Mommy Headquarters

Secrets of Postpartum Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:48:00 +0000

Over the last few months I am realizing that I am likely suffering from postpartum depression. For the longest time, I assumed it couldn't possibly be what was eating at me, but the more I heard from mom's who have dealt with depression, the more I feel like that is exactly what's going on.

I am not sad, I do not want to kill myself, I don't want to hurt my children. Yet, I have days that I just don't care. I still take care of my kids and go about my business as usual, but inside I lack motivation. There are days that the thought of having to bathe my children makes me feel exhausted and I haven't even done anything yet. Some days, the thought of clipping their nails seems overwhelming, and it is a tiny task. I do it anyways, but I don't get much enjoyment out of it.

I always had this idea in my head that depression meant you feel sad all the time. That's not the case! You can suffer from depression and not feel "sad" at all. I have days where I feel overwhelmed over little things and I just shut down. There have been occasions where little things would make me cry, and those things would just eat at me. Most of the time I just feel like I am living in a gray world.

Don't picture a grown woman huddled in a corner sobbing. That's not what my life looks like. Most people don't even have a clue that I am dealing with it. Really, I look like a normal person. Looking back, I think I have been dealing with this for a long time, I just never admitted it and I didn't know what "this" was. Maybe part of me knew and just didn't want to come to terms with it, or maybe I really just didn't know.

So here I am, and now that I realize what's going on, I can start making changes. I won't get on medication because I don't think the postpartum depression is serious enough. I am not a medication person to begin with, so it doesn't seem natural for my lifestyle. First, I need to change my diet. I am not eating as healthy as I should. I need to start cutting out caffeine, getting more rest, and making sure I am getting enough Vitamin D. I need to get back into exercising regulary and making better choices. I am a huge believer that mind, body, and soul are all interconnected and all areas need attention to improve overall well-being.

Have you ever suffered from depression? What did it feel like for you? What helped you get back to yourself?

Would You Share Your Breastmilk?

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:10:00 +0000

For my the answer is a resounding "yes!" Currently, my best friend gives my breastmilk to her son. There is nothing wrong with her or with her son. I don't have a tear-jerking story to tell about why I do it, or why she needs it. I simply do it for her because she wants to give her son breastmilk as long as she can, and at 6 months postpartum, her supply slowed. I am a big believer in giving human breastmilk to human babies.

I know what it feels like to have a drop in supply. I remember the sadness I felt when I had to start giving my daughter bottles that were half formula-half Breastmilk. I felt like I failed her. I didn't want to give her formula, but had no choice. I don't want any other moms to feel that way. However, I do realize that I can't help everyone. I was blessed enough this time around to have adequate time to pump at work, and thus ended up keeping an abundant supply. With a one-year-old I still have about 5 grocery bags filled with breastmilk in our chest freezer.

Usually I would have stopped pumping when my son turned one, but this time I just kept right on going. The only difference now is that the milk I pump now will go to my best friends baby. My son will still breastfeed for awhile, so I don't feel like he is missing out on anything. Instead, I feel like I am doing a good deed to help my friend out.

Have you ever shared your breastmilk for a friend or stranger? What made you decide to do it?

Extended Nursing: One Year and Beyond!

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:44:00 +0000

I will admit it, I was one of those people who, before I had children, thought it was weird to nurse a baby past one year old. For me, it was unfamiliar and I wasn't educated on the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for both mom and baby. Not only that, but I didn't understand the incredible bond felt between mom and baby that is emotionally hard to break.

I nursed my daughter until she was 14 months old, at which point she decided she was done. I was a little over 3 months pregnant with my son and apparently nursing took too much time out of her busy agenda. My daughter was a constant mover and at 14 months there was no way she was sitting still to wait for my boobs to provider her with a let-down. Her sippy cup was more efficient in her eyes. Not only could she drink it at her pace, but it could come with her as she ran around. Apparently my boobs just aren't that mobile.

Now, here I am with a 12 month old and we are still chugging along. I am giving myself one fat pat on the back for making it this far without having to supplement with formula (which I had to do for my daughter at approximately 9-10 months). This lovely picture is from my mid-day pump. My boobs are still working just the way nature intended, and I am proud!

This time around I hope to make it past 14 months. The World Health Organization is encouraging mom's to breastfeed to 2 years and beyond, with a recommendation of at least 6 months. While I doublt I will nurse my son until he is 2, I hope to make it past 14 months with at least one feeding per day. Not only is it a special bonding time for just my son and I, but it yields health benefits for both of us.

Nowadays, I don't even flinch at mom's who nurse their babies beyond a year. In fact, I look up to those women. Trust me, I have heard the comments about extended nursing, and while I feel there is an age where enough-is-enough for my family, who am I to decide what the right age is for other families? I say do what feels right.

How long did you nurse your children? Would you do it differently if given the chance?

A Birth Story: One Year Later

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:33:00 +0000

I thought it would be fun to re-write my birth story, a year later without looking back at the story I wrote a few weeks after my son was born. Then I want to compare the two and see what I remember the most a year later.
Warning: This is a long one!

It was a monday, I was exactly 38 weeks pregnant and there was a snow storm covering the state of Wisconsin. I woke up feeling like I was going to go into labor that day. The baby felt much lower than he had felt for the past weeks. I remember commenting to my husband that the baby felt so low it was going to fall out of me. I got ready for work and continued about my day like it was any normal day. At work, I commented to my manager that I felt like the baby was really low, and she made the comment that it meant something was happening. I shrugged it off since I had been having Prodromal labor since 33 weeks. The whole office was waiting for the baby to come since they all had bets on the date, time, weight and gender of the baby. I had surpassed most of the guess dates.

I continued about my day, occasionally staring out the window and the beautiful snow globe effect created by the courtyard in front of my cube. I had been loosing pieces of my mucous plug for a couple weeks, so when I continued to loose pieces that day I didn't think too much of it. I had increased bowel movements and still, it had been happening for awhile, so I didn't think anything of it. Though secretly, I was hoping it meant my baby was going to meet us soon. I knew deep down labor was coming, but I felt terribly stupid for thinking that. Afterall, I had been dealing with prodromal labor for the past 5 weeks and thought I might be in labor a few times, but it never progressed. There I was thinking about it when I wasn't not having any contractions. It didn't make sense.

At around 1pm I started having Braxton Hicks contractions. They were 10 minutes apart, and since my husband liked to stay in the loop, I sent him a text letting him know I was contracting every 10 minutes but that it wasn't anything worth getting excited about yet, and that he should continue about his day. He immediately called and started asking questions. I told him I would keep him updated and hung up to get back to work. The contractions stayed at the same intensity until about 4pm when they faded away completly. They never hurt, they never got more intense, and they never got closer together. They were textbook Braxton hicks contractions.

I left work around 4 to pick my daughter up from daycare since the roads were getting worse and worse with the snow piling up. The snow storm was peaceful, without howling winds or slushy snow. Regardless, I hate to drive on slippery roads, so I left work early, but I felt peaceful.

When I hit a stoplight on the way to daycare I called my mom. I asked her if she had plans that night, just in case something were to happen. She asked if I was contracting. I told her no, but that I just wanted to make sure she was free to watch my daughter if something happened, and that something just felt different. Looking back, my instincts must have been kicking in. I knew all along that birth was close.

My daughter and I arrived home at around 5:30pm. The roads were horrible so it took us awhile to get back from daycare. My husband arrived around the same time and we made pasta for dinner. I remember thinking I needed to eat a good amount, becuase hospitals won't let you eat while you are in labor. After dinner, my husband and I decided to encourage softening of the cervix with good old fashion intercourse. Afterwards, I felt an immediate need to rest. He took our daughter to take a bath and I relaxed.

Around 8-8:30pm I started to feel contractions. I didn't think anything of them since they didn't feel any different from the contractions I had felt days earlier. Of course, I wasn't timing them. I relaxed through them and had no concept of time. I was in labor land. By about 9-9:30 I started having to pee everytime I had a contraction, my husband was bugging me that I needed to tell him when each started so he could time them. I brushed it off and told him it wasn't worth timing them yet. I should have realized that he could tell how far apart they were because I got up to pee at the start of each one. I was coming back to the bed after having to pee at the start of a contraction and instinctually leaned and rocked holding on to the edge of the bed as another one started. My husband hopped out of bed and didn't say a word to me, but I knew he went to go pack the car. It was somewhere around 10:30pm at this point.

I decided it was time to look at the clock. After a few contractions, I couldn't believe they were 4 minutes apart. I would have guessed they were farther apart. I called my mom to come and watch my daughter so we could head to the hospital. I believe I said "Hey mom, want to come hang out with your grandaughter?" She asked how far apart my contractions were, and scolded me when I said 4 minutes. With the snow, it was going to take my mom awhile to get to my house. The doctor told me that because I was a VBAC, I needed to be at the hospital as soon as I knew I was in labor and that I should call when they were 10 minutes apart. According to my husband, they were never more than 4 minutes apart.

I got off the phone with my mom and called the hospital to let them know we were coming. The on-call doctor was a bitch. Regardless, I apologized for waking her, as I could hear that she must have been sleeping. She asked if I wanted another c-section. I said no, and she said okay, I will let them know you are coming and you can try a VBAC. Instead of getting discouraged at her tone I relaxed in the dim light. I then changed my outfit a few times, which I know is strange, but I wanted to wear an outfit I could wear back home so I didn't have extra "stuff".

My husband was waiting downstairs. By the time I got downstairs I was contracting every 2 minutes. I had to breath through them and started to get a little worried that we wouldn't make it to the hospital in time. I was still in good spirits so I didn't worry too much until my husband started to panic a little. Panic is contagious! We got into the car knowing my mom was minutes away. When she pulled in, we left for the hospital.

By the time we got there and got settled in I was contracting less than 2 minutes apart. We filled out paperwork, listened to the resident and nurses talk about the procedures and I got changed. They tried to give me a pamphlet on pain management (which is stupid for a women who is contracting every two minutes. I couldn't read anything!) I told her not to offer me anything and that I didn't want anything. They hooked me up to monitors and checked me. I was a whopping 2.5 cm dilated, but around 80% effaced (which I had been for the past week). I tried not to get discouraged as the contractions got more intense. The nurse told me to wait an hour and they would check me again. I should progress a cm per hour, she told me. At about 1-1:30 am I was at 3-4cm dilated. It was then we called our immediate families to let them know that the baby was on the way. I wish I would have known the baby was so quick to come because I would have allowed more family to be there. We thought we would call them when it got close...

The nurse told me if I wanted to walk around or get in the tub, I had to do it right away because once I was a full 4cm, procedures stated that I needed to be continuously monitored. I asked to walk. The nurse wanted to check my blood pressure. It was up, so I had to lay down for 15 minutes. I had the lights dimmed and I relaxed on my side. 15 minutes later, my pressure was fine and I opted for the bath tub. The tub was incredible. I could open my eyes through contractions and continue talking to my husband without a problem. after 20 minutes the nurse came in to get me out and asked if I wanted to stay longer, since she could see I was enjoying it. I said yes and she told me I could stay in for 10 more minutes. Somewhere between 10-20 minutes later I started to get really uncomfortable and warm so I decided to get out of the tub. My husband helped me out and with one strong contraction, "pop" my water broke.

I walked back to the bed and called the nurse to let her know my water had broken on the floor and that I was sorry I made a mess. She told me not to worry and laughed at the fact that I was apologizing. I layed on my side and she came in to check me again. I was at 5cm. I started to wonder whether I could do it naturally. It was getting so intense all of a sudden, but I gave myself a little pep talk and remembered that women were made to do this. I asked my hubby for a pillow to put between my legs while the nurse typed the information about my water breaking into the computer. It was my job to relax completely and let my body flow with the contractions.

Within 5 minutes of laying down, I was immediately overcome with an intense urge to push. I looked at the nurse and said "I have to push!" She told me to relax and said she would check me, but it was too late, My body was already pushing. She checked me and told me I was complete and the head was low. She literally ran out of the room. There was not a doctor or anesthesiologist in sight (both should be present when a VBAC mom hits 4 cm because of potential complications according to our hospital). My husband flipped up my blanket to make sure no baby was coming out since we were alone in the room. My body continued to try and push through contractions while everyone told me not to. It was extremely painful to try and stop my body from doing what it knew it needed to do.

All of a sudden there were two nurses and a resident surrounding me telling me not to push. One nurse, who I loved, was rubbing my belly and talking in calming tones to try and help me relax. Regardless my body was trying to push. I got really hot all of a sudden so the nurses cooled me down with wet rags. My husband held my hand as I struggled not to allow my body to do what it was meant to do. My contractions were coming almost one on top of the other and I started to feel panicked.

Finally the doctor arrived and still in her normal clothes told me I could bear down with the contractions and we would see what would happen. She explained it could take an hour or two since I haven't delivered vaginally before. I beared down with my next contraction and the room went into a flurry. All of a sudden the bottom of the bed dropped out and there were stirrups and a trash can beneath me. My doctor rushed into scrubs and her gown. She didn't even get shoes on. She just wore scrub booties. I pushed again while the room was being prepared. My doctor scooted up in time for me to push again. By the third contraction my baby's head was coming out. My doctor told me not to push and to slow down because the baby was going to come to fast. Another contraction came and I tried to slow it down, but my son was ready to come out. He came out at the beginning of the 4th contraction. I felt no pain when he came out. I was off in a different world, only coming back to look at him as his head delivered and coming back again once he was being placed on my chest. He didn't cry right away, and the umbilical cord was short so my doctor advised my husband to cut the cord right away, though I would have preferred delayed clamping and cutting. Regardless, I was so in love with the little boy that just came into the world that I was in a state of euphoria. The high that you get from a natural birth is unlike anything I have ever felt in my life. It was beautiful.

I immediately got a shot in the leg and at the time had no idea what it was. I now know it was pitocin. My OB was trying to get my placenta out quickly, thought I wasn't having any bleeding issues, and there was no medical reason to force it out so soon. Within minutes I was delivering the placenta. Which again, I didn't feel. I was so curious about what the placenta would look like so I watched myself deliver it. The doctor explained all of the different parts of it and I was fascinated. It made me realize how amazing childbearing and delivery really is.

So that's how I remember the story a year later. Part of me almost thinks I remember more. I think it's because I am not as emotional and that I have had time to reflect. What do you think? Have you told your birth story and compared it with how you told it when you first delivered?

Homemade Laundry Detergent Impacts More Than Your Wallet

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:57:00 +0000

Below is a great guest post from a dear friend of my over at Our Motherhood. I have always been impressed by the tips and tricks she has for remaining thrifty and eco-conscious. She is someone I truly look up to, so I asked her to write a post about something that I think other people would find value in: making your own laundry detergent!

Homemade Laundry Detergent Impacts More Than Your Wallet

It’s something so many of us are particular about: laundry. From how it’s sorted, washed, dried, folded, and even put onto hangers, we all have our own way of doing it.

I grew up with sensitive skin, so when I went off to college, I used the perfume-free version of detergent my mom did. And all my roommates did the same thing with their softeners and fabric sheets. It wasn’t until I became pregnant with my first child that I really started to think about all the chemicals that remain on my clothes, permeating the largest organ of my body: my skin. I wanted something safe and healthy for my family.

Photo courtesy of healthyoates.com

So I started doing some research on the health impacts of laundry detergent. Did you know that optical brighteners – found in so many name brands – have potentially high toxicity to humans? And don’t even get me started on the dangers of the fragrances found in detergent and softeners. Not to mention, this stuff is getting into our waterways, our sources for consumption, as well as all God’s creatures. Furthermore, I can’t even begin to tell you how much money we’ve save making our own laundry detergent.

If you want to learn more, I highly recommend starting your research with Deirdre Imus’ Green This! For additional information about the chemicals found in your laundry detergent, visit the Environmental Working Group’s site and search for the ingredients on your detergent label.

And if you’re already convinced about making the switch, happy concocting!

How to make your own laundry detergent, an easy laundry detergent recipe

Laundry detergent ingredients and materials:

Borax

Washing soda (find Arm and Hammer brand in the laundry aisle)

Vinegar

Liquid castile soap (I love Dr. Bronner’s baby mild, unscented)

¼ cup measuring utensil

Directions

Start your washer, but do not add laundry. Add, in this order, to the water:

• 1/8 cup washing soda

• 1/8 cup borax

• 1/8 cup vinegar

• 1 ounce castile soap

Add your clothes and launder as usual! If you want to mix a batch ahead of time, you can combine the ingredients above with 1/8 cup of hot water (make larger batch by using these proportions) and adding ½ cup of your detergent to each wash cycle.

DIY dryer sheets

When you aren’t line-drying, give your laundry a nice, fresh scent by adding 5 drops off essential oil to a 5x5 inch piece of scrap fabric and adding it to your dryer. I like organic lavender, orange, or peppermint, depending on the season.

Help for Morning Sickness: Ginger

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:33:00 +0000

Here comes that feeling...that nausea that is so overwhelming that you don't want to stand up, don't want to lay down, don't want to do anything! That is, unless you want to see your partially digested breakfast/lunch/dinner for the second time.

I had horrible morning sickness with my first pregnancy. Painful, frequent, overwhelming morning sickness. Up to 80% of women experience it. Many times I felt like I couldn't function. Jolly Ranchers and fresh lemon juice on ice were my remedy. My doctor told me she would give me a prescription, but I didn't want one since I wasn't constantly vomiting, and I tend to err on the more natural side of things. I liked the effects I got from ginger ale, but they weren't drastic enough, and I HATE the after-taste. It is like morning breath meets ginger. Yuck.

Ginger has an amino acid in it called Tryptophane (in addition to a plethora of antioxidants!) which has the affect of calming the nervous system. This assists with calming nausea associated with morning sickness, motion sickness etc. Here are a couple ideas for utilizing ginger to battle morning sickness:

Make ginger tea
Boil 2 cups of water and pour over 3 slices of fresh ginger root (about the equivalent of 4 teaspoons)
Let steep for approximately 15 minutes. Remove the ginger and sip!
Optional: Sweeten with honey or lemon
Drink up to two cups of the tea throughout the day to reduce symptoms

Chew the ginger
Take a 2 inch slice of ginger and chew it like gum. Swallow the juices and spit the ginger out after a few minutes. If this isn't your style

What I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Pregnancy: Not Everyone Cares

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:49:00 +0000

Being pregnant is such an exciting time, especially for first-time moms! You anxiously await a growing belly to show in all its glory and you pray to feel that baby move as soon as possible. It is an experience that often goes too fast and you look back wishing you had savored it.

The holidays always entail exciting news at my age. Every year I hear at least a few pregnancy announcements. It got me thinking, even though I am always excited to hear of a pregnancy, not everyone is. It brought back memories of my first pregnancy when I had to learn that even though I was over the moon about being pregnant, not everyone feels that way about it. Not everyone is as excited about your pregnancy as you are, and not everyone who is, shows it.

I wish someone would have told me that with my first. It always stung a little when people didn't get up out of their chair excited, like how I was feeling inside. It was disappointing. The second time around it didn't sting nearly as badly. I learned that myself and my husband were the only two that needed to be excited. Just a word to the wise for new moms, though you may be jumping for joy about your growing bundle, try not to be disappointed when not everyone feels the same.

Birth Does Not Have to Hurt!

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:22:00 +0000

Reflecting on a conversation I had with a woman I barely knew, I remember that when I told her I birthed my son naturally (no drugs, pit, etc) she told me I was f*ing nuts and asked "didn't it hurt?". I wanted to say, the assumption that it hurts is f*ing nuts, but I held back. An episode of the Real Housewives of Atlanta recently featured Kim talking about natural delivery and commented that women who deliver naturally are dumbasses. Kim, I disagree, and I don't think you are a dumbass for taking drugs. You just chose a different route than I did.

While labor did not feel "good" per se, the actual birth did not hurt at all for me. I did some Hypnobirthing techniques and I will chalk it up to those that made the actual birth pain free for me. I will go ahead and give a shout out to mother nature too. When a baby is delivered, the pressure can be so intense sometimes that you don't feel "pain" from the baby being delivered. Not to mention, your body produces these amazing super drugs called endorphines that help to mask the pain and get you through delivery.

Yes, some women experience pain during delivery, but to assume everyone does is silly. Ever heard of orgasmic birth? Those women don't seem to be complaining!

What was your delivery like? Did you feel it? Was it "painful",orgasmic, or other?

Birth Competition, Birth Jealousy, Birth Envy

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:21:00 +0000

This morning I was reading this article, "Incredible Birth Photo Brings Out the Worst in Jealous Moms" from Christie Haskell on Cafe Mom. The comments to the article got me thinking. I get what Christie was trying to say though I don't entirely agree with how she worded everything. Regardless, she had a point. Why is it that birth seems to be a competition?

First, I will say that I am a huge supporter of natural births (meaning no drugs and as little intervention as possible) and home births. I would love to have a home birth, but have not had one yet. My first birth was a cocktail of drugs during a c-section due to a breech baby and my second was an unmedicated hospital birth. If I have a third, I would really like to experience a home birth. With that said, I do admit I feel a little envious of women who get to experience what I would like to experience myself. It isn't a malicious envy. If anything, it is an inspiration and a reminder that women can do it, and hopefully some day I can too!

Now back to the competition conversation. Why does it feel like a a competition sometimes? I hear women talk about birth stories and compare and contrast, which I love. I am a self-proclaimed birth junkie. However,I find that I hear a lot of "Mine was worse than yours" type of conversations. Obviously no one comes out and says that, but why are we trying to one-up each other when it comes to birth???? Especially since we tend to focus on the negative.

I hear so many stories where it feels like the next woman to tell the story is trying to describe how much harder/worse/more intense hers was. Bottom line, I think you need to experience birth in your own way. If you want an epidural, and that makes your experience better, go for it! If you want to take narcotic drugs, who am I to tell you not to? If you want to deliver in your bed at home, rock-on!

When I reflect on my birth experience, I think about how wonderful it was. I will admit that it didn't feel "good" necessarily, but I am extremely proud of my body and I don't think it was this blood and gore horror story that some women make it out to be. Even my c-section wasn't as bad as I thought it would be (though I would never want one again). I look back on my birth and think very positively of the experience.

My husband has made comments about other women's birth choices when he hears birth stories. He doesn't understand why a woman needs drugs since I did it without and didn't scream or yell or shout. He has made comments that woman are being dramatic when they scream and yell. Many times I have to bring him back to the realization that I deal with pain differently than other people,and since I am all he has to compare it to, that he needs to know that I may not be the norm. If you have to scream to get through labor and delivery, that is just your way of getting through it. It doesn't make you less of a woman than me, and it doens't mean my birth was better.

Instead of judging each other's decisions, or one-upping each other, we should be supporting one another and showing women that birth is not this horrible, painful experience that media makes it out to be. I completely understand that there are occasions when birth can feel like a nightmare, I have heard the horror stories, but more often than not, I know it can be a beautiful empowering experience. Let's empower each other to have the birth that is right for each of us, even if it isn't like our own. Do you feel like birth is a competition?

Torn: Family of 4 or Family of 5?

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:53:00 +0000

Since our son was born my husband and I have toyed with the idea of having another baby. In his eyes, having one little boy and one little girl, is the perfect family for him. In my eyes, it's not so clear. I have felt like there is one more baby in my future and that a family of 5 is perfect for me. However, I know that's my heart speaking and not my brain.

Recently, my uncle had some good points about having a family of 5 (he and his wife have three boys). He said that as much as he loves having a family of 5, the general population caters to a family of four. He explained that tables are often for four, rides at amusement parks can seat four leaving one out, Disneyland does packages for a family of four and you have to pay extra for the 5th person...It all sunk in and I realized that yes, he has a valid point, but I also think that you can work around all those things. You cannot typically, however, ignore the fact that one more child adds a huge expense in the long run. Financially, one more will have a large impact.

My aunt chimed in and said none of those things were a big deal and that it all works out, you just have to do things a little differently. I appreciated their candid comments, but it left me even more confused. My heart says one more, and my brain says I am not sure.

So what do you do when you and your husband aren't on the same page with adding to the family? How do you know when it's right and when you should call it quits?

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines: How Long Can I Store My Milk?

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 18:37:00 +0000

With my first baby I asked this question all the time. I wasn't sure how long I could store my breast milk in a cooler, or a refrigerator...and what happens when it is freshly expressed vs. thawed? Below is a good reference guide to how long you can store it in various places. Keep in mind the temperature of where you store it is always an important factor.

Here's a tip: Before you feed your baby any expressed breast milk, smell it. If it has any strong odor, don't give it to your baby/toddler. Breast milk doesn't have much of an odor at all when it is okay to drink.

4-10 hours: Freshly expressed breast milk

4-6 hours: In a warm room (approx. 79°F / 25°C)
10 hours: room temperature (66-72°F / 19-22°C)

24 hours - 8 days: In a refrigerator

24 hours: previously frozen, thawed breast milk (32-39°F / 0-4°C)
8 days: freshly expressed breast milk (32-39°F / 0-4°C)

2 weeks - 12 months:In a freezer

2 weeks: In the freezer compartment of a small refrigerator
3-6 months: In a freezer attached to a refrigerator
6-12 months: In a chest freezer/deep freeze (approx. 0°F / 19°C)

24 hours: In a cooler with ice packs (60°F / 15°C)

More Breast Milk storage guidlines/tips!

As a general rule you should not re-freeze thawed breast milk, however, I am not going to lie. If it is still cold, I have refrozen it, and my kids are still alive.

As always, when you are putting your milk in a refrigerator or freezer, always store it as far away from the door as possible. This keeps it colder than if you would store it in the door or close to the door.

Never shake breast milk to mix it. Often the milk fat will separate from the liquid portion of the breastmilk. To combine it swirl or stir it gently. Shaking it can compromise the living portions of the milk.

You can combine two different pumping sessions worth of breast milk into one container as long as they are both the same temperature. I always let mine sit in the refrigerator for a few hours each before combining them, just to be safe.

If you are using breast milk storage bags, freeze your milk flat. Lay the bags down and let them freeze. It is easier to stack, store, and transport them later if they are all a similar shape.

Though it might sound a little gross, I compare breast milk storage and care to how you would handle meat. You wouldn't combing a bunch of hot meat with cold meat, and you wouldn't refreeze meat if it has come to room temperature. That is just asking for bacteria to grow!

Make Your Own No-Sew Moby Wrap!

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:23:00 +0000

One of my favorite money-saving tips was to make my own no-sew Moby wrap. My sister-in-law and I got together deciding that we could buy fabric together and split it so that we could each have a wrap that would only cost us about $17 or so. (You can buy less-expensive fabric or clearance fabric to make the deal sweeter). I am a huge supporter of baby wearing, and found that with two children, being able to wear the younger one made my life so much easier. I tend to favor the wrap style carriers (Moby-like baby carriers)for younger babies because of the versatility.

So here are my simple tips/directions for making your own no-sew Moby.

1. Find 6-8 yards of jersey knit fabric that you like that won't require sewing. I prefer the stretchier fabrics where the ends will "roll" so you don't have to sew them. Some fabrics fray. I don't recommend those fabrics unless you really want to sew. The amount you will need really depends on your size. I am 5'4" 115 lbs and need about 6 yards. I like the extra "tail" that is created by the fabric. If you don't have enough, it gets harder to tie on. Keep in mind that you can always cut off extra fabric. Adding on gets more complicated.

2.Cut the fabric in half length-wise and share with a friend! If the fabric is wider, you could even cut it into thirds. It really boils down to taste at this point. Thirds will make the wrap less-bulky.

3.Find the center of the fabric (length-wise) and mark it. This will be the marker that will always line up with your belly to get the wrap started. I purchased an iron-on applique to mark the center of mine.

4.Put it on and enjoy! For tips on how to wrap your baby see http://www.wrapyourbaby.com/ and look at the left side of the screen for links to instructions for various carrying options. My personal favorite is the Pocket Wrap Cross Carry.

Increase Your Milk Supply with Pumpkin Nut Lactation Cookies!

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:55:00 +0000

Previously I posted a recipe for lactation cookies. When you are a breastfeeding mom, anything that can help boost your supply is a good thing! While I was searching the net, I came across this recipe that sounded too good not to pass on! Though the traditional cookies are excellent, this recipe is perfect for fall!

*note: the original recipe comes from a mom at Why Cloth Diaper. I just made a small tweak to it to suite my taste buds.

Once you make the recipe let me know if it helps make a difference for you! I already know they are yummy!

You will need:
4 c. whole wheat flour
3 c. old-fashioned oats (uncooked)
2 tsp. baking soda
3 tsp. pumkin pie spice
1 tsp. sea salt
1 1/2 c. unsalted butter (softened)
2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
4 tbsp. water
1 tbsp. flaxseed meal
2-4 tbsp. brewer’s yeast
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 16oz. can of pumpkin
1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped walnuts or pecans

"Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a small bowl combine the water and the flaxseed meal; let sit for 5 minutes.
In one bowl, combine flour, baking soda, yeast, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Slowly beat in the sugars.
Add vanilla, egg, and flaxseed mixture. Beat until smooth.
Add pumpkin and mix well.
Slowly add your dry ingredients and beat until well mixed.
Stir in oats, chocolate chips, and nuts. (Tip: I use my hands in order to get the oats completely covered. If they’re not covered, your cookies will have dry, flaky, uncooked oats in them.)
Place dough in 1.5 inch lumps, 1-2 inches apart, with a medium scoop. You can use a spoon, but the scoop makes awesome looking cookies!
Bake for 13-15 minutes on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Remove from oven and transfer from cookie sheet immediately to a cooling rack."

Mouth watering yet?

If you are a cloth diapering mama, or considering it, check out their blog for great info on cloth diapering! http://www.whyclothdiaper.com

Birth Control Without a Pill, Ring, Condoms or Anything?

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:20:00 +0000

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the sale of the birth control. I think in typing that I imagine men everywhere cheering (and some women too). It is a big deal, regardless of whether you love it or hate it.

When I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome 8 years ago, my OB/GYN immediately put me on birth control, to help with symptoms. At the beginning, I really liked my birth control ring. All of a sudden I was getting regular periods and my hormones seemed to balance out.
Not long after that, my hormones did a 180 and started a mutiny. I started to feel depressed and moody all the time. So, I switched to a different type of birth control, the patch.

The patch worked okay for a little while and then I was right back to feeling down and not myself. Again, I switched and this time to a lower hormone pill. Not only did it suck to try and rememeber to take a pill every day at the same time, but not long after, I was feeling down again. Just a few months before I got married I started to do research on natural methods of hormone balancing and birth control and started a method called Natural Family Planning (NFP).

Though it has its positives and negatives (as does every birth control method), I didnt have the mood side effects and I felt more like myself. I still use this method. The only issue I have with it now, is that I have no idea where I am at in my cycle because I am breastfeeding. Not to mention, on occasion I get OMG looks when I tell people that's the method I use. When done properly it can be very effective. The problem is that it takes just as much work as any other birth control method. Besides that, I have been very happy not having my hormones altered by medication.

What form of birth control do you use? What do you like, not like about it?

Baby Led Weaning and Loving It

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 17:16:00 +0000

With my first child I did the baby food thing. It was the route to take as far as I knew. I didn't even think there were other options. As much as I loved spending time with her and watching her try new foods, carrying baby food, bowls, and baby spoons around was a hassle! After I learned that rice cereal was unnecessary, I started to question how I was feeder her. (Rice cereal is an extra step to get your baby used to the texture of something other than breast milk or formula. If you want to do baby food, jump right into the fruits and veggies.)

During my pregnancy with my son, I was learning about Baby Led Weaning. A few co-workers had done it and lots of my Twitter friends had done it. Everyone who tried it spoke very highly about it. So I decided I wanted to try it. Ditching the spoons and bowls and baby food sounded like an awesome plan! However, when it came down to it, I was confused. I had no idea where to start, no idea what to feed him, and didn't have a clue how I was supposed to prepare his food.

I decided to just dive right in. I cut avocados into long strips, baked strips of sweet potatoes and put them on his high-chair tray. At first he struggled getting anything into his mouth, but I didn't intervene and let him do what he could. He eventually stuck his face on the tray and sucked off the food.(I guess that's one way to get it.) I really didn't know how everything was going to go because I didn't know what to expect. I didn't do a very good job educating myself, so I was just kind of going with the flow.

Fast-Forward to today. My 8 month old son can effectively pick up his food and eat it, and I LOVE the baby led weaning method. It is not a hands-off method, so I still have to sit by him when he eats to make sure he doesn't choke on anything, and to catch all of the puffs and other food that he knocks off the tray, but I don't have to feed him with a bowl and spoon while I am sitting there. It is wonderful that I can give him the same things we are eating, to a point, and not have to worry about getting the baby food out. So far, I am impressed with the method and I am very happy with the hand-eye coordination he is developing in-part because of it.

Do you have an interesting baby-led weaning story or experience to share? What do you think about the method compared to traditional feeding with baby food?

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Here Comes the Fever!

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:51:00 +0000

Anyone who knows me understands that I would really like a third child. When my daughter was about 7 months old I got baby fever and we decided we were ready to try for a second child. I have abnormally long (60+ day) cycles, so we were pleasantly surprised that three months later we were expecting our second child.

My son is now 8 months and I swear the fever hit me like a ton of bricks. I see little babies and drool a the thought of having another. The problem is two-fold. One my husband is not completely sure that a third is right for us, and two, daycare is expensive! We know financially, a third baby is not in the cards just yet, and we have agreed that in 2 years or so we will discuss whether number three will be a possibility or not. I used to question whether I will want another or not, but now I am pretty sure that I know in my heart that I want another kidlet to join the family at some point.

I know I need to be patient, but why does baby fever need to hit me so hard when my babies are so young? Don't get me wrong, I love the short age gap between my two kidlets, but now is just not right for number three to enter the world. My fear is that it will never be right because my husband may decide that two is the ideal number for him, and I won't force him into having a third.

So I have been questioning myself a lot lately. Why do I want another baby so badly right now? Is it because I love the stages my kids are at and want to add another to the mix? Is it my heart telling me that I have a strong desire for a third? Is God trying to teach me patience? Is this cruel punishment for something bad I did in the past (sorry for stealing gum when I was five)?

Does anyone else out there get baby fever really quickly after a child? Is there a cure for this?

7 Months and Counting

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:02:00 +0000

I have been breastfeeding my son for 7 months now. To think about it almost puts me in A good friend of mine recently had a baby and it brought back the memories from nursing my daughter. The tear-jerking pain, raw nipples, wet clothes, and memories of begging for it to stop hurting came flooding back. I can't believe how hard it was starting off with my daughter compared to how easy it is now. I have been completely taking for granted how wonderful the experience is now. I felt like I fought so hard to get through every day of exclusively nursing her and just praying that it would get easier and the pain would stop. I had a goal to make it six months with her. At the beginning, I would be counting down the days to six months, just hoping I could make it. It eventually got easier and we made it to 14 months.

Now, I am at 7 months with my son. It went so much easier this time around that it almost catches me off guard when I realize how long it has been. Small fears still come and go that something will happen to my milk supply, but I am confident that he and I can make it at least another 7 months... Bliss.

Beco Gemini Baby Carrier Review

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:54:00 +0000

I was thrilled when I heard that Beco had created a new carrier that would allow the baby to face forward. Kids love to see what's going on in front of them, so I was soooo excited to get the carrier.

I loved my Beco Butterfly 2, so I knew I would love another product from Beco. The Gemini doesn't have all of the features I loved with my Beco, but it has some new, cool features.

What I like about the Beco Gemini Baby Carrier.

Better straps: The straps on this carrier are reinforced and cushioned. They are thicker and comfortable for mom/dad and baby.

Snaps to convert to forward-facing. The carrier has a neat feature that allows the front to fold in for more comfortable forward facing or fold out and snap for better support when the baby is facing mom/dad.

Strong support belt. Great for carrying for long periods of time without hurting your back

Built in nap hood/head support. On my Butterfly carrier, this was removable so it was easy to misplace. This one is built in and folds over.

Long Straps. This is awesome for when my much taller husband wants to carry the kids.

Easier to get on and off. The location of the strap buckles on the carrier make it much easier to use when I am alone. No hassles with getting the baby in or out!

It can carry a lot of baby/toddler. This carrier can hold up to 35 pounds!

Variety in carrying style. You can basically use this carrier to carry your baby any way you desire, on your front, on your back, facing forward, facing-you, on your hip...

Dreamy designs. I love the patterns and designs offered with this carrier!

What could be improved on the Beco Gemini Baby Carrier.

A pocket. It would be nice to have somewhere to store things on the carrier so a diaper bag or purse isn't needed on walks or short adventures.

I miss the built-in infant insert. This one does not have an infant insert included. However, it does specify that it can carry infants as little as 7lbs.

I miss the "pocket" design of the Butterfly 2. It held the baby in so you could safely and easily move baby from your front to your back or vice-versa without taking them out of the carrier. I guess the new location of the buckles makes it easier to get baby in and out, so this doesn't matter as much.

Overall, I love my carrier. It is comfortable and does exactly what I need it to.

Do you own a Beco Gemini carrier? What do you think of it?

Get The Most (Literally) Out of Your Pumping Sessions

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:20:00 +0000

Moms who exclusively pump and working moms who have to pump a lot, know that it is really important to get the most out of your pumping sessions. Through having two children and being a full-time working mom I have learned a lot about pumping milk effectively.

1. Get a good pump. This can make or break a pumping mom. The pump needs to be comfortable and have strong enough suction. A double electric tends to be the pump of choice for frequent pumpers. It is easier to get a let-down when you pump both sides at the same time and it is more time efficient than pumping with a single and doing each side separately.

2. Purchase pump parts that fit properly. If your shields/flanges don't fit, you won't maximize the amount of milk you pump. Not to mention if your pumping accessories don't fit properly they can cause discomfort and can damage your nipples.

3. Buy new pump parts. Ideally, with every child you will need a new set of breast pump accessories. If you have a Medela, those little rubber valves can make a huge difference when they are warn. If you feel like you aren't getting the milk you used to, try replacing your parts.

4. Make sure you have a let-down (see How Do I Get A Let-Down When Pumping). If you don't have a let down, you probably won't produce much of anything.

5. Pump around the same times every day. This works even better if it corresponds with when your baby would normally eat.

6. Pump for at least 20 minutes if you are struggling with your supply. Any shorter and your supply can suffer.

7. Use the right suction and speed setting. You will learn by trial and error what settings on your breast pump are most effective for you. For me, my speed starts off a lot higher when I begin pumping and once I have a let down, I slow the pump down and increase my pump strength.

8. Eat and drink. If you aren't eating and drinking enough and your supply will suffer, and so will your pumping experience.

9. Relax. If you are tense, you will likely pump less. I find that when I distract myself by reading, I pump more than if I am focusing on how much milk I am getting out.

10. Get the right accessories. A hands-free pumping bra like the ones from Simple Wishes can make pumping much easier and more enjoyable. Other accessories like the pump strap from Pumpin Pal can also help.

11. Pump where it's warm. If you are cold, you tense up and may pump less. Maybe the warmth relaxes me more, but I tend to have a better pumping experience when I am warm versus when I am cold.

What tips do you have for getting the most out of your pumping sessions?

When I Go Into Labor, Start a Stopwatch

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:51:00 +0000

The more birth stories I hear that end in c-sections, the more upset I become with the medical community. I feel like women might as well bring a stop watch to the hospital with them and when it goes off, the doctor will walk in and exlaim "time for a c-section!" or "Let's get you started on pitocin!"

Some women go into labor and are immediately put on Pitocin to speed things up, so there is not even a stopwatch there. Every inch of me wants to scream "LEAVE THESE WOMEN ALONE!" Their bodies know how to labor, so let it happen on it's own without intervening before anything is actually wrong! Add Pitocin and the time on the stopwatch shortens. Now you are expected to have the baby quicker because the Pitocin should be making that baby come sooner.

I know it doesn't go exactly like that, but it's damn close at a lot of hospitals. I was watching "One Born Every Minute" not too long ago and was so frustrated at the episode I was watching. This woman had not progressed for four hours, and guess what, the nurse came in and blatantly told her that when you don't progress in four hours they do a c-section. The stop watch was clearly present.

My heart breaks when I hear stories of so many women who've had c-sections because of "failure to progress". I think it should be called "failure to wait". Our bodies do amazing things, and sometimes during labor, they take a break before the big finish. This is not a failure...this is smart. Sometimes mom needs a break in labor and our bodies do what they need to. *note: I do understand there are cases where an emergency occurs and the baby DOES need to be removed quickly

I know I am kind of a natural labor/birth junkie, but I believe that laboring women shouldn't be rushed. Birth is a natural process that our medical community is trying to control. It seems like they prey on the fear of laboring women who just want to have healthy babies, threatening that their child could xyz if they don't have a c-section or if they wait longer.

My question is this: who gets to decide how long is too long when it comes to progressing, and how can you put a single number on all labors when every woman and their labors are different?

Rock 'N Learn Sight Words Review

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 11:22:00 +0000

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this DVD. My toddler will tell you that she loves it just as much. This isn't suggested for two-year-olds, but she loves it and I know she is learning. We own the "Your Baby Can Read" DVDs and this reminds me a lot of those videos, except a lot more colorful and exciting. This is the "fun" or lets say "rock" version of those DVDs.

The premise of the video is that your children will learn what are called "sight words" or words that they will see a lot while reading. The words show up on the screen with the illustration of what they mean while they are being said. They are then usually put into some fun song.

My daughter likes to move along with the DVD and do what the characters are doing. She even talks with the DVD, so I can tell she is learning. Her little brain is growing and changing so fast that I think this is perfect for her age.

Thank you Rock 'N Learn for creating another fabulous DVD! Mommy Headquarters readers can order this DVD and others at rocknlearn.com and use the coupon code JQ7711 25% off!

Increase Breastmilk Supply Cookie Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:15:00 +0000

The feeling that comes with a dropping milk supply is nothing short of devastating. We want to provide nutritious food for our babies and sometimes our bodies just don't cooperate. Here is a great cookie recipe that may help increase your milk supply.

It is based on the idea that brewers yeast and oatmeal help your supply. After I drink a beer (which contains brewers yeast) I find that my supply is always up a little. I have also had women tell me that oatmeal does wonders. I am not a big oatmeal fan myself, but I do like oatmeal cookies, so this recipe is a winner in my book. These cookies also make a great homemade gift for new mommies. Attach the recipe on a cute recipe card, put the cookies in a cute basket or tin and you have a gourmet gift that is beneficial to mom and baby!

* 1 cup butter
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 4 tablespoons water
* 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
* 2 eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 2 cups of flour (can use whole wheat flour)
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups of oats (NOT instant oatmeal)
* 1 cup of nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, peanut butter chips, or anything else you like in your cookies. - I like chocolate chips and walnuts.
* 2-4 tablespoons of brewers yeast

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Mix the flaxseed meal and water. Set aside.
3. Combine and beat butter, sugar, brown sugar and eggs.
4. Add the flaxseed/water mix, and vanilla to the butter and sugar mix.
5. Combine flour, brewers yeast, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda in a separate bowl
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients (flour mix) to the wet ingredients (butter/sugar mix)
7. Add the oats and nuts, chocolate chips, raisins or any other add-ins you'd like. 8. Drop the cookies onto a cookie sheet and bake 12-15 minutes or until light golden brown

Let cool and enjoy!

What variations did you try and like?

Baby Comfy Nose Review

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 11:21:00 +0000

Every mom loves a good snot sucker. There is nothing worse than watching your child suffer because they can't yet blow their nose. I have gone through quite a few nasal aspirators and have disliked most of them. They just don't do the job! My favorite has always been the one I got from the hospital (If you are pregnant, once you have the baby DO NOT throw it away! It's amazing).

Baby Comfy Nose is a nasal aspirator that you suck on one end of in order to pull snot out of your baby's nose at the other end. I have to admit, I used to make fun of these contraptions. The idea of sucking on one end of a tube connected to my baby's nose just seemed disgusting. But, I tried it anyways, and to my surprise, I kind of liked it.

The Baby Comfy nose has a chamber at the end of the tube to catch the snot you suck out of the baby's nose. You put a tissue in this chamber to act as a filter.

What I like about the Baby Comfy Nose

It did a good job. This aspirator actually pulled a lot of gunk out of my baby's nose.
I could easily clean it. The chamber comes apart so it is easy to rinse the snot out.
I could see what came out. The chamber is clear so I could see exactly what I got out, and I could see if I cleaned it well. I hate that I can't see inside my other aspirators...It is a mystery to me whether there is something stuck in there or not....
My baby tolerated it. I don't know any babies who like to have their nose sucked out. I can't imagine it feels good, but Little S actually layed there while I did it without too much fuss.

What could be improved

The tissue filter. I am not a germ-o-phobe, but the tissue just didn't seem like enough of a barrier for me. No snot even touched the tissue (that I could see), but I feel like I was openly welcoming germs into my mouth. I could be 100% wrong about this, but that was my perception. I obviously wasn't too concerned since I used it multiple times. I would love if there was some sort of built-in filter in the mouth piece. Regardless, I will use it again because it worked.

Overall, not a bad product. I was really happy with the job it did, and happy that Little S didn't fight it so much. If you are open to it, give it a try!

Scheduled Elective Inductions - Making Birth Convenient?

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:48:00 +0000

I will first say that I am personally against scheduled elective inductions. If you think that they are wonderful, you probably won't want to read this. I am not saying all inductions are bad. I do believe that there are times when induction is medically necessary.

I am not writing to criticize women who have had an induction, I am writing this because it is getting scary how normal induction is. My hope is that women will educate themselves on the risks to them and their babies before they make the decision to be induced and that providers will not encourage it so much.

My issues stem from those women who choose induction for shear convenience or because they don't want to be pregnant anymore. I know the feeling at the end of your pregnancy when you feel like you are willing to do anything to get that baby out. The desperation that makes you do laps around the block, eat spicy food, and have a lot of sex. It is hard! I would be lying if I said that induction didn't ever cross my mind when I was pregnant. I just reminded myself that there was nothing more important than getting myself and my baby through it safely. Not to mention, I would probably have an easier labor and delivery if I wasn't forcing it and I wanted a positive experience.

I once heard a story about a woman who chose to be induced early because she had plans the following weekend and didn't want the possibility of those plans being interrupted by labor. O.M.G. Isn't the safe birth of your child more important than any plans you may have???? Induction can be dangerous and increases the need for medical intervention, including c-sections. It is important to take that into consideration before you agree to have an induction. Think about it this way...you are FORCING a baby out of your body when he or she and your body may not be ready for it. Because of this, you may be setting yourself up for a more difficult labor that your body may fight.

Cervidil and Pitocin are NOT FDA approved for elective inductions. There are side effects that come with the use of Pitocin that can cause significant problems. There is even a possible link to autism. These drugs cross the placenta and enter the bloodstream, brain and organs of the baby. Here is a great article detailing the effects of a variety of drugs on moms and their babies. Some of the drugs on the list are FDA approved and others are not.FDA approved obstetrics drugs: Their effects on mother and baby.

The manufacturer of oxytocin even warns the provider in the package insert:

"Maternal deaths due to hypertensive episodes, subarachnoid hemorrhage, rupture of the uterus, fetal deaths and permanent CNS or brain damage of the infant due to various causes have been reported to be associated with the use of parenteral oxytocic drugs for induction of labor or for augmentation in the first and second stages of labor."

Most of the time I don't blame the mom for having an induction...Many times doctors encourage it and make it seem like a safe and desirable option. It seems so normal. It is a convenience thing for them. It ensures that they can deliver their patients babies, and that they won't have too many middle of the night deliveries. I get it. On their end, it tends to make their lives easier. However, being that I believe in more natural ways of delivery, this is just too un-natural for my taste.

I Go to Bed With Pancakes And Wake Up With Implants

noreply@blogger.com (Mommy Headquarters) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:28:00 +0000

I bet if you are a breastfeeding mom, you knew right away that I was talking about my boobs. It is amazing to me that I can start my day with full perky breasts that resemble implants and by the end of the day they are saggy and sad. I affectionately call them my "pancakes" at the end of the day.

It is hard to be a mom to a newborn and we often get these fun little perks (insert sarcasm) to go right along with the sleepless nights, diaper blowouts and spit-up.
Regardless, I remind myself that my boobs rock. They are the sole provider of nutrition to my son and they provided my daughter nutrition for 14 full months. Not only did they provide nutrition, they helped prevent sickness in my children, they help lower my chances for cancer, they help develop an unmistakable bond between mom and child, and so much more. I really think that breast milk is the most amazing fluid on this planet, and that we are going to discover more of its wonderful healing abilities.

Yes, I sound crazy, but I want to remind all of the mommies out there who are standing in front of the mirror looking at deflated breasts, that it is worth it. You are doing a fantastic thing for your child and it will pay off in more ways that we can imagine.