The Best Birth Podcast

In this episode, Laurel Bandy discusses the importance of maternity leave and how to prepare for balancing motherhood and career. She highlights the lack of federal paid leave in the United States and the varying policies of employers and states. Laurel provides advice on preparing for maternity leave, including researching state and employer programs, communicating with HR, and planning for childcare. She also discusses the options for returning to work after maternity leave, such as phased returns, flexible work hours, job sharing, and teleworking. Laurel emphasizes the need for paid family leave and the impact of maternity leave on the wage gap.

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https://www.eeoc.gov/pregnancy-discrimination

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/oasam/civil-rights-center/internal/policies/pregnancy-discrimination

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/your-baby-and-child-9780241562659

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/ina-mays-guide-to-childbirth-9780091924157

In this episode, Reva Cook, a clinical social worker, discusses postpartum depression and anxiety and provides tips on how to cope with these mental health issues. She explains that postpartum mental health illnesses are common, affecting about 25% of women who experience pregnancy. Reva emphasizes the importance of being aware of the risk factors and protective factors for postpartum mental health issues. She suggests building a strong support system, addressing past trauma, and practicing good mental health coping strategies. Reva also discusses the different ways postpartum mental health issues can manifest, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. She provides practical tools for managing anxiety and stress in the moment, including deep breathing, sensory activities, and humor. Reva also discusses the role of sleep, supplements, and medication in supporting postpartum mental health. She recommends resources such as the book 'Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts' by Karen Kleinman and emphasizes the importance of individualized parenting and finding what works best for each family.

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Julia Jeffrey, a doula and newborn care specialist, shares her journey into newborn care and the importance of sleep for babies. She emphasizes the need for creating a perfect sleep environment, establishing routines, and understanding wake windows. Julia also discusses the importance of trust in the parent-child relationship and the developmental milestones that babies go through. She advises against excessive screen time and encourages parents to set limits and create realistic expectations.

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The Fringe Hours by Jessica Turner

In this conversation, Mary Wood, a professional organizer, shares tips on managing kid clutter and organizing baby gear. She emphasizes the importance of not buying unnecessary items and only getting the essentials. Mary suggests creating a structure and designated spaces for items in the home, using labels and picture labels for young children. She also discusses strategies for maintaining organization, such as using baskets for quick clean-ups and involving the whole family in the process. Mary highlights the emotional attachment to items and the need to let go of things that are no longer needed. She also talks about the benefits of nature and the connection between organization and the beauty of natural structures.

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Mary's Favorite Children's Books:

In this episode, Jen and Sarah discuss postpartum and newborn care. They explore the difference between a postpartum doula and a birth doula, and the importance of having support during the postpartum period. Sarah shares her journey into this line of work and the need for personalized care. They also discuss the lack of education and resources for postpartum care and the barriers to accessing it. They provide tips for planning for the postpartum period, including setting boundaries with visitors and prioritizing self-care. They also emphasize the importance of lactation support and mental wellness during this time.

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McKenzie Mott, a birth and bereavement doula, shares her personal journey of becoming a doula and experiencing the loss of her son. She emphasizes the importance of quality support for families going through grief and provides resources for bereaved parents. McKenzie also discusses the role of a bereavement doula in providing guidance and support during the grieving process. She encourages parents to create legacies and find ways to remember their child, and highlights the strength and resilience that comes from living for their children's memory.

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Dr. Luke Johnson, a dermatologist, discusses skincare during pregnancy, focusing on melasma and other pigmentary changes, swelling, rashes, hair and nail issues, and sun protection. He emphasizes the importance of sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sun-protective clothing. He also advises against using certain creams and recommends using moisturizers to prevent dry skin. Dr. Johnson addresses common concerns such as hair loss and brittle nails, suggesting that they are usually temporary and not a cause for worry. He encourages mental preparation for labor and parenting, reminding listeners that they are capable.

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Dr. Thayne Gardner, a board-certified pediatric dentist, discusses the importance of dental care during pregnancy and for newborns. He explains how pregnancy can affect oral health and provides tips for maintaining good dental hygiene. Dr. Gardner also addresses common concerns such as morning sickness and the use of toothpaste during pregnancy. He emphasizes the need for regular dental check-ups and the role of preventive care. Additionally, he discusses the evaluation and treatment of tongue and lip ties in infants. Dr. Gardner highlights the importance of establishing a positive dental experience for children and provides resources for further information.

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Share your MomSquad Secrets on our Facebook Page!

Calie Hong, a postpartum doula, shares her journey to becoming a doula and the importance of birth advocacy. She emphasizes the need for parents to have information and options when it comes to their birth plans. Calie discusses the tools she provides to help parents prepare and make informed decisions, such as researching different birthing options and creating a birth plan. She highlights the significance of having a birth team that supports and respects the parents' wishes. Calie also talks about the role of a doula in helping parents create precious moments after birth and offers tips for new moms, including the importance of sleep and asking for help.

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Birth Without Fear - January Harshe

Brittany Fox, a nutritional therapy practitioner, discusses postpartum depletion and hormone health. She emphasizes the importance of replenishing the body after pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as taking a holistic approach to overall health. Brittany provides practical solutions for moms to feel great, including focusing on nutrition, testing for nutrient deficiencies, and supporting the nervous system. She also highlights the significance of being mindful of movement and exercise during the postpartum period. Spending time in nature and disconnecting from technology are additional strategies for regulating the nervous system and promoting hormone balance.

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