Baby Guide Winter 2024

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FROM BREASTFEEDING TO WEANING

WHAT REALLY HAPPENS DURING LABOR

RESOURCES, SUPPORT, NEW PRODUCTS, ADVICE

BABYGUIDE NASHVILLEPARENT.COM WINTER 2024

ALL

ABOUT THAT

BABY


Choosing your pediatrician...

One new parenting decision you can relax about. Comprehensive, quality care for your child, close to home.

Same Day Appointments for Sick Visits All Locations Now Accepting New Patients

Voted Best of Parenting 13 Years in a Row

THOMPSON’S STATION 4720 Trader’s Way, Ste. 600

(615) 393-6731

Serving your family at our five locations.

MURFREESBORO 1370 Gateway Blvd., Ste. 110

HENDERSONVILLE 410 North Parrish Place, #2000

NASHVILLE 5505 Edmondson Pike, Ste. 104

(615) 890-9008

(615) 826-2080

(615) 331-5898

FRANKLIN – NOW OPEN! 7020 Berry Farms Crossing, Ste. 101

(615) 302-1279

www.Tenne s seePediatric s .com


BABY’S FIRST VISIT

is FREE! (Babies up to 12 months)

Don’t forg et we offer braces and take care of adults, too!

The first 12 months are going to sneak up on you. Make your first informative appointment now.

COOL SPRINGS 125 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 140 615-771-1111

TennCare Welcome!

MT. JULIET 5000 Crossings Circle, Ste. 301 615-754-4444

Voted Best

Orthodontist

by Williamson

Parent Readers!

MURFREESBORO 1747 Medical Ctr. Pkwy., Ste. 300 615-225-0700

www.snodgrassking.com

SPRING HILL 5073 Main St., Ste. 240 615-302-4200


COMPANY E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 9 3 nashvilleparent.com

Caring for the Growing Needs of Our Community

Reach Out 615-475-5220

The Children’s Clinic of Nashville provides comprehensive pediatric and adolescent care, including preventative care, immunizations, acute care and management of chronic disease.

WELL VISITS • SICK VISITS MEET & GREET • IMMUNIZATIONS CONSULTATIONS BREASTFEEDING CONSULTATIONS

PUBLISHER Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

The Children’s Clinic of Nashville 4322 Harding Pike, Suite 313 Nashville, Tennessee 37205

615-297-9541 childrensclinicofnashville.com

Empowering People to Save Lives

EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Michael W. Aldrich michael@daycommedia.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com ADVERTISING Alexandra Day, Noah Day, Christina Moody DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Kevin Mutz, ext. 104 distribution@daycommedia.com ACCOUNTING Jill Riffel accounting@daycommedia.com BABY GUIDE is published by Day Communications, Inc. Phone is 615-4755220; mailing address is 1229 Lakeview Drive. STE A, Franklin, TN 37067. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, BABY GUIDE cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. BABY GUIDE is copyright © 2023 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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BABY GUIDE

Fall / Winter 2024

Inside: 7

Baby Bits Maintaining childless friends as a new mom; a new study warns about screen time for babies; bathing your little one; podcasts for new parents.

13

What No One Tells You About Labor There are a lot of unmentionables related to childbirth. Here's what you may or may not want to know!

16

Breastfeeding: From Basics to Weaning A stress-free approach to breastfeeding and deciding when you want to wean.

19

BABY WORLD Support, resources and the Middle Tennessee Hospital Chart.

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211 Louise Avenue, Suite B, Nashville (Next to Vanderbilt) 615-200-6001 Book Online! www.Nashville4DBaby.com

Award-winning OB and Family Care Thank you, Williamson Parent readers, for voting Williamson Medical Center “Best Hospital” and “Best Place to Have a Baby”. We take pride in our family-centered approach and a tradition of excellence in caring for our community.

WilliamsonHealth.org

6 FALL / WINTER 2024

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BABY bits

by Susan Day

Maintaining Friendships After Baby After you have a baby, friendships with child-free friends will change. To offset loneliness, retain your connections.

I

t's true that everything changes after you have a baby, but motherhood can be lonely without your friends. Although your perspective on just about everything has changed since bringing a child into the world, your child-free friends' haven't. Once you have kids, maintaining friendships takes work. The best thing you can do to preserve your friendships is to be honest and communicative from the get-go, says F. Diane Barth, psychotherapist and author of I Know How You Feel: The Joy and Heartbreak of Friendship in Women's Lives (Harper; 2018). Barth says you can say something like this to a friend, "I love you and I hate that I don't have a lot of time right now, but I'd rather see you for 30 minutes than not at all," then make a plan for a 30 minute coffee — and stick to it. It's so much better than bailing on a brunch

or something on the day of. And when you do manage to get together — for a walk or a workout — remember not to only focus on your baby. Aim to talk about the same things you talked about before like books you're reading, what shows you're watching and romantic relationships. You may find it refreshing to be reminded that all of life isn't about changing diapers and breastfeeding! "To a new mom, a friend's dating or work issues may seem trivial, but be careful not to be condescending," Barth says. "Make sure to be a partner in the conversation by valuing what your friend has to say." For friendships to thrive — with old friends, new or even with your spouse — it requires 50 - 50 effort. Aim to focus on your listening skills, compassion and communication. And remember, being a good friend means offering support through thick and thin.

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Holding Onto Friends When friendships are worth holding onto, try these tips: • Before your baby arrives, talk with your friend(s) about how you might approach getting together differently with a baby • When the baby arrives, be clear about what you need and what you are up for • Keep trying to engage with your friend(s) on their terms (their life is still happening without a baby!) • Keep talking and trying to understand the other person's needs • Seek out new friends with babies

(please turn the page)

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BABY bits New Study Links Baby Screen Time With Delays

A

ccording to a study published recently by The Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics, 1-year-olds exposed to more than four hours of screen time a day can experience developmental delays in communication by age 2. The research reveals that 1-year-olds who are exposed to more screen time than their peers show delays at age 2 in fine motor and personal and social skills. For example, babies who had up to two hours a day of screen time by age 1 are 61 percent more likely to have delayed development of communication by age 2 than those babies who logged less time. It's true that babies are mesmerized by screens and that it's very difficult to limit screen time today. Children's health experts take a less-is-better stance on screen time for children, encouraging personal face-toface interactions and physical activity, instead. "Research shows that screen time inhibits young A study released last August from The Journal of the American Medical Aschildren's ability to read faces and learn social skills, sociation says babies exposed to more than four hours of screen time a day by age 1 two key factors needed for developing empathy," says will experience communication delays by age 2. Carlota Nelson, writer and director of the documentary Brain Matters. "Face-to-face interactions are the only way for babies to understand non-verbal cues and interpret them; exposure to screens reduces babies' ability to read human emotion and to control their frustration," she adds. It's not hard to see how screens can blunt the process of development. So for parents, the goal is to lessen screen time for children, not increase it, since it can cause developmental delays when they are so important.

How Often Should 3 Good Podcasts You Bathe Baby? for New Parents

B

athing baby may be a part of your daily routine, but doctors actually say less bathing is better. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to how much to bathe your newborn, but three times a week is safe. Meanwhile, if you want to bathe Baby less, that's OK, too, supplementing with sponge baths. Bathing babies frequently can dry out their skin, so be sure to select products that are dye- and fragrancefree. Try to avoide using new products if the ones you have work well and don't irritate Baby's skin.

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We took a listen to several parenting podcasts to determine which ones can be helpful to new parents. They are: • PEDS DOC TALK Hosted by a board-certified pediatrician, get trusted answers to your most-asked baby questions. • RAISING GOOD HUMANS Hosted by developmental psychologist Aliza Pressman, Ph.D., gather the latest child development research in an easy, accessible way. • RESPECTFUL PARENTING Janet Lansbury, author of No Bad Kids: Toddler Discipline Without Shame, shares on respecting babies as they grow.


THEY’RE HERE! Baby’s first teeth. Another milestone. And that means it’s time to see the dentist! Healthy Smiles Start at a Very Young Age The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends all children be seen by a pediatric dentist when their first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday.

Bring your infant in to see us to help create a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Voted Best Orthodontist by Rutherford Parent readers!

615.494.5437

2910 Old Fort Pkwy. Murfreesboro

ChildrensDentistryofMurfreesboro.com


FEATURE by Susan Day & Michael Aldrich

New Gear for Baby and You!

We love smart, helpful solutions that help make life with a baby just a little easier. Here are a few, new products we recommend. Pump In Style Hands-Free Breast Pump medela.us/breastfeeding $199.99

Hands-free! For busy first-time moms, this is a must. You can have both hands free while pumping with Medela's most powerful pump yet. Table top pumps are chosen for performance, and this electric pump provides comfort plus portability. Anatomically designed collection cups fit comfortably into most nursing bras. More milk, easy set up, happy mama.

Rafe + Moose Swaddles, Beanies & Bows rafeandmoose.com Swaddle = $27.99

Cushmat

cushmat.com $179 This multi-functional and stylish mat makes a safe, soft play surface for your child. A cushioned workout mat for moms and dads, and a sustainable-yet-stylish aesthetic touch to your home décor. Available in many style.

Elepho eClip Baby Car Seat Alarm elepho.com $43.95 A product like the Elepho eClip can keep your baby safe. It attaches to your baby's car seat and paired with the App, you will be alerted immediately if Baby is still in the car.

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Remember when the nurse brought your newborn to you in the hospital like a little burrito? This jumbo 53 x 53 lightweight jersey blanket can help you achieve that same effect. It stretches to maximum ability and is breathable, soft and lightweight. Color sets are available in cranberry (shown), ocean, mint, coral, camel, onyx, olive, periwinkle and others! Swaddle early so Baby doesn't resist it later.

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TOP-RATED NEW BABY PRODUCTS OF 2023 Vava Baby Night Light vava.com $23.99

This soothing night light includes smooth-touch control and it emits a soft, calming glow. Set it to one, single soft white or choose the mode that toggles through eight beautiful hues. Its rechargeable battery includes an energysaving one-hour timer. Charge it up through the included handy charging port.

Smart Sleep Sound Machine raptbaby.com $59.99

Designed by a neuroscientist, the Smart Sleep is the first sound machine created to support sleep and language, too. The table-side gadget includes classical music, lullabyes, nature and womb channels. An auto timer lets you leave it on for 30 - 60- or 90-minutes of continuous play and the buttons light up for easy operation in a darkened room. Night, night, Baby!

S

ifting through all of the options for your registry and more can be very confusing! These are the top-rated products as reviewed by product editors at reviewed. usatoday.com:

BEST CAR SEAT

Uppababy Mesa V2 Amazon.com | $329 Lightweight, easy to install, easy to clean, although not compatible with other stroller brands.

BEST BASSINET

Guava Lotus Bassinet, Kit + Crib Bundle guavafamily.com | $429 Lightweight, easy to install, easy to clean, although not compatible with other stroller brands.

BEST STROLLER

Uppababy Cruz V2 amazon.com | $729 Adjusts for big and small riders, huge storage basket, smooth ride.

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER Joovy Kooper amazon.com | $299 Light, snack tray included, plenty of storage.

Handzies Wipes handzies.com $7.99 and up

When you're out and about it's easy for little hands to get messy quickly. You can tuck Handzie packets in your pocket, diaper bag or in your older child's lunch box. Handzies are made from naturally-occurring ingredients like purified water, castile soap and essential oils. Available free & clear or with a tangerine scent.

BEST BABY MONITOR

Nanit Pro Camera with Flex Stand amazon.com | $231 Compatible with Amazon devices, clear picture, splitscreen for more than one monitor.

nashvilleparent.com

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PRACTICE and PLAY We help families find the ideal nanny candidate to complement their home and lifestyle.

$12 per family. No cost if CURRENTLY ENROLLED in class. Parent participation required.

GET YOUR CLASS CARDS TODAY Class cards are ONLY valid for Practice and Play.

Practice and Play dates and times: Mon., 3:30 4:15 p.m.; Wed., 1-1:45 p.m.; Fri., 1-1:45 p.m.

VOTED #1 CHILDREN’S FITNESS CENTER!

My Gym of Brentwood 330 Franklin Road (near TJ Maxx) (615) 371-KIDS (5437)

thepearlpa.com 615-653-1424

www.mygym.com/brentwood

Our Newest Pediatricians Now Accepting New Patients

Andrea F. Branch, M.D.

Lara Rabaa, M.D.

Kelli Currie, M.D.

Nicholas Stoffel, M.D.

Taylor Parker, M.D.

Austin Vogel, M.D.

To see a full listing of our pediatricians, visit mmclinic.com/pediatrics.

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS GARRISON DRIVE • SOUTH CHURCH • WESTLAWN

NEWBORN CARE YOU CAN COUNT ON 615-867-8020

12 FALL / WINTER 2024

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FEATURE

by Sandra Gordon

What Nobody Tells You About Labor Vomiting? Shivering? Ripping off your clothes? Here's what really happens during childbirth.

N

ow that you're pregnant, you're dutifully attending your childbirth classes, reading and viewing everything you can about the stages of labor and birth. But classes, books and online resources tend to give you the big picture, not the surprising — and sometimes embarrassing — details, like the fact that during labor — especially if you haven't been given pain medication — you may find yourself screaming, crying, even swearing at your partner or the doctor. Or you may strip. “I've had patients who were so uncomfortable that they pulled off their gowns and (please turn the page)

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LABOR delivered naked,” says Lisa Fraine, a certified nurse-midwife. These reactions are common; they're simply a response to pain and exhaustion. You can also blame hormones: “Labor causes a shift in your estrogen and progesterone levels, which is akin to a major case of PMS,” says Henry Klapholz, M.D. If you do lose it, don't feel bad. Doctors and nurses are used to these reactions. But if you're uncomfortable with the idea of such a display, be prepared for your delivery. “Women who take childbirth classes tend to stay calmer than those who don't,” Klapholz acknowledges. Because knowing what to expect makes for a less stressful delivery, we've asked the experts to spill the beans on more common (yet seldom-talked-about) scenarios. YOU THROW UP. Many women think that vomiting during labor is abnormal, but it's not. One reason it happens: Epidurals can cause hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure. “An early sign of this is nausea and vomiting,” says David Birnbach, M.D., past president of the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology. But throwing up can occur even if you haven't been given an epidural, either because of the pain you're experiencing or as a result of food sitting in your stomach (digestion usually stops during labor). To keep vomiting to a minimum, eat only light foods during the earliest stages of labor, and stop eating completely — and drink only clear liquids — once you're in active labor. YOUR TEETH CHATTER. Nearly 50 percent of women complain of shivering and teeth chattering,” Birnbach says. It has nothing to do with being cold. In fact, your body temperature may rise a degree or two during labor, making you feel hot. The jury’s still out on what exactly causes this, but the latest evidence points to blood incompatibility. “During labor, a small amount of fetal blood crosses into the mother’s bloodstream,” Klapholz says. “Studies show that

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when there’s an incompatibility in blood type between mother and baby — for example, your blood is type A and your baby’s is type B — the mother shakes, shivers and get chills.” YOU MAKE NASTY NOISES. As a baby descends through the birth canal, air gets forced out the anus, so be prepared to pass gas. This is especially likely if you've had an epidural, which paralyzes the anal sphincter. Another unpleasant side effect of childbirth: You may have a bowel movement right on the delivery table. “It’s purely a space issue,” says Arianna Sholes-Douglas, M.D., a high-risk pregnancy obstetrician. “As your baby’s head makes its way through the birth canal, the rectum gets flattened and its contents pushed out.” In any event, don't worry. “These bodily functions happen all the time — there’s very little we haven't seen or heard before,” says registered nurse Deborah Robbins. YOUR MIND GOES BLANK. In the heat of the moment, it can be easy to forget what they taught you in childbirth class. “I couldn't remember the various positions I was supposed to get into to ease labor pains,” says new mom Elizabeth Estes Niven. “Instead, I stayed flat on my back, gripping the bed railing," she adds. You’re also likely to forget many of the details of the birth. So be sure your partner takes plenty of photos or captures it all on video. IT MAY NOT BE LOVE AT FIRST. Don’t feel bad if your first reaction to holding your newborn isn't overwhelming joy. You’ve just been through an exhausting experience and need time to recover. If you can, try breastfeeding — then let a nurse take your child so you can get some rest. That’s what I did after 17 hours of labor and a C-section. But after an hour, I had them bring my baby girl back and I was immediately smitten! Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance journalist and a mom.

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Labor Stages: What to Know Knowing what you may encounter in childbirth can help you navigate this exciting time.

STAGE 1 Labor officially begins once your contractions begin opening the cervix. Divided into three stages (latent, active and transition), the latent stage can last up to 20 hours if it's your first baby. Should you call the doctor? Follow the 5-1-1 rule: Wait until contractions occur every five minutes, last one minute, and have been going on for one hour. (If you are hoping for a low-intervention birth, stay home as long as you safely can). In the active phase (about five hours for first-time moms) labor accelerates with contractions closer together and more intense. This is when many women ask for pain medication. In the transition phase (lasting 15 minutes to one hour), contractions last 90 seconds and come every two to three minutes.

STAGE 2 Lasting up to three hours for firsttime moms, your baby must make their way through the birth canal. You will push with your contractions which are coming every four to five minutes. Your baby has to move between the bones of your pelvis, so you may want to try different positions to labor (if you haven't had an epidural requiring you to stay in bed). This stage ends with the birth of your baby!

STAGE 3 Your baby is here, but you still need to deliver the placenta. Since the umbilical cord is cut, nurses will be on hand for when the placenta detaches from the uterus which takes within minutes up to one hour. During this time you can usually bond with your baby with skin-to-skin contact and begin breastfeeding. If you have torn, you will be sewn up during this time (episiotomy).


Birth Doula Support

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Sleep Consulting

Experience all the JOY of pregnancy and postpartum with the right support.

615-628-7499

southerndoulaservices.com

You’re not alone. BEAM’s mission is to provide information and support to expectant mothers and parents. Our platform will allow you access to experienced professionals through virtual meetings, providing you with helpful tips on your parenting journey.

Voted Best Drop-in Child Care!

BEAM has two straightforward and convenient options to contact our professionals, chat or video call. We are happy to provide medical advice to help answer your questions and make you and your child feel safe and informed.

BabyExpertAmateurMama.org

We care for children ages 1 to 12 years.

We are here for you and your little miracle.

Rivergate Pediatrics Accepting New Patients, Newborn to Age 18 807 Meadowlark Lane, Goodlettsville, TN

Telehealth Appointments Available

615.859.6650 rivergatepediatrics.com

Drop In Anytime Care Weekly Care Preschool Birthday Parties

600A Frazer Dr., Ste. 130 Franklin

615-807-2183 KidsKingdomFranklin.com nashvilleparent.com

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FEATURE

by Mary Helen Berg and Erin Holden

From Breastfeeding ... to Weaning Knowing the basics of breastfeeding — and the relaxation required as you learn — is essential to success. And then, when do you choose to stop?

Breastfeeding Basics

S

ometimes the natural way of feeding your baby doesn’t come naturally at all. Many new mothers are surprised at how hard nursing can be at first. When the baby books say breast is best, mothers who struggle to breastfeed may feel they are failing their baby. What the books may not say is that not all babies adapt easily to nursing. Some babies are fussy and others won’t latch on. With patience and persistence, new mothers and babies can learn about nursing together. If mothers follow a few basic tips, nursing can be the intimate, soothing experience they have read about.

Get Comfy

Find a comfortable, serene place to sit and feed your baby. The room doesn’t need to be silent. Every baby has to become accustomed to the sounds around the house and beyond. However, the early days of nursing should take place in a spot where you can relax. Try lying in bed so you can rest while

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the baby nurses. If you sit in a chair, use a pillow to prop your arm where the baby will rest. Take deep breaths. Drink a cup of chamomile tea. Sometimes stress can inhibit milk flow and relaxing can help your milk let down.

Get Ready

Position the baby so their entire body faces your body and the baby’s head rests in the crook of your arm near your breast. If the baby is lying on your lap face up and needs to turn their head to nurse, they may not be able to latch on correctly. If you hold their head in your hand instead of letting it rest on your arm, they may react to the pressure of your hand and push their head back, instead of relaxing toward the breast.

Latch On

Weaning Basics

E

arly on, I decided I wanted to nurse my son until he turned 1. At the time, that was the recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). And if you decide to go longer, good for you! I started the weaning process when my son, Townes, turned 1 on April 1, 2022 and we ended on June 5, 2022 just before I read the announcement that the AAP now was recommending breastfeeding until your baby is 2 years old. Sigh. Even so, I felt good about my decision to wean at age 1 for three main reasons:

Lift the breast and hold it toward the baby’s mouth to help them latch on. They will likely “root” around until they land on the nipple. Make sure the baby takes the whole areola into their mouth. If they catch just the nipple, it will be painful for you and difficult for them to nurse. If a pinching pain occurs when they begin to suckle, don’t yank them off the breast. This can make the pain much worse. Take your pinky finger and put it in the corner of their mouth to break the suction. Back Baby off of the breast and try to reposition them onto the nipple. If they are in the correct position, there should be no pain. After about five minutes, switch the baby to the other breast. Nursing from both breasts will encourage milk supply and help avoid engorgement and clogged milk ducts. As your baby becomes a better nurser and your breasts become less sensitive, you can leave the baby longer on each breast.

1. I was ready to have some bodily autonomy back. As much as I cherished the bonding that came with breastfeeding, I was ready to move on to the next phase of my life with Townes — the part that came with a bit more independence.

Take Care

I feel so lucky to have breastfed for as long as I did. Many moms have difficulties outside of their control with their milk supply, and still others cannot breastfeed because of work-life obligations that make it unsustainable. It’s also perfectly fine to decide that it isn’t the right choice for you for any reason whatsoever, in my opinion.

Some new mothers may experience cracked or bleeding nipples in the first few weeks of nursing. This usually occurs because the baby is not positioned correctly while nursing or has trouble latching on. To soothe cracked nipples, try applying warm tea bags or compresses before and after nursing; smooth lanolin over the sore area; take a mild pain reliever about a half hour before nursing to ease the pain; change breast pads often to keep nipples dry. If problems with pain or bleeding persist, consult your doctor or lactation consultant. Breastfeeding is not always as easy as it looks. With determination and a little inside information, every mother can offer her baby the strongest possible start. Mary Helen Berg is a freelance writer and editor.

2. He was getting ample nutrition from all the solids he was eating. He was such a good eater, and I’d also stocked up on frozen breast milk for him to continue enjoying, though I wished I had pumped more in retrospect. 3. I didn’t want to wait until he had a harder time with the separation. At age 1, Townes was fairly distractible, and I felt that — if I waited longer — it might have been more difficult for him to break away from our feeding sessions. I’d seen that happen with other moms who breastfed longer, and I wanted to avoid it.

How We Weaned: 1. I dropped a feeding every five days. You’ll read recommendations that say it is best to drop a feeding every three to five days at most, and five days seemed to work well for Townes and me. 2. I dropped the feedings that would be the least difficult for my baby first. If your baby is really attached to that just-before-bedtime feeding (especially if you’ve been nursing them until they fall

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asleep!), best not to start with that one. Which reminds me, if you are still nursing your babe to sleep for naps and bedtime, you might want to slowly move away from that before you take the plunge into weaning. 3. Though I was dropping feedings, I continued to pump once a day to build up a store of breastmilk and to help my body adjust. If you find your breasts getting really full or uncomfortable, use your pump. The idea with this was to get Townes used to being away from the breast, but also having some of mama’s milk handy in case he wanted it.

Our Schedule: • That “midnight snack” — he was already starting to skip it, anyway. • 4 p.m. dinner feeding — he was already really focused on solids during this time of day. • The morning feed around 5:30 a.m. — we were already kind of skipping this when he slept through it (praise be). • Noon feeding • Bedtime feeding — by this point, I had gotten away from feeding him to sleep, so it wasn’t so painful for him. • 8 a.m. morning feed — When he first saw me in the morning upon waking, he would definitely want that closeness and nourishment, so that’s why I saved it for last. And I vividly remember that last feeding just before going to a local festival. We were going out for the day, and as I fed him, I really reflected on this last time being such a special moment, and what a privilege it was to feed my baby the way I had.

Was I Sad Afterwards? I tried to focus on the perks of moving past breastfeeding, and I can honestly say Townes and I got through the process with minimal emotional pain/physical discomfort. He was always a baby who could easily skip a feeding without getting very fussy, which is why I really had to stick to a schedule to ensure I was feeding him every four hours when he was an infant. For weaning, I think having a plan like this one was helpful for us, and I hope it assists you in your own weaning journey! Erin Holden is a freelance writer and editor who focuses on personal narratives to help parents navigate with grace.

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Baby World A curated selection of resources & support for new parents.

20 Prenatal, Childbirth, Breastfeeding & New Parent Services Prenatal care; yoga; birth photography; breastfeeding; childbirth education; newborn services.

21 Baby Safety

Secure your home; locate car seat installation locations.

21 Storytimes

Davidson / Rutherford / Sumner / Williamson counties.

22 Mommy & Me Fun With Baby

Art & theater; fitness; music & movement.

25 Middle Tennessee Birthing Guide

Info on what area hospitals offer for childbirth.

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BABY WORLD prenatal services group prenatal care Expect With Me at Vanderbilt Centers for Women's Health 719 Thompson Lane, Ste. 27100, Nashville 615-343-5700 522 Northcrest Drive, Springfield 615-382-2619 expectwithme.org Prenatal care in a group setting features 10 twohour sessions. Includes a social networking feature. Meharry Medical College 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Blvd., Nashville 615-321-2692 | mmc.edu/about/community1/ prenatalcare/index.html Women in this program meet in small groups and spend up to two hours in each session.

prenatal yoga classes Chestnut Hill Yoga 1106 3rd Ave. S, Nashville 615-385-3600 • chestnuthillyoga.com Abundant Yoga 1109 Davenport Blvd., #1000, Franklin 615-721-2747 • abundantyoga.com BlossOMing Yoga - Virtual Classes 917-691-2385 • blossomingyoga.com Half Moon Yoga - Virtual Classes 101 International Drive, Ste. 105, Franklin 615-496-2310 • halfmoonyoga.net Hot Yoga - open with social distancing 807 Main St., Nashville 615-678-8079 • hotyogaofeastnashville.com Kundalini Rising Yoga/Bethany Joy Yoga 1218 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville 615-473-3467 • bethanyjoy.net Nurture Nashville Yoga West: 992 Davidson Dr., Ste. 102, Nashville East: 1000 Fatherland St., Ste. 201, Nashville nurturenashville.com

new parent services birth photography Alurawayne Photography 865-548-4746 • alurawayne.com Christie Lynn Photography 615-405-3595 • christielynnphotography.com Karen Halbert Photography 615-394-5970 • karenhalbertphotography.com Katy Johnson Photography 615-692-9224 • katyjphotography.com Laura Janicek Photography 615-214-0654 • laurajanicekphotography.com NOVA Birth Services 615-669-6399 • mynovabirth.com Rylan's Riches Photography rylansrichesphotography.com Voyage Creatives 615-538-7672 • voyagecreatives.com

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breastfeeding, childbirth & newborn services American College of Nurse-Midwives 240-485-1800 • midwife.org Locate local nurse-midwives and midwifery info.

NOVA Birth Services 615-669-6399 • mynovabirth.com Midwife care, doula support, childbirth class, breastfeeding class, pre- and post-natal massage. Nurses for Newborns Foundation 615-313-9989 • nursesfornewborns.org Registered nurses make home visits for health-care assessments, education and parenting skills.

Blissful Birthing TN 859-533-4667 • blissfulbirthingtn.com Doula services and childbirth information sessions. Online childbirthing classes.

Old Harding Pediatric Associates 615-352-2990 • ohpa.com High quality and compassionate care, a night clinic for sick patients and an in-house dispensary for quick prescription pickup right in the office.

Bradley Method Childbirth Educators 800-422-4784 • bradleybirth.com Natural, husband-coached childbirth classes focusing on breathing and relaxation. Online classes.

Roots Collaborative Care rootscollaborativecare.com Doula, childbirth classes including virtual classes.

Children’s Medical Group 615-883-2200 • childmedgroup.com Comprehensive, high quality and compassionate pediatric care. ConnectusHealth Midwifery 601 Benton Ave., Nashville 2637 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville 615-292-9770 • connectus.org Offers prenatal, delivery and pediatric care, birth planning, certified nurse mid-wives, on-call midwife and more. Delivers babies at St. Thomas Midtown. Eden Birth 615-392-0577 • edenbirth.com Hypnobabies classes in Middle Tennessee. Expecting New Life Birth Services 615-710-7077 • expectingnewlife.com Doula services and "Evidence Based Birth" classes now available online. La Leche League • llli.org Hendersonville/Sumner • 615-714-9224 Nashville • 615-861-1037 or 615-883-6823 Rutherford • 901-568-9202 Williamson • 615-830-0041 or 615-579-8019 Support and information for breastfeeding mothers. Mama Moon Birth Concierge 615-973-2377 • mama-moon.com Labor and postpartum doula services, prenatal massage, education, sophrology and more.

Rutherford Breastfeeding Support Murfreesboro • 615-898-7880 Smyrna • 615-355-6175 A full-time lactation consultant available through the Rutherford County Department of Health. Southern Doula Services southerndoulaservices.com Giving physical, emotional, and informational support to families during the transition to parenthood. Tennessee Breastfeeding Hotline 855-423-6667 tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/fhw/bf/ breastfeeding-hotline.html A free helpline offering breastfeeding support 24/7. West End Women's Health Center 2611 West End Ave., Ste. 380, Nashville 615-936-5858 • westendmidwives.com Midwifery care during pregnancy and childbirth with delivery at Vanderbilt. Womankind 615-426-1977 • womankindmassage.com Pre- and post-natal massage and doula services. Vanderbilt Birth Center 3212 West End Ave Suite 100, Nashville 615-647-8220 • babyandcompany.com Collaborative midwife, physician team for delivery.

parent groups

Music City Doulas 615-208-4111 • musiccitydoulas.com Available in group, private and semi-private sessions, including in-home customizable options.

Child and Family Therapy Collective childfamilytherapycollective.com A growing practice providing mental health services to children and families in Nashville.

Nashville Birth and Babies 855-905-2229 • nashvillebirthandbabies.com Certified birth doulas, breastfeeding education, lactation consultants and post-partum doulas.

Middle Tennessee Moms of Multiples Facebook group.

Nashville Childbirth 615-370-5912 • nashvillechildbirth.com Bradley Method private natural childbirth classes, doulas (labor and postpartum), baby care and more. Nashville Breastfeeding Coalition nashvillebreastfeeding.org Education for women about breastfeeding prior to delivery; removing hospital obstacles; and helping moms for the first few days at home and more.

MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) momsclub.org Stay-at-home mothers offering connectivity throughout Middle Tennessee. Multiples of America multiplesofamerica.org Support and groups in Nashville. Naturally Minded Moms of Tennessee facebook.com/groups/612207638792487 Moms raising their families with a natural mindset.

Nashville Breastfeeding Support 615-880-2185 Metro Public Health Department's program.

Parents of East Nashville facebook.com/groups/1588890631391486 Playdates, conversation and idea sharing.

Nashville 4d Baby nashville4dbaby.com 4D/HD ultrasound experiences combining cuttingedge technology with a spa & theater environment.

The Family Center familycentertn.org Get information, support, skill building and personalized parenting insights in Murfreesboro.

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miscellaneous Attachment Parenting International 615-828-9115 or 615-210-2143 attachmentparenting.org/group/nashvill BUMP CITY Nashville 615-630-4126 • bumpcitynash.com Nashville's only in-person maternity shop. ICAN of Nashville icanofnashville.webs.com Free monthly support and educational meetings. Junior League Family Resource Center 615-936-2558 • vanderbiltchildrens.com/frc Support to families of children with disabilities. March of Dimes Tennessee Chapter 615-399-3200 • marchofdimes.org Premature baby support. Milk Bank Depot Maury Regional Medical Center 1224 Trotwood Ave., Columbia • 931-490-7074 Nashville General Hospital 1818 Albion St., Nashville • 810-841-8644 TriStar Centennial Women's Hospital 2221 Murphy Ave., Nashville • 615-933-8877 TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center 200 StoneCrest Blvd., Smyrna • 615-768-2234 milkbanktn.org Pre-approved donor mothers drop off frozen milk for testing and pasteurization. My Baby Sleeper 615-418-2628 • mydreamysleeper.com Works with sleep deprived parents, teaching them how to get their baby or child sleeping peacefully. Postpartum Support International 800-944-4773 • postpartum.net Provides local resource information for women with perinatal mood disorders. Tennessee Office of Vital Records 615-741-1763 • tn.gov/health/article/vr-certificate Keeps and provides birth records for the state.

baby safety American Red Cross Cannon, Rutherford • 615-893-4272 redcross.org/tn/murfreesboro Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Sumner, Williamson, Wilson • 615-250-4300 nashvilleredcross.org Instruction in CPR, first aid and babysitting. Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt 615-936-1000 • childrenshospital.vanderbilt.org Provides pediatric, family-centered care. Website includes safety information and car seat safety. Safe Kids of Cumberland Valley 615-936-8222 • safekids.org The local affiliate of the national Safe Kids Campaign led by Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial 615-342-1000 thechildrenshospitalnashville.com Pediatric ER, a neonatal intensive care unit and outpatient services. Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital Vanderbilt at Williamson Medical Center 615-435-5000 williamsonmedicalcenter.org/kids Comprehensive inpatient pediatric, emergency care.

What to Know About Hiring a Baby Sleep Trainer

B

aby sleep can be a tricky business. Some parents follow a strict schedule, some take the baby’s lead and some just pray for the baby to close their eyes and find rest for longer than 20 minutes. On top of that, books, social media and your mom's friends all have recommendations on how to approach this cloudy part of new parenthood. The good news — there’s professionals out there who can help you with evidence-based techniques for setting up your baby for sleepy success. Pediatric sleep consultants are trained professionals who can help parents and babies find patterns and sleep routines that make for a happier, healthier life. Typically, there’s an initial consultation over the phone or via email to assess your baby’s needs, then they’ll schedule time to work with you at your home for a few hours before following up with support after the initial meeting via Zoom, phone, email, etc. Interested in a consultation? Here are a few local pediatric sleep consultants to check out:

storytimes Gallatin Public Library 123 E Main St., Gallatin 615-452-1722 • youseemore.com/gallatinPL John P. Holt Brentwood Library 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood 615-371-0090 • brentwoodtn.gov/departments/library Hendersonville Public Library 140 Saundersville Road, Hendersonville 615-824-0656 • hendersonvillelibrary.org La Vergne Public Library 5063 Murfreesboro Road, La Vergne 615-793-7303 • lavergnetn.gov/192/La-VergnePublic-Library

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Local Sleep Trainers My Baby Sleeper 615-418-2628 mydreamysleeper.com Nashville Tennessee Night Nurses 615-202-3380 nashvillenightnurses.com Born Happy 615-521-0919 bornhappylivehappy.com Serenity Sleepers 615-418-0434 serenitysleepers.com Live And Rest Pediatric Sleep Coaching 256-603-9524 liveandrestbaby.com Before investing in a sleep consultant or an online program, think about what it is that you want and what type of approach is best for you and your family. — Michael W. Aldrich

Linebaugh Public Library 105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro 615-893-4131 • rclstn.org MGL Memorial Library 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro 615-907-3429 • rclstn.org Nashville Public Library Main 615 Church St., Nashville 615-862-5800 • library.nashville.org Nashville Public Library Bellevue 720 Baugh Road, Nashville 615-862-5854 • library.nashville.org

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BABY WORLD Nashville Public Library Bordeaux 4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville 615-862-5856 • library.nashville.org

mommy & me fun for baby art & theater

Nashville Public Library Donelson 2315 Lebanon Pike, Nashville 615-862-5859 • library.nashville.org

Little Art House (Nashville) 615-933-9644 • littlearthousenashville.com Mini Makers classes and Creative Play for little ones and parents starting at 10 months.

Nashville Public Library Green Hills 3701 Benham Ave., Nashville 615-862-5863 • library.nashville.org

The Snuggery at Nashville Children's Theatre (NCT; Nashville) 615-252-4675 • nashvillect.org Nashville Children's Theatre's professional performances for children 0 - 5 and their grown-ups.

Nashville Public Library Hermitage 3700 James Kay Lane, Hermitage 615-880-3951 • library.nashville.org

fitness

Nashville Public Library Inglewood 4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville 615-862-5866 • library.nashville.org

Blooma Yoga (East and West Nashville) 615-797-8064 • bloomanashville.com BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby) in daily online classes.

Nashville Public Library Madison 610 Gallatin Pike S, Madison 615-862-5868 • library.nashville.org

Harpeth Gymnastics Mommy & Me 615-790-7825 • harpethgym.com A stimulating class for moms, dads and babies ages 18 to 36 months.

Nashville Public Library Old Hickory 1010 Jones St., Old Hickory 615-862-5869 • library.nashville.org

Let It Shine (Franklin) 615-369-3547 • lisgym.com Parent-and-child movement classes for 6 monthswalking; 12 - 23 months and 24 - 36 months.

Smyrna Public Library 400 Enon Springs Road W, Smyrna 615-459-4884 • rclstn.org

My Gym (Brentwood) 615-371-5437 • mygym.com/brentwood Tiny Tykes class for ages 4 - 22 months.

Williamson County Public Library 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin 615-794-3105 • wcpltn.org

music & movement Barfield School of Dance (Murfreesboro) 615-615-896-3118 • barfieldschoolofdance.com Kindermusik classes for newborns to toddlers. Blooma Yoga (West Nashville) 615-797-8064 • bloomanashville.com BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby) for classes everyday. Dance Classics (Murfreesboro) 615-378-7152 • danceclassicstn.com Fairy Tale Babies for ages 1-and-a-half to 2-and-ahalf takes place Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Music Together (Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, Nolensville & Spring Hill) musictogether.com International research-based early childhood music and movement program for newborns and older. School of Nashville Ballet (Nashville) 3630 Redmon Street, Nashville 615-297-2966 • nashvilleballet.com Children's classes for ages 2 - 7. Sound Start Early Childhood Music (Brentwood, Mt. Juliet & Nashville) 615-777-9314 • soundstartnashville.com Music Pups for ages birth - 4 years includes singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Vanderbilt Kindermusik (Nashville) blair.vanderbilt.edu/blair-academy/kindermusik.php Music, movement and early socialization classes for newborns and older. Cuddle and Bounce is specific to babies ages 0 - 12 months.

Nashville Gymnastics Training Center 615-298-2264 • nashvillegtc.com Ages 9 -18 months build strength, coordination.

S E R V I N G FA M I L I E S FO R OV E R 8 0 Y E A R S

Voted #1 Pediatric Office 19 Years in a Row! We pledge to continue to earn that trust one family at a time. Call 615-352-2990 or visit www.ohpa.com.

Bellevue Office 7640 Hwy. 70S. Nashville, TN 37221

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKNIGHT AND WEEKENDS. WE ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR CHILD YEAR AFTER YEAR. 22 FALL / WINTER 2024

WE LOVE OUR DOCTORS...

Paul J. Heil, M.D. Linda D. Brady, M.D. Jon Betts, M.D. James Keffer, M.D. Jennifer Ragsdale, M.D.

John Long, M.D. Chris Smeltzer, M.D. Kylie Cormier, M.D. Vicky Phillips, M.D. Kristen Powell, M.D. Caroline Prescott, M.D.

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Old Harding Road Office 5819 Old Harding Pike Nashville, TN 37205


Gender Reveals + Confetti Popper Shoots Maternity | Newborn | Family Portraits Ultrasound Packages 8+ weeks

We have helped hundreds of families sell thousands of gently used, HIGH-QUALITY children’s clothes, shoes, toys, books, DVDs, baby equipment, gently used maternity clothes, and much much more at affordable prices.

2D 4D & HD Live scans starting at $59 1982 Providence Parkway, Suite 254, Mt. Juliet

615-753-1889 | www.whitestorkandco.com

Most insurance accepted New patients welcome

Have you forgotten what a good night’s sleep feels like? We help children sleep more peacefully throughout the night so everyone in the house can sleep better too.

STAR TODAYT!

Board Certified Pediatricians

Kimberly Rosdeutscher, M.D. Elizabeth Fairbank, M.D. Anna Manneschmidt, M.D. Abigail Schachter, M.D.

3786 Central Pike, Ste. 130, HERMITAGE

615-883-2200 childmedgroup.com nashvilleparent.com

Get started with a FREE Discovery Call today!

Newborn to Age 8

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Infants, toddlers, preschool and school age programs. Now offering Kindergarten classes for 3, 4 & 5 year olds

ENROLLING NOW! Call today for your personal tour.

830 Kirkwood Ave. 615-810-9970 growacademynashville.com

Mothers' Milk Bank of Tennessee provides safe, pasteurized donor human milk to the most vulnerable Mothers' Milk Bank of Tennessee provides safe, babies. Visit milkbanktn.org to learn more about Mothers' Milk Bank of Tennessee provides safe, pasteurized donor human milk to the most vulnerable becoming a milk donor. pasteurized donor human milk to the most vulnerable babies. Visit milkbanktn.org to learn more about babies. Visit milkbanktn.org to learn more about becoming a milk donor. becoming a milk donor.

AVAILABLE NOW!

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THE INSIDER'S GUIDE TO RAISING KIDS IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Pick up a copy wherever you find Nashville Parent – or – read it online! nashvilleparent.com

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middle tennessee

BIRTHING GUIDE Births per year VANDERBILT BIRTH CENTER 3212 West End Ave., Ste. 100 Nashville 615-647-8220 vanderbilthealth.com/birthcenter MAURY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 1224 Trotwood Ave., Columbia 931-381-1111 mauryregional.com

500

1,500

LDR or LDRP

LDRP

LDR

NASHVILLE GENERAL HOSPITAL AT MEHARRY 1818 Albion St., Nashville 615-341-4000 nashvillegeneral.org

600

LDR

TRISTAR NORTHCREST MEDICAL CENTER 100 NorthCrest Drive Springfield 615-698-3000 northcrest.com

519

LDR

ASCENSION ST. THOMAS HOSPITAL MIDTOWN 2000 Church St., Nashville 615-284-2229 healthcareascension.org

7,000

Certified NurseMidwife

LDR

Certified Lactation Consultant

NICU Level

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Complete care before, during and after pregnancy. Board-certified nurse midwives, health coaches and educators collaborate with physicians to provide clinical care. Education classes. Birth (in center or hospital). Lifestyle + wellness workshops. Support groups. Community events. Insurance accepted.

Level IINeonatal

Family and patient-centered care with specialty RNs caring for patients in labor and delivery and the NICU. Families are given the choice to select pediatric board-certified pediatricians who promote roomingin. Free childbirth and newborn classes available along with free tours of the childbirth area.

Level IINeonatal

Family-centered care. Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes. Ambulatory labor monitoring available. Birthing ball support. Analgesia/anesthesia available 24/7. High-risk pregnancy care. Recently renovated labor and delivery unit. Tennessee's first Breastmilk Depot.

Level I

Family-centered deliveries in labor and delivery suites. Care is provided 24/7 by a midwife and obstetric team. Find more at northcrest.com/services/womens-services.

Level IIIObstetric care & Neonatology Services

Beautiful accommodations in all labor rooms, including an in-house birthing center. New obstetric emergency department added in July 2020, with 24 hour provider coverage. Full complement of childbirth classes and a breastfeeding clinic with free consultative services. Recipient of the prestigious IBCLC Care award for 2020! Many amenities available. State-of-the-art facility with labor and delivery suites and postpartum rooms with a view. Advanced maternal/infant services. Jacuzzi tubs for labor comfort. Flexible rooming-in options. NICU cameras. Lactation consultants. Extensive childbirth and breastfeeding classes. Breastfeeding clinic. Free tours.

ASCENSION ST. THOMAS RUTHERFORD 1700 Medical Center Pkwy. Murfreesboro 615-396-4577 or 615-396-5376 healthcareascension.org

3,300

LDR

Level IIIObstetric care & NICU care for 27 weeks gestation & greater

SUMNER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 555 Hartsville Pike, Gallatin 615-328-8888 mysumnermedical.com

800

LDR

Level IIObstetric

Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes taught by certified childbirth educators and certified lactation consultants. Birthing and peanut balls available. Outpatient lactation clinic.

Level IIINeonatal

Dedicated women’s hospital with 24/7 OB/GYN ER. Customized birthing plans offering traditional and non-traditional options, including peanut balls and midwifery. Family-centered care. Skin-to-skin at all births including C-sections. Mother/infant couplet care. Dedicated high-risk unit. Web-streaming NICU cameras. Childbirth education. Lactation boutique. Breastfeeding consultants.

TRISTAR CENTENNIAL WOMEN'S HOSPITAL 2221 Murphy Ave., Nashville 615-342-5661 tristarhealth.com

3,500

LDR

(See the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) level key on the next page.)

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middle tennessee

BIRTHING GUIDE Births per year

TRISTAR HENDERSONVILLE MEDICAL CENTER 355 New Shackle Island Road Hendersonville • 615-338-1000 tristarhealth.com

TRISTAR HORIZON MEDICAL CENTER 111 Hwy 70 E., Dickson 615-446-0446 tristarhealth.com

TRISTAR STONECREST MEDICAL CENTER 200 StoneCrest Blvd., Smyrna 615-768-2000 tristarhealth.com

1,300

500

1,000

LDR or LDRP

LDRP

LDR

1,200

LDRP

VANDERBILT WILSON COUNTY HOSPITAL 1411 Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon 615-444-8262 vanderbilthealth.com

750

LDR

WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER 4321 Carothers Pkwy., Franklin 615-435-5000 williamsonmedicalcenter.org

4,800

1,785

Certified Lactation Consultant

LDRP

TRISTAR SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER 5655 Frist Blvd., Hermitage 615-316-3000 tristarhealth.com

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER 1221 22nd Ave. S., Nashville 615-343-5700 vumc.org

Certified NurseMidwife

LDR

NICU Level

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Level IINeonatal

The Birth Center includes LDRPs for both high- and low-risk pregnancies. Maternal-fetal monitoring & anesthesia available 24/7. Lactation boutique with specialized services + ongoing support. Immediate skin-to-skin support with all births. Natural childbirth supported. Private NICU suites with parental sleeping, individual breast pump & free meals. NICVIEW cameras allow parents and desired family/friends from around the world to view their baby 24/7.

Level IINeonatal

Nine private birthing suites. Dedicated 1:1 laboring nurses. Access to lactation consultants. Family refreshment center. NICVIEW cameras allow parents and desired family/friends from around the world to view their baby 24/7.

Level IIObstetric & Neonatal

Family-centered environment with labor rooms offering a home-like atmosphere equipped with birthing balls, aromatherapy and nitrous oxide for a customized experience. Board-certified OB/GYN care with remote fetal monitoring and 24/7 neonatology coverage. NICVIEW cameras offer families 24/7 live viewing of their NICU baby. On-staff lactation consultants. Breastmilk Depot and the only Baby Café in Tennessee.

Level IIIObstetric & Neonatal

Family-centered unit providing care for low- and high-risk pregnancies. Dedicated OB emergency department staffed 24/7 by an OB Hospitalist. Wide variety of education classes available. Supportive of individualized birth plans. NICVIEW cameras provide live streaming video allowing parents, family and friends the ability to see the baby remotely.

Level IIObstetric

Patient-centered services. Fetal monitoring. Infant hearing screening. Nurse anesthetist services. Pre and postpartum care. Private room for labor, delivery and recovery. Educational resources and support.

Level IVNeonatal

Family-centered care. Flexible rooming-in options. Childbirth and breastfeeding education. Midwife, obstetrician and maternal fetal specialist team coverage available 24/7. Largest midwifery team in Tennessee. Highest level neonatal ICU. Ease of access to pediatric specialists at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital.

Level IINeonatal

All staff trained in neonatal resuscitation. Classes include childbirth, breastfeeding and sibling. Tours provided. 24-hour staffed newborn nursery and in-house NNP neonatology coverage available. Rooming-in, family-centered care, room service, daily certified lactation staff and professional photography available.

LDR

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Services Key: Level I: Facility provides basic care for uncomplicated maternity and neonatal patients who are low risk. Level II-Obstetric: Facility provides a broad range of maternal-fetal services for normal patients and for those with mild or moderate obstetric illnesses or complications.

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Level II-Neonatal: Facility provides specialty services for infants born at or beyond 32 weeks who have problems that are expected to resolve rapidly and are not anticipated to need subspecialty care on an urgent basis. These units provide care for babies convalescing after intensive care.

Level III-Obstetric: A broad range of maternal-fetal services for normal patients and those in need of intensive care. Can handle deliveries for all gestational ages. Level III-Neonatal: Provides care for infants born less than 32 weeks or with complex medical conditions. These units have the means to provide life support for as long as needed.

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Level IV-Neonatal: Has capabilities of Level III units with additional functions and considerable experience in the care of the most complex and critically ill newborns. Pediatric medical and surgical specialty consultants are on site 24 hours per day. Can provide surgeries for complex conditions.


Skilled Teachers in a Nurturing Environment P.E. Every Day in Preschool to 5th Grade Daily Bible Study & Weekly Chapel

goodpasture.org | 619 W DUE WEST AVE. | MADISON, TN 37115 Local Community and Service Opportunities Award-Winning Fine Arts and Athletics 13.2 Million Offered to the Class of 2023


They trusted “me to make decisions for my birthing plan.

~ KATELEN

Created a personalized birth plan for delivering her baby

Appointments available with OB-GYNs who listen Having a baby is personal. That’s why the OB-GYNs and care teams at Ascension Saint Thomas work closely with you to create a personalized birth plan that’s right for you. For Katelen, it was important to move around in the birthing suite, having a labor ball, birthing tub and other options to be as comfortable as possible. She also loved knowing a NICU was in the same building should her baby need advanced care. Our OB-GYNs and care teams are here for you, too — through your prenatal care, delivery and beyond. We also make sure you’re connected to ongoing health screenings, women’s heart care and more to help you stay healthy.

Schedule care now at STHealthBaby.com or talk to a care navigator to get started, call 877-883-6408 Hear more from Katelen and others: © Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.


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