What you need to know about caring for your newborn and beyond as your baby grows. Everything from circumcision to diapering, infant sleep, and finding a good pediatrician.

father holding crying infant next to bed

Why Infants Cry and How to Soothe Them

By Christie Collbran | June 22, 2024

Oh, a crying infant… There’s nothing quite as heartbreaking. Or overwhelming. But… remember… Your baby doesn’t have very many ways to communicate yet. If something is wrong… Cue the tears.  While it is part of the process, we know you want to find a way to make sure your baby is comfortable and not crying. …

diaper rash treatment, mom putting ointment on baby bottom

Doula Tips For Diaper Rash Treatment

By Christie Collbran | June 17, 2024

Is your baby in a never-ending battle with diaper rash?  No parent wants to see their sweet baby in pain and irritated. You are probably looking for a quick, effective solution. Depending on how severe your baby’s diaper rash is, it may take a longer or shorter amount of time to heal. Using some of…

newborn crying with gas, gassy newborn

Why Is My Newborn So Gassy? 10 Expert Doula Tips

By Christie Collbran | May 27, 2024

You might be wondering why your baby is struggling with gas. Digesting food is a new skill for your baby’s body to learn. Being immature and new, your baby’s digestive system needs time to adjust  Whether they are eating from the breast or bottle, their little tummies are still sorting out this new “eating arrangement.”…

Newborn Travel, Diaper bag and newborn travel essentials

Can My Baby Handle a Trip? Your Helpful Guide to Newborn Travel

By Christie Collbran | May 18, 2024

Are you planning a trip soon? Planning on taking your sweet, precious baby along?   There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to traveling with your baby.  First off… We understand that traveling with a newborn can be daunting.  Not only are you getting used to your at-home routine, but you’re…

Two parents wearing their babies, babywearing guide

Should I Wear My Baby? Your Ultimate Babywearing Guide

By Christie Collbran | April 21, 2024

Does your baby always want to be near you? Of course they do!  That’s where babywearing comes in.  Babywearing is a wonderful way to connect to your baby and be hands-free…  You can have the best of both worlds— you can hold your baby, and do all the things you enjoy.  There are many factors…

Dad holding newborn baby sleeping, baby sleep stages

Baby Sleep: The Basics of Sleep Stages

By Christie Collbran | March 31, 2024

No matter who you are… Sleep is important.  We all need to sleep in order to revive our bodies and minds. So, if it’s vital for you as an adult, imagine the importance of good sleep for your growing baby.  I know what you’re thinking though…  Won’t my baby learn how to sleep on their…

childproofing checklist, baby playing in a drawer in the bedroom

Your Ultimate Childproofing Checklist: 5 Easy Tips For Childproofing Your Home

By Christie Collbran | January 28, 2024

Did your sweet baby just take their first steps?  Amazing, isn’t it?  As they do so, the light in their eyes shines. They are awakened with a newfound skill and curiosity.  You finally have a “walker,” and you’re equal parts excited and terrified. But you can’t help feeling anxious about their safety.  You already know…

Mom holding baby, parenting challenges, do I hate being a parent?

“Do I Hate Being a Parent?” 3 Helpful Ways to Shift Your Mindset

By Christie Collbran | January 21, 2024

Being a parent has its challenges.  There’s no way around it.  While it has beautiful moments, there are equally ugly moments. Being pushed past your limits at times, you may want to quit.  Sometimes, you question yourself and ask: “Do I hate being a parent?”  A simple internet search reveals many people feel burnout when…

Tiny baby in the NICU resting on Mom

10 Things I Learned from our 165 Days in the NICU

By Christie Collbran | November 14, 2023

My dear friend Laura has had two babies born prematurely. With both she went through quite an ordeal and learned many things during their lengthy time in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit.) She was kind enough to share some of her story with us in honor of November being Prematurity Awareness Month:  An adventure…

Baby Hunger Cues, Baby with mouth open showing she is hungry

Hunger Cues | How To Tell Your Baby is Hungry

By Christie Collbran | November 6, 2023

Why is it important to know your baby’s hunger cues?  Understanding your baby’s signals helps you know when and how often to feed her. Newborn babies have tiny tummies and need to eat often. An average of 8 – 12 feedings in a 24 hour period is expected and necessary. A couple of those feedings…

Pregnant couple sitting with a laptop and a postpartum plan

Do You Have a Postpartum Plan?

By Christie Collbran | September 25, 2023

You’ve got your birth class done, your hospital bag packed and your car-seat safely installed! Have you considered what happens once you are home with your baby in your arms? Do you have a postpartum plan in place?  You may have heard a lot of talk about birth plans and much less discussion about a…

Safe Sleep For Baby, Baby in a crib

Safe Sleep For Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | September 10, 2023

We know how exciting it is to tuck your baby in for a good night’s sleep, so let’s make sure it’s not only cozy but also safe as can be. a. Safe to Sleep Recommendations for Baby: First things first, let’s talk about the golden rules of safe sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)…

Newborn sleeping on a moon pillow with star pillows around him

Newborn Sleep – What to Expect

By Christie Collbran | August 27, 2023

Ah, the magical world of newborn sleep! It’s like a roller coaster ride that you never signed up for, but guess what? You’re not alone on this wild journey. Parents and soon-to-be parents, especially those snuggling tiny bundles of joy in the wee hours of the night, this one is for you. Let’s dive into…

A mom changing newborn poop diaper

Newborn Poop – Is THAT Normal?

By Christie Collbran | July 2, 2023

As a new parent, amidst the continual diaper changes and sleepless nights you may find yourself obsessing over every little detail, including your baby’s poop. Yes, you read that right! Today, we’re diving into the world of baby poop, discussing its frequency, appearance, and even when to get medical advice. So, hold your nose and…

Expecting Parents in a Newborn Care Class

Why Take a Newborn Care Class?

By Christie Collbran | June 26, 2023

Welcoming a newborn into your life is a special adventure that can bring a mix of emotions – joy, love and yes, a little uncertainty. As a parent myself, I know firsthand that no amount of preparation can fully ready you for the arrival of your little one. Parenting is a complex blend of following…

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

Bringing Your Baby Home – Steps to Success

By Christie Collbran | March 7, 2023

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…

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

The Golden Hour After Birth

By Christie Collbran | February 5, 2023

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…

Surviving the holidays with a newborn, newborn baby in a Santa hat

Surviving the Holidays with a Newborn

By Christie Collbran | December 6, 2022

The magic of the holiday season is magnified by the arrival of your baby. Of course, it is natural to want to create the perfect first Christmas for your growing family. Be that as it may, bringing a newborn home means your daily routines have undergone a major adjustment. Add in the bustle and flurry…

When to Hire a Postpartum Doula

When Should I Hire My Postpartum Doula?

By Christie Collbran | November 29, 2022

It’s no secret that finding a spot at the best local daycare or preschool requires booking months in advance. Sometimes it even means putting your name on a wait list. You’ve heard about this before, right? “Infant care tends to book up fairly fast and several months in advance. In order to find one that…

introducing your pet to your baby

Introducing Your Pet to Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | November 7, 2022

Your pet is a cherished member of your family and should be included when big changes are happening. Here are some helpful tips to eliminate stress and concerns when you bring your newborn home.  Start preparations before your baby arrives. In all of the excitement of preparing for your new baby, you might not have…

Routines build consistency for babies and children

Routines Build Consistency for Babies and Children

By Christie Collbran | October 25, 2022

Consistent routines and structure can benefit everyone in your family and are important for children at any age. Why are routines beneficial for babies and children?  Routines help children feel safe, stable and less stressed.  Children are faced with continual changes in their lives. As they grow up their bodies change constantly. Few of these…

car seat safety ages and stages

Car Seat Safety, Ages and Stages

By Christie Collbran | September 28, 2022

We all want to keep our children safe, yet some discussions about car seats are touchy. The subject of rear facing vs. forward facing car seats can raise some serious debate. In honor of National Child Passenger Safety Month, let’s discuss car seat safety for different ages and stages. How do I choose the right…

when parents and grandparents collide

Old School vs. New School – When Parents and Grandparents Collide

By Christie Collbran | September 20, 2022

Grandparents want the best for their grandchildren but sometimes their information and beliefs are outdated. Things can get a little uncomfortable when parents and grandparents collide. When I was pregnant with my first child, I told my Mom I was looking for a pediatrician for my baby. “Why?” she asked, surprised. I explained I would…

returning to work after maternity leave

Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

By Christie Collbran | September 12, 2022

My sweet baby boy was only a few days old, and I was already dreading the thought of going back to work. I tried to make the most of every moment we had together. I probably changed his clothes 5 times a day. Not because he needed me to, but because I feared he would…

Is My Baby Cross Eyed, Baby Wearing Glasses

Is My Baby Cross-Eyed? When To Be Concerned

By Christie Collbran | August 15, 2022

Sometimes parents notice their newborn’s eyes look a little cross-eyed in the beginning. Yes, it is normal for a newborn’s eyes to wander or cross occasionally during the first few months of life. Their muscles are strengthening and their eyes are learning to focus. By the time a baby is 4–6 months old, their eyes…

brushing baby hair with soft brush cradle cap

Cradle Cap: What It Is & What To Do

By Christie Collbran | July 27, 2022

Does my baby have cradle cap? If you have seen flaking and crusting with yellow or white scales on your baby’s scalp, you are probably noticing cradle cap. Don’t be concerned. There is no evidence that it causes any discomfort to your baby at all. If you are not certain whether your child has cradle…

Taking Your Baby on Vacation

Taking a Vacation with Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | June 20, 2022

Now that summer is in full swing, and traveling is pretty much back to normal, taking a vacation seems more needed than ever! It’s important to keep in mind that for your baby, almost everything is new and stimulating. And if you think adjusting to a new space and unfamiliar things is a tough transition…

Taking Your Baby to the Beach

Taking Your Baby to the Beach

By Christie Collbran | June 7, 2022

If you are anything like me, you know there are really healing energies offered by the sand and salt water of our gorgeous beaches here in Tampa Bay. We live where many people vacation, and there is a certain type of serenity that comes from the gulf breezes and gentle lapping of the waters. With…

food allergies and your child sitting in high chair

Food Allergies and Your Child

By Christie Collbran | May 24, 2022

Did you know that about 6 million children have food allergies? That is a staggering number in my opinion. I never experienced a food allergy, so I was not very concerned about introducing my son to new foods when he was a baby. I followed our pediatrician’s recommendations until he was a certain age, but…

All about Bathing Your Baby

All About Bathing Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | May 11, 2022

You and your sweet new bundle are home from the hospital and finally figuring things out together. Each new day brings its own set of firsts for both of you. You may be nervous about some of the tasks you are facing, and that is completely normal. Every mother on the planet has been a…

Accept-the-help

Hey Mom, Ask for and Accept the Help

By Christie Collbran | January 11, 2022

Let’s normalize moms being called superheroes because we ask for and accept the help we need. Not because we handle so much on our own. Let’s go back to the village because here’s the thing, most of us aren’t handling it.  I had my first baby when I was 15 years old. I was no…

Toddler Hugging his Newborn Baby Sister

Helping Your Toddler Adjust to Your Newborn

By Christie Collbran | November 12, 2021

My son was almost two years old and still in diapers when I gave birth to my daughter. I thought I had the routine down after two years of parenting. However, I quickly realized that my life was about to become a juggling act. One minute I was changing not one, but two diapers, dealing…

help-teething-pain-baby

Help, My Baby is Teething!

By Christie Collbran | October 11, 2021

Out of nowhere, your five month-old baby is fussy, irritated, chewing on everything (maybe your nipple or her bottle nipple), drooling a lot, has a slightly elevated body temperature and not sleeping well. Sound familiar? She’s probably teething!  (Side note here: lots of babies start drooling around three months old, this doesn’t necessarily mean she’s…

What-Baby-Gear-Do-I-Really-Need?

What Baby Gear Do I Really Need?

By Christie Collbran | July 20, 2021

As a first time parent it can be very hard to determine what baby gear you really need. When I was expecting my first baby, I had to have ALL. THE. THINGS.  Clothes in all sizes.  Different baby carriers.  Different brands and sizes of both cloth and disposable diapers.  One of those travel systems with…

best-strollers-2021

Our Top Five Strollers for 2021

By Christie Collbran | May 27, 2021

Picking out the perfect stroller can feel a little daunting with so many options available. You may be unsure of what features you’ll like or need until your baby arrives. Whether you are pregnant and creating your baby registry, working on establishing a nap schedule with your newborn, or juggling an infant and a toddler…

postpartum-sleep-deprivation

Postpartum Sleep Deprivation

By Christie Collbran | May 22, 2021

Four days and one unexpected c-section later we were discharged and on our way home at last. I could no longer lean on the quiet protection of the hospital. Nurses would not be checking on me periodically. Meals would not be brought to me on a schedule. Ready or not I was now a Mom…

what-baby-nurse-does

Bethenny’s Baby Nurse

By Christie Collbran | February 25, 2021

Believe it or not, I first learned what a baby nurse does on a Bravo TV show. Long before I became a doula, I was a “Real Housewives of NYC” fan. Oh, the gloriously trashy and mindless entertainment! When I watched this faux-reality series, the characters included Countess Luann de Lesseps and Bethenny Frankel. At…

looking-for-a-baby-nurse

Looking for a Baby Nurse?

By Christie Collbran | February 18, 2021

Looking for a baby nurse to help you after the baby is born?  I recently spoke to a grandmother-to-be. She called in looking for a “baby nurse” to help her expecting daughter after her baby arrives. “When I was a young woman in New York city” she told me, “people with newborns would hire a…

Parents-Need-Help-Not-Judgment

Parents Need Help Not Judgment

By Christie Collbran | February 5, 2021

Raise your hand if you’ve ever had to deal with a Judgy McJudgerpants in your life? I recently wrote about coping with a colicky baby as a new parent – what made it better and what didn’t. Three aspects of the situation made it harder: lack of support judgment and unsolicited advice. I was exclusively…

coping-with-colic

Will My Colicky Baby Get Better?

By Christie Collbran | January 24, 2021

My baby boy was beautiful, healthy, and perfect in every way. Except — he had colic and it was really, really hard.  Prior to this I didn’t really know what colic was, but I was about to find out first hand. The first two weeks were fine. He slept. He ate. He made silly and…

common-car-seat-myths

Common Car Seat Myths

By Christie Collbran | January 13, 2021

Confused about car seats? You’re not alone! On the internet and social media, a lot of wrong, bad or outright dangerous info gets circulated around. So let’s put to bed some of these tired old myths with good and safe information instead. TRUE or FALSE: Fire stations are the best place to have your baby’s…

when-should-baby-start-solid-foods

When Should Baby Start Solid Food?

By Christie Collbran | December 11, 2020

I was so excited to start solid foods with my first baby. With ingredients from our community-supported agriculture delivery, I made her baby food with love. I ordered special spoons (to help with her ergonomics) and bowls, plates, cups and storage containers. And then guess what? She hated pureed food. Finally I tried giving her…

the-best-toys-for-your-baby

The Best Toys for Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | December 6, 2020

When I was expecting my first baby, I had so much fun buying baby things! Each item was researched ad nauseum, compared, considered and chosen with care. One purchase category got extra time and effort: toys. Of course, I wanted my baby to have the best. I was influenced strongly by natural parenting circles and…

best-baby-formula

What’s the Best Formula for My Baby?

By Christie Collbran | November 25, 2020

We are often asked, as lactation counselors, what formula is best for my baby?  (Yes lactation counselors are experts in ALL modes of infant feeding, not just breastfeeding.) This also comes up when we are supporting families as postpartum doulas. For us, the best baby formula should follow three simple rules. As a reminder, we…

Newborn-Care-Class-for-Adoptive-parents

Newborn Care Class for Adoptive Parents

By Christie Collbran | October 14, 2020

Congratulations! You are adopting a newborn baby. We know that so much thought and effort has gone into this journey. The child you have been dreaming of and waiting for will soon be in your arms. This baby means so much to you and naturally, you want to do everything right. But – there is…

overnight-postpartum-doula

Overnight Postpartum Doula Care: A Night With Our Doulas (updated July 2022)

By Christie Collbran | October 8, 2020

Overnight Newborn Care is sometimes a new concept. Tired parents often approach us and ask: “what does a postpartum doula do overnight to care for their family while they sleep?” It almost sounds too good to be true! Rest assured, this exists and works beautifully. The role of a postpartum doula is so varied from…

Finding-a-nanny-or-daycare

Finding a Nanny or Daycare, Questions to Ask When Searching for Childcare

By Christie Collbran | September 14, 2020

Finding a nanny, daycare, or other childcare for your newborn baby can be a daunting task for parents looking to return to work. Sometimes it is difficult to know just whom you can trust with your newest little addition. The key to finding quality childcare is asking the right questions and following up. Ensuring quality…

Caring-for-baby-after-a-c-section

Caring for Baby After a C-Section

By Christie Collbran | September 3, 2020

Healing from a c-section can sometimes be overwhelming. You, a warrior, just had major surgery. Now you not only have to care for yourself, you have to care for your baby! This is a challenge that is sometimes forgotten. Once you’ve left the hospital, how can you easily care for your newborn? First of all,…

Concierge pediatric care

Concierge Pediatric Care Tampa Bay

By Christie Collbran | August 20, 2020

We recently met with Dr. Heather Thole (virtually, of course!) and learned all about her concierge pediatric care. We love that she comes to see you in your home and the freedom that this provides to families. We invited her to share more about this on our blog:  I am Dr. Heather Thole, a board-certified…

exclusive-pumping

Exclusive Pumping 101

By Christie Collbran | August 19, 2020

Breastfeeding: the most natural thing on the planet, according to many loud opinions on the internet. Right? What happens when breastfeeding proves to be a challenge? Some families turn to exclusive pumping as a means to feed their babies. Can we tell you a little secret? It’s still breastfeeding. You are providing your baby with…

Music As a Tool

Music is a Valuable Parenting Tool

By Christie Collbran | June 9, 2020

We loved meeting virtually with Shalini, the owner of Play and Grow Music in Pinellas County, last week. She is truly a bright ray of sunshine! Shalini teaches fun, playful and valuable music classes for babies and children. We asked her to share more about music as a valuable parenting tool for our readers:  In…

Managing Stress During COVID 19

Managing Stress in the Time of COVID 19

By Christie Collbran | June 8, 2020

We have all been staying at home as much as possible and now as the Tampa area enters Phase II we need to plan what this means for our lives and the lives of our loved ones. How can we minimize exposure to Corona virus? How can we manage the fear that going out more…

crying baby with partner father newborn care

Letting Go When Your Partner is Struggling

By Christie Collbran | March 23, 2020

You’ve handed your brand new baby off to your partner so you can get into the shower for the first time in…days? Everything with babies is a blur so you’re not really sure. Then, the second your feet are wet, you hear it. Your baby is crying. Perhaps it activates your letdown and you spill…

partner father with newborn baby caring

Newborn Care for Partners: Tips for Staying Stress-Free

By Christie Collbran | March 16, 2020

Newborn care for partners can prove to be a daunting task. There are hundreds of helpful articles out there for newborn care but as we have perused them we’ve found they tend to come up short when it comes to helping partners! The incredible partners we have worked with want to be actively involved in…

newborn healing with a baby postpartum parents

Healing with a Baby Postpartum: Tips for New Parents

By Christie Collbran | March 9, 2020

Healing postpartum with a baby on you can be challenging! For the first few weeks, it often seems like your baby spends days attached to your side especially if you’re breastfeeding. Handing your baby to a trusted caregiver isn’t always an option nor a desire. You worked hard to grow and birth that baby and…

Infant reflux and spit up

Infant Reflux: Why Does My Baby Spit Up So Much?

By Christie Collbran | December 23, 2019

Infant Reflux seems to be one of the most diagnosed issues we see among our clients today. The rise in diagnosis could be contributed to many factors, one of which is the internet. Hop onto any forum and ask about your baby crying and you’re likely to hear “it’s probably Reflux!” from at least a…

newborn twin babies with mother nursery setup

Newborn Twin Nursery Set Up & Essentials

By Christie Collbran | December 2, 2019

Congrats, it’s twins! When you find out you’re going to have a newborn twin nursery it is often overwhelming. Setting up one room for two brand new babies can seem like a daunting task. With a couple helpful pointers, you can set up a nursery that works perfectly without all the extra clutter. Newborn Twin…

night nanny overnight care tampa

What is a Night Nanny? Choosing Newborn Care

By Christie Collbran | November 25, 2019

What is a “night nanny”? While searching to get some extra winks of shut-eye, new parents often find this term. It can get confusing because they will also find terms like “night nurse”, “Postpartum Doula”, and “Newborn Care Specialist”. These terms are not created equally. The primary responsibility (caring for your newborn) falls under each…

newborn care in tampa florida postpartum doulas

Newborn Care Options: Postpartum Doulas

By Christie Collbran | November 18, 2019

Newborn care options are often on the minds of parents all over the Tampa area. Buddha Belly isn’t just for birth, we offer a full range of options for bringing home baby! Postpartum Doulas are incredible sources of support and knowledge for both brand new and veteran parents. Bringing together knowledge of safety standards, real-world…

Newborn Sleep Essentials | Get More Sleep!

By Christie Collbran | November 4, 2019

“Newborn sleep essentials, what are they?” “Will I ever sleep again?” Among new parents, these are frequently asked questions. Newborns often wake after short intervals of rest, leaving parents tired, frazzled, and ready to invest large amounts in coffee stocks. While it is true that newborns physiologically need to wake to eat around the clock,…

bottle-feeding

There’s No Perfect Bottle for Your Baby

By Christie Collbran | October 9, 2019

Have you been searching for the perfect bottle for your baby? Some babies take right to bottle feeding with no problems. Some babies have a bit harder of a time with bottle feeding. Marketing and commerce have convinced us that there is a perfect bottle out there and if we only spend $653 trying all…

newborn care tips

Newborn Care Tips from a Postpartum Doula – Babywearing

By Christie Collbran | September 30, 2019

One of our favorite newborn care tips is: Babywearing! Learning how to wear your newborn baby can be a lifesaver for new parents. Imagine eating, hands free, while your baby peacefully naps without waking. It can happen and one of the easiest ways is to “wear” your baby in a comfortable and perhaps even stylish…

Circumcision

Newborn Care: The Circumcision Decision

By Christie Collbran | August 23, 2019

To circumcise your newborn baby or not is a serious decision for parents to make. There is a lot of controversy regarding circumcision and it can be a challenge to find unbiased information. Here are some quick facts and helpful resources to assist in your research and decision making regarding this procedure: 

Expecting twins, mother and father holding baby twins

What to Expect When You’re Expecting Twins (updated July 21, 2022)

By Christie Collbran | July 17, 2019

Are you expecting twins (or more?) and unsure of what to… expect? At Buddha Belly, we’ve had the honor and pleasure to support dozens of families of multiples with their pregnancies, labors, births and postpartum lives. Here is some insight from our experienced doulas. You may need more frequent checkups when expecting twins. You will see…

What is vernix?

My Cheesy Baby: What Is Vernix?

By Christie Collbran | August 10, 2018

No, your newborn isn’t dirty! That’s vernix caseosa, a powerfully protective, “water proof” coating that covers baby’s skin in utero and prevents heat loss after birth. Vernix can aid in the passage through the birth canal and act as a physical barrier against bacteria. It’s also theorized that vernix helps in the development of healthy…

Finding a Pediatrician

Finding a Pediatrician (updated June 2022)

By Christie Collbran | July 26, 2017

When should I begin finding a pediatrician? If you don’t already have a pediatrician for your baby, it’s a good idea to start looking for a pediatrician during pregnancy. Give yourself a few weeks to a few months. This allows you sufficient time to make a well informed decision. What is the difference between a…

Will my baby ever sleep through the night?

Will My Baby Ever Sleep through the Night?

By Christie Collbran | July 19, 2017

There is a lot to be said about babies sleeping through the night, various styles of parenting, sleep coaching and everybody has an opinion. It’s a good idea to learn about the science of sleep and what is developmentally normal for babies. Author Elizabeth Pantley has this to say on the subject here: “The medical…

Advice on baby diapers

Cloth Diapers or Disposables?

By Christie Collbran | July 14, 2017

Cloth diapers are back in style! And they are not your grandmother’s diapers. There are lots of different styles, sizes, brands, cute patterns and accessories to explore. Some families are totally dedicated to cloth diapering and others do a combination of both cloth and disposables. There are special wet bags to put your wet cloth…

Difference between Nanny, Babysitter, Baby Nurse, Postpartum Doula?

What is the Difference Between a Nanny, Baby Nurse, Babysitter, Postpartum Doula?

By Christie Collbran | July 10, 2017

What is the difference between a nanny, baby nurse, babysitter and a postpartum doula? Nanny: Usually hired to stay or live with a family for a long-term period of time to take care of babies or small children. Occasionally, a nanny will also help with household duties. Nannies work daytime and overnight shifts and stay…

Baby Registry Advice

The Best Baby Registry – Advice from a Postpartum Doula (updated Jan 2023)

By Christie Collbran | July 1, 2017

As postpartum doulas, we work with a LOT of new families… first time moms, first time dads and newborns. So it’s only natural that we get asked, a LOT, what our “must-haves” are for baby registries. Here it is! Yes, it’s a long list.  Please note, that this does not mean you need all of…

Where does your baby sleep

3 Different Ideas for Where Baby Sleeps

By Christie Collbran | June 22, 2017

As postpartum doulas, the first job we’re often helping new parents with is: where should my baby sleep? With the right equipment and precautions, the short answer is: anywhere you want. Each family scenario – each baby – is different, and flexibility and options are key to finding the best solutions. And by best, we…

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Newborn Care: Why Delay Clamping Baby’s Umbilical Cord?

By Christie Collbran | December 6, 2016

Once your baby is born, at some point, his/her umbilical cord must be clamped and then separated from the placenta. Many families are now considering delaying when this clamping happens because of the benefits offered to the newborn. Approximately one-third of a baby’s total blood volume is in the placenta and/or umbilical cord at birth.…

Leah Remini on Why She Hired a Doula

By Christie Collbran | November 1, 2016

My husband, Mike Rinder, co-hosts the TV show Scientology The Aftermath with actress, comedian and best-selling author Leah Remini. She visited the Tampa area a few months ago. At dinner one evening, I was pleased to learn that Leah had the support of a postpartum doula after the birth of her daughter, Sophia, 12 years ago. She graciously…

a doula for twins

A Doula for Twins

By Christie Collbran | October 21, 2016

All new mothers need information, encouragement and support. How can a doula be especially helpful when you are having twins? 1. Your doula can help you find accurate information and determine what your preferences and wishes are.  Giving birth to twins presents possibilities that you may want to know more about, including: will they be…

Postpartum Doula

Interview With an Overnight Newborn Care Specialist

By Christie Collbran | August 18, 2016

Postpartum doula, Marisa Seegraves specializes in overnight newborn care. She has been taking care of families as a nanny and doula for more than 12 years. How do you help families get more sleep?   As a postpartum doula one of my main goals is to help families get more sleep. During an overnight shift I care for…

newborn medical procedures

Three Common Medical Newborn Procedures

By Christie Collbran | August 17, 2016

Part of our practice as doulas and childbirth educators is to discuss procedures that happen during or after birth. Three common ones involve your newborn baby.  They are erythromycin eye ointment, vitamin K injection and hepatitis B vaccine. Erythromycin eye ointment This is an antibiotic ointment that goes into your baby’s eyes right after birth,…

overnight newborn care

Overnight Newborn Care

By Christie Collbran | July 27, 2016

“Last night was amazing! I was able to let go and really fall into a deep sleep. I feel almost human again! My doula was amazing.” Erin Sharpe, Buddha Belly client. Did you know that Buddha Belly postpartum doulas can provide overnight newborn care in your house? It’s true! If you’re like most of our clients, sleep…

Father bonding with baby

Partners Are Parents, Too! 3 Ways to Promote Bonding with Newborns

By Christie Collbran | April 26, 2016

 It’s a pretty common idea that a “great way” for partners/fathers to bond with your new baby is to express milk and let him/her feed the baby. And while it is a fun activity, expressing before your milk supply is well established – by your baby – is not recommended. It’s best for your baby…

Thins to do in Tampa Bay with a Newborn

Things To Do in Tampa Bay with a Newborn (updated July 2022)

By Christie Collbran | December 3, 2015

Postpartum, babymoon, maternity leave… what do you call the period AFTER your baby is born? Even more importantly, what do you DO in this time? First and foremost you should rest and let your body recover. But once you are feeling up for getting out of the house, you may be wondering what you can…

Why I Carry My Baby

Why I Carry My Baby (updated in 2022)

By Christie Collbran | October 7, 2015

I love to carry my babies. I also like to be comfortable and maneuverable.  For those reasons, and the ones below, I’m passionate about sharing the “babywearing” love.  And in honor of International Babywearing Week, I’m happy to share that passion with you. 1. Baby is close to you.   On your back, side or front. Do…

Baby Preps Stressing You Out?

Code Red Baby Preps (updated May 2021)

By Christie Collbran | July 7, 2015

I remember the urgent feeling of needing to have a crib before my first son was born. It felt so important. For some reason we left it til the very end of my pregnancy. The feeling of relief and preparedness that crib provided once it was sitting in our bedroom set-up and ready with the…