pinkblue FALL 2020
A B A T O N R O U G E PA R E N T S P U B L I C A T I O N
The Irritable Uterus
hypnosis During Delivery
pregnant in a pandemic
17 Mind-Blowing Baby Facts
Ultrasound clients receive 10% off their purchase of maternity wear in the bump shop!
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CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE 6 GIVEAWAYS 8
WHOA, BABY!
10
LITTLE BITS
12
BABY LOVE
14
BUMP UP YOUR STYLE
35
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
40
BELLY LAUGHS
42
BABY FACES
IN S I DE
VOLUME 32
Photo credit: Kleinpeter Photography
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
6 16 | HYPNO...BABIES? Discover what Hypnobabies is and if it’s right for you
18 | THE IRRITABLE UTERUS Find out what it is and what to do if you have it
22 | PREGNANCY DURING A PANDEMIC
Learn the updated protocols for what to expect when delivering
32 ON THE COVER
At only two months old, Cover Baby Emery Ellison W. is already working on rolling over, and she’s always smiling. Emery has adorable bright eyes, enjoys talking, and her mom shares that she has the best head control she has ever seen. Her older sister, Hadley, adores her and often claims that Emery is “her baby.”
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BATON R O
Family s Favorite 0 2 0 2
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E PARENTS UG
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26 26 | 17 BABY FACTS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND Prepare to be amazed with these fun facts
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28 | THE DEAL WITH DELIVERY
Discover the differences between natural births and c-sections
WHEN YOU CAN’T BE THERE, WE ARE, BECAUSE
32 | HOW SAFE ARE ANTIDEPRESSANTS DURING PREGNANCY? Hear from the experts on what’s best for moms-to-be
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GIVEAWAYS Making fanny packs fashionable again, The Gigi Signature Bag from Finley & Co is a must-have. The bag has enough room to hold all your essentials, and it’s waterproof, washable, and features an exterior pocket so you can use it as a medical bag, too. ■ shopfinleyandco.com
P U B L I S H E R /E D I TO R I N C H I E F A MY F O R E M A N-P L A I S A N C E A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R BRANDON FOREMAN D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S A MY L . F O R E M A N E D I TO R I A L M A N A G I N G E D I TO R AMANDA MILLER S O C I A L M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R V I C TO R I A C OT E J A R E D I TO R I A L I N T E R N E M I LY D R E Z A R T/P R O D U C T I O N SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER M E LO DY TA U Z I N GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN MADDIE SOILEAU C O V E R P H OTO G R A P H E R K L E I N P E T E R P H OTO G R A P H Y A D V E R T I S I N G /M A R K E T I N G D I R E C TO R O F S A L E S L A U R I E A C O S TA
Those cute baby feet and hands are worth remembering forever. Save an imprint of those tiny fingers and toes with the KeaBabies Ornament Keepsake Kit. It’s easy to use and everything is included in the kit to make a memorable gift for yourself or a loved one. ■ keababies.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C R Y S TA L B A R R E T T J O LY N N B U R N S J A S O N WA L L RYN WHITESIDE D I R E C TO R O F C O M M U N I T Y PA R T N E R S H I P S TERI HODGES COMMUNIT Y OUTREACH ROXANE VOORHIES
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Who doesn’t dream of a quiet breast pump? The Lansinoh SmartPump 2.0 is just that. It features an easy-to-read back-lit display and buttons to help control the speed and pumping style. It even comes with comfort fit breast pump flange sizes, baby bottles, bottle stands, NaturalWave baby bottle nipples, an AC power adapter, breast milk cooler with ice pack, and a travel bag. ■ amazon.com
Gear up! GIVEAWAYS
2020
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Copyright © 2020. All rights reserved. ISSN # 1050-8708 Reproduction prohibited without permission. The opinions expressed in Pink & Blue Magazine are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement.
Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.” Winners will be announced at brparents.com on November 20, 2020. Pink & Blue Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.
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WHOA, BABY!
What to Expect... The wonder, the power, and the love between a mother and her baby from the moment she learns she is expecting cannot be understated. I remember being in your shoes and having so many questions each step of the way. However, time has passed since then. New practices are available, and now we know even more than we did then. But it’s hard not to have some worry with what we have seen this year. 2020 has brought forth even more unknowns that leave us all a little anxious about what’s to come. And so it only makes sense that with so many unknowns, we tend to have more questions about what to expect while expecting! Despite the worry, we still do our best to educate ourselves, take care of ourselves, and take each day as it comes. With this exciting issue, we hope to answer some of those questions and worries you may have, and even introduce you to new trends in the pregnancy world right now. From Hypnobabies, irritable uteri, and baby facts that will blow your mind, we have pulled together so much information for you to bring with you on your pregnancy journey. Expecting a baby is an exciting time, so make the most of this experience of preparing for your little one or little ones. It goes by faster than you realize.
Amy Foreman-Plaisance Publisher/Editor in Chief
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! sweep IT’S A
BATON ROUGE CLINIC HAS THE BEST PEDIATRICIANS Favorite Pediatrician WINNER l DR. MINDY CALANDRO FINALIST l DR. SUSAN BANKSTON FINALIST l DR. STEPHEN SANCHES
WITH 22 PEDIATRICIANS, 40 INTERNIST, AND NUMEROUS SPECIALTIES, WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HEALTHY AND HAPPY! TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR PEDIATRICIANS, PLEASE CALL (225) 246-9290.
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(225) 769-4044 l BATONROUGECLINIC.COM FA L L 2 02 0
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LITTLE BITS
“
I feared I would lose my sense of self in becoming a mom, but it’s actually made me more true to who I am.”
—Jessica Alba
SPECIAL DELIVERY You’re going to be busy (and probably tired) when you return home from the hospital. Onesies, burp cloths, and blankets are going to quickly fill up your laundry basket, but finding the time to wash them will be harder than you imagined. And honestly, sometimes doing the laundry just isn’t the easiest task to keep up with when you have so many other things going on around you. Laundry services are here to do the work for you! With the help of laundry services such as Get it Washed, LLC and Hampr, your washing becomes a breeze. They’ll pick up your need-to-wash items, wash and fold them, and return them to your doorstep in a timely manner. And just like that, you have more time to spend with your little one and less time spent washing clothes. It’s truly a gift! ■ getitwashed.com ■ tryhampr.com
WISDOM ABOUT WISDOM TEETH Did you know that some babies are being born without wisdom teeth? For many, having the four teeth removed later in life is quite common. However now, for little ones just entering the world, they don’t even have them! A study published in the Journal of Anatomy by Dr. Teghan Lucas of Flinders University says that faces are also becoming shorter and our smaller jaws mean that there is less room for teeth. The reasoning behind the change? According to Dr. Lucas, this change has occurred due to us using fire and processed foods a lot more. This new “micro-evolution” that humans are undergoing also includes a previously rare additional artery in the forearm that forms while a baby is in the womb and is the main vessel that supplies blood to the forearm and hand, but it disappears during gestation and is replaced by radial and ulnar arteries. 10
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NO TEARS...JUST YET! A baby’s cry is typically the first sound we search for when he or she is delivered into this world, and it’s a sound we become accustomed to quite quickly when our little one is hungry, needs to be changed, or wants to be held. Although, for the first few weeks of our little one’s life, a sound is all crying really is. Why? Their tear ducts aren’t fully developed yet. Dr. Sage Timberline, a pediatrician, explains that babies produce enough tears to coat the eye and keep it moist, however, they don’t produce enough to form tears that drop down their cheeks. “After three or four weeks, a baby’s tear ducts usually mature enough to form teardrops associated with strong emotions,” says Dr. Timberline.
TO WAKE OR NOT TO WAKE? It takes work to get our babies on a schedule. We spend time planning feedings and naps and then readjusting to find a routine that works for them. It’s quite common though to see our little ones still asleep when feedings roll around. Do we wake them? Do we let them sleep? The answer depends on the baby. Some nurses and lactation consultants share that as long as you have a healthy baby and feeding is going well, you can let your little one sleep. However, always talk to your healthcare provider to find the best routine for your little one.
BREASTFEEDING AND COVID-19 We still have a lot to learn when it comes to COVID-19, especially when it comes to moms-to-be and how it affects all aspects of the pregnancy journey. However, for those moms who are interested in breastfeeding, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention is currently reporting that breast milk isn’t likely to spread the virus to babies. Since the pandemic has begun, breastfeeding numbers are up. However, you and your healthcare provider should be the ones to decide whether you should or should not begin or continue breastfeeding. ■ cdc.gov
SELF-QUARANTINE BEFORE DELIVERY COVID-19 brought forth a lot of changes for us this year. Many of us were quarantining at home from March until just recently in order to help slow the spread. However, women who are expecting are being encouraged to return home before their delivery date to protect themselves and their little ones. Woman’s Hospital recommends that during the last two weeks of your pregnancy, you should stay at home and away from others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant people, and in order to protect them, they are encouraged to limit close interactions with people as much as possible.
brintl.com | 225.293.4338 Photo credit: Freepik DON’T WORRY, THEY’RE HYDRATED! To keep ourselves hydrated, we often quench our thirst with some good ol’ H2O. However, when it comes to our little ones, formula or breast milk are the only drinks we give them. For those wanting to transition to giving their infants water, HealthyChildren.org of the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends that you start offering water (4-8 oz day) to your baby around six months of age, typically when you introduce solid foods.
DISPOSABLE DIAPERS DILEMMA Disposable diapers have made changing our babies easy. However, some studies report that disposable diapers could be exposing your little one to chemicals you might not be aware of. Disposable diapers are made up of synthetic materials and chemical residues, typically consisting of: an outer lining made of polyethylene film, inner lining of polypropylene, an absorbent core, and super absorbent polymers (SAPs). Another study published by Reproductive Toxicology found that most conventional diapers can even include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates. According to studies, the chemicals pose a threat to babies due to the prolonged contact with their skin. So, how do we protect them? Moms are encouraged to avoid VOCs, phthalates, SAPs, Tributyl-tin, chlorine, dioxins, and fragrances when choosing diapers. Select a brand that is transparent with their ingredients with diapers that are dye-free, perfume-free, and chlorine free. FA L L 2 02 0
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BABY LOVE
“
I have a lot of control over a lot of aspects of my life and this is one where I’m like, ‘okay, it’s out of my hands,’ which is kind of a fun feeling.”
Show your Louisianian love with this non-toxic Louisiana Teether from Hey Penelope. This BPAfree, silicone teether is safe for baby to chew on, and it’s shaped just like home. ■ heypenelope.com
—Mindy Kaling
Simplify bottle prep and don’t waste hardearned milk with Bökee. Bottles and sippy cups can be opened, filled, and closed with one hand, leaving the other for multitasking. It’s also perfect for transferring breast milk safely from bag to bottle, removing pump parts or keeping silicone pumps upright. ■ thebokee.com
Get all the support you need with Mother Nutrients Prenatal Postnatal. This complete multi-vitamin and mineral supplement supports mamas before, during, and after pregnancy. It is a balanced mix of 20 essential vitamins, minerals, trace elements and nutrients that are easily absorbed and gentle on the body. ■ shop.mothernutrient.com
Make bathtime a fun time for your little bambino with the Blooming Bath Lotus. Hard bathtubs are no more with this luxurious and cuddly flower. ■ bloomingbath.com
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Keep your little one busy with the Busy Baby Activity Chair. This sturdy chair is made of foam and features a mirror, rattle, and squeaky toy. ■ crateandbarrel.com
Detect and record the fetal heartbeat rate (FHR) with the BabyTone Fetal Heart Monitor. The monitor displays in digit/waveform via the device, and it comes with an easy-to-use app. ■ getwellue.com
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BUMP UP YOUR STYLE
“
The one thing I really want is an epidural, which I know a lot of people are against, but I’ve had surgeries galore, and I don’t need to experience any more pain if I can avoid it.”
MAMA Sports Top. H&M. ■ hm.com Maternity Nursing Hoodie. Gap. ■ gap.com
—Serena Williams
Women's Short Sleeve Maternity Dress. Ali Express. ■ aliexpress.com
Women’s Terry Clog Slippers. ■ Isotoner. isotoner.com
Maternity Nursing Snap-Button Sweatshirt. Gap. ■ gap.com 14
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MAMA Treggings. H&M. ■ hm.com
Women's Maternity Top 3/4 Sleeve Side Ruched Pregnancy T-Shirt. BBHoping. ■ amazon.com
Maternity Full Panel Blackout Leggings. Gap. ■ gap.com
Women's Plus Size Short Robe. Savage X Fenty. ■ amazon.com
MAMA Cotton-Blend Joggers. H&M. ■ hm.com
Maternity Nursing Ruffle Sleeve Dress. Gap. ■ gap.com
Adidas Superstar Shoes. Adidas. ■ adidas.com FA L L 2 02 0 |
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Hypno... Babies?
By Amanda Miller
W
hen it comes to the birth plan, we all know that even the best laid plans need tweaking along the way. However, when you have the tools that Hypnobabies provides in your back pocket, the birthing experience is more comfortable and even relaxing. Hypno-What? According to the Hypnobabies website, Hypnobabies is a six-week course that teaches real, medical-grade hypnosis techniques that create a peaceful pregnancy, a calm and confident birth partner, and an easier natural birth. Amy Willson, owner of Louisiana Baby Company and a birth and postpartum doula and childbirth educator, explains, “Hypnobabies uses hypnosis which is just accessing the way your brain works to affect your experience to make childbirth more comfortable for women. They find that it’s really relaxing and positive, and they love the experience during pregnancy and get to use those tools during their birth as well.” Getting Birth Ready When it comes to preparing for delivery day, many women sign up for
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Hypnobabies as soon as they find out they are pregnant. However, Hypnobabies is also beneficial in coping with anxiety. “Some people find childbirth to be scary. It can be an unknown if you’ve never done it before, and even if you have done it before, every experience is different and unique. Some moms reach out as soon as they find out for those anxiety reducing benefits of hypnosis. The latest I recommend is around 28-30 weeks of pregnancy because we want it to be finished before the baby comes,” says Willson. The six-week classes are filled with information to help mama-to-be prepare for birth. Willson shares, “We talk about the nuts and bolts of childbirth: what physically happens to your body and the different stages of childbirth, how to prepare your body for childbirth, how to stay comfortable during your pregnancy, interventions that may be offered at your place of birth, how the birth partner can be involved and helpful, what happens after baby comes, and breastfeeding. We also go into those mental aspects for how to prepare your mind for birth. It’s important to prepare your brain. It makes a big difference in your experience.”
Playing the Tracks Hypnobabies includes tracks that can be played and cue words that moms learn to tap into their relaxation space. Willson says, “We have over 16 tracks that they get to listen to. Some are focused on teaching them tools like how to relax their bodies and some are specific to visualizing their birth and how they want their birth to go. The tracks are really relaxing. Their bodies are trained to respond to these tracks with deep relaxation. Even if she is experiencing intense sensations, she’s able to manage those in a calm way and access that inner peace.” Getting Signed Up Willson recommends Hypnobabies to anyone who is interested in learning how the mind and body work together, people who are looking to lower their anxiety during their pregnancy, or anyone who is interested in a more comfortable birth experience. And, it’s easy to sign up! Willson offers four-six classes a year. Classes are done through Zoom. Hypnobabies. com also offers a six-week online course for moms to be. ■
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The Irritable Uterus By Jessica Aslin
T
he uterus is an extraordinary organ that holds much responsibility in the lives of women and their babies. When the uterus tightens and contracts during pregnancy, it’s our biological way of pushing our babies out and into the world. However, when contractions don’t happen at full term or without a definite pattern, they can, but not always, be attributed to a condition known as uterine irritability.
What is it? When we think of preterm contractions, the first thing that comes to our minds are Braxton Hicks contractions. They aren’t a requirement of every pregnancy, but they are fairly common. Braxton Hicks can happen when the uterus is activated during sex or physical activity, when your baby is very active, or even when your body is dehydrated. Uterine irritability isn’t always triggered by these same events, and can feel very different from Braxton Hicks contractions. 18
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Amanda Lewis, MSN, CNM, and Clinical Director of Midwifery at the Birth Center of Baton Rouge explains, “Braxton Hicks contractions are more of a long cramp in certain areas of the uterus, and uterine irritability can be felt all over. Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be very sporadic and can cause prodromal labor–not producing cervical change. Prodromal labor can start and stop. Real labor has a definite start and stop, and you will feel the entire uterus contracting.”
In some cases, uterine irritability can be triggered as a result of a vaginal infection. Lewis has also observed that women may have irritable uteruses when their baby is trying to move but cannot due to muscles being too tight or due to the mother’s hips. She has referred patients in the past to a chiropractor for some relief.
How do you treat it? According to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a 1995 study
showed that 18.7 percent of women with an irritable uterus experienced a premature labor. Uterine irritability is especially concerning at times because a woman may think she is having preterm labor, but that may not always be the case. Many women who experience uterine irritability are still able to deliver at full term and may continue to have their condition closely monitored. In some extreme cases, bed rest and pelvic rest may be necessary. The American Pregnancy Association suggests pregnant women drink 8-12 glasses of water per day. Hydration is critical during any pregnancy, but to those prone to uterine irritability, water is a key component in warding off contractions, and drinking plenty of fluids can even eliminate the need for a hospital visit to receive intravenous fluids. Lewis agrees that staying hydrated can help. She advises to “step in a tub–your body is porous and that will help you too, and if you feel this starting, drink two big glasses of water and it usually helps.” Other important care strategies are to try to reduce stress, get plenty of rest, and reduce your caffeine intake. As with any concern in pregnancy, contact your doctor or midwife if you think you are experiencing contractions. In some cases, an irritable uterus can cause preterm labor. Your doctor may perform a variety of tests to rule out an active labor. Some common ways your healthcare provider may monitor uterine irritability for preterm labor includes ultrasounds, vaginal fluid samples, and checking the cervix for dilation. ■
"Uterine irritability isn’t always triggered by these same events..." Mom Shares
“For me, I had an irritable uterus from about 15 weeks on. I had contractions on the monitor basically every time they would check. It mostly felt very crampy all the time, and it usually occurred when I was dehydrated or on my feet a lot. I actually had incompetent cervix as well and my maternalfetal medicine doctors believe the irritable uterus may have played a role in that. I did not deliver full term. I delivered at 34 weeks and 1 day. This was my first pregnancy.” –Janelle Greenstreet “I have uterine irritability from this pregnancy and I am 34 weeks and 5 days. I’m so sore from the dull pain and it’s so fatiguing.” –Angel Magbutay ■ FA L L 2 02 0
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HEAD AND SHOULDERS KNEES AND TOES, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. At Magnolia Pediatrics, our doctors do way more than treat coughs and bandage scrapes. We specialize in whole-kid care, from the tops of busy heads to the tips of tiny (and not-so-tiny) toes. Call 225.744.4484 to join the Magnolia Pediatrics family today.
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g n i r u D y c n a n g e c Pr i m nde a P a
By M e
Lem orstall lanie F
oine, P
h.D.
L
ouisiana moved into Phase 3 of the Coronavirus pandemic last month, which allows for cautious flexibility and the relaxation of some restrictions. While social distancing and mask wearing remains in place, many social outlets including restaurants and bars are now able to open at a larger capacity. Despite these changes, many restrictions remain in place for a more vulnerable population–pregnant women.
According to Angela Hammett, RN, Woman’s Hospital Pregnancy Nurse Navigator, pregnant women are at a greater risk of severe illness related to COVID-19. “Since pregnancy can weaken the immune system, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said that pregnant women may be more at risk than women who are not pregnant.” She continues, “There is also evidence that pregnant women with COVID-19 may be at increased risk of premature labor.” With this in mind, the doctors and staff at Woman’s Hospital have a series of protocols in place to ensure the health and safety of mothers and their new arrivals. 22
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Despite the new norms that have been established, patient experiences remain generally positive and families are still being able to participate together in this exciting time.
Mom’s Health Matters Prenatal health is critically important for both mother and baby. While it is still uncertain if COVID-19 is passed from mother to baby, “Babies in the womb are impacted by the overall health of the mom, so it’s important for pregnant women to follow safety precautions and limit their exposure,” says Hammett. Therefore, Women’s Hospital strongly encourages all pregnant women to
attend their prenatal appointments. “It’s very important that all pregnant women continue attending their prenatal visits with their OB-GYN,” says Hammett. Although there are current restrictions in place, women still should be seen.
Visitation Situation The most notable change at Woman’s Hospital is that visitors are not allowed for regular visits inside the Physician Office Building. Local mom, Tina Head, who is expecting her second child, says this is the most challenging part. “Besides having to wear a mask, the hardest part has been not having my husband with me
for the anatomy scan,” says Head. “That can be a scary appointment and it’s even more terrifying going into it alone. If you are going to find out unexpected news, you don’t want to have to hear that alone.” Katie Zylicz, local mom who is expecting her third child, agrees. “I feel very comfortable going to my appointments and I appreciate the focus on safety, but the lack of support at milestone appointments is hard.” Katie’s husband, Matt, expressed the difficulty he felt as an expectant father. “Not being able to be with Katie for the anatomy scan was difficult,” says Matt. “You get a lot of news at that appointment; I felt like she was on her own and that was hard.” However, for those who are attending appointments at Baton Rouge General, all women can have one visitor (18 years or older only) with them at all regular OB appointments, including weekly checks and anatomy scans. For those who are at the Birth Center of Baton Rouge, all clients and their guests over the age of five are asked to wear a mask. Sonograms are limited to one adult visitor and prenatal visits are limited to two visitors.
Mom-To-Be Education
Another important aspect of new motherhood is education. Woman’s Hospital and Baton Rouge General offer a series of classes for new parents including topics such as childbirth, Lamaze, and breastfeeding. In order to maintain social distancing and reduce exposure, classes are currently being offered online. This new delivery model is not stopping parents from accessing these important resources. “In fact, attendance for these classes has all remained steady throughout the pandemic,” says Hammett. Woman’s Hospital staff continue to look for the best ways to support expectant mothers and sees this as a positive. “Many people who would not have been able to attend in-person classes have benefited from the virtual offerings, so this is something we will be considering when developing programs for future years,” continues Hammett.
The Birth Experience
As far as the actual birth experience, there are several protocols in place to keep mother and baby safe and healthy.
According to Woman’s Hospital, “The main things that have changed about the birth experience for patients are heightened infection prevention protocols like mask requirements and limited visitation.” Women may now have two support people during delivery. However, the limited visitation may actually turn out to be an unexpected blessing during this challenging time. The hospital has identified positive outcomes as a result of the change. “We have found that new parents are responding well to the extra bonding time it’s given them to spend with their babies.” Additionally, hospital staff has seen an increase in breastfeeding rates as a result. “During the pandemic, breastfeeding rates have increased by 10 percent as compared to a typical annual increase of 2-4 percent.” Despite the many changes associated with the pandemic, Katie Zylicz remains focused on the positive. “Of course we will miss welcoming our friends at the hospital, but limiting visitors may not always be a bad thing, says Zylicz. “It may end up being a more intimate, bonding time after delivery.” ■
Current Protocols in Place Baton Rouge General ■ Birth Center will allow two visitors during the delivery (significant other and one support). ■ Postpartum: Only one visitor will be allowed per day. ■ If the mother is suspected or confirmed COVID, no visitors will be allowed, including significant others. ■ In the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), only the mother and one visitor will be allowed per day.
Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ All clients and their guests over the age of five must wear a mask while in the birth center. Sonograms are limited to one visitor and prenatal visits allow two.
■ Birth Center of Baton Rouge is offering telehealth visits for clients who are showing symptoms, who have been exposed, or choose to use telehealth for select visits. ■ Each client has the choice to invite up to four people into the Birth Center during birth and the postpartum period. Support persons can include a doula and/or photographer. Visitors will be screened with questions and asked to wear a mask. Clients are not required to wear a mask while in labor. ■ Clients are asked to quarantine two weeks prior to birth when possible.
Woman’s Hospital ■ Visitors are not allowed to attend
regular appointments with patients inside the Physician’s Office Building. ■ All patients and visitors must always wear masks. ■ Vented or valved masks are not allowed. ■ Health screens will be conducted at all hospital entrances. ■ All hospital patients are allowed one support person for their entire stay. ■ Since Louisiana moved to Phase 3, patients may have an extra person during delivery as well. ■ Only mothers who are symptomatic are being tested for COVID-19. ■ Only babies born to mothers who are symptomatic or test positive will be tested for COVID-19. ■ FA L L 2 02 0
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Photo credit: Alisha Hudman Photography
What the child becomes, the community becomes. Baton Rouge Parents Magazine has committed to the families of Greater Baton Rouge and surrounding areas for 30 years now. We serve, and our primary goal is to make your life just a little bit easier. We love our community and have a heartfelt and profound commitment to the children, families, and the community that we all call home.
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Stefanie Jobe, CNM, APRN-MSN
E PARENTS UG
Family s Favorite 0 2 20
AZINE AG M
Call to schedule a tour!
BATON R O
ADVERTORIAL
ER’S CHOICE R EA D
What makes the Birth Center of Baton Rouge unique?
We pride ourselves in providing individualized care. Our visits not only focus on your pregnancy but also the entire wellbeing of you and your family. Your first visit with us will be 60 minutes long to allow for detailed discussion on self-care, nutrition, education, and exercise. Each of your remaining prenatal appointments will last 30 minutes. To ensure you and your partner have a relationship with the midwife attending your birth, you will be scheduled for appointments with each of our Certified Nurse Midwives throughout your pregnancy. At your first visit, you will receive the call-phone number that reaches our midwives directly in case of an urgent matter or labor. Postpartum care is just as important as prenatal care at BCBR. After discharge from the birth center, you will receive a home visit from a midwife if you live within 30 miles of the birth center to evaluate you and baby, with an emphasis on breastfeeding. You will also have 1 week and 6-week postpartum visit.
Is the Birth Center of Baton Rouge covered by insurance?
The Birth Center of Baton Rouge is in-network with most major insurance plans. We also work with health sharing companies, have a discounted self-pay option for those without insurance, and accept CareCredit.
Amanda Lewis, CNM, APRN-MSN
Elizabeth Fontenot, CNM, APRN-MSN, WHNP
Facts
• Nationally accredited by The Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers. 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 • Nationally board-certified nurse midwife staff • CNM and RN attend every birth • Hospital and NICU transfer agreements with Woman’s Hospital and Baton Rouge General • Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer performs ultrasounds in house • Subspecialty referral relationships • Voted by community as the best place to birth and attend prenatal classes in Baton Rouge
What makes the birthing experience unique at the Birth Center of Baton Rouge?
If this is your first pregnancy or if you have not had a previous unmedicated birth, we ask that you and your partner attend an approved natural childbirth class. This will help prepare you and your partner for an unmedicated birth. When you go into labor you will be in direct contact with your midwife until it is time to be admitted into the birth center. Once admitted, you midwife will be with you throughout your labor and birth. Each birth is also attended by a registered nurse. To support you during your labor, we have many comfort measures available such as birthing balls, peanut balls, a rebozo, a Native American birth sling, birthing stool, Squatty Potty (yes, you read that right), and of course our built-in birthing tubs and large showers. Doulas and birth photographers are welcome! How do I become a client of Birth Center of Baton Rouge? We ask that you attend our complimentary orientation prior to scheduling your first appointment to ensure you understand our model of care. Our Certified Nurse Midwives are nurse practitioners which means you can start your care with us from your first appointment. There is no need to see a physician unless you need a higher level of care. BCBR is supported by four board certified OBGYNs who are always available to provide backup for the birth center. If you have established care with another provider, our midwives will review your current prenatal records to ensure you are low risk enough for out of hospital birth. Once approved, we will schedule your first appointment.
What changes have you put into place due to COVID-19? You may bring up to two guests to your appointments and ultrasounds. We will ask that you and your guests wear a mask. To reduce your exposure, we have begun drawing labs at the birth center. Doulas and photographers are welcome at your birth but will be counted in the four-person maximum number of guests that are able to attend. We are constantly reevaluating our policy and will make changes, as necessary.
277 Rue de la Vie Baton Rouge, LA 70817 225-761-1200
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Baby Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
By now you’ve probably researched everything you need to know about what size fruit your baby is right now, what to expect when you’re in the delivery room, and how to make it through morning sickness. But, there are so many fun facts that you might not know about your pregnancy and your baby. Until now, of course.
It is estimated that children laugh up to 300 times a day while adults only about 20 times.
On average, toddlers learn five new words a day.
Human babies are the only primates that smile at their parents.
Babies are born with a natural sense of rhythm.
Newborns do not have kneecaps, and they don’t fully develop until preschool.
On average, toddlers learn five new words a day.
It is normal for a newborn to urinate every one to three hours.
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Red is the first color infants recognize.
A newborn typically deprives its parents of 350400 hours of sleep in the first year.
September 9 is the most popular birthday in America. The least common birthdays are July 4, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Babies are born with 300 bones, while adults have 206
The most active time in life is at two years old.
Babies have three times the taste buds of adults
If a baby continued to grow as much as he or she does in one year, the baby would be 170 feet tall by the time he or she was an adult.
A baby cannot taste salt until around four months old.
Babies as young as a few hours old have been known to crawl up to their mother’s stomachs to reach the breast.
Until a baby is about three weeks old, he or she does not cry real tears.
By 18 months, a baby’s foot is half the size of their adult foot.
Sources: Arlene R. Taylor, PhD; BabyandChild.ae; Babyology.com.au; Experian.com; National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, and Reader’s Digest. FA L L 2 02 0
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The Deal with Delivery: Natural Birth or C-Section? By Elise Gray
When it comes to the topic of parenthood, it is safe to say that those expecting have quite a bit on their minds. From the subject of cloth vs. disposable diapers to the differences between vaginal or Cesarean section (C-section) delivery, what's the best option?
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Unlike most things related to child-rearing, delivery preferences do not always fall to the parent. Stephanie Rossano is an excellent example of someone who expected to have a vaginal birth and almost did. "I initially told my doctor that I wanted to avoid a C-section," says Rossano, a first-time mother. "However, my daughter was breech; she wouldn't turn. To prevent anything bad happening to us, we had to book a cesarean." Like many women, Stephanie had to be induced for the C-Section surgery to avoid complications for her child's health
Crystal Montes, a first-time mother and delivery nurse, had a Meconiumrelated delivery, meaning the baby passed waste while still inside the uterus. "They wanted to start me on Oxytocin, and I knew the artificial contractions would begin, which means they would be very intense. I wanted a natural birth but knew that was no longer on the table." To avoid the risk of infection, the delivery staff administered Oxytocin to intensify Crystal's contractions. She gave birth several hours later to a healthy baby girl. In contrast, a C-section operation can generally take less than an hour
For C-sections, the side effects might last longer, with slightly more severity. To boost circulation, those recovering from C-sections must move around. Postdischarge, new moms will likely be sent home with a light prescription for pain medication, along with instructions for wound care. Stephanie was monitored closely for two days following her C-section delivery, while Crystal, a mother who delivered vaginally, went home within 24 hours. Vaginal and Cesarean sections highlight many differences, along with a long line of misconceptions surrounding
and herself. After her C-Section, she had to stay at the hospital for three days with her newborn. She had a catheter and remained at the hospital until she could physically show she could care for herself. Year after year, millions of women have the same experiences. Some plan for a C-Section only to end up delivering vaginally, while others hope for a natural, vaginal birth only to end up needing an emergency Cesarean to save their baby's life. Especially while living through the height of a pandemic, the art of birthing has never garnered more unpredictability. Between a vaginal vs. C-Section birth, which method is objectively "better" for mothers? The answer roughly depends on the circumstances, health, and situation of the mother giving birth.
to complete, from start to finish. Most C-sections occur while the mother is awake, with either a spinal block or epidural numbing her from the breasts down. Even with pain management options in place, there might still be a bit of pressure during the delivery. Stephanie weighed in on the experience, "It only took 45 minutes, and there was my baby! They gave me an epidural, so I was numb from below my breasts, all the way down. There was a sheet right below my breasts, and I had to wear a headcover, a mask for oxygen, and they had my arms pinned down, which means I couldn't hold her. For me, skin-to-skin contact ended up being cheek to cheek. However, skin-toskin contact is super important, so my partner provided that for my daughter after her birth."
birth during a pandemic. To ease the minds of expecting mothers in Baton Rouge, we spoke with local delivery experts about giving birth in a pandemic.
What to Expect: C-Section vs. Natural Birth The Procedure Vaginal birth follows uterine contractions, which feel like heavy-duty menstrual cramps. They move the baby down to a dilated cervix, helping to make room for the baby to pass through the vaginal opening after a series of pushes. The entire process of labor and delivery can last anywhere from 12-30 hours for first-time mothers.
The Recovery As all women are different, recovery time frames are difficult to gauge. After giving birth, the uterus shrinks. Going through the whole transition of delivery is painful because the body has had nine months to widen. A vaginal birth helps the uterus shrink due to an immediate pressure release. Postpartum effects of vaginal delivery can include cramping, bleeding, and soreness.
Safely Giving Birth During a Pandemic With COVID-19 still living amongst us, the delivery question breathes loudly throughout the halls of hospitals. A local source at Louisiana Woman's Hospital gave us the inside scoop on what to expect when you're expecting, "Right now, we are only allowing one visitor, and it must be the same visitor throughout the stay–from discharge to delivery. The waiting room is not open for additional visitors. Once the mother dilates to six cm, the second person can visit. The hospital is checking temperatures. Everyone has to wear a mask, especially nurses and staff. Some of the doctor's offices are asking their pregnant patients to quarantine for the last two weeks of the pregnancy, especially if they've gotten through the sickness of self-isolation for 14 days prior." So, when it comes to the deal of delivery, vaginal vs. C-sectional can sometimes be more circumstantial than a matter of preference. Having a sense of preparedness will make last-minute delivery decisions that much easier. ■FA L L 2 02 0
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How Safe are Antidepressants During Pregnancy? By Jannean Dixon, M.Ed.
“I was honestly scared to get pregnant one day because I was worried about having to stop my medication, but then it happened, so I had to face it head on,” says local mother, Sydney B. about her experience being pregnant and on her antidepressant medication. “I continued because the little research that had been done on the medication and pregnancy indicated that it wouldn't hurt my baby and my OB agreed. My psychiatrist was also concerned that stopping would have a worse effect on me than continuing would on my baby, due to the pregnancy hormones.”
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“Untreated maternal mental illness comes with risk. Mental illness affects behavior..."
The anxiety of taking medication during pregnancy is shared by many women. I remember when I was pregnant with my first baby, feeling a rush of relief when my obstetrician recommended continuing with my antidepressant antianxiety medication. Careful Consideration The safety of antidepressants during pregnancy is a careful risk benefit analysis,” shares Dr. Rene Bruno, a perinatal psychiatrist and Medical Director of Selected Psychiatric Services at Woman's Hospital. “This is a discussion that should be had with your obstetrician or mental health provider.” Until recently, there weren't any tests that had been done on pregnant women by the FDA. No medication is without risk, but Dr. Bruno also shares that with mental health medications, often the benefits outweigh the possible risk. “Untreated maternal mental illness comes with risk. Mental illness affects behavior. You may not eat well, may not sleep well, may smoke or drink. Depression and anxiety can affect behavior, which can affect the baby. There are studies that indicate that inadequately treated maternal mental illness can affect children into adulthood. It affects how genes are expressed and can affect development, learning, anxiety, and characteristics of ADHD,” Dr. Bruno explains.
As a practical matter, most prescribers begin with pregnancy-safe drugs when prescribing to women of child-bearing age. Drugs in the SSRI category, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are among the most studied medications and are considered relatively safe. Whatever medication you are taking, Dr. Bruno shares this warning, “Do not stop your antidepressant abruptly. This can worsen symptoms and can put women and their babies in danger. Fifty percent or more of pregnancies are unplanned. If you become pregnant, hold tight! Have a careful risk benefit discussion with your physician.” Biopsychosocial Consideration “Rarely, if ever, should a medication be given in isolation as the only intervention for depression and anxiety. We must consider the biopsychosocial factors. When treating depression and anxiety when pregnant, and always, these three components are vital. Bio refers to the medication; psycho refers to the psychological support, coping skills, and self care that a person has; social refers to a person’s support and connectedness to people. We are all complex beings, not just our biology. Medication should always go along with other supports,” explains Dr. Bruno. Who is at Risk? Women are twice as likely to become
depressed as men. Becoming pregnant is a considerable hormonal and biological change. It can be the most joyful time, but it can also be the time when a woman is the most vulnerable,” Dr. Bruno shares. Having had two children myself, I can attest to that! When it comes to the stigma of mental health care, Dr. Bruno shares that she thought that the overall society’s view is improving but is still not where it needs to be. When considering stigma, there are also racial, ethnic, cultural, familial, and religious influences. Dr. Bruno encourages moms-to-be not to become complacent, not to think that because you have medication that all will be fine. Plan your biopsychosocial safety net, even if you are feeling okay. Dr. Bruno encourages preconception planning. Moms and moms-to-be can schedule a visit with their obstetrician or with Dr. Bruno, who encourages partners to be included in the visit. “Talk about the risks and benefits for you so that you can have the safest, healthiest pregnancy. You don’t have to wait until you are pregnant or postpartum and in distress. Careful planning may help to eliminate that distress.” ■ Mom Shares “My baby is just fine! She is nine months and walking. She’s met all of her milestones.” –Sydney B. ■ FA L L 2 02 0
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With 22 pediatricians, 39 internists, on-site full-service lab and radiology, and numerous specialties, we have everything you need to keep you and your little one HEALTHY and HAPPY. Our pediatricians have extended hours Monday through Thursday in the evening.
Join us at the Baton Rouge Clinic for a
FREE PRENATAL CLASS with our pediatricians.
Classes will be held virtually. For more information and to register please visit: batonrougeclinic.com/prenatal-classes/ or call Jeanne at (225)246-9290.
PEDIATRICS AT PERKINS l 7373 Perkins Rd l Baton Rouge, LA 70809 l (225) 246-9290 PEDIATRICS AT INDUSTRIPLEX l 12351 Industriplex Blvd l Baton Rouge, LA 70809 l (225) 926-4400 BatonRougeClinic.com 34
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Baby World
Local Resources for Parents-to-be ADOPTION RESOURCES AdoptUSKids ■ (888) 200-4005 ■ adoptuskids.org Beacon House Adoption Services ■ (225) 753-5551 ■ (888) 987-6300 ■ beaconhouseadoption.com Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge: Adoption and Maternity ■ (225) 336-8708 ■ adoptccdiobr.org St. Elizabeth Foundation ■ (225) 769-8888 ■ stelizabethfoundation.org Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org
■ cababatonrouge@gmail.com La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Line ■ (877) 4-LA-LECHE ■ lllalmsla.org Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org Magnolia Lactation Consulting ■ (225) 230-9054 ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org
CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS Alliance Safety Council ■ (225) 766-0955 ■ alliancesafetycouncil.org Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ batonrougebirthservices.com Central Fire Protection District #4 ■ (225) 261-2000 ■ centralfd.org Lexlee’s Kids ■ (225) 372-3991 ■ lexleeskids.org
Ochsner Lactation Support ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org
Louisiana State Police Troop A ■ (225) 925-6006 ■ lsp.org
Woman’s Hospital Lactation Department ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org
CHILD CARE RESOURCES Amerigroup Real Solutions in Healthcare
BIRTHING CENTERS Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ (225) 366-8613 ■ batonrougebirthservices.com Capital Area Breastfeeding Alliance
Woman’s Hospital Woman’s has everything mom needs for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience. Woman’s is a Level III Regional Referral facility for obstetrical and neonatal care–the highest care designation a hospital can receive. From natural deliveries to epidurals, from doulaassisted labors to cesarean deliveries, Woman’s expertise and advanced technology allows mom to have several birthing options. FA L L 2 02 0
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY ■ (757) 490-6900 ■ amerigroup.com Child Care Assistance Program ■ 1 (888) LAHELP-U ■ dss.louisiana.gov LaCHIP ■ (877) 252-2447 ■ dhh.louisiana.gov Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 387-0061 ■ voagbr.org CHILD SAFETY CLASSES American Red Cross ■ (225) 291-4533 ■ redcross.org Infant Swimming Resource’s Self-Rescue Program ■ (225) 802-2818 ■ isrbatonrouge.com Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association ■ jpma.org Louisiana Department of Health ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov Operation Life Saver Training Center ■ (225) 753-7716 ■ operationlifesavertc.com CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com Bradley Method ■ 1-(800)-4-A-BIRTH ■ bradleybirth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org International Childbirth Education Associatio ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org Lamaze International ■ (202) 367-1128 ■ lamaze.org Lane Regional Medical Center 36
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Ochsner Health System The Ochsner Family Birthing Center puts moms-to-be in the center of one of the nation’s top-ranked health systems. Moms can design their own birthing plan to make sure their delivery day meets all of their expectations. And, the center supports each mom’s choice including natural birth, water birth or medicated birth. Birthing tubs, showers, birth balls, and birthing chairs are available, as well as monitoring that allows patient mobility.
■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org
Louisiana Foster Care ■ louisianafostercare.com
Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org
Volunteers of America of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (800) 524-3578 ■ voagbr.org/children-and-families
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Children’s Hospital of New Orleans ■ (504) 899-9511 ■ ololchildrens.org
HOTLINES Chemical Referral Center ■ (800) 262-8200
Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 765-6565 ■ ololchildrens.org
Kidline ■ 1-(800)-CHILDREN ■ pcal.org
Shriners Hospital for Children ■ (800) 237-5055 ■ shrinershospitalsforchildren.org FERTILITY FertililtyAnswers ■ (225) 926-6886 ■ fertilityanswers.com The Fertility Institute ■ (985) 892-7621 ■ fertilityinstitute.com Ovation Fertility Baton Rouge ■ ovationfertility.com FOSTER CARE Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services ■ (800) 524-3578 ■ dss.state.la.us
Louisiana Poison Center - American ■ (800) 222-1222 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ (800) 273-TALK (8255) ■ suicidepreventionlifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ (800) 799-7233 ■ (800) 787-322 ■ thehotline.org Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana ■ (225) 925-9520 ■ pcal.org MIDWIFERY AND DOULA CARE Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ (225) 366-8613 ■ batonrougebirthservices.com
Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com Birth Help ■ (225) 768-7686 ■ birthhelp.com DONA (Doula of North America) ■ (888) 788-DONA (3662) ■ dona.org Doula Cooperative ■ (585) 234-0164 (Co-op Consultant) ■ doulacooperative.org
■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org YWCA of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 383-0681 ■ ywca.org PARENTING SUPPORT GROUPS & SERVICES Capital Area Human Services ■ (225) 925-1906 ■ cahsd.org
STANDARDS U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT Advocacy Center ■ (225) 925-8884 ■ advocacyla.org
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren ■ (225) 810-8355 ■ lagrg.org
Autism Speaks ■ autismspeaks.com
My Doula Heart ■ (480) 221-5868 ■ mydoulaheart.com
Grief Recovery Center ■ (225) 924-6621 ■ grcbr.org
NUTRITION Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ (225) 342-7988 ■ ldh.la.gov
Baton Rouge Center for Autism ■ (855) 345-2273 ■ batonrouge.centerforautism.com
LOSFA Start Saving for College ■ (225) 219-1012 ■ startsaving.la.gov
PARENT EDUCATION AND CLASSES American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org Attachment Parenting International ■ attachmentparenting.org
New Mom’s Hope ■ (225) 658-4587 Postpartum Progress ■ help@postpartumprogress.org ■ postpartumprogress.com
Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org
The Life of a Single Mom Ministries ■ (225) 341-8055 ■ thelifeofasinglemom.com
Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com
Trach Mommas of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (504) 723-7193
Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 201-8888 ■ familyroadgbr.org
PRODUCT RECALLS AND
Disability Rights Louisiana ■ (800) 960-7705 ■ disabilityrightsofla.org Early Steps ■ ldh.la.gov Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 216-7474 ■ fhfgbr.org From Emotions to Advocacy ■ fetaweb.com/help.htm LA Disability Talk ■ (800) 766-7736 ■ fhfofgno.org/resources/la-disability-talk
Family Service of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 924-0123 ■ fsgbr.org Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org Louisiana’s Maternal and Child Health Program ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Shots for Tots ■ (800) 251-BABY ■ shotsfortots.com The Women’s Help Center ■ (225) 395-9001 ■ thewomenshelpcenter.org Woman’s Hospital
Lane Regional Medical Center The decision of where to have your baby is certainly not one to take lightly. Moms-to-be want a skilled and knowledgeable team at hand for both her and the baby’s health, and that can be found at Lane Regional Medical Center. The center features large, well-appointed facilities that allow new mothers to enjoy the childbirth experience in a non-stressful way. FA L L 2 02 0
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY Louisiana Believes ■ (877) 453-2721 ■ louisianabelieves.com Louisiana March of Dimes ■ marchofdimes.org/louisiana The Arc Baton Rouge ■ (225) 927-0855 ■ arcbatonrouge.org The Emerge Center ■ (225) 343-4232 ■ emergela.org Wonder Baby ■ help@wonderbaby.org ■ wonderbaby.org ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS 4D Baby Waves ■ (225) 256-2554 ■ 4dbabywaves.com
Baton Rouge General Medical Center Baton Rouge General’s birthing suites bring together state-of-the-art technology and hotellike rooms to all new moms. Certified Birth Center staff provide moms-to-be with all the tips, tools and techniques needed for caring for their new bundle of joy at home. Moms are able to personalize their birthing experience through natural births, water births, or traditional births.
Angel Prints Ultrasound ■ (225) 769-0000 ■ angelprintsultrasound.com First Glimpse Prenatal Imaging ■ (225) 927-2454 ■ firstglimpsebr.com Gender Reveal HD Ultrasound ■ (225) 744-3D4D (3343) ■ genderrevealultrasound.com Sneak-a-Peek 4D Ultrasound ■ (225) 339-4549 ■ sneak-a-peek.net Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 924-8266 ■ womans.org Did We Forget Someone? If we forgot your business, or if you would like to be added to our resource listing (either here or online), please email us at editorial@brparents.com with your contact information.
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Birth Center of Baton Rouge The Birth Center of Baton Rouge allows you to create the birthing experience of your choice, whether that be through water births or traditional births. All of the rooms are furnished with regular beds, large tubs for water labor and birth, and large attached baths. There is plenty of room for family members, but also a waiting area outside when moms want privacy.
Growth | Development | Vision & Hearing | Parenting Advice | Heart & Lungs | Skin | Vaccinations
Healthy + Strong = Happy Kids Open 7 days a week!
Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday and Sunday by appointAt Associates In Pediatric And Adolescent Medicine we are committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.
(225) 928-0867
www.pediatricsbr.com 8040 Goodwood Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70806
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BELLY LAUGHS
The Phases of Pregnancy By Cate Hadley
W
hen I was eight months pregnant, I waddled to the store for a pint of chocolate ice cream. As I stood in the check-out line, a small child walked up and asked if I needed help finding the bathroom–I obviously needed to big poop.
Tickled, I made a fatal mistake for any heavily pregnant woman: I laughed. This set off a chain reaction in which I peed my pants, started to cry, then spent the next 10 minutes assuring the child that I did not need an apology hug to my slightly damp pants. These are the parts of pregnancy they don’t tell us about in high school health class. So you can be more prepared than I was (and always pack extra panties in your purse), use this guide to navigate the (untold) phases of pregnancy. Phase 1: I’m Pregnant! You just found out you’re pregnant! Everything feels new and exciting, and even things that would normally be a huge irritation are seen as part of the fun. Honey, my nipples hurt! Isn’t that great? Phase 2: Wait–I’m Pregnant. Once the newness wears off, you realize that yes, you are actually pregnant–and there’s so much you have to do. You have to tell your partner. You have to see your doctor. You have to give up wine. Phase 3: What fresh hell is this? This phase is what I like to call the classic bait and switch. You tire easily. You can’t tell the difference between the smell of 40
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baking cookies or rotten milk, but they both make you vomit. You threaten your spouse with bodily harm if they come near you with that thing. Phase 4: I am a glowing fertility goddess. You’ve made it through the first trimester! Your hair is shiny. Your energy is up. Your growing bump finally resembles a baby instead of a Ben & Jerry’s break-up binge. You celebrate with a variety of debunked gender science experiments. Phase 5: The Hunger Games. You’re now eating like you’re preparing for a World Championship Eating Contest. You will eat anything, any time, and in any combination. Your spouse begins to covertly hide the cake-flavored candles just in case. Phase 6: Maternity clothes cost what?! You have officially outgrown even your stretchiest yoga pants. You visit your local maternity section to learn something shocking: maternity clothes are like regular clothes, only marked up 1000 percent. Doesn’t this count as price gouging?!
Phase 7: I live in a hovel. You suddenly realize that you’re completely unprepared to house a baby human. You attempt to rectify this problem by cleaning every surface in sight, re-organizing the nursery toys by size and color, and demanding a complete bathroom renovation. Apparently, your new baby is a little bougie. Phase 8: No, you can’t touch my belly. The more pregnant you are, the stranger people in public treat you. You are now a homing beacon for weirdos who think it’s socially acceptable to physically touch a stranger’s belly. Some will even ask first– and that won’t be the strangest question you get. Phase 9: It’s been 84 years... You are certain you’ve been pregnant your entire life. You’re the size of an NFL linebacker, you pee every time you take a deep breath, and sleeping has become a crash-course in advanced yoga. You feel murderous rage at those who dare suggest you “enjoy this beautiful and miraculous time.” Mind your business, Karen. And get me a cookie. ■
CHARLES AYCOCK, M.D.
FRANK BREAUX, M.D.
JILL BADER, M.D.
THERESA BRIGNAC, M.D.
DEBRA BAEHR, M.D.
RANDALL BROWN, M.D.
BRITANI BONADONA, M.D.
NICOLE CHAUVIN, M.D.
ALLYSON BOUDREAUX, M.D.
LIN DANG, M.D.
REBECCA BOUDREAUX, M.D.
SARAH DAVIS, M.D.
RYAN DICKERSON, M.D.
CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY, one woman at a time.
SHAWN KLEINPETER, M.D.
JULIE MARTIN, M.D.
STEVEN FEIGLEY, M.D.
LISA GAUTREAU, M.D.
SHARON LEE, M.D.
PAMELA LEWIS, M.D.
CHARLES LAWLER, M.D.
WENDY HOLDEN-PARKER, M.D.
NICOLLE HOLLIER, M.D.
Obstetrics & Gynecology
CRYSTAL NHIEU, M.D.
O’NEIL PARENTON, III , M.D.
AMANDA PEARSON, M.D.
MICHAEL PERNICIARO, M.D.
SAMANTHA PRATS, M.D.
LAUREN SANDERS, M.D.
MICHAEL SCHEXNAYDER, M.D.
CURTIS SOLAR, M.D.
LAURIE WHITAKER, M.D.
SUNSHINE WILLETT, M.D.
lwha.com •
KIRK ROUSSET, M.D.
/LWHAwomenshealth • 225-201-2000
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