What is Preeclampsia?

taking blood pressure of a pregnant mother, monitoring for preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a complication that happens in about 1 in 25 pregnancies in the United States. While it’s a serious condition, it’s important to remember that with proper care and monitoring, many women with preeclampsia can still have a healthy and safe birth. So, what is preeclampsia?  Preeclampsia is a condition that typically develops after…

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Postpartum Bleeding: From Padzilla to Panytliners

Cotton Cloth Pads for Postpartum Bleeding

Yes, unfortunately after giving birth you will have to endure several weeks of postpartum bleeding. The more informed you are, the better prepared you will be for your postpartum journey so here we go.   What is Lochia? Lochia is the term used to describe the vaginal bleeding that occurs after childbirth. It is a natural…

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12 Steps to Prepare for a Successful VBAC

pregnant woman, holds belly with eyes closed, preparing for a vbac

My first child was born via cesarean and my second child was born vaginally. Despite the odds we had a vaginal birth after a cesarean, aka VBAC! I gave birth in the comfort of my home with my husband, a licensed midwife (CPM) and my birth doula present. The journey from c-section to VBAC was full…

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Cesarean Birth: What to Expect

Newborn baby is presented to Mom, on an operating table, during a cesarean birth

Learning about cesarean birth, even if you are hoping to avoid it, is always a good idea. When I was taken for an emergency c-section, there was little time for anybody to explain things to me. I was grateful I had gained knowledge about cesarean birth in the birth classes I attended. As a first…

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Hiring a Newborn Photographer: What to Look For

We are happy to welcome to our friend, Tampa Newborn Photographer, Melanie Amparo, as our guest blogger this month sharing her tips on what to look for when hiring a newborn photographer: CONGRATS! Your life is about to get a whole lot sweeter (and challenging)! You’ve landed here because you’re looking at hiring a newborn…

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All About Childbirth Afterpains

Holding a Hot Water Bottle on her abdomen, Childbirth Afterpains

Childbirth afterpains are one of those things that: “nobody tells you about!” So let me be the one to rectify that.  When I first heard about childbirth afterpains, my mind went to the perhaps grim analogy of an earthquake. Forgive me. I grew up in Los Angeles, California where we did earthquake drills regularly in…

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Nutrition During Pregnancy: Nourishing Yourself and Your Baby

Nutrition During Pregnancy

We all understand that nutrition during pregnancy is important. Pregnancy is a time of immense growth and development for your baby, and proper nutrition is vital to ensuring that your little one gets the best possible start in life. Not only does good nutrition help support your baby’s growth and development, it also plays an…

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Bringing Your Baby Home – Steps to Success

Bringing Baby Home, new parents in the car putting baby in car seat

As you reach the end of your pregnancy the reality that you will be bringing your baby home soon is starting to set in and is exciting! Like most new parents in the nesting phase, you are probably busy preparing and getting things ready. Here are some things to consider getting done in advance to…

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Breastfeeding Red Flags

Breastfeeding Red Flags, Mom holding newborn baby

As a first time mom, breastfeeding my newborn baby felt like a beautiful continuation of our connection during pregnancy. However it was not without challenges. It’s common to feel nervous or unsure, and it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. You’ve never done this before! In the first few weeks, both you and…

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The Golden Hour After Birth

Baby on Mom's chest during the Golden Hour After Birth

The Golden Hour (or hours) refers to the immediate hour after you have given birth to your baby and the connection that takes place during this time. This quality time between you and your baby will have lasting effects on your relationship and how your baby adapts to their new environment. Your beautiful baby arrives…

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