are finally starting to settle down so she can enjoy her precious baby and the wonderful, empowering, beautiful experience of breastfeeding!
Friday, February 4, 2011
The Other Side of the Glass
A powerful new film about babies, fathers, and new beginnings:
http://www.theothersideoftheglassthefilm.blogspot.com/
http://www.theothersideoftheglassthefilm.blogspot.com/
Holistic Moms Network & Nursing
"A newborn baby has only three demands. They are warmth in the arms of its mother, food from her breasts, and security in the knowledge of her presence. Breastfeeding satisfies all three." ~Grantly Dick-Read
Above is a video made by the Holistic Moms Network about nursing.
The powerful messages retrieved from this study indicate how important it is to spread the word about just how vital breastfeeding is for our futures. Many women aren't aware of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for themselves AND for their babies. More info below about the study...
"a recent article published in Australia's Herald Sun indicated that many Generation-Y women polled would not nurse their babies because of fear of embarrassment over public breastfeeding. As much as 75 percent of these young women felt that nursing in public was uncomfortable and few understood the benefits of breastfeeding for themselves or their babies.
Inspired by the article in the Herald Sun (Australia), the Holistic Moms Network has launched a new project to highlight the beauty and confidence of breastfeeding women. HMN members from across North America submitted photos of themselves proudly breastfeeding their children - everywhere from the Eiffel Tower to the Brooklyn Bridge - for the Nursing Our Future video.
Empowering mothers is a cornerstone of the Holistic Moms Network's mission and through the non-profit organization's Chapters, parents gather to offer one another support and advice while also learning about holistic living options from local practitioners and guest speakers.
"One of the barriers for many young mothers is a lack of awareness about breastfeeding as well as a culture that is not particularly breastfeeding friendly," argues Dr. Massotto. The Holistic Moms Network hopes to raise awareness by showing young women images of breastfeeding and to help them find the support and encouragement they need to continue."
Above is a video made by the Holistic Moms Network about nursing.
The powerful messages retrieved from this study indicate how important it is to spread the word about just how vital breastfeeding is for our futures. Many women aren't aware of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for themselves AND for their babies. More info below about the study...
"a recent article published in Australia's Herald Sun indicated that many Generation-Y women polled would not nurse their babies because of fear of embarrassment over public breastfeeding. As much as 75 percent of these young women felt that nursing in public was uncomfortable and few understood the benefits of breastfeeding for themselves or their babies.
Inspired by the article in the Herald Sun (Australia), the Holistic Moms Network has launched a new project to highlight the beauty and confidence of breastfeeding women. HMN members from across North America submitted photos of themselves proudly breastfeeding their children - everywhere from the Eiffel Tower to the Brooklyn Bridge - for the Nursing Our Future video.
Empowering mothers is a cornerstone of the Holistic Moms Network's mission and through the non-profit organization's Chapters, parents gather to offer one another support and advice while also learning about holistic living options from local practitioners and guest speakers.
"One of the barriers for many young mothers is a lack of awareness about breastfeeding as well as a culture that is not particularly breastfeeding friendly," argues Dr. Massotto. The Holistic Moms Network hopes to raise awareness by showing young women images of breastfeeding and to help them find the support and encouragement they need to continue."
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Nutrition While Breastfeeding
Many new mothers worry about what to eat especially if they are breastfeeding their new babies. A simple thing to remember is that there is nothing you can't eat/drink during breastfeeding as long as you are consuming everything in balance. Similar to most things in life everything is okay in moderation. But there ARE specific foods, herbs and drinks that are said to help with milk supply and nutrition while breastfeeding.
Some of my favorites are:
-Quinoa
-Barley
-Kale
-Cabbage
-Carrots/Carrot Juice
-Proteins such as eggs, nuts, raisins & lean meats
It is important to eat as much natural food (foods that have not been processed) as possible. Try going shopping and cooking food such as a nice soup or quinoa dish to last the week. Ask for help from family members if necessary as to try to avoid pulling things out of the freezer for meals.
Listen to your body and watch to see if you notice a change in your baby's mood after you eat or drink certain items such as dairy, or caffeine.
Remember: It's all about balance!
Happy Breastfeeding!
See below for a website with good recipes:
http://www.nursingmomrecipes.com/
Sources:
Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding by Ina May Gaskin, 2009
Some of my favorites are:
-Quinoa
-Barley
-Kale
-Cabbage
-Carrots/Carrot Juice
-Proteins such as eggs, nuts, raisins & lean meats
It is important to eat as much natural food (foods that have not been processed) as possible. Try going shopping and cooking food such as a nice soup or quinoa dish to last the week. Ask for help from family members if necessary as to try to avoid pulling things out of the freezer for meals.
Listen to your body and watch to see if you notice a change in your baby's mood after you eat or drink certain items such as dairy, or caffeine.
Remember: It's all about balance!
Happy Breastfeeding!
See below for a website with good recipes:
http://www.nursingmomrecipes.com/
Sources:
Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding by Ina May Gaskin, 2009
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Nursing Mothers & Dept of Labor
US Department of Labor is looking for stories and input about breastfeeding while working. Submit your stuff:
http://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/
http://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Pushing for First-Time Moms by Gloria Lemay
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/pushing.asp
A wonderful article in Midwifery Today by Gloria Lemay about Pushing for First-Time Moms
A wonderful article in Midwifery Today by Gloria Lemay about Pushing for First-Time Moms
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Blog Featured
My blog is featured on one of my favorite Wise Women's website: http://www.susunweed.com/Links_new.htm
How exciting!
Susun Weed is the best!
How exciting!
Susun Weed is the best!
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