Weight Loss after Pregnancy

                                                           Gestational Diabetes
 

It is estimated that 18% of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. The actual cause of gestational diabetes is unclear, but it seems that placental hormones prevent the mother’s insulin from being able to remove blood sugar (glucose) from her bloodstream. Consequently, high levels of glucose in the mother’s blood stream means that for her baby, too!

At 24 weeks of pregnancy, a blood test is done to check for gestational diabetes. If the mother is found to have it, she is to be placed on a special diet, exercise program, and taught how to test and regulate her blood sugar levels. Recently, a new blood test came out that can be done earlier in pregnancy to detect this disorder.

If gestational diabetes is not treated and controlled properly during pregnancy, the baby is at risk for delivery complications from large birth weight, low blood sugar & breathing difficulties at birth, and later for childhood obesity & adult onset diabetes. 

It can be frightening to have gestational diabetes, but by working closely with a health care team to  keep blood sugar levels stable, a healthy pregnancy is possible. Although gestational diabetes usually goes away after birth, it is common for it to return in subsequent pregnancies and seems to be associated with the development of adult onset diabetes (Type 2) later in life. However, by maintaining a healthy weight and diet, along with regular exercise, most are able to lower their risk of this occurring significantly!


Written by: Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN


References:
http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/gestational/how-to-treat-gestational.html

A man can feel uncomfortable carrying a diaper bag, especially when he is a new dad! Since dads share in taking care of their children, whether it be taking them to run errands or for a fun adventure at the park, they prefer masculine print messenger baby bags or backpack diaper bags.  These styles, made by Kalencom, have the following features:

Messenger Diaper Bags:

•  2 magnetic clips keep the top flap closed
•  Roomy interior with 3 pockets and 2 elastic bottle holder loops
•  Adjustable shoulder strap
•  2 outside pockets
•  Matching Thinsulate™ insulated bottle bag
•  Coordinating zippered pouch
•  Large fold-out padded changing pad
• AZO free & No Phthalates/DEHP, DBP, or BOP in PVC.
• Dimensions: 16"L x 6"W x 11"H

Backpack Diaper Bags:

• Insulated Exterior Bottle Pocket
• Zippered Feeding Compartment
• Access to Interior from Top and Side
• Zip Down Changing Station with Large Diaper Changer Pad
• Outside Gathered Pocket
• Comfortable, Adjustable Backpack Straps
• Dirty Duds Pouch
• Dimensions: 13.50”L x 7.50”W x 16"H

Tip: Diaper bags make fun & practical baby shower gifts for new dads!

                                                                      Baby Sleep

After reading about techniques to promote good baby sleeping habits, a few nuggets of wisdom stood out that were consistent with what I have discovered from my experience as a mother of three children, aunt of 15 nieces and nephews, and registered nurse. Lack of sleep is a frustrating experience for all new parents and learning some helpful tips about how to promote better sleep for you and your baby is crucial for your and your baby's health.


1. Be Flexible In Choosing Baby Sleeping Techniques- Perhaps the biggest lesson I have learned in the past 25 years is that each child is different, so flexibility is a key factor in parenting! What works with one child may not work for another. Our first child was very active, even in the womb, and easily stimulated by the environment. Not realizing how to help him sleep, I tried several different baby sleep training techniques that I had read about and learned from talking with other mothers, like letting him "cry it out," using a pacifier, placing him in a car seat near the washing machine, and driving him around the block several times. I also tried carrying him in a front pack while vacuuming the house and limiting day naps. These methods were unsuccessful, but after trial and error and considering his tendency to become over stimulated, I found that providing a quiet, calm, dim environment, and using soothing words would best settle him to sleep.



2. Develop A Bedtime Ritual- I have found that children of all ages respond well to routine. In an article by "Baby Center," parents reported that establishing a consistent bedtime routine was the number one way they helped promote newborn sleep. Since each baby is different, try different methods and decide which works best for you and your baby. Click on this link for a list of sleep training techniques: http://www.babycenter.com/0_baby-sleep-training-the-basics_1505715.bc?page=2
After you learn what sleeping method your baby responds to best, make it a ritual. Also, I have found that a bedtime routine provides a sense of familiarity during times of travel when baby sleep is easily disturbed by being in an unfamiliar environment.


3. Be Consistent- Over the years, I've seen how being consistent, whether it is establishing and being consistent with a bedtime routine or later with discipline, gives a child a sense of security from knowing what to expect. In research, consistency of a sleeping method seems to be more important than the actual method itself. Consistency is important, but remember to keep flexible during times that your baby is ill, teething, going through a new stage in development, or your schedule changes. Being too rigid will create stress for you and your baby, which may then negatively affect both of your sleep.


Establishing healthy sleeping habits will help you deal better with the many challenges of becoming a new parent and help your baby in getting the sleep necessary for proper growth and development. For questions or concerns about your baby's sleeping, always seek the advice of your baby's doctor, as there may be other contributing factors involved.



References:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/baby-sleep/FL00118
http://www.babycenter.com/0_parents-favorite-sleep-strategies_7528.bc
http://www.babycenter.com/0_establishing-a-bedtime-routine-with-your-baby_1507759.bc

Written by: Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN







 

                                   Modern Maternity Clothes|Accessorizing with High Waist Belts

During pregnancy, you can add style to simple maternity dresses by accessorizing with high waist belts. Made of stretchy elastic, high waist belts will grow with your changing body throughout your pregnancy! The pretty rose pattern is a beautiful, feminine touch for baby shower dresses and other special occasion dresses. A great addition to your modern maternity clothes wardrobe!

                           Baby Shower Dresses for the Fall Season Transformed for the Holidays!

If you are expecting a baby in the fall, you can easily wear your maternity dresses for baby showers in the coming holiday season. Consider this off the shoulder, peasant style maternity dress,  feminine when accented with a pretty high waist belt, which can later be transformed into a maternity evening dress  for holiday gatherings or other special occasions, by simply cinching your maternity dress with the elastic belt to fit your post-pregnancy waist. Finally, accessorize with festive jewelry & classy pumps to complete your new outfit for the holidays!

                                               Ideas for getting your Kids to Eat Healthy

During pregnancy, you were probably conscientious about eating healthy foods for your baby's proper development and health. However, as your children grow older, getting them to eat healthy foods can be a challenge! Consider the following tips to encourage fun and healthy eating habits:

1. Take your children grocery shopping with you and make it a scavenger hunt!

    a. Ask them to find 2 veggies in each color of green, red, and yellow.

    b. Encourage them to choose one new fruit each week.

2. Find creative ways to display food, making animals and birdhouses by cutting and arranging foods. Check Pinterest for some great ideas.

3. Let your children help you in the kitchen with food preparation, while making some healthy recipes.

4. Plan a cooking class with other moms and children. Or, find a cooking class at your local community center. To make sure they will learn to prepare healthy foods, talk with the instructor first.

By associating positive emotions with healthy food choices, your children will grow to love & eat food that will keep them healthy and strong!

Written by: Shelley Scheibel RN, BSN

                                                Pregnancy Tips for a Better Nights Sleep

During pregnancy many find it difficult to get a good nights rest, especially during the final months of being pregnant. This can be due to hormonal changes and physical discomforts. Some pregnancy tips for a better nights sleep include:

 1. Limit your intake of fluids a couple of hours before bedtime so that your bladder is less full before you sleep. As your baby grows, extra weight presses down on your bladder causing increased trips to the bathroom.

2. Avoid spicy foods to help reduce heartburn which can keep you up during the night.

3. Use extra pillows to support your tummy and back, especially as your belly grows larger.

4. Avoid beverages & foods that are caffeinated, like coffee and chocolate, since they are stimulants.

5. Avoid vigorous exercise four hours before bedtime, but do exercise regularly, as it has been shown to promote deeper sleep.

6. Eat a healthy snack that is high in protein, like cottage cheese, before bedtime to keep your blood sugar levels stabilized. This has also been shown to help prevent bad dreams and headaches.

7. Avoid over the counter sleep aids and the use of natural supplements, such as melatonin, which the Mayo Clinic says should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

8. Always consult your pregnancy doctor about sleeping concerns and recommendations.

Written by Shelley Scheibel  RN, BSN

Resources:
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/pregnancy-insomnia
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/melatonin/NS_patient-melatonin/DSECTION=safety

                                                                    Pregnancy Diet

During pregnancy it is important to eat a healthy diet for your and your baby's health. Taking prenatal vitamins, along with eating foods that are rich in folic acid, iron, and calcium, assures that you and your baby are getting the essential nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.

For the proper development of your baby's brain and spinal cord, folic acid is necessary, especially during the first three months of pregnancy. Foods that contain folic acid incude: dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, citrus fruits, and many fortified foods.
 
To help maintain your bone density during pregnancy, calcium is important, especially since your baby is using calcium for his or her own bone growth. Foods that are a good source of calcium include: cheese, yogurt, dark green leafy vegetables, and many fortified cereals and orange juice.
 
For your blood to carry oxygen, iron is needed. Since pregnancy increases your blood volume, it is important that adequate levels of iron are available. Foods rich in iron are red meat, egg yolks, dark leafy vegetables, dried fruit (prunes & raisins), iron-enriched cereals and grains, turkey, beans, and artichokes. Eating iron-rich foods with those that are rich in vitamin C will help your body better absorb iron.

Since dark green leafy vegetables contain folic acid, calcium, and iron, consider adding spinach to scrambled eggs, a banana-pineapple smoothie, and your favorite salad mix. Please note that spinach has been known to cause illness in the past from bacteria so please consult with your pregnancy doctor for advice. Most food packaging companies recommend rinsing spinach with water to wash off pesticides and any potential bacteria.

Written by Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN

Resources:
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/10-calcium-rich-foods
http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/prenatal-vitamins 
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/top-10-iron-rich-foods 

 

                                                            Exercising While Pregnant

Exercising while pregnant can be fun and relaxing, especially during the summer months, when done with another mom, friend, or as a family.

1. Walking is an easy exercise that can be done each day during pregnancy. In the summer months, find a safe and peaceful place to take a walk in the early evening, when it is cooler. A walk helps you to wind down from the day and get some fresh air. If you have young children, they will enjoy getting out for an adventure. So, put them in the stroller and be on your way! For safety reasons, it is always best to walk with a friend and bring your cell phone, water bottle, and a few healthy snacks. 

2. Swimming is a great exercise because it uses your arm and leg muscles for a total body workout and is low-impact. It gets your circulation going which has many positive benefits for you and your baby. In the pool, you will feel cool, weightless, and have low risk of injury.  If you don't have access to a pool, call your local community center to inquire about a water aerobic class. Ask a friend to join you or meet new friends there.

Many pregnant women find that exercising during pregnancy gives them more energy, better sleep, and improved ability to deal with the emotional challenges of pregnancy.

                                             Maternity Dresses for Summer Baby Showers

                                                                  Infant Constipation

When my two week old baby didn't have a bowel movement for a couple of days, I became concerned that she was constipated, especially since I was breastfeeding and had heard that several bowel movements a day was the norm.

I called the pediatrician, who told me it could be normal for her not to have a bowel movement every day and he shared some recommendations to try since it may be caused by her not getting enough milk. He also told me that infant constipation is not necessarily the absence of daily bowel movements, but the passage of hard, dry bowel movements. He also told me to call him immediately if she seemed in pain, had a fever, vomited, or still hadn't passed a bowel movement after 5 days.

 

For two days I set the timer to make sure our breastfeeding sessions were long enough. I drank more water to hydrate myself, turned on relaxing music while nursing her, and made sure she was alert during feedings. Sure enough, after four days, my baby had a bowel movement. I was so relieved!

 

In the articles below, helpful information is provided on the topic of infant constipation, infant feeding, and infant bowel movement health: 

http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/diapering-a-baby-9/baby-constipation

http://www.babycenter.com/0_constipation_79.bc

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infant-constipation/AN01089http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infant-constipation/AN01089

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/pages/Infant-Constipation.aspx

                                                           Personalized Diaper Bags

Yes, diaper bags are meant to be personal! After all, aren't they filled with most all of your and your little one's personal things? A diaper bag that is personalized with your name or monogrammed adds a special, personal touch to a stylish diaper bag. Monogrammed diaper bags make unique baby shower gifts, too. Designer diaper bags that offer a customized option, like the one shown above, by Amy Michelle, are designed to be a purse and diaper bag in ONE! This great feature allows you to carry one bag, whether at the park with the kids or running errands alone.

Some other great features include:

• Changing pad (21" x 14")
• Double shoulder strap with 11.8 inch drop length
• 5 pockets for maximum organization
• 2 internal baby/water bottle pockets
• Top zippered closure
• Stroller attachments included
• Monogramming available
• Wipe spots easily with water resistant Poly Satin Fabric or 600D Poly fabric
• Bright antimicrobial lining stays clean! 
• 18"L x 4.5"W x 13"H 

                                                      Meaningful Baby Shower Ideas

While traditional baby shower ideas include playing fun and silly games, I have found that sharing wisdom and words of advice, with the mommy-to-be, can be a great source of encouragement for her as she enters motherhood. Since some may prefer to have time to think of something to share, tell guests to think of a word of wisdom and/or advice to share with the expectant mom at the baby shower.  You may consider providing a "words of wisdom" card in their invitation, along with having them at a table at the baby shower.  Before the baby shower gifts are opened, announce that you have a special gift for the mommy-to-be and read the cards out loud. Later, put them in a cute photo album for her to treasure as a keepsake during times that she may need to read them most!

                                       Modern Maternity Clothes for Summer Pregnancy

Keep your dazzling style during a summer pregnancy with modern maternity clothes in vibrant colors! ModMomMaternity.com has added a new style of maternity tops that are likened to a maternity tank top with a fun mid-line ruffle for added flair. This maternity top comes in electric blue and orange! Not only can you wear this maternity top during pregnancy, but it has a unique design which allows your baby easy nursing access for breastfeeding after delivery. Wear with a light weight sweater for the early morning and late evening and pair with maternity shorts, skirt, capris, or pants to complete your outfit.

                                                 Helpful Tips for Choosing a Baby Doctor

Choosing a baby doctor before your baby's arrival is something that I found to be very helpful.

First, call your health insurance provider to get a list of doctors near your home who are providers on your health plan. Since medical bills can become a burden and source of marital strain, it is helpful to learn as much as you can about your baby's health insurance benefits (co-insurance, deductible, well-baby care, urgent care for after hours, emergency room, hospital, lab fees, and specialized tests, like ultra sounds, etc.) before delivery. Most places of employment have a health insurance representative that they can put you in contact with to answer many of your questions.

After you get a list of local pediatricians (baby doctors), call their office to arrange an interview. Come with a list of questions that you have about how they would handle certain health issues and concerns for your baby.

Since you and your husband will have many questions & personal opinions & beliefs about your baby's health care, begin to make a list early in your pregnancy. Talk with other moms & your family members, and do some online research. Some questions that I found helpful to ask during a doctor interview were:

1. What hospital does he/she practice?
2. What hours is he/she available to answer questions you may have?
3. Who is on call for him/her after hours?
4. Does his/her office provide support/help for breastfeeding questions?
5. What medical concerns should you call him/her about?
6. Baby immunization pros/cons?
7. Beliefs regarding antibiotic treatment?
8. Well baby care appointments (how often & what will be covered)?
9. Baby nutrition (breastfeeding vs. bottle, Introduction of solid foods)?
10. Baby dental care (suggestions)?

Personally, I found great comfort in getting to know my baby's doctor and staff before my first child was born. Since the doctor's staff is who you will most often be in contact with by phone for simple questions, it is important that you feel comfortable calling them and that you find them patient, helpful, and friendly. I also found it convenient to find a doctor that was as close to my home as possible, especially since my children had frequent ear infections.

Written by: Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN

                                                                     Baby Names


The impact of one's name is felt for a lifetime! Over the years, I have talked with many people about their name and discovered a few things that you may want to consider when choosing a name for your baby:

1. Will my child's name be a source of possible teasing, embarrassment, or frustration?

When talking to others about their name, this issue seemed to have the greatest impact. I have heard comments like, "I wish I had a more common name that wasn't hard to pronounce or spell." And, "I was constantly teased about my name!" Many shared, that even as a grown adults, they still felt the sting of a name that caused them to be teased as a child.

2. Will my child's name have a specific meaning?

                                                      Custom Hospital Delivery Gowns

Today's modern maternity clothes allow moms-to-be to feel stylish during their entire 9 months of pregnancy and the day of your baby's delivery should be no different! As you get closer to your baby's due date considering packing a modern, custom-made maternity hospital gown which not only looks stylish, but has many advantages over what the hospital will provide. These include:

1. Beautiful fabric selections, making vibrant photos of you holding your baby for the first time.
2. Wear after delivery as stylish nursing pajamas (shoulder snaps allow easy nursing access).
3. Specific design features to meet your needs during labor, delivery, and later at home (designed by a labor & delivery nurse).

You will not only be stylish, but comfortable, when you wear a custom hospital delivery gown!