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Deep Dive: Anemia in Pregnancy
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Types of Anemia>Effects of Anemia>Treatment & Prevention Pregnancy brings an increased demand for blood to support both the pregnant mom/person and the developing baby. This increased need sometimes leads to a common condition known as anemia, which affects many pregnancies worldwide. While the term “anemia” might sound concerning, understanding what it is,…
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Mastitis, Plugged Ducts, and Engorgement: A Comprehensive Guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Engorgement>Plugged Ducts>Mastitis>Key Difference>Prevention Breastfeeding is a natural process that provides numerous benefits for both infant and mother. However, many breastfeeding parents experience challenges that can make the journey difficult. Among the most common breastfeeding complications are mastitis, plugged ducts, and engorgement. Understanding these conditions—their causes, symptoms, and treatments—can help breastfeeding individuals navigate…
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Understanding & Navigating Stillbirth: A Guide for Grieving Parents
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>What Happens After Diagnosis>The Evaluation Process>Physical & Emotional Recovery>Finding Support If you’re reading this because you’ve experienced a stillbirth, please know that our hearts go out to you. The loss of your baby is profound, and your grief is valid. This guide aims to help you understand what happened, what to expect,…
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Deep Dive: Prenatal Nutrition & Vitamins
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Macronutrients>Energy Needs>Essential Nutrients>Choosing a Prenatal Vitamin>Nutrient Reference Guide Introduction: You’re Already Doing Great If you’re reading this, you’re already doing something wonderful—trying to understand how to nourish yourself and your growing baby during pregnancy. The amount of information about prenatal nutrition can be overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes contradictory. Between the endless supplement…
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Deep Dive: Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy and Postpartum
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Signs & Symptoms>Prevention>Management>Postpartum Consideration Hemorrhoids are a common and often uncomfortable condition that affects many pregnant and postpartum individuals. Studies suggest that approximately one-third of pregnant people experience symptomatic hemorrhoids, making them one of the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints during pregnancy and after childbirth. This article explores the causes of pregnancy-related hemorrhoids,…
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Deep Dive: Postpartum Hair Loss
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>How Long Will it Last?>Risk Factors>Management>When to Seek Medical Attention Bringing a new baby into the world is full of unexpected changes, not just to your lifestyle and sleep schedule, but to your body as well. One of the most surprising and emotionally challenging postpartum symptoms many new mothers experience is hair…
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Colic: Understanding the Crying and Finding Comfort
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Emotional Impact>Soothing Strategies>When to Seek Medical Attention What Is Colic? A Modern Understanding Colic has long been a source of confusion and distress for parents. Traditionally defined by the “rule of threes” established by Dr. Morris Wessel in 1954—crying for more than three hours a day, for more than three days a…
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Understanding Infant Reflux: Normal Development or Cause for Concern?
TABLE OF CONTENTS > Introduction>Normal vs GERD>Management of Normal Reflux>Management of GERD What Is Infant Reflux? Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a normal physiological process that occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus. In infants, this happens because the muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach (the lower esophageal sphincter) is still developing and…
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Baby Gas & Constipation: A Science-Based Guide for New Parents
What’s Actually Normal? Newborn Stage (0-1 month) The first days of your baby’s life bring many surprises, including their first bowel movements. These initial stools, called meconium, are black, sticky, and tar-like in appearance—a completely normal first step in your baby’s digestive journey. Within 3-4 days, you should notice a transition to more typical infant…
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Understanding Newborn Poop: A Guide for Expecting Parents
As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, you might not realize how much time you’ll spend thinking about, discussing, and monitoring your little one’s bowel movements. While it may seem strange now, it’s completely normal – poop is one of the best indicators of your baby’s health in those early days. What to Expect in…
