Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming, especially with all the advice coming from every direction.

As a certified doula and lactation consultant, I’m here to help you navigate this journey with confidence. Whether you’re newly pregnant or trying to conceive, knowing the essential do's and don’ts of pregnancy can set you up for success.

Here’s a breakdown of the key things you should be doing (and avoiding!) to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.

The Do’s of Pregnancy

1. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are non-negotiable during pregnancy. They provide essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which help support your baby’s development and prevent birth defects. If you haven’t started taking prenatal vitamins yet, now is the time to get on board!

2. Stay Active
It’s easy to feel tired during pregnancy, but staying active can actually help you feel more energized. Regular movement—like walking, prenatal ...

If you’ve been wondering, “Am I pregnant?” you’re not alone!

Whether you’ve been actively trying to conceive or it’s something you’ve only recently considered, recognizing early signs of pregnancy can help you feel more prepared. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common early pregnancy symptoms and what they might mean for you.

1. A Missed Period

The most obvious and well-known sign of pregnancy is a missed period. If your cycle is usually regular and you notice your period is late, it could be a clue that you’re pregnant. However, remember that stress, travel, or changes in your diet can also affect your cycle. So, while this is an important sign, it’s not the only one to rely on.

2. Morning Sickness (Or Anytime Sickness!)

Morning sickness is another classic pregnancy symptom, but despite its name, nausea can hit at any time of the day. If you're suddenly feeling queasy for no clear reason—especially if certain smells or foods turn your stomach—it could be an ...

Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful yet challenging aspects of motherhood.

As a new or soon-to-be mom, you're likely filled with questions: Will I be able to breastfeed? What if I don’t produce enough milk? What if my baby won’t latch? These concerns are incredibly common, and it's totally normal to feel nervous. But with the right knowledge, you can tackle these challenges like a pro.

Hi, I’m Stephanie Poole, a certified lactation consultant and doula. I’ve helped countless pregnant moms confidently prepare for breastfeeding, and today I’m going to walk you through some of the most common breastfeeding challenges and how to overcome them. By the end of this post, you’ll feel more empowered and ready to take on your breastfeeding journey!

1. Latching Problems: The Most Common Issue

Latching issues are at the top of the list for many new moms. You've probably heard that if your baby doesn’t latch properly, breastfeeding can hurt—and that's true. An improper la...

 Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it can also be challenging, especially for first-time moms.

One way to make it easier and more enjoyable is by creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment at home. Having a dedicated space that’s comfortable, organized, and calm can help reduce stress, boost milk supply, and make the entire breastfeeding process smoother.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to set up a space that supports you and your baby during those early breastfeeding days.

Why Creating a Breastfeeding Space Matters

While you can breastfeed almost anywhere, having a designated area in your home helps make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Imagine trying to juggle pillows, burp cloths, and a wiggly baby all while searching for the things you need in the middle of a late-night feeding. It can feel overwhelming! That’s why setting up a dedicated breastfeeding nook is a game-changer for new moms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating ...

I’m sure you’ve got a million questions swirling around your head about what to expect when labor starts.

 Trust me, I get it. Labor can feel like a huge mystery—especially when you’ve never experienced it before. But guess what? You’ve got this!

Today, we’re breaking down the stages of labor, so you know what’s coming, how to handle it, and how to feel prepared every step of the way. This isn’t just about getting through it—this is about owning your birth experience!

The Importance of Understanding the Stages of Labor

Why should you know about the stages of labor? Simple, knowing what to expect helps you feel more in control, less fearful, and super empowered. When you can identify what’s happening with your body, you can make better decisions, respond to your body’s signals, and maybe even find some zen in the chaos. 

Stage 1: Early Labor (Latent Phase)

In early labor, your body is warming up for the main event. The cervix is starting to dilate and thin out. You might f...

Are you pregnant and feeling a little anxious about breastfeeding?

Maybe you're worried that all the pressure will be on you once the baby arrives. If you’re wondering how your partner can play a role in your breastfeeding journey, even though they’re not the one physically feeding the baby, this post is for you! Spoiler alert: Your partner is about to become your biggest breastfeeding ally.

Breastfeeding Isn’t a Solo Journey

While you’re the one who will be doing the actual breastfeeding, it doesn’t mean you have to go at it alone. In fact, having a strong support system, especially from your partner, can make all the difference when it comes to your breastfeeding success. Studies show that moms with supportive partners are more likely to meet their breastfeeding goals—and it makes the whole experience a lot less stressful!

So, how exactly can your partner support you? Let’s dive in.

Before Baby Arrives: Setting the Stage for Breastfeeding Success

1. Learn About Breastfe...

 Are you pregnant and feeling anxious about breastfeeding?

Maybe you’re worried about low milk supply or latching issues—two of the most common concerns for new moms. If this sounds like you, you’re in the right place! As a certified lactation consultant and doula, I help pregnant women, just like you, prepare for their breastfeeding journey even before the baby arrives. Today, we're diving into the two most common breastfeeding challenges and, more importantly, how to overcome them.

The Supply Dilemma: Why It’s Demand and Supply

One of the biggest concerns I hear from new moms, especially if you're pregnant and preparing for breastfeeding, is the fear of not making enough milk. I hear it day in and day out: "I don’t think I’m making enough milk." Let me clear this up: breastfeeding works on demand and supply. You demand milk by feeding your baby frequently, and your body responds by supplying that milk. It’s not the other way around.

The more your baby nurses, the more milk your...

The Power of Breast Milk – Why It's the Ultimate Superfood for Your Newborn

 If you're pregnant and gearing up for the breastfeeding journey, you're in the right place. I’m Stephanie Poole, a certified lactation consultant and doula, and today we’re diving deep into why breast milk is the ultimate superfood for your baby. Whether you’ve been listening to my Oh Baybee! podcast for a while or this is your first time here, thank you for joining me on this important topic.

Breast Milk – A Nutritional Superfood

Imagine the cold-pressed green juice trend but, for your baby, breast milk is their “green juice,” the ultimate superfood packed with everything your little one needs, especially in those vulnerable newborn days. It’s more than just nutrition; breast milk is customized to your baby’s specific needs, which formula simply cannot replicate. In fact, breast milk is so powerful that it helps seal your baby’s developing digestive system, something their little bodies aren’t born...

Preparing For Breastfeeding: How to Get Your Body Ready Before Birth

Becoming a mom is an exciting journey, and preparing for breastfeeding is one of the most crucial steps you can take before your little one arrives. If you’re pregnant and planning to breastfeed, you might be wondering what you can do now to ensure a smooth start when your baby is born. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and this post is here to guide you through the steps to prepare your body for lactation!

Why Prepare for Breastfeeding Before Baby Arrives? Many moms assume that breastfeeding just “happens” after birth. And while it’s a natural process, it can require some preparation to set yourself up for success. Preparing in advance helps boost your confidence and eases the transition once your baby is here.

How Your Body Prepares for Breastfeeding During pregnancy, your body is already laying the groundwork for lactation. Hormones like prolactin and oxytocin start ramping up to produce breastmilk, and by t...

If you're expecting your first baby, you're probably swimming in a sea of advice, information, and maybe even a little anxiety.

It’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed—that’s where this guide (and your support team) come in! In this blog post, we’re breaking down the basics of childbirth so that you can approach your big day with more confidence and less stress. And for an even deeper dive, make sure you check out the latest episode of the Oh Baybee! podcast, where we chat all things labor, delivery, and beyond!

1. Labor Doesn’t Always Look Like the Movies

Let’s start by debunking one of the biggest myths about childbirth: It doesn’t always happen in one dramatic push! Labor can be slow, steady, or sometimes a bit unpredictable. Early labor might feel like mild cramping, and it can last hours (or even days). Knowing what to expect helps you feel more prepared and less anxious when things don’t match the Hollywood version.

Tip: It’s common for first-time moms to hav...