Pink & Blue Spring 2022

pinkblue SPRING 2022

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

What Happens

After Birth?

Depression vs

Pregnancy Symptoms

Looking

for Child Care?

Community Sponsor

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CONTENTS

INSIDE VOLUME 35

IN EVERY ISSUE 6

GIVEAWAYS

8

MOM TO MOM-TO-BE

10

LITTLE BITS

12

BABY LOVE

16

BUMP UP YOUR STYLE

31

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

36

BELLY LAUGHS

38

BABY FACES

14 | WHAT REALLY HAPPENS AFTER YOU DELIVER

Discover the postpartum instances they don’t always talk about.

20 | LOOKING FOR CHILD CARE?

Find out when to start the search, so you don’t get left out.

22 | CHILD CARE LISTING

Start the search for quality child care with these local centers.

26 | IS IT DEPRESSION OR AM I JUST PREGNANT?

How to determine if you’re experiencing pregnancy symptoms or depression.

Photo by Kleinpeter Photography Pink & Blue Cover Baby Contest We’re looking for our cover babies! Submit your baby’s photo for a chance to appear on the cover of an issue of Pink & Blue.

Babies must be six months or younger. Photos can only be submitted online at coverbaby.brparents.com.

All photos submitted will become the property of Pink & Blue and may be used for future publications of Family Resource Group Inc.

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ON THE COVER

Cover Baby Griff W. is now six months old, and he’s a total momma’s boy. He loves his two big sisters, Emery and Hadley, and he enjoys spending time outside. He also loves bubbles and is quite the little flirt.

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GIVEAWAYS FOUNDER A MY P L A I S A N C E

The NozeBot Baby Nasal Aspirator is a batterypowered nasal aspirator with hospital grade suction to clear nasal congestion in babies and children. Designed by a pediatric ENT, it’s easy to clean, cordless, and rechargeable.

■ drnozebest.com

PUBLISHER BRANDON FOREM AN A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R A MY L . F O R E M A N B U S I N E S S O P E R AT I O N S D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S L A U R I E A CO S TA A D M I N I S T R AT I V E C O O R D I N ATO R S AR AH MILLER E D I TO R I A L M A N A G I N G E D I TO R A M ANDA MILLER A S S I S TA N T E D I TO R E M I LY D R E Z E D I TO R I A L A S S I S TA N T S S A R A H B AT R O U S ANTHONY BUI 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

With its breathable 3D mesh and moisture-wicking fabric, Contours Journey GO 5 Position Baby Carrier provides the ultimate onthe-go comfort for parents with an active lifestyle. ■ contoursbaby.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ALE X HERRING S A M ANTHA LIT TEN 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 DV E R T I S I N G D I R E C TO R O F B U S I N E S S D E V E LO P M E N T PAT R I C K PA C H E CO ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C R Y S TA L B A R R E T T C A M I L L E C AV I N J E N N I F E R H O F FM A N N KRIS TEN RENFROW J A S O N WA L L RYN WHITESIDE MARKETING D I R E C TO R O F M A R K E T I N G E M I LY M A N C U S O M A R K E T I N G A S S I S TA N T M AGGIE SHARP C O M M U N I T Y D E V E LO P M E N T 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 ROX ANE VOORHIES C O N TAC T B R PA R E N T S .CO M E D I TO R I A L @ B R PA R E N T S .CO M O F F I C E 2 25-2 92-0 032 FA X 2 25-2 92-0 03 8 11 8 3 1 W E N T L I N G AV EN U E B ATO N R O U G E , L A 70 8 1 6-6 055

VAVA Baby Night Light is a long lasting, rechargeable night light that delivers soft, warm light that can be dimmed or timed to turn off. Features eight colors to choose from. ■ vava.com

2021

Parenting Media Association Design & Editorial Awards 2021 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award Winner Social icon

Rounded square Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Gear up! GIVEAWAYS

/brparents

/batonrougeparents

/brparentsmag

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.”

Winners will be announced at brparents.com on June 20, 2022.

Pink & Blue Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

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/brparents

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MOM TO MOM-TO-BE

Becoming a Mother

N

o, it was not love at first sight for me.

Am I ashamed to even say that? No. After a long 23 hours of labor, I was exhausted. I wasn’t prepared for how slimy she looked, and I was worried sick about whether or not she was healthy. I thought I was prepared for this moment, but I was not. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is fully prepared for the birth of their first child.

However, this magical feeling everyone had talked about didn’t come to me until later the next day.

From the day I saw “pregnant” pop up on the stick, we were so excited about having a child. My husband will forever call her our most expensive souvenir from Hawaii. Being pregnant was, well, different with an ever-growing belly and random cravings. Every day brought something new, exciting, or painful to the mix. You see, my pregnancy stirred up kidney stones, and to be honest, I am not sure what hurts worse: the actual delivery process or the pain from one of the many stones.

Don’t get me wrong, I had lots of happy days during my pregnancy.

I remember the day we found out we were having a girl. That shock hits you like a big sack of potatoes. For me, I didn’t have a feeling of whether a girl or boy was growing in my belly. But a girl? Oh, Lord. All I could think was, “please do not let my mother be right!” Well, 14 years later, and guess what? She is still correct. My daughter is a mini-me through and through; she’s just a few inches taller than me now.

Being pregnant can feel like a lifetime, but in reality, it’s over before you know it. For 40 weeks, you get to grow the most precious gift in the universe. Even if you do not enjoy being pregnant, I recommend you try to savor these moments because you will miss them. You will find yourself looking back one day wishing you still had her in your belly and not spending hours watching her debate over what she should wear for the day.

Amy L . Foreman Associate Publisher

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LITTLE BITS

“

You don’t ever balance it completely [motherhood] is a constant struggle of a little more time there, a little more time here, and feeling a little bit guilty all the time.”

—Halle Berry

POPULAR LOUISIANA BABY NAME PREDICTIONS When it comes to baby names, the most popular names have been reigning for several years. However, when you add a Louisiana flair, the ranks sometimes shift. Here are the 2022 predictions of popular baby names, as predicted by Names.org.

Boys

Liam Elijah Noah James John Levi William Oliver Henry Wyatt

Girls

Amelia Ava Olivia Emma Harper Charlotte Ella Nova Sophia Mila

SOME SCREENING TESTS MAY HAVE FALSE RESULTS You are probably well aware of the prenatal tests that occur during pregnancy. While they are extensive, they keep your healthcare provider in the loop on how you and your baby are doing. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raised awareness regarding the risks of false results with genetic non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) tests. Results from these tests can provide information about the possibility of a fetus having certain genetic abnormalities that could result in a child being born with a health condition.

The accuracy of NIPS tests have not been evaluated by the FDA, and they can give false results. The FDA recommends that patients discuss the benefits and risks of the tests, as well as the results, with a genetic counselor or other healthcare provider. ■ fda.gov 10

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MEN CAN HAVE PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS, TOO Bloating, irritability, heartburn, weight gain, and nausea are all common symptoms of pregnancy. However, mom-to-be isn’t the only one who may be experiencing them during those nine months. Couvade Syndrome, also known as sympathetic pregnancy, occurs when a pregnant woman’s partner begins experiencing the same symptoms of pregnancy. While the symptoms are temporary, they are usually caused by stress or hormonal changes in dad. It’s important to note that Couvade Syndrome is not a recognized condition, and there isn’t a cure for it. Luckily, the symptoms will resolve themselves on their own. However, if they don’t, dad-to-be should always reach out to his doctor for medical advice. ■ pubmed.gov

YOUR AND YOUR BABY’S EMOTIONAL CONNECTION It’s true, your baby can feel what you’re feeling. A study from the University of California-Irvine found that the emotional state of a mother influences the development of her baby both before and after birth. So, if you’re happy, sad, stressed, or anxious, your baby can feel those emotions, too, and it will affect them. It’s important to protect your mental health throughout your pregnancy, so seeking help from a medical professional is a crucial step. Along with that, doing your best to maintain balance in your life will prove to be beneficial for you and your baby. ■ uci.edu

MOM 2 MOM SUPPORT If you’re feeling irritable, anxious, or overwhelmed; are crying frequently; or have a history of depression, you’re not alone. However, having support during this time is crucial. Through the Mom 2 Mom Support Group, Woman’s Hospital offers moms a safe, supportive environment where they can come together to discuss what they’re experiencing. The group meets virtually each month at 10 a.m., and registration is required. ■ womans.org

POSTPARTUM PERIODS EXPLAINED When it comes to menstrual cycles, they are often unpredictable.

The uncertainty is quite common due to hormones and changes in age. However, periods post-baby can be even more complicated.

After birth, new moms experience a discharge called lochia. Lochia begins as a dark red color but lightens over time; however, this is not your period. This discharge ends after four-six weeks. Breastfeeding can play a role in when your period returns to “normal.” According to the Cleveland Clinic, you likely won’t have a period while you’re breastfeeding. However, if you stop breastfeeding or choose not to breastfeed, you will likely resume periods shortly after birth. The Clinic also shares that most postpartum women will have a “normal” menstrual cycle of 21-35 days with bleeding that lasts two-seven days. ■ clevelandclinic.org

PREGNANCY AND SKIN CARE Our skin experiences various changes during pregnancy. In order to keep our skin healthy, our skin care routine could require some changes of its own. While most over-the-counter products are safe during pregnancy, it is a good idea to avoid certain ingredients, such as retinoids, hydroquinone, and phthalates. Always check labels, and as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends, talk with your provider before applying anything to your skin.

Some products still contain these harmful ingredients. ■ acog.org PI N K &BLUE | S P RING 2 0 2 2

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BABY LOVE

“

Sometimes, when I want to take on the world, I try to remember that it’s just as important to sit down and ask my son how he’s feeling or talk to him about life.”

—Angelina Jolie

The Diaper Bag Backpack comes with a detachable portable baby crib. Easily transform the backpack to a travel bassinet to create a sleeping space for baby. ■ amazon.com

This All-in-One Blanket is waterproof and comes equipped with removable short straps for everyday use. It’s perfect for diaper changes, covers for windy days, or naptime.

■ becebecloth.com

Keep the ones you love by your side with the Emerson Nursing Rocker and Bassinet. The rocker and bassinet are firmly attached to one another to create a clean and cohesive combination.

■ wayfair.com

The Extra Roomy Diaper Cover is a leak proof and high waist cover that gives extra room for baby, whether they are sleeping or even taking a dip in the pool with mama.

■ becebecloth.com

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Save some cash with Grow-with-Me Pants.

Babies grow fast, so why not buy them clothes that will grow with them?

The pants are designed with a foldable waistband and leg cuffs to help them last.

■ becebecloth.com

The Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper allows your baby to sleep nearby but in their own protected space. The side wall lowers to allow you to tend to baby without leaving your bed.

■ amazon.com

Pipette’s Baby Bundle includes gentle daily Baby Shampoo + Wash, everyday Baby Lotion, and super-rich, multi-use Baby Balm. ■ pipettebaby.com

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What REALLY Happens After You Deliver?

By Emily Drez

A

fter weeks of waiting, planning, and choosing baby names, your baby is finally ready to make his or her entrance into the world. While you’re super excited to hold your baby in your arms for the first time, you probably have a lot of questions about childbirth, too. Your doctors and nurses will be there for you every step of the way during labor and delivery, but, oftentimes, mothers are not prepared for what may happen to their bodies after they give birth. So, we’ve compiled a list of changes you might notice following your delivery. Keep in mind: all these postpartum instances are totally normal, so go easy on your body, and don’t be afraid to reach out to a medical professional for help.

Episiotomy recovery

When giving birth, mothers often need an episiotomy, which is when your perineum (the space between your vagina and anus) is surgically cut to facilitate the baby’s delivery. Your nurses will sew up your cut with dissolvable stitches afterwards. Recovering from an episiotomy can take two-three weeks and can be uncomfortable, especially when you have to use the bathroom. Talk to doctors about any safe painkillers you can take along with how to keep your cut clean while it is healing.

may be difficult. This is because your abdominal muscles have weakened, and all your organs are rearranging themselves back to where they were before you were pregnant. You may find it difficult to urinate, or you may find that you can’t seem to stop urinating. You may not have your first bowel movement until a few days later, or it may happen right away. When you do go, it could be difficult, but no need to worry! Drink plenty of water, eat high-fiber foods, and don’t strain when you try to go. It also helps to do Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

Your first bathroom trip

Postpartum hair loss

Speaking of which, the first time you go to the bathroom after you give birth 14

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This happens two-four months postpartum due to your declining levels

of estrogen. Most women can grow their hair back by the time their baby turns one. Until then, you can treat your hair with shampoos and conditioners that treat fine hair. If you don’t think you have regained your hair, talk to a dermatologist about potential causes.

Mastitis

When a milk duct becomes clogged, or when bacteria enters the breast of a breastfeeding mother, mastitis occurs.

Symptoms of mastitis include swelling, warmth, and pain of the breast along with fever and chills. This can be treated with antibiotics and usually goes away within a few days. Don’t stop breastfeeding, though, as immediately weaning your baby from the infected

breast will worsen your condition. It helps to keep the milk flowing to prevent clogging the milk duct even more.

Lactation

Did you know your baby is drinking a different type of breastmilk the first time you feed them? Before your milk comes in, your baby is actually drinking colostrum, which is a thicker milk that is yellowish in color and has lots of nutrients. Your breasts will start producing the second type of milk about three-five days after delivery. Breastmilk production starts randomly–you may wake up one morning feeling engorged or like something heavy is sitting on your chest.

Postpartum shakes & fatigue

After giving birth, you may feel weak and experience shakes. These are normal reactions your body has to labor. Think about it–you just pushed a small human out of your body and into the world.

Especially if you gave birth via c-section, your body is processing the trauma of giving birth. These reactions can also be due to blood loss, fluid shifts, and hormonal changes. If you are shaking and have a fever, seek medical care, as you may have contracted an infection.

Discharge

“Lochia” is the term for the vaginal discharge that is common after vaginal birth. It typically is dark red in color the first three days after you give birth and will come with small blood clots.

After about two weeks, your lochia should transition from a pinkish to a yellowish color, then completely stop within four to six weeks after delivery. Lochia can increase when you are breastfeeding, being physically active, or when waking up in the mornings.

After-birth cramps

Moms can also experience cramps after they give birth. These cramps happen because the mother’s uterus is contracting back to the size it was before pregnancy. They can get stronger after having your second or third child as opposed to your first child.

Swollen perineum

Along with requiring stitches if it does rip, your perinium can also be sore for the first day after delivery. You can treat the soreness by doing pelvic floor exercises, applying ice to reduce the swelling, and wearing compression underwear.

Baby blues

“Baby blues” describes a brief period of sadness and mood swings 80 percent of mothers feel after giving birth. This is because your preegnancy hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, are decreasing sharply and causing those mood swings. Baby blues are separate from postpartum depression, which is more severe and lasts longer. If your baby blues lasts for longer than two weeks, seek help from your doctor.

Night sweats

Hormonal fluctuations are the culprit of night sweats, which are a completely normal occurrence after you give birth.

As your body gets rid of the extra fluids you no longer need in your body, the sweating will start to decrease.

The best part?

Having several full-course meals after delivery, of course! When you’re in labor, you can’t eat anything until after you have given birth, so you’ll definitely be hungry once your baby is born. Make sure you have some meals prepared to eat when you get home, though, so you don’t have to cook dinner if you do not want to. ■

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BUMP UP YOUR STYLE

Maternity Full-Panel Elevate Powersoft Side Pocket 7/8-Length Leggings. Old Navy.

■ oldnavy.gap.com

“

Only I can understand my kid. She’s like ‘bdidkdkodkdh,’ and I’m like, ‘Ok, I will get you a piece of sausage in just a minute.”

—Chrissy Teigen

Maternity Pregnancy V Neck Fly Short Sleeve Stylish T Shirt. Bhome Maternity.

■ bhomematernity.com

Elisa Silver Pendant Necklace. Kendra Scott.

■ kendrascott.com Peauty Maternity Tank Tops. Peauty.

■ amazon.com

Maternity Dress Ruched Side Bodycon Dress.

MUSIDORA. ■ amazon.com Pointed Kitten Heel Pumps. Charles & Keith.

■ charleskeith.com

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Maternity Premium Full Panel Rockstar Super Skinny White Cut-Off Jeans. Old Navy.

■ oldnavy.gap.com

Nude Remix Bar Y-Necklace. Nordstrom.

■ nordstrom.com

Ballerina Maternity Nude Slip On Ballet Flats.

AliExpress. ■ aliexpress.com

Maternity Knee Length Tube Beach Dress.

BeachcocoMaternity. ■ etsy.com

HDE Women’s Wide Brim Beach Straw Hat. Walmart. ■ walmart.com

Vans Old Skool Skate Shoe. Vans. ■ vans.com

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Looking for Childcare?

When to Begin

By Anthony Bui

G

etting an early start on finding childcare for your new baby is very important. There are many questions that you need to ask yourself in order to ensure that your child is well taken care of, so you can go through the day worry-free. It’s also important to know when to start looking for answers and what you need to look for to find the best childcare options for you and your baby.

Back to Work

If you are planning on going back to work as soon as you can, it is important that you start looking at childcare options around three months before your baby’s due date. This gives you ample time to find a daycare that is conveniently located, budget friendly, and up to your standards. In doing this, it is essential that you keep track of enrollment deadlines, as many places will have one. If you plan on taking some time to care for the baby before returning to work, this process can be pushed back until the baby’s due date, but be wary of waitlists.

Many of the best facilities with the best ratings will have pretty lengthy waiting lists. It is a testament to their level of care and the need for proper childcare in the community. Though this may sound discouraging now, it does not mean that it is impossible. Continue to research and explore your options 20

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while remaining open because doing all of this in advance will ensure that childcare will be options available to you. For those centers with a waiting list, make sure to keep in touch with them throughout the process. Simply checking in and touching base with them will ensure that you don’t slip through the cracks.

Number of Children

Depending on the number of children you have and their ages, the process of looking for childcare can be treated differently.

If this isn’t your first child, the search should actually begin even earlier. Depending on the ages of your other children, you may want to find somewhere that is located nearby, whether your older children are at school or in daycare themselves. If they are already enrolled at another center and you enjoy their services, you can even look into getting them all into the same one. Doing this earlier as opposed to later will guarantee that the process goes smoothly, and if any problems arise, you will be able to solve the issue quickly.

The Search for Childcare

The most important thing to remember is to just start looking. There are so many things to look for.

If you don’t know where to start, here is a checklist of good-to-know qualities in centers: 1. A clean, safe, and visually appealing environment 2. Areas that can house a variety of different activities 3. Secure spaces both inside and out 4. Happy children 5. Constant supervision 6. A good teacher-to-children ratio Along with this checklist, you can look at pictures and talk to administration by phone, but the most efficient way to truly get a feel of what a facility offers is to visit them in person. Just make sure you call ahead of time and get confirmation, as some childcare centers offer tours. Once you are there, ask questions. There is no better way to get to know a place than through face-toface conversations with staff and even other parents with children already enrolled there. ■

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1956

Type I

12 weeks-5 years

$196-205

Developmentally Appropriate

Country Day School 3131 Congress Boulevard Kristen Ziesing (225) 761-4800 / countrydayschoolbr.com

2014

Type II

4 months-5 years

$200-215

Developmentally Appropriate, Child-focused

Country Day School 3743 Silverside Drive Courtney Simpson (225) 767-5259 / countrydayschoolbr.com

1999

Type II

4 months-5 years

$200-215

Developmentally Appropriate, Child-focused

Country Day School 4455 North Boulevard Paige Burchfield (225) 928-4042 / countrydayschoolofbr.com

1983

Type II

4 months-5 years

$220-230

Developmentally Appropriate, Child-focused

Gateway Preschool and Technology Center 14354 Highway 73 Megan Byerley (225) 313-4959 / gatewaypreschoolcenter.com

2013

Type II

18 months-12 years

Call for information

Abeka

Yes

X

Yes

Parkview Preschool 5750 Parkview Church Road Cindy Riddle (225) 291-2500 / parkviewpreschool.com

1973

Type I

6 weeks-4 years

$220-260

Christian-based and Abeka

X

X

Cameras

Broadmoor United Methodist Preschool 10230 Mollylea Drive Cheri Coats (225) 926-5243 bumcchildrenslearningcenter.org

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X X X X

Yes X X X

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Yes Yes Yes Yes

X

Applied Behavior Analysis

Yes

Mother’s Day Out

Uses Health Insurance

X

0-7

X

N/A

N/A

Exceptional Needs Services Family Discount

2007

Yes

Behavioral Intervention Group 8180 Siegen Lane Cassie Bradford (225) 757-8002 / big-br.com

X

Program Taught

Weekly Rate

Ages

License Type

Name Address Director Phone Website

Year Established

2022

CHILD CARE LISTING

1972

Type III

6 weeksFirst Grade

$140-155

Frog Street and Abeka

St James Episcopal Day School, Pelican’s Nest 445 Convention Street Janine Borne (225) 344-0805 / stjameseds.org

1948

Type I

18 monthselementary

$10,085/ year

Play-based, Personalized Learning

x

x

x

The Dunham School Early Childhood Center 11111 Roy Emerson Drive Morgan Barkas (225) 767-7097 / dunhamschool.org

2021

Type I

2

$250-312

Reggio Emilia-style Theme-Based Learning

x

x

Cameras

Shiloh Baptist Early Learning Acdemy 185 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive Leslie Vincent (225) 772-4534 / shilohbr.com

Yes

x

Yes

x

x

Developmentally Appropriate

x

Mother’s Day Out

$195-225

x

6 weeks-4 years

Yes

Type II

x

Exceptional Needs Services Family Discount

1986

x

Kids Count, Inc. 525 Rapides Street Toni Turnley (225) 268-1889 / kidscountinc.com

x

Program Taught

Weekly Rate

Ages

License Type

Year Established

Name Address Director Phone Website

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ADVERTORIAL

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Is It Depression or Am I Just Pregnant?

By Emily Drez

This is the less glamorous side of pregnancy that TV shows, books, and movies are less inclined to illustrate.

Feeling more emotional and experiencing mood swings when you are pregnant is inevitable, but you may also find that you feel a lot sadder than your pre-pregnancy self. This type of sadness can feel a lot like depression, and Cheryl Brodnax, an LPC at Crossroads Professional Counseling, is here to help distinguish between real depression and pregnancy hormones.

What causes me to feel depressed when I’m pregnant?

I

f you’re an expecting mother, you should also expect a lot of changes to your day-to-day life. You’ve probably found that all your time is dedicated to preparing for the arrival of your baby.

Between decorating his or her nursery, baby-proofing the house, and stocking up on necessities, you hopefully feel at least a little prepared as you check off these things on your to-do-list. However, one thing pregnant women do not always expect is the emotional toll of carrying a baby.

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When you are pregnant, your body produces significantly more hormones that help with the growth and development of your baby. Estrogen and progesterone are the main hormones responsible for this, and they aid in processes such as the transfer of nutrients to the fetus, the formation of the baby’s blood vessels, and the development of milk ducts in your breasts. These hormones, while crucial, can also make you feel a lot of things because they are skyrocketing and tampering with your serotonin levels. Serotonin, known as the “happy” hormone, is a neurotransmitter that regulates your emotions. “When serotonin levels change, it can cause depressivelike symptoms such as fatigue, aches, moodiness, tearfulness, and lack of motivation,” says Cheryl.

Is it normal to feel depressed when I’m pregnant?

The short answer is, yes! Your body naturally produces all those hormones, so it’s only natural to feel emotional changes such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. According to Cheryl, other factors that contribute to feeling depressed include stress, genetics, and the mother’s sensitivity to hormone changes

So, what’s the difference between real depression and pregnancy hormones that make me feel depressed?

It’s easy to get the two confused because both real depression and pregnancy

hormone-based depression have similar symptoms, but the difference lies in the severity and duration of your feelings.

“Depression is the persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and inability to enjoy activities the way you used to, which can last for months,” Cheryl answers.

“There are many causes for depression, such as trauma and biological conditions.

However, hormone changes caused by pregnancy can trigger depression.

The difference is that hormone-based depression should wane as the hormones regulate.” So, pregnancy hormones can cause depression, but true depression can be more severe and prolonged. Once your hormones start to regulate after you give birth, your depression should go away on its own.

What symptoms of hormonebased depression should pregnant women look out for?

Some symptoms include excessive anxiety, especially about parenthood and about your baby, along with feelings of inadequacy and poor prenatal care.

“Other signs include poor appetite or sleep, difficulty getting out of bed and completing regular activities, and low selfesteem,” Cheryl lists.

What should I do if I’m experiencing these symptoms?

Reach out for help, and know that you’re not alone. “The only wrong move is to not reach out for help,” Cheryl says.

“Expectant moms should definitely speak to their doctor about their symptoms if they feel depressed. It’s also important to not isolate yourself out of embarrassment or the false belief that you are alone.

Counseling is a great way to process emotions and learn coping skills. Also, there are support groups and forums for new moms that can encourage you during this season in life.”

Your baby is receiving so much attention from your friends, family, partner, and yourself that it is easy to forget to take care of your mental (and physical) health when you are pregnant.

It is also easy to feel like you’re alone with your own feelings. Rest assured that there are plenty of outlets for help; don’t let the stigmas about depression keep you from consulting a medical professional for any baby blues, pregnancy hormone-based depression, or postpartum depression you may experience. With consistent care and support for all moms-to-be, pregnancy will be the beautiful, exciting time it was meant to be. ■

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With 20 pediatricians, 2 pediatric locations, 39 internist, on-site full service lab and radiology, and numerous specialties, we have everything you need to keep you and your little one

FREE PRENATAL C LA S S E S with our pediatricians .

For more information and to register please visit: batonrougeclinic.com/prenatal-c lasses/ or call Jeanne at (225)246-9290.

2 PEDIATRIC LOCATIONS 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

Our pediatricians have extended hours Monday through Thursday in the evening.

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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

Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ (225) 366-8613 ■ batonrougebirthservices.com

Woman’s Hospital Lactation Department ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

Capital Area Breastfeeding Alliance ■ cababatonrouge@gmail.com

CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS

La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Line ■ (877) 4-LA-LECHE ■ lllalmsla.org

Alliance Safety Council ■ (225) 766-0955 ■ alliancesafetycouncil.org

Louisiana Breastfeeding Coalition ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org

Baton Rouge Birth Services ■ batonrougebirthservices.com

Magnolia Lactation Consulting ■ (225) 230-9054 ■ louisianabreastfeedingcoalition.org

Central Fire Protection District #4 ■ (225) 261-2000 ■ centralfd.org

Ochsner Lactation Support ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org

Louisiana State Police Troop A ■ (225) 925-6006 ■ lsp.org

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

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.

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY The Safety Place ■ (225) 372-3991 ■ safetyplacela.org

■ (225) 802-2818 ■ isrbatonrouge.com

Awareness Network ■ (800) 686-4226 ■ ican-online.org

Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association ■ jpma.org

International Childbirth Education Association ■ (919) 674-4183 ■ icea.org

Louisiana Department of Health ■ (225) 342-9500 ■ ldh.la.gov

Lamaze International ■ (202) 367-1128 ■ lamaze.org

Operation Life Saver Training Center ■ (225) 753-7716 ■ operationlifesavertc.com

Lane Regional Medical Center ■ (225) 658-4000 ■ lanermc.org

CHILD CARE RESOURCES

Amerigroup Real Solutions in Healthcare ■ (757) 490-6900 ■ amerigroup.com Child Care Assistance Program ■ 1 (888) LAHELP-U ■ dss.louisiana.gov Child Care Facility Licensing Information ■ louisianabelieves.com 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

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

Ochsner Health System ■ (225) 752-2470 ■ ochsner.org Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Children’s Hospital of New Orleans ■ (504) 899-9511 ■ ololchildrens.org

Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital ■ (225) 765-6565 ■ ololchildrens.org Shriners Hospital for Children ■ (800) 237-5055 ■ shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

FERTILITY

FertililtyAnswers ■ (225) 926-6886 ■ fertilityanswers.com Louisiana Women’s Healthcare Associates ■ (225) 255-3584 ■ lwha.cm Ovation Fertility Baton Rouge ■ ovationfertility.com The Fertility Institute ■ (985) 892-7621 ■ fertilityinstitute.com

FOSTER CARE 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.

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Brave Heart ■ braveheartchildren.org ■ info@braveheartchildren.org Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services ■ (800) 524-3578 ■ dss.state.la.us

Louisiana Foster Care ■ louisianafostercare.com The Foster Village ■ (225) 431-0846 ■ fostervillagebatonrouge.org Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge ■ (800) 524-3578 ■ voagbr.org/children-and-families

HOTLINES

Chemical Referral Center ■ (800) 262-8200 Kidline ■ 1-(800)-CHILDREN ■ pcal.org Louisiana Poison Center - American ■ (800) 222-1222 National Safe Haven Alliance ■ 1-888-510-BABY (2229) ■ Text SAFEHAVEN to 313131 ■ nationalsafehavenalliance.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ■ (800) 273-TALK (8255) ■ suicidepreventionlifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline ■ (800) 799-7233 ■ (800) 787-3224 ■ thehotline.org

DONA (Doula of North America) ■ (888) 788-DONA (3662) ■ dona.org Doula Cooperative ■ (585) 234-0164 (Co-op Consultant) ■ doulacooperative.org My Doula Heart ■ (480) 221-5868 ■ mydoulaheart.com

NUTRITION

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) ■ (225) 342-7988 ■ ldh.la.gov

PARENT EDUCATION AND CLASSES American Academy of Pediatrics ■ (800) 433-9016 ■ aap.org

Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 201-8888 ■ familyroadgbr.org 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

Attachment Parenting International ■ attachmentparenting.org

Shots for Tots ■ (800) 251-BABY ■ shotsfortots.com

Baton Rouge General Medical Center ■ (225) 763-4141 ■ brgeneral.org

The Women’s Help Center ■ (225) 395-9001 ■ thewomenshelpcenter.org

Birth Center of Baton Rouge ■ (225) 761-1200 ■ birthcenterbr.com

Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 927-1300 ■ womans.org

Prevent Child Abuse America ■ preventchildabuse.org ■ info@preventchildabuse.org The Grace Program ■ (225) 924-8574 ■ womans.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

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.

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

YWCA of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 383-0681 ■ ywca.org

LOSFA Start Saving for College ■ (225) 219-1012 ■ startsaving.la.gov

Advocacy Center ■ (225) 925-8884 ■ advocacyla.org

PARENTING SUPPORT GROUPS & SERVICES

New Mom’s Hope ■ (225) 658-4587

Autism Speaks ■ autismspeaks.com

Pregnancy/Infant Loss Support Group ■ (225) 924-8456

Baton Rouge Center for Autism ■ (855) 345-2273 ■ batonrouge.centerforautism.com

Angels Among Us ■ (225) 336-8828 ■ aaula.org

Anna’s Grace Foundation ■ (225) 931-1960 ■ annasgrace.org Bedtime Bliss Pediatric Sleep Consulting ■ (225) 776-5868 ■ bedtimeblissconsulting.com Capital Area Human Services ■ (225) 925-1906 ■ cahsd.org Family Road Healthy Start ■ (225) 201-8888 ■ familyroadgbr.org Grandparents Raising Grandchildren ■ (225) 810-8355 ■ lagrg.org Grief Recovery Center ■ (225) 924-6621 ■ grcbr.org

Postpartum Progress ■ postpartumprogress.com ■ help@postpartumprogress.org Sweet Sleeping Baby ■ (504) 388-1769 ■ sweetbabysleeping.com

Disability Rights Louisiana ■ (800) 960-7705 ■ disabilityrightsofla.org

Trach Mommas of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (504) 723-7193

Early Steps ■ ldh.la.gov Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge ■ (225) 216-7474 ■ fhfgbr.org Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge Early Steps (0-3) ■ (225) 216-7474

PRODUCT RECALLS AND STANDARDS

From Emotions to Advocacy ■ fetaweb.com/help.htm

The Life of a Single Mom Ministries ■ (225) 341-8055 ■ thelifeofasinglemom.com

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ■ (800) 638-2772 ■ cpsc.gov

SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

LA Disability Talk ■ (800) 766-7736 ■ fhfofgno.org/resources /la-disability-talk 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

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.

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Wonder Baby ■ wonderbaby.org ■ help@wonderbaby.org

ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS 4D Baby Waves ■ (225) 256-2554

■ 4dbabywaves.com First Glimpse Prenatal Imaging ■ (225) 927-2454 ■ firstglimpsebr.com Gender Reveal HD Ultrasound ■ (225) 744-3D4D (3343) ■ genderrevealultrasound.com Look At Me 4D Imaging ■ (225) 435-9749 ■ lookatme4dimaging.com Sneak-a-Peek 4D Ultrasound ■ (225) 339-4549 ■ sneak-a-peek.net Woman’s Hospital ■ (225) 924-8266 ■ womans.org

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.

Did We Forget Someone?

If you would like to be added to our resource listing (either here or online), email us at editorial@brparents.com.

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BELLY LAUGHS

Pregnancy Brain

You Might Have it If…

By FRG

A

s moms-to-be, we know to expect several changes throughout our pregnancies. Our bellies will grow, our food cravings will change, and things on our body begin to ache that we didn’t know possible. One change that we often forget about (no pun intended) is pregnancy brain.

Pregnancy brain is very real. It can occur during your pregnancy and even linger after you deliver your baby. This frustrating fog can alter your daily routine, but it’s common. If you’re not sure whether or not you’re experiencing pregnancy brain, here are some very real happenings to help you decide.

You might have pregnancy brain if…

You find yourself mixing up your words a lot.

If someone asks you a question and your answer comes out sounding like Yoda’s affirmation of the day, you could be experiencing pregnancy brain. Mixing up words is common, so don’t be too hard on yourself.

You know there’s a place for everything, but it ends up in a new place.

This one happens to everyone at some point, but it really thrives for expecting mothers. If you open your fridge only to find your car keys enjoying a nice cool 36

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down, you might have pregnancy brain.

While you’re in the fridge, make sure you didn’t leave behind anything else, or if you can’t find something, check in those least-expected places because they’re not so least expected any longer.

You walk into a room and immediately forget why.

Again, this is common, so be kind to your pregnancy brain. This one, however, may be the most frustrating of them all.

You knew five seconds ago what you needed to do, so you walked to the room you needed to complete said task, and everything evaporated the second you stepped foot into the room. Unfortunately, we can’t say that you will ever remember what it is you needed to do, but at least you got your steps in, right?

You show up to an appointment and/or meeting on the wrong day.

You put it in your calendar so you wouldn’t forget, but instead of checking your calendar, you convince yourself you know the exact date and time and show up a full day early. Being early is great, however, help yourself stay on track by writing things down and saving them as alerts, so your pregnancy brain won’t interfere with your punctuality.

You leave items on top of your car before getting in and driving away.

This one is the worst, especially when it results in lost items. You’re lucky if the items just collect in the driveway like your own personal pregnancy

brain museum until you return home.

Unfortunately, a lot of the time, the items go for the ride of their lives and end up lost, or they hang on the entire trip, which is impressive.

You forget where you parked all the time.

Another one for the road, forgetting where you parked your car in the parking lot is a tough one. Considering we’re in Louisiana, it’s really unfortunate because no one wants to wander around a hot parking lot looking for a car. After a while of looking, you begin to wonder if you even drove there. Don’t worry, you’ll find the car…or require an Uber.

You realize that multitasking is way harder all of a sudden.

Trying to make your coffee while packing your child’s lunch? Beware of sending your child to school with a perfectly-made latte. If your coffee leaves with your child, you’ll likely go into a pregnancy brain spiral of wondering if you even made the coffee in the first place, or remembering that you did make it and forgetting where you put it. We can’t imagine the teacher would approve of that much caffeine at lunch time.

There are several more things you may experience along the way, but always be patient with yourself. Try to sleep more, lower your stress and anxiety, stay hydrated, eat well, and set tons of reminders. All of these will help to alleviate those pregnancy brain symptoms. ■

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BABY FACES

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY’S PICTURE HERE? Visit brparents.com and click on Upload Snapshots.

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