As a new or soon-to-be mom, you're likely filled with questions: Will I be able to breastfeed? What if I donât produce enough milk? What if my baby wonât 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, Iâm Stephanie Poole, a certified lactation consultant and doula. Iâve helped countless pregnant moms confidently prepare for breastfeeding, and today Iâm going to walk you through some of the most common breastfeeding challenges and how to overcome them. By the end of this post, youâll feel more empowered and ready to take on your breastfeeding journey!
Latching issues are at the top of the list for many new moms. You've probably heard that if your baby doesnât latch properly, breastfeeding can hurtâand that's true. An improper la...
Itâs completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmedâthatâs where this guide (and your support team) come in! In this blog post, weâre 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!
Letâs start by debunking one of the biggest myths about childbirth: It doesnât 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 donât match the Hollywood version.
Tip: Itâs common for first-time moms to hav...
Youâre not alone! One of the most common questions I get from pregnant women is, "Should I choose a midwife or an OBGYN for my birth?" Itâs a valid question and one that deserves some serious consideration. Both professionals play vital roles in the birthing process, but they offer different approaches and philosophies. Letâs break it down so you can find your perfect match!
Midwives are trained healthcare providers who specialize in supporting women through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Their approach tends to be more holistic and personalized. Here are a few key things to know about midwives:
Philosophy: Midwives believe in the natural process of childbirth and typically focus on low-risk pregnancies. They often encourage minimal intervention unless absolutely necessary, which can lead to a more empowering birth experience.
Care Style:
...I'll be honest - while most of it has been well-intended, a lot of it has been inaccurate and sometimes not true! (Just so we're clear: it's impossible to spoil a newborn)
The thing is, when youâre just starting out, you gotta learn how to be confident when tackling the tough issues â and the sooner you understand that the more time you'll have to spend on the important things, like creating special moments with the people who matter most and bonding with your baby.
Thatâs why I recorded this episode for you. In it, I share the simple yet specific tips for new moms to be confident even when the topics get sticky.Â
How do I deal with that family member who insists on offering their opinion? I'm glad you asked my sweet friend.
Tune in to this episode to learn when and how to create healthy boundaries. Let's face ...
Iâm going to let you in on a little secret â less is more...especially when we're talking about how to care for your sweet baby's umbilical cord.
Shortly after you give birth, your baby's umbilical cord is snipped, leaving behind a small stump that will fall off within a few weeks.
Before you're ready to leave the hospital with your newborn, it's important to know how to care for the umbilical cord stump. Your doctor or nurse will likely briefly go over basic tips, but you may feel so overwhelmed with information that you find yourself unclear on how to deal with the belly button area once you get home.
And thatâs why I wanted to record this episode for you. In it, I share The DO's and DON'TS for umbilical cord care.Â
This is a quick listen so press play and enjoy!
As always, thank you so much for tuning in to this episode.
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Have you heard of amniotic fluid?Â
During pregnancy, your baby develops inside a bag or sac called the amniotic sac. This sac contains a clear liquid called amniotic fluid. Your baby floats in it while resting in the womb. Amniotic fluid protects and nourishes your baby.Â
Hereâs why thatâs important, mama. As with most things concerning your pregnancy, you heavily influence the amniotic ecosystem your baby lives in.
In this episode, youâll hear where the fluid comes from and all of the functions it serves for your baby while in utero.
That's right!
Today I'm doing a deep dive on amniotic fluid, the silent hero. Cause let's face it - most of us have heard of it but don't have a clue what it actually does.
So, if youâre ready to hear the lowdown about your amniotic fluid, then grab something to take notes with and pay close attention to this episode!
As always, thank you so much for tuning in...
If youâre considering ways to have a positive birth experience you should start by understanding, there are somethings you simply can't control.
That's why it's important to focus on the things you CAN control.
Think of it like this, you can't control the length of your labor. However, you can control how you choose to labor. You can determine your birth preferences based on what best aligns with your personality.
So thatâs why itâs so important to start preparing for your birth now.Â
Now hereâs the good news, sweet friend. preparing for your birth doesn't have to be some long, drawn-out affair! With time, effort, and the right strategies, your birth is sure to be a moment you won't forget (or regret).
In this episode, Iâm diving into what it means to have a positive birth environment, and how you can prepare yours. So, pop in your earbuds, grab a beverage of your ...
To call giving birth for the first time a whirlwind would be an understatement.Â
My water broke at 5pm on Friday but my son wasn't born until 8:03pm on Saturday (yes, you read that right!).
It was both rewarding and exhaustingâŚand I wonât lie, I had to "lock in" with my focus a few times throughout labor to keep my eyes on the prize - because although the contractions were heavy hitting â hearing my baby's first cry was literally a dream come true for me.
Now if youâve been with me for a while, you probably know that there's a lot to learn about the entire experience of birth preparation, childbirth and breastfeeding. Â
In true Stephanie Poole fashion, I wasn't prepared as much as I could have been, simply because it was my first pregnancy, and I didn't know - what I didn't know!
Iâm happy to report that my sweet baby was born happy and healthy â but of course, ther...
Breastfeeding is simple...NOT easy.
What do I mean by that? I'm so glad you asked.
The process of breastfeeding has been around for thousands of years...since the beginning of time!
Why is it now that women struggle so much with effectively learning how to breastfeed?
In a world of convenience, the knowledge and simplicity of breastfeeding almost seems to be a lost art.
Iâm happy to report that after the shortage of baby formula, there has been a renewed surge of interest in breastfeeding and I'm here to debunk the scary myths that can be overwhelming for new moms
In this episode, youâll hear the 3 biggest myths, DEBUNKED!, I can guarantee this episode will not disappoint if you are pregnant and want to breastfeed your sweet baby. And whatâs great is you can apply the insight I share right from moment of birth. I have two words for you - Miracle Hour.
So, pop in your ear pods, cozy on up and tu...
If I had a dollar for every time, I heard a new mom say: "Giving birth is hard. I wish I would've know this. I would have prepared more for my birth." - Iâd be a very rich woman. And Iâll be honest, one of the most fun (and rewarding) parts of being a childbirth educator is the opportunity to help more pregnant women have a positive birth experience.
In this episode I'll tell you 3 blaring signs to know whether or not you're ready for birth.
So, grab your notebook and be sure to take notes, because what youâre about to hear could save you a lot of time and money When it comes to preparing for the arrival of your sweet baby!
As always, thank you for tuning in to this episode and...
Happy Birthing!
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This FREE cheat sheet will walk you through 3 evidence-based strategies to boost your breastfeeding confidence and increase your milk supply.