LaborKit.com Blog

Three c-sections or more? Tough Decisions.

2009-09-24T15:02:00Z

Having a c-section is usually not a decision a mom-to-be makes lightly. Sometimes the decision is made due to risks that were revealed during routine checkups. Often first c-sections aren't planned and are the result of complications during labor (maternal fever, fetal distress or breech position, GBS, prolonged labor with failure to progress etc). Subsequent births may be VBACs (Vaginal Birth After C-Section) or planned c-sections which each carry their own risks and emotional stress for the mom.

What makes the decision so hard?
"It's easier to know when baby will arrive and skip the whole painful labor part”, “You are so lucky" are among some comments moms might hear. The reality is that it isn't easy (See "A Planned C-Section is no Walk in the Park") and it can be incredibly emotional and self-reflective time. Most women want to experience a natural birth or as close to as possible. There is a sense of pride, even victory, to be able to endure labor and experience birth the way it is intended.

For many who have had emergency c-sections the feelings of missing out on a beautiful, natural experience can be overwhelming. "Why couldn't I do it?", "What is wrong with me?", "Why can't I do what other women can?" and these feelings can make them feel like less of a woman or question their ability to be a mother. These feelings may be passing thoughts that can be quickly dismissed or they may become consuming. Talking to your friends, your doctor or a therapist will help you get through these feelings in a healthy way. It's not a failure or a reflection of your ability to be a mom or inability to endure labor.

It is major surgery with at least a 6-week recovery time and it is much harder to recover while chasing other children around. These things are considered as well when a mom is making the choice to have a c-section. Families tend to be living further away from each other and the support that might have existed a generation ago doesn't exist now.

In the end, a healthy baby and mother is the goal. In a recent conversation with an OBGYN he said he would support a woman to go ahead with a VBAC if they had one previous c-section but would not be as encouraging if the patient had 2 or more previous c-sections. The risks are higher for the mother and baby and in his words "If it goes bad, it goes really bad." Why would you take the chance if you had the option? It isn't "an easy way out" or a luxury for many moms who really want a natural birth -- it's a difficult and well thought out decision to do what is best for baby and mom.

Win a LaborKit with BabyLuxeDaily.com

2009-09-07T19:53:00Z

BabyLuxeDaily.com is running a giveaway this week (Sept 7-12) for one lucky winner to receive a Standard LaborKit. Just go to our Healthy Baby Network Advertorial on BabyLuxeDaily, comment on our LaborKit and you are entered! Open to anyone in the US or Canada. Good luck!

Just for Doulas, Midwives, Birth Trainers and Prenatal Instructors

2009-08-26T15:10:00Z

We just updated our Certified Trainer Partnership Program (CTPP). It's free to register and we have tens of thousands of views per month from expectant mothers. Here are some of the highlights.

By being part of the CTPP you can help your clients and your business:

1.) Discounted Prices - Your clients will receive discounted prices when purchasing LaborKits at LaborKit.com

2.) Starter Kit - We’ll send you a trainer Starter Kit at a greatly reduced price (includes a LaborKit of your choice to show clients and informational brochures)

3.) Business Site Listing - (view sample of your free website) You will recieve a free site listing at LaborKit.com that includes your overview, credentials, contact information etc.

4.) Giving Back - a portion of your clients purchases will be donated to charity

5.) Free Registration - registration is completely free and you’re under no obligation

Please visit http://www.laborkit.com/trainers to register and for more information or view our online CTPP Brochure.

Wow, Babycenter Members are talking about LaborKit!

2009-08-22T19:18:00Z

A sudden jump in traffic had us wondering what was happening out in cyberspace to cause so many visitors to hit our site in a matter of 48 hours. Well, the December 2009 Birth Club was generating all the buzz. "duckduckgoose" posted a thread about how practical and helpful our LaborKit was and the forum caused a flurry of traffic on our site.

Check it out. BabyCenter's Pre-packed Hospital Bag to Order. COOL for FTM's.

What a nice surprise to have such honest and positive feedback from total strangers. Most moms agree that the LaborKit is a lifesaver and timesaver. Discussion included why you need a peri-bottle and mesh underwear (also see our blog about mesh underwear); recommendation to check our free hospital bag checklist and printable birth plan some insight as well as confirmation from one mom that recent cutbacks at hospitals mean less for new moms. Good luck to all who are part of the December Birth Club. I really appreciated reading your comments.

LaborKit Helps Ease Breastfeeding Discomforts

2009-08-19T13:14:00Z

We want to encourage moms to breastfeed their babies and we understand that the first few days can be a challenge to even the most committed and prepared mom-to-be. Breastfeeding on its own doesn't hurt but with improper latching and your body adjusting to this new routine, it can cause some discomfort in the beginning.

Being prepared ahead of time is key to getting you through those difficult times. We created the LaborKit with this in mind. Each LaborKit includes Lansinoh Lanolin to help heal and moisturize, Gerber Light Nursing Pads to keep you dry and a Kimberly-Clark Stay Dry Icepack to provide relief from engorgement. We are very selective and wanted only the best for expectant moms. The Lansinoh is a 4oz tube -- not a little .25oz sample. The Gerber Nursing Pads are a package of 36 to get you through the first few weeks. The icepack is soft and dry on the outside and never wet.

We feel it is important for moms to have these items BEFORE baby arrives and have taken great care to make sure we include them in all four LaborKits. Even our Express LaborKit gives you everything you need for breastfeeding.

Good luck.

Creating Your Best Birth Experience

2009-08-14T18:28:00Z

Expectant moms all hope to have healthy, happy, babies that sleep well and thrive. Your labor and delivery or total birth experience will be a memory that stays with you for a lifetime. Often, not much thought is given to the moments leading up to the arrival of your new baby. Many moms just accept that they will follow the path that most do -- wait for labor, go to the hospital, have their baby, go home after 48 hours. This mental preparation is all some women need or want. They focus on how they will care for a new baby and not as much on the event of the baby's birth -- aside from determining what pain medication you may want or if you want to breastfeed right away.

More and more women are taking a proactive role in their care and their birth experience. Women are choosing birthing centers and more specialized care. Doulas are rising in popularity and offer emotional and physical support during and after birth. Birth plans are written to express the preferences and wishes of the mom so that they have the expereince they want -- not what is "standard practice."

What would create the best birth experience for you?

Would you have family attend the birth in the birthing suite? Would you have your baby at home in an intimate welcoming with your spouse and a midwife? Perhaps some little touches at a hospital could make all the difference, like music or a room that looks like home and not a hospital.

The people who surround you condtribute to your positive (or negative) expereince. When you are going through what could be the most anticipated, most intimate and beautiful experience of having a baby for the first time, you should be surrounded by people who genuinely care about you and the experience you are having. Doulas are very good at being your support and your advocate. Labor can be overwhelming and having a person who has experience, compassion and a genuine passion for positive birth experiences can really help you through labor and delivery and keep it positive.

In the end we want a healthy baby (and that is the end goal) but the event of birth can have a lasting impact on a mom emotionally. Being prepared and informed will help shape the experience to be a happy one. The support of family and friends to help you through the good and bad will make all the difference.

Here are some free tools to help you plan the best birth experience for you.

Free Printable Birth Plan
Free Printable Hospital Checklist
Discover Birth and Happiest Baby Classes
DONA International
CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association )

Wishing you a wonderful and positive birth experience!

What do I need for Labor?

2009-08-08T19:32:00Z

This is a question just about every new mom asks her friends, Dr. or midwife. The answer varies depending on where you give birth (hospital, home, birthing center etc) and possibly your insurance coverage or individual hospitals with varying policies. Some hospitals are cutting back and ask that women bring just about everything including diapers and your own feminine pads. Other more "trendy" birth centers may provide you with organic lotions, music and (honestly) and Egyptian cotton robe.

So what are you to do? The best advice we can give (and why we created the LaborKit) is to bring the items that will make you most comfortable during and after labor. For example, the pads provided by a hospital are often bulky and way too long for comfort. If you have a preferred brand, take those. We know from talking to many moms that lip balm is a necessity so we include natural lip balm. Also, many moms are looking to healthier options or organic products which hospitals will not provide. If you prefer natural products, from moisturizer to lip balm or cloth diapers, pack those too.

Some items that are very helpful are a notebook and pen for notes from the doctor, monitoring baby's feedings and notes of those who may have sent flowers or gifts that you want to thank later.

Our LaborKits all include a reusable icepack which can help with engorgement or comfort after an episiotomy. We also include Lansinoh Lanolin and Gerber Nursing Pads for breastfeeding moms. This is really helpful in the first few days when you are more tender and possibly sore and cracked. Lansinoh Lanolin is the only topical nipple cream endorsed in the US by La Leche League International.

Different women will recommend different things. We recommend packing the items that help the birth experience feel a little more like home and a little less like a hospital. And take snacks -- no woman who just endured labor and delivery should also have to endure rehydrated mashed potatoes and mushy meat type meals.

Feel free to print out our free, printable hospital bag checklist or take all the guesswork out and purchase a ready-to-go LaborKit.

Good luck.

Bellies and Babies July Newsletter

2009-07-29T14:50:00Z

We covered some of the most viewed topics on our network with this newsletter. C-Section Recovery, GBS Awareness, Gifts that Moms and babies will love and a fabulous feature on Let's Go Strolling -- Create your own leutonia stroller!

Check out the entire newsletter here. If you would like to subscribe to get these delivered to your inbox, subscribe to Bellies and Babies through LaborKit.com (part of HealthyBabyNetwork.com).

Enjoy and let us know what you think.

Eliminating BPA -- Thanks Brita and Whole Foods!

2009-07-28T20:11:00Z

I realize many of you know that the large blue water bottles used in coolers are a concern for BPA leaching. If that isn't enough to make you switch to something healthier then consider this:

Average we spent on cooler water: $72 per month plus electricity
Cost for new BPA-Free Brita Digital Filter: $35, replacement filters $6 every two months = $71 FOR AN ENTIRE YEAR

My monthy water bill will drop by 95%. I called Brita to make sure BPA was not used in their packaging and they assured me it isn't and never was. Brita should make that very clear on their packaging in my opinion. For more information on effectiveness of water filter brands and FAQs, please check out The Green Guide.

You can also recycle your Brita Filters at Whole Foods Markets in the US (thank you Whole Foods!)

"Effective January 2009 Preserve and Whole Foods have teamed up to collect and recycle BRITA brand filter cartridges. Select Whole Foods natural grocery stores will have a collection box for the old water filters. These will then be shipped to Preserve and be recycled into toothbrushes, cups, and cutting boards and such. For those consumers without a convenient Whole Foods drop-off location the filters can be dried, wrapped inside a plastic grocery bag, packed in a cardboard box and mailed to Preserve at: Preserve Gimme 5, 823 NYS Rte 13, Cortland, NY USA 13045."

Read more: http://reducing-waste.suite101.com/article.cfm/recycling_britas_water_filter_cartridges#ixzz0MaWt91J0

LaborKit Product Review Video and Giveaway

2009-07-12T21:34:00Z

Our LaborKit was recently reviewed by Amy from Coffee with the Mrs. What a fantastic way to show her subscribers all the items in a LaborKit. You should check out this video and if you visit Coffee with the Mrs.com you can enter for a chance to win a Standard LaborKit. Contest ends July 22.

Good Luck and enjoy!

Labor Kit Vlog Review from TheMrs. on Vimeo.

Good news about BPA?

2009-07-09T15:58:00Z

Finally I found a tidbit of information that many of you may be interested in. According to an article posted today on Science Daily "BPA has a short half-life, Peretz said, and the chemical is quickly eliminated from the body. The fact that so many people tested positive "probably means that we're being constantly exposed to BPA," she said.

Why is this good news? It's good because we can get rid of the source and BPA exposure will be limited. It does not remain in your body.

Eliza Martinez also recently wrote about her concerns about BPA and stated "There are many ways to stay safe, the first being avoid plastics with the 7 or 3 on them...Never microwave your baby's formula in plastic or glass as this can cause hot spots that can burn the baby. A better idea is just to use warm water either from the tap or a water filtration device."

Be diligent about looking at the numbers on food containers. Recently I was going through the items in my fridge and discovered that Hellmans Mayo may be "real" but it's served up in a #7 squeeze bottle. Also the orange juice I love will no longer be in my fridge now that I realized it too was a #7.

Here is a quick list of ways to reduce your families BPA exposure from the National Toxicology Program BPA Fact Sheet:

• Don’t microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. BPA is strong and durable, but over time it may break down from repeated use at high temperatures.

• Avoid plastic containers with the #7 on the bottom http://www.recyclenow.org/r_plastics.html

• Don’t wash polycarbonate plastic containers in the dishwasher with harsh detergents.

• Reduce your use of canned foods. Eat fresh or frozen foods.

• When possible, opt for glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot food or liquids.

• Use infant formula bottles that are BPA free and look for toys that are labeled BPA-free.

You may have also read recently that recycled pizza boxes, toilet paper and credit card reciepts all contain BPA so as consumers you will have a hard time completely eliminating it but you can start with some of the most common sources and advocate for healthier options.

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For complete Science Daily article, visit http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090708101306.htm

For Eliza Martinez's article from Examiner.com at http://www.examiner.com/x-14161-Denver-StayatHome-Moms-Examiner~y2009m7d8-BPA-bottles-and-should-we-be-worried

BPA Fact Sheet : http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/docs/bpa-factsheet.pdf

New anti-nausea medication has concerning side effects

2009-06-10T22:29:00Z

The headline on msnbc.com got my attention: "Morning sickness drug shown safe for babies." (View entire article here)

Sounds great. So many moms are seeking remedies for nausea and vomiting that often coinsides with the first 4 to 16 weeks of pregnancy that a drug that is "safe" is good news. Or is it? The article also states that " Metoclopramide, which works by speeding emptying of the stomach and reducing heartburn, can have side effects, including sedation, insomnia, depression and anxiety."

There are so many other truly safe ways to help women deal with nausea during pregnancy. I understand if you are seriously ill and losing weight or can't function then you may need prescription drugs for nausea BUT for the majority of women who struggle with the mild to moderate nausea of pregnancy, please consider products that are clearly established to be safe for mom and baby.

Here are some of the best products we have found:

B-Natal™ Pops or Lozenges gives women just the right amount of vitamin B6 to help soothe the symptoms of morning sickness.

Psi Bands - Psi Bands (pronounced "Sigh Bands") are stylish, FDA-cleared acupressure wrist bands for the relief of nausea due to morning sickness (pregnancy). Unlike any product on the market, Psi Bands are: Adjustable, Comfortable, Drug-Free, Fashionable, Waterproof, Reusable and Affordable.

Preggie Pop Drops - A combination of essential oils and aromatherapy, Preggie Pops Drops alleviate dry mouth, provide quick calories and energy during labor, and ease nausea.

Happy Mama Spray - For pregnancy nausea, spritz a little onto your wrist and inhale to help settle the queasies. Made with a safe, proprietary blend that includes lime and ginger pure essential oils.

Sweetsation Therapy Lip Balm - A blend of Litsea and Peppermint oils help combat nausea by delivering it's aromatherapy benefits right under your nose.

Morning Wellness Tea by Earth Mama Angel Baby - When every little smell is suddenly a challenge and those morning queasies often last all day long, USDA Certified 100% Organic & Certified Kosher.

Making C-Section Recovery a Little Easier

2009-05-26T18:09:00Z

Whether your c-section was planned or the result of a labor that didn't progress, recovery can be painful. After two cesarean sections, I learned that the hardest thing to do (and that also slows recovery) is getting in and out of bed without pulling at the incision. I would use my arms and try to lift my body as well as move slowly, sleep as upright as possible but there were so many times that I thought I must have just reopened my incision because the pain was so sharp. It seemed like there really wasn't a way to maneuver easily without flexing my stomach. Besides, when you wake up to the cry of a new little baby, instinct kicks in and you try to move fast often forgetting about the proper positions to avoid pain.

I was just reading through Mom and Baby magazine and saw the C-Section Recovery Kit and went to their website to learn more. Here is the low down from their site:

"Soft abdominal compression binders help support the changing body through pregnancy, vaginal delivery & surgery. Cesarean Section birth deserves care, as surgery is stressful and now, a new baby needs you. Help yourself by using the softest binder during this special time. Most cultures use binding as an ancient tool for pregnancy, post partum, and after surgery support.... Protect and support your incision before rolling over to get out of bed. Avoid the tearing, and infections that lead to possible abdominal adhesions, painful periods, and a lumpy scar."

Deluxe C-Section Recovery Kit Includes: Easy to put on soft cotton blend AbdoMend™ Bikini Belt, Extra Support Strap, Skin Brush, C-Section information booklet and the Hemming Scar Therapy program but you can buy the support binder separately ($30-$35)

Personally, I am not after sexy or even scar therapy, I am wanting a recovery that is faster and much more comfortable than I have experienced in the past. I think new moms often attempt to jump right back in to their daily routine and don't have as much opportunity to rest when a new baby is home (especially if you have two small children too). They push themselves to hard and may not heal as well or it takes much longer to heal.

I would definitely consider purchasing the Hem-It-In Belt if I have another c-section. I think it will make all the difference to my recovery having been there before and knowing what a big difference this kind of support would make. Here is a little more information from the website: "Hem-It-In Belt is our quality core belt, with a 6 inch Velcro® closure attachment pad for an easily adjustable support belt. The belt ranges from 6"-9" wide, so your support needs can easily be met. Soft cotton covers our elastic, so comfort and coolness are a real part of the belt. Great for wearing under clothing, for the discreet support needed as you get back to driving and carrying baby. The added support during this period will help minimize scaring after major abdominal surgery."

LaborKit.com makes donations to help new moms and babies in need

2009-04-20T13:49:00Z

Thank you to everyone who purchased a LaborKit in 2008. We are happy to be able to make donations ($2 for every LaborKit sold) to help new moms, babies and children in need. Please learn more about these programs by visiting the sites below.

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation
The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation seeks to prevent pediatric HIV infection and to eradicate pediatric AIDS through research, advocacy, and prevention and treatment programs.

Calgary Health Region's Best Beginning Program
Best Beginning is a Calgary Health Region program for pregnant teens and pregnant women living on a low income. Best Beginning is a free, voluntary, and confidential service. Best Beginning staff work with pregnant women and their families to have the healthiest baby possible.

The Secret Lives of Moms

2009-04-08T17:42:00Z

Many of you have had your baby and are already facing the challenges that come with a new baby. Many are also expecting your new baby and not quite sure what the impact will be on your life, body or relationships. What can you do to help prepare you for the journey of motherhood ahead of you? Learn from many, many moms who have opened up and shared their secrets, confessions and brutal honesty about motherhood to help moms everywhere know that they are not alone and affirming that being a mom is hard work.

Here are a few words of wisdom or "dirty little secrets" that were recently the focus of an episode of Oprah featuring the authors of several books, many mom bloggers and Cheryl Hines of the new series In the Motherhood.

First of all, many (if not all) moms had similar sentiments. They felt alone, isolated, and that expectations on moms today are unrealistic. Interestingly, many moms felt they were the only ones who struggled and thought everyone else had it all together and lived balanced, fulfilling lives with perfect marriages. No one wanted to admit that they were having a very difficult time. The truth that came out of the segment (and as documented in several books by Trisha Ashworth and Amy Nobile) is that women need to support eachother and be empathic and non-judgmental. Being a mom is hard. Working outside the home, staying at home, working from home are all valid choices for moms and one path is not easier than the other. Being a mom is about forgiving yourself for not being perfect and accepting that you are doing the best you can.

Some of the women who commented on the shows shared a rare glimpse into "real life" as a mom. One mom who admitted to making her child's lunch entirely out of the snacks in her car. Another mom admitted that she sometimes doesn't get to shower for three days, many admitted that they don't bath their kids every day, and one who admitted that the day she had to buy a minivan was one of the worst days of her life. Many shared feelings about the strains on their marriages and friendships.

Motherhood changes your life and although the above sounds like its negative, that isn't the intention of this blog or the Oprah show. The goal was to let moms acknowledge that it is hard and the only people who truly understand and empathize are other moms. We need to remember to give ourselves a break and support each other. Today's expectations are unrealistic and many moms struggle to meet up to them mistakenly thinking everyone else is.

Please visit Oprah.com to find out more about "The Secret Lives of Moms" and check out the books Trisha Ashworth and Amy Nobile: I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids, I'd Trade My Husband for a Housekeeper and Dirty Little Secrets from Otherwise Perfect Moms.