tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26040656093961169982024-03-21T02:15:08.635-07:00Dover Doula - helping new moms and babies in Seacoast, NHAre you a new mom in the Seacoast, NH area? Dover Doula helps new moms and babies. I am a certified postpartum doula and lactation counselor. My blog covers topics of interest to local pregnant and postpartum women.
For more information on my services: www.doverdoula.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-91178229339800833422013-10-02T02:51:00.000-07:002013-10-25T05:00:19.786-07:00Seacoast New Mom & Baby Expo<a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> is proud to once again sponsor the <a href="http://www.seacoastmomandbabyexpo.com/" target="_blank">Seacoast New Mom & Baby Expo</a> along with ChildLight Yoga and Garrison Women's Health Center. This year's Expo will be on Wednesday, November 6th from 10:00am - 6:00pm at <a href="http://www.outlookweddings.com/" target="_blank">The Red Barn at Outlook</a> in South Berwick, ME. This is the 7th Annual Expo! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8n-_iIqdlCCm3lIEpst8sFc5bFHockXaeTHBQO3xwjQNGAH_3AAH8_ftdRPtjsHEMDg93XPyCeWhyphenhyphenktnP41Wos0vO2ZmT1UC_KK47AQKMyETmFtOaWn505VU7PskvPhuGbs7ns8rPZLtv/s1600/Dover+Doula+Expo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8n-_iIqdlCCm3lIEpst8sFc5bFHockXaeTHBQO3xwjQNGAH_3AAH8_ftdRPtjsHEMDg93XPyCeWhyphenhyphenktnP41Wos0vO2ZmT1UC_KK47AQKMyETmFtOaWn505VU7PskvPhuGbs7ns8rPZLtv/s320/Dover+Doula+Expo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dover Doula at the 2012 Seacoast Mom & Baby Expo</td></tr>
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The <a href="http://www.seacoastmomandbabyexpo.com/" target="_blank">Seacoast New Mom & Baby Expo</a> is one of my favorite days of the year! Not only do I get to meet hundreds of new moms and women who are pregnant, I get to catch up with most of the women and babies I've worked with throughout the past few years. It's the best!<br />
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If you are pregnant or have a new baby and live in the Seacoast area, you have to come! It's a great chance to meet many different local resources at once. For instance, do you need a photographer for your maternity or newborn portraits? At the Seacoast Mom & Baby Expo you can check out three: TARA Photography, MAC Photography and Kelly Meyers Photography. This will save you a ton of time doing research and you can enter to win a Free Mini-Maternity Session from TARA Photography (valued at $200!). <br />
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Besides photographers, there will be chiropractors, doulas, lactation consultants, healthcare providers, cloth diaper companies, preschools, financial planners and so much more!<br />
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Pregnant? Learn about your options for 3D/4D Ultrasound from Diagnostic Ultrasound Suite, birth & postpartum doula care from Seacoast Doula Group, Dover Doula, Hound Hill Doula and Koru Care Postpartum Doula Services. Prenatal yoga classes from ChildLight Yoga.<br />
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Are you a new mom? Learn about mom and baby yoga classes and classes for toddlers from ChildLight Yoga. Research non-toxic personal care products from Ava Anderson, financial planning from Primerica, childcare options with Little Tree Education and Seacoast Waldorf School. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqoD1nvYgu5k_8OK0xWIDBTgv-Zkn_8On6NW9DiYW3QEJCc5em0ngpBAi6Krj3J_tmb5EHMZJ8Po9GQs5LaXDSLZSboudrrz-BA9Z9QLyg_6abIgFovF0-J2FVMFE0wkmYjpimlrANgM1/s1600/massage+Expo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqoD1nvYgu5k_8OK0xWIDBTgv-Zkn_8On6NW9DiYW3QEJCc5em0ngpBAi6Krj3J_tmb5EHMZJ8Po9GQs5LaXDSLZSboudrrz-BA9Z9QLyg_6abIgFovF0-J2FVMFE0wkmYjpimlrANgM1/s320/massage+Expo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mom enjoys a free massage from <br />
Starry Brook Natural Medicine at the 2012 Expo<br />
(photo courtesy of TARA Photography)</td></tr>
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Either way, come pamper yourself! Enjoy a massage or treat yourself to lunch or a Mocktail from the Mocktail Bar sponsored by<a href="http://www.greatbaydoulas.com/" target="_blank"> Great Bay Doulas</a>. There will be tons of free samples and giveaways as well as the chance to win a whole bunch of fantastic raffle prizes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqMRP8OI8Ngv9MljI5RbWUYRst61t0YbX-D7tV4h0FhHiSXfbjRRc2GWmi_A-ClfgCDOdBdSD0l5Kec_hmHHIUQTAz8cXqxR8i5CY35CUFluPJLBnrXzURbC50blZsgA86gSFpQxP28ZI/s1600/Toddler+Play+Area.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqMRP8OI8Ngv9MljI5RbWUYRst61t0YbX-D7tV4h0FhHiSXfbjRRc2GWmi_A-ClfgCDOdBdSD0l5Kec_hmHHIUQTAz8cXqxR8i5CY35CUFluPJLBnrXzURbC50blZsgA86gSFpQxP28ZI/s320/Toddler+Play+Area.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">G.Willikers! FREE Toddler Play Area<br />
(photo courtesy of TARA Photography)</td></tr>
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Some highlights of the day include a private Nursing Nook sponsored by the lactation consultants from Goodwin Community Health. A free Toddler Play Area packed with toys from G!Willikers . Also the Stonyfield Farm Yogurt Truck will be on site from 12:00 - 3:00 pm handing out free samples for the kiddos. Throughout the day, other snacks will be provided by Happy Family brands and LARABAR. You can also enter your babies into Z107's Cutest Baby Photo Contest.<br />
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Be sure to follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/seacoastmomandbabyexpo" target="_blank">Seacoast Mom and Baby Expo Facebook page</a> for all the latest information and updates!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH, USA43.1978624 -70.87366980000001643.0126199 -71.196393300000011 43.3831049 -70.550946300000021tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-14599492171221767952013-06-14T10:07:00.001-07:002013-06-14T10:08:56.809-07:00What dads-to-be wantI think it is a universal truth that most dads-to-be want to help their partners during labor. But how?<br />
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I meet many dads-to-be who say they want to play an active role in the birth of their child. And I meet tons of moms-to-be who tell me they don't need a doula because their husband is going to be their support person. That is fantastic! But, your husband has never done this before either. And he probably hasn't read as many books as you have. :-) </div>
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One of my favorite parts of <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">my job</a> is teaching the <a href="http://www.yogabirthmethod.com/index.php" target="_blank">Yoga Birth Method</a> to expecting couples. I like to scan the room at the beginning of the class, because it sometimes seems like the dads aren't all that excited to be there. However, they ALWAYS leave feeling empowered and excited for the upcoming birth of their baby.</div>
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Why?</div>
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Because in this workshop, I teach couples how to use yoga poses and breathing techniques to:</div>
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<li>help labor progress</li>
<li>help you stay connected to your baby and each other</li>
<li>help manage pain</li>
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Moms-to-be learn yoga poses while the dads learn hands-on ways to assist each pose to offer comfort, encouragement and gentle support.</div>
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Dads-to-be leave with a "cheat sheet" that details what yoga poses work for each stage of labor. They learn specific tools and this seems to really resonate with men.</div>
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To learn more and see upcoming dates of my workshops, click <a href="https://www.childlightyoga.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=class_yogaforbirth01" target="_blank">here</a>! <br />
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<i>Darcy Sauers is a certified Yoga Birth Method instructor and a Prenatal Yoga teacher. She is also a DONA certified Postpartum Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. Darcy teaches prenatal yoga classes and Yoga Birth Method workshops and private sessions in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire. She is the owner of <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> and a member of <a href="http://www.greatbaydoulas.com/" target="_blank">Great Bay Doulas</a>. Darcy lives in Dover, NH with her husband and three children. For more information on her upcoming classes and workshops, please visit www.doverdoula.com. She can be reached at 603-988-5945 or darcy@doverdoula.com. </i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH, USA43.1978624 -70.87366980000001643.0126224 -71.196393300000011 43.3831024 -70.550946300000021tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-90686911019012133852013-01-10T07:07:00.002-08:002013-01-10T07:12:07.745-08:003 best ways to afford postpartum doula careWhenever I meet someone new and tell them that I am a postpartum doula and explain <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">what a postpartum doula does</a>, they usually say something along the lines of, "Boy, I could have really used you!" or "I wish I could have afforded that."<br />
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And, when I'm working with pregnant women in <a href="http://www.childlightyoga.com/Prenatal_Yoga_p/class_prenatal01.htm" target="_blank">prenatal yog</a>a, I often hear "I really wish I could afford to hire you for when my baby is here". With a little planning, you can!<br />
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I passionately believe that every new mom needs help. We no longer live in a society where the women of the village come help you after your baby is born. The reality is that now we need to hire postpartum doulas. New moms need to feel supported and taken care of. New moms need rest and healthy snacks and meals. New moms need help with breastfeeding and laundry. It is impossible to do it all, all by yourself.<br />
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So, here are my tips for the three best ways to afford postpartum doula care:<br />
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1. While you're pregnant, set aside some money each month to be put towards postpartum doula care. It can be $25 or $100 per month, whatever you can make happen. For instance, take whatever you used to spend each month on sushi, lunch meat and wine and save that for hiring postpartum doula support once your baby is here. Think back to your wedding and how much time, effort and money you put into making that a special day/weekend/time. The birth of your baby and YOU deserve that same attention now!<br />
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2. Register for it! Your friends and family really do want to give you a gift that you need and will use, so give them the opportunity to provide you with quality postpartum support. This also ensures that you don't end up with four wipes warmers or gear that you will never use. Include a link to my website on your registry or in your shower invite. Please contact me if you'd like some cards specifically designed to pop into your shower invitations. Loved ones can purchase gift certificates for you right on <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">my website</a>.<br />
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3. Call your health insurance provider. Many of my clients have had success with getting postpartum doula care and lactation support reimbursed by their insurance companies and even their Flex Spending Accounts. Call yours now to see what they will cover. If they do not, write a letter with details about why you especially need support (c-section, multiples, no family around, health condition etc.) Also, see if your health care provider will provide you a prescription for postpartum doula support. <br />
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Call me today to set up a free prenatal consultation so we can discuss your particular postpartum needs and ways we can work together to make it affordable.<br />
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<i>Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor and the owner of Dover Doula (www.doverdoula.com) in the Seacoast, NH area. She is passionately committed to helping ALL new moms find the support, resources and information they need. Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at darcy @ doverdoula.com or 603-988-5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period, prenatal yoga or local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DoverDoula?ref=hl">Facebook.</a></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH, USA43.1978624 -70.87366980000001643.0126199 -71.196393300000011 43.3831049 -70.550946300000021tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-7626215999645544662012-12-16T06:44:00.000-08:002012-12-20T06:28:58.429-08:00 5 Tips to Surviving the Holidays with a Baby<br />
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<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Let go.
</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">This is not the year that you are going to “wow” everyone with
homemade cookies and crafts or the perfect gift that you spent hours shopping
for or making.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">This is the year that all
you have to do is show up and let your baby wow them!</span></li>
<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Buy yourself
a new sweater. </b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Go out and buy
yourself a nice baggy sweater that makes you feel beautiful.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Maybe one with a turtle neck and something
sparkly to draw the eye away from your postpartum belly, dark under-eye circles,
and leaky boobs. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Then put it on over
your pants with the expandable maternity belly and your best nursing bra.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">No one is looking at you anyway, but it is
important to feel beautiful!</span></li>
<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">The baby
IS the gift</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">This year, tell Aunt
Mary that her gift is fifteen minutes alone with your baby.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Trust me, she’ll be psyched.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">And, you’ll get to go to the bathroom by
yourself.</span></li>
<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Enjoy all
the extra hands</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Surrender to the
fact that your baby is going to be exposed to a bunch of germs.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Embrace it and let all your loved ones hold
your baby all day while you enjoy such luxuries as eating with two hands,
talking to another adult and not having spit up on your shoulder.</span></li>
<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Take lots
of pictures. </b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">And take pictures with
YOU in them too.</span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Babies screaming on Santa’s lap are my
favorite.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">They don’t have to be
beautifully staged or feature the three of you in matching outfits.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">They
just have to capture these precious moments of your first holiday season
together.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">And your new sweater!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i>Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor and the owner of Dover Doula (www.doverdoula.com) in the Seacoast, NH area whose holiday wish is that moms would just cut each other some slack. She is passionately committed to helping ALL new moms find the support, resources and information they need. Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at darcy @ doverdoula.com or 603.988.5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period, prenatal yoga or local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doverdoula.darcysauers" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-38649797078929447952012-11-03T04:00:00.002-07:002012-11-03T04:15:53.174-07:00Help for moms with twins<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 19px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">How does a postpartum doula support mothers of multiples?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><i>"What a gift it was to have you come to my house after the birth of my triplets. It was such a relief to know that I could take a nap or enjoy a little 'me' time and know that my babies were in loving and capable hands. I tell every pregnant mom I meet about Dover Doula and I highly recommend your services. I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful you and your services are. Thank you so much, Darcy!" </i> Becky in Dover, NH mother of triplet </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Every new mom needs help, but moms of multiples need extra help! Many families expecting multiples are flooded with offers of help, which is wonderful. Experienced help from a postpartum doula can be vital to these families.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The role
of the <b>postpartum doula </b>is fluid. An important part of her role is to
come alongside the parents and together decide what type of support they will
need. Some families need <b>educational support: breastfeeding, infant suppor</b>t,
and how to care for the new mother. Others rely more on the <b>non-judgmental
emotional support</b> that the DONA International postpartum doula has to
offer. Still others have more practical needs – like feeding the family and
running errands. Most families find that their doula provides all of these
things, according to the needs that develop, as well as the ever-important
communication between the doula and her clients. That said, prospective parents
and their families sometimes wonder – just what will the postpartum doula do
when she comes to my home? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A postpartum doula supporting a family with multiples
might... <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Provide hands-on
education on infant multiples and mother care<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Provide hands-on
education and support for tandem nursing, pumping and feeding of multiples<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Create a nurturing,
restful atmosphere in which parents may eat, shower and nap<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Prepare snacks and
meals, make sure mom is well hydrated <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Assist with laundry,
dishes, meal preparation and other light household chores to allow mom
& dad to focus on bonding with new babies<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spend time with the
babies, allowing parents to cuddle and have quality time with older
children or just be alone together <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Introduce parenting
tips, helping parents to learn skills that will enable them to cope with
their new responsibilities <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Screen for hurdles such
as breastfeeding challenges or postpartum mood disorders<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make referrals to any
local or informational resources that the parents might need <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Help to organize the
nursery and home <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Offer a listening,
non-judgmental ear <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Additionally, families expecting multiples are often faced with financial challenges as well, especially if babies have to spend extended time in the hospital, and they feel they can't afford a postpartum doula. If you have a friend or family member expecting multiples and you are wondering how you can help, please consider a <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> gift certificate. <a href="mailto:darcy@doverdoula.com" target="_blank">Contact me</a> for more info.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i>Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor and the owner of Dover Doula (www.doverdoula.com) in the Seacoast, NH area. She has experience helping families with twins and triplets and is passionately committed to helping ALL new moms find the support, resources and information they need. Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at darcy @ doverdoula.com or 603.988.5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period, prenatal yoga or local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doverdoula.darcysauers" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH 03820, USA43.1978624 -70.873669843.1052599 -71.0322848 43.290464899999996 -70.7150548tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-88362155210615315352012-06-14T10:28:00.001-07:002013-06-14T11:35:11.579-07:00Breastfeeding a baby with food allergies - a survival guideMy very first guest post! <br />
<br />
I met Nicole Derr of <a href="http://www.nmdphotography.com/" target="_blank">NMD Photography</a> and her adorable daughter Addison at a Mommy & Me group at the <a href="http://www.nogginfactorytoys.com/" target="_blank">Noggin Factory</a> in Dover in 2011. As time passed, I admired her strength and determination to do what was best for her daughter. I asked her to share her story of breastfeeding a baby with severe food allergies in the hopes that her story would help and inspire other new moms!<br />
<br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I Survived, and You Can Too!<br />
<br />
I’ve been staring at this jar of Nutella for 15 months now, and tomorrow, I am finally going to open the darn thing up and dig in. Perhaps only the arrival of our daughter, Addison, has been met with more anticipation.<br />
<br />
I’m here to attest to the fact that indeed, a desperate chocoholic like myself can in fact make The Ultimate Sacrifice for her child, every single day for said 15 months.<br />
<br />
Here’s the backstory: (If you want the short version, just skip down to the Survival Food List and Survival Strategy List!) We welcomed Addison into the world on January 8th of 2011. Aside from being the World’s Most Beautiful Baby, she was such a dream at first; she was all cuddly and would nap for hours on our chests, and make these adorable little satisfied noises when she nursed. And then one night after a week or two, she cried inconsolably for two hours straight. And then the next night she cried for three hours. And then she started crying, at top volume, for hours, at any time of the day or<br />
night. Being a first time mom, I was horrified and overwhelmed but folks kept telling me that it was common for babies to be “fussy” at night. The pediatrician said she was just fine. She just has a lot of gas. I should try to relax.<br />
<br />
Addison’s screaming wasn’t fussing. It didn’t wind up gradually and peak and then die down. She would be sleeping soundly and awake with a start and a shrill shriek and then nothing-- not nursing, not Colic Calm, not bouncing, or swinging or swaddling or promising to buy her a unicorn would calm her. To me, it was clear that she was in pain.<br />
<br />
And I felt utterly powerless to help her.<br />
<br />
One day when Addison was four weeks old, a friend came over with her three month old. I absolutely couldn’t get my mind around the fact that her baby didn’t cry (beyond fussing to nurse) for the entire two hour visit. The whole time! Meanwhile Addie was having a particularly bad day and maybe stopped crying for 20 minutes of their visit. I decided to take matters into my own hands. I did some research and decided to go on a total elimination diet to figure out once and for all if Addison’s pain was being caused by something I was eating. I just didn’t buy it that one month old babies were typically this unhappy, or had diapers full of mucousy poop, or projectile vomited on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
Eliminating all potential allergenic foods pretty much leaves you with meat, rice, vegetables and some fruit. I was a woman on a mission. I didn’t even use salt and pepper. I was totally clueless. And starving.<br />
<br />
I figured it would just be for a week, just to see. No change. Ok two more days. Nothing.<br />
<br />
Finally one day she had a poop that showed some flecks of blood, and at last our pediatrician began taking me seriously and scheduled an appointment for the next morning. The tested the stool and turns out it was chock full of blood. Digested blood is green. So my girl’s intestines were so irritated that they were bleeding and she was pooping it all out. Odd as it sounds, this was a relief for me: at last we are going to get somewhere with this and she is going to feel better. After having me collect her stool--<br />
and enduring her pain-- for a week (I’ll leave the details of how to collect diariaah from a diaper to your imagination, and tell you only that it involves saran wrap and popsicle sticks) they finally referred us to a Pediatric GI specialist.<br />
<br />
We drove out to Manchester to hear some pretty simple news: she definitely has a protein allergy. It is either dairy, soy or egg. Stop eating those and she will get better. Come back in three months. Nothing else you eat will have an effect or her. The reaction to these proteins builds up over time in the gut, so it’s not like giving them up for a week or two will have much difference. It has to be for good. (“For Good,” I thought, at this point, was until our recheck at 5 months). This was great news because<br />
there were so many things that I could add back in, with wheat being the saving grace. However after the initial euphoria of eating bread wore off (bakery bread sans soy of course)... we were left with a major challenge.<br />
<br />
I thank my lucky stars that my husband is so supportive of breastfeeding, and also that he’s such a good cook.(He’s the chef in our house, and I clean). While he didn’t have to live without butter, or cheese, or basically anything that comes in a box or a wrapper, he has gone to the end of the Earth to make my food life bearable. Prepared meals of quinoa, spinach and chicken in the fridge for my lunch. Pasta separated for me with my “special” butter on it. Bags of the “special” chocolate chips. It took us a while to compile the list of must have items for this diet, and once we got those staples, it was<br />
really quite bearable. At home, except when I caught a glance of the dreaded Nutella jar, I rarely felt deprived.<br />
<br />
Survival Food List:<br />
<br />
Hannaford store brand bagels (select flavors only are soy free-- plain, multigrain,<br />
sesame), Hannaford brand pizza dough- (You can make a decent cheese free calzone<br />
with said dough. My fav was chicken and pesto), and Hannaford brand Stoned Wheat<br />
Thin crackers<br />
Enjoy Life chocolate (the dark is not half bad. The milk tastes like cardboard. I may<br />
recant the “half bad” once I eat real chocolate again, but to me, it now passes as<br />
chocolate)<br />
Earth’s Best Soy Free Spread (find it at Market Basket or Wal-Mart)<br />
<br />
Almond milk<br />
Quinoa, rice, most pastas<br />
Coconut milk ice cream (chocolate or vanilla. The others have soy). Try with fresh fruit<br />
or with maple syrup on top.<br />
<br />
Follow that with the Survival Strategy List:<br />
<br />
Trust your Mother Instinct, even if you’re a first time mom. Get a second opinion.<br />
Read labels like a psycho person and don’t necessarily believe people when they tell you something is dairy/soy/egg free. (Not on purpose, but people don’t realize the many forms that these ingredients can take, and that they’re in nearly everything. They also don’t realize that one bite of something with butter, for example, will have your baby up crying all night).<br />
Avoid parties and gatherings where food is the center of activity. These will leave you feeling deprived, jealous, and bitter.<br />
Find support. Friends, husband, a doula.<br />
Figure out foods that still feel like “treats” and eat them regularly to keep from feeling like binging. You may have to shell out more money (ie coconut ice cream) but this is the key to keeping on.<br />
Figure out dates with your spouse that don’t involve food. (This is no small feat. Everything seems to involve food).<br />
Keep emergency snacks in your diaper bag since you can’t stop for a quick bite.<br />
Remind yourself how lucky you are that your baby’s pain can be solved without medical<br />
intervention, and think of this as a way that you can take care of them.<br />
Remind yourself that this is not forever.<br />
Remind yourself that hypoallergenic formula costs a fortune, smells like butt, and is mostly high fructose corn syrup. Not an option.<br />
<br />
Now, Addison is 17 months old, and fully weaned as of last week. I came downstairs from putting her to bed without nursing, bawled in my husband’s arms for a few minutes, and then promptly dove in to eating a key lime pie complete with store bought crust.<br />
<br />
The best part of the diet: the total awe and appreciation for food that comes when it’s over! And the weirdest part? It’s been over a week now... and I haven’t had a single bite of chocolate. I guess the hiatus curbed my cravings. But knowing that I CAN dip into that Nutella whenever it strikes my fancy? Priceless.<br />
<br />
<br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
UPDATE: Nicole just welcomed baby #2! See the adorable photos <a href="http://www.nmdphotoblog.com/2013/06/dover-doula/" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Nicole is the owner of NMD Photography. Check out her work at www.nmdphotography.com</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Do you need support around dealing with a baby with food allergies? <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> (www.doverdoula.com) provides help with breastfeeding and postpartum doula services. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH, USA43.1978624 -70.873669843.1052599 -71.0315983 43.290464899999996 -70.7157413tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-86603865080950275862012-05-14T08:25:00.001-07:002013-01-03T11:33:16.271-08:00Yoga Birth Method - Use Yoga During Labor<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you starting to wonder how that baby inside of you is going to come out? Interested in exploring natural childbirth and learning ways to manage labor pain naturally? Check out my Yoga Birth Method workshops and learn to use the power of yoga breathing and poses to work with your body to manage the pain of labor and to help labor progress faster.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Yoga Birth Method workshop is designed for pregnant women and their labor support partners. At this workshop, you will learn a very specific sequence of breathing techniques and yoga postures that are adapted to the physical and emotional changes of the different stages of labor. This will enable you to manage contractions from a calm, meditative and controlled perspective.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Yoga Birth Method is for women who are interested in educating themselves about natural childbirth and empowering themselves during their own baby's birth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a hands-on workshop where you will learn how to work with your body and connect to your baby during birth to take you out of the experience of pain and connect you to the experience of giving birth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Benefits of the Yoga Birth Method:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Faster labor progression as the yoga poses encourage the baby's movement into the birth canal</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Learn to remain focused and in control of your birth experience in a positive manner</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A deep mother-baby connection as they work together during labor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Birth partners learn specific techniques to physically and emotionally assist the woman during labor</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWoaXKvfkB4yEF0FoB0B8hjrWKRFRilxO4e7jglZmMfXJgW4hSOIy1Qd98hGoP-85CWkFdWY6HisEjUvYAmvM_SAtLS1388p-DcP7xwSnNjSPPgAfnKlI93usPajue5QmyAtDCSqohB5Y/s1600/DSC_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWoaXKvfkB4yEF0FoB0B8hjrWKRFRilxO4e7jglZmMfXJgW4hSOIy1Qd98hGoP-85CWkFdWY6HisEjUvYAmvM_SAtLS1388p-DcP7xwSnNjSPPgAfnKlI93usPajue5QmyAtDCSqohB5Y/s320/DSC_0238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipw2PimZAB69JDDG-13plFermg-f-3ra7xw1bIAd_nQgzCx9I1PP1AY3kKvsN3Ks263qVINAb_jCXfp0Aic9fM6P17utJW5uGxz_ZTIaQAKZCoA7eCaiKLwqa6XmOA46ReH3I_OXCSGhVe/s1600/DSC_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipw2PimZAB69JDDG-13plFermg-f-3ra7xw1bIAd_nQgzCx9I1PP1AY3kKvsN3Ks263qVINAb_jCXfp0Aic9fM6P17utJW5uGxz_ZTIaQAKZCoA7eCaiKLwqa6XmOA46ReH3I_OXCSGhVe/s320/DSC_0285.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.childlightyoga.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=class_yogaforbirth01" target="_blank">Click here</a> to find an upcoming Yoga Birth Method workshop in Dover, NH! Or contact Darcy directly to schedule a private, in-home Yoga Birth Method class for you and your partner. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Yoga Birth Method is a great compliment to Birthing From Within, Hypnobirth, Bradley or Lamaze class. It is also a great fit for hospital births, home births and birth center births.</span><br />
<div style="border-width: 0px; color: #444444; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1.12em; margin-top: 1.12em; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i>Darcy Sauers is a certified Yoga Birth Method instructor and a Prenatal Yoga teacher. She is also a DONA certified Postpartum Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. Darcy teaches prenatal yoga classes and Yoga Birth Method workshops and private sessions in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire. She is the owner of <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> and a member of <a href="http://www.greatbaydoulas.com/" target="_blank">Great Bay Doulas</a>. Darcy lives in Dover, NH with her husband and three children. For more information on her upcoming classes and workshops, please visit www.doverdoula.com. She can be reached at 603-988-5945 or darcy@doverdoula.com. </i></div>
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</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, NH, USA43.1978624 -70.873669843.1052599 -71.0315983 43.290464899999996 -70.7157413tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-35089639324060742542012-04-04T02:48:00.000-07:002012-08-17T10:56:50.274-07:00Choosing to Breastfeed<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Despite what friends and family may have told you, breastfeeding can be easy and painless. The key to success is to ask for help and support early and often. And, women in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">New Hampshire</st1:place></st1:state> today are very fortunate to have a number of great breastfeeding resources available. There is a large network of qualified lactation professionals who are committed to helping moms have a positive, painless breastfeeding experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Breastfeeding Benefits for Mom:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are many proven health benefits for women who choose to breastfeed! Women who do not breastfeed are at a greater risk of breast cancer. Your breast cancer risk is reduced by 7% for each birth and at an additional rate of 4.3% per month that you continue breastfeeding.<a href="file:///C:/Users/Darcy/Documents/Choosing%20to%20Breastfeed.doc#_edn1" name="_ednref1" title=""><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span class="MsoEndnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">[1]</span></span></span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Research has also found that women who do not breastfeed are at a greater risk for developing ovarian cancer and Type 2 Diabetes. Breastfeeding for 18 months or more was associated with a significant decrease in ovarian cancer risk (compared to not breastfeeding). For each month of breastfeeding the relative risk was decreased by 2%.<a href="file:///C:/Users/Darcy/Documents/Choosing%20to%20Breastfeed.doc#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">[3]</span></span></span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Increasing the duration of breastfeeding is also associated with a decreased risk of Type 2 Diabetes. For each additional year of lactation, women had a decrease in the risk of Type 2 Diabetes of 14-15%.<a href="file:///C:/Users/Darcy/Documents/Choosing%20to%20Breastfeed.doc#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">[4]</span></span></span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are pregnant and want to breastfeed, set yourself up for success. Ask yourself:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Does my birth place encourage Skin to Skin for one hour immediately after delivery for a non-medicated birth and Skin to Skin for two hours after a medicated birth?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Does my birth place have Lactation Counselors on staff?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Does the pediatrician I have chosen have Lactation Counselors on staff?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Which of my friends who have breastfed successfully would be able to offer me non-judgemental support?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What breastfeeding support groups are available in my area? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Who are the private Certified Lactation Counselors in my area?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">7.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Who are the certified Postpartum Doulas in my area?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Keep this list of answers handy for when your baby arrives. And, do not hesitate to reach out with all questions and for any help you may need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the most important things you can do to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship is to have continuous Skin to Skin contact with your baby immediately after birth. Skin to Skin should last for one hour if you’ve had a natural, un-medicated birth. If you had any medications during labor, Skin to Skin should be for a continuous two hour period to give the baby a little more time. When babies are allowed to have this quiet time on their moms, they are able to latch successfully and start breastfeeding at their own pace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And remember, if it hurts, ask for help! Take advantage of the many available resources around you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://doverdoula.blogspot.com/2012/02/breastfeeding-support-in-seacoast-nh.html" target="_blank"><b>Click here for a list of Breastfeeding Groups in the Seacoast area!</b></a></span></div>
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<em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula¸ lactation counselor and the owner of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dover</st1:place></st1:city> Doula (</span></em><a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;">www.doverdoula.com</span></em></a><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">) in the Seacoast area. She is passionately committed to helping new moms find the support, resources and information that they need. </span></em><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at</span></em><span class="apple-converted-space"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><a href="mailto:darcy@doverdoula.com"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;">darcy@doverdoula.com</span></em></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">or 603-988-5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period and local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000200069253"><span style="font-style: normal;">Facebook</span></a> </span></em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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1<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><a href="file:///C:/Users/Darcy/Documents/Choosing%20to%20Breastfeed.doc#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""></a>Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12133652">PubMed</a></div>
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2<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Danforth et al. <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17450440">PubMed</a><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"> </span></div>
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3<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Schwarz et al. <a href="http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-08/uops-mwd082510.php">University of Pittsburgh</a></div>
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</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-82188839256791626082012-02-29T10:03:00.000-08:002012-08-17T10:57:29.455-07:00Breastfeeding help in Seacoast, NH area<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do you need a little help with breastfeeding? New moms in the Seacoast, NH area are lucky to have many ways to get help. Besides hiring a <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/Dover_Doula_contact.html" target="_blank">lactation consultant</a> to come to your home, there are lots of great options in the Seacoast area where you can not only get together with other moms and babies, but also have your questions answered by lactation counselors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Breastfeeding Support Groups</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wentworth Douglass Hospital in Dover, NH</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" name="NewParentSupportGroup"></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">New Parent Support Group</span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Come and meet other new parents and discuss topics of concern to you. Facilitated by lactation consultants and child life specialists. Held every Monday, EXCEPT for holidays, 1:30-3pm. No registration necessary for this class.</span></span></div>
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Portsmouth Regional Hospital </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Our Breast Feeding Support Group meets every Wednesday from 10:00 am to 12 noon in the Maternity Family Room at Portsmouth Regional Hospital.</span><br />
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Exeter Hospital<br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The group meets every Tuesday from 11:00am - 12:30 noon. This group provides the added support needed for the changing needs of a growing baby. This is also a time to foster mother to mother support and assistance. A lactation consultant is available during this time.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NH</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Frisbie’s Mom and Baby Group held on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.— 11:30 a.m.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Seacoast Area La Leche League</span></div>
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<a href="http://seacoastnhlll.org/"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">http://seacoastnhlll.org/</span></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On the first Wednesday of each month, we have an morning meeting at the The First Baptist Church in Exeter, NH. The meeting starts at 10:30am and usually runs until 11:30am with a half hour informal period afterwards. The First Baptist Church is located at 2 Spring Street in Exeter at the corner of Spring and Front. For more information or parking details, contact Traci (603) 397-5235 LLLTRACI@GMAIL.COM. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> On the first Wednesday of each month, we have an evening meeting at the Coastal Family Birth Retreat in Stratham, NH. The meeting starts at 6:30pm and usually runs until 7:30pm with a half hour informal period afterwards. Coastal Family Birth Retreat is located at 13 Frying Pan Lane in Stratham. For more information, contact Traci (603) 397-5235. *Welcomes fathers, partners and husbands to join us.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> On the second Thursday of each month, we have a morning meeting in the nursery of the First Parish Church in Dover, NH. The meeting starts at 10:30am and usually runs until 11:30am with a half hour informal period afterwards. The First Parish Church is located on the corner of Central Ave and Silver Street in Dover. For more information, contact Colleen at (603) 294-4352.</span></span></div>
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Of course, you also have the option of hiring a Lactation Counselor to come to your home for some private, one on one help!<br />
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<i>Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor and the owner of Dover Doula (www.doverdoula.com) in the Seacoast, NH area. She is passionately committed to helping new moms find the support, resources and information that they need. Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at darcy@doverdoula.com or 603-988-5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period and local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doverdoula.darcysauers" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-9712858919604842312012-02-22T13:41:00.057-08:002012-08-17T10:58:03.784-07:00Where to go with your baby in Dover, NHSo, you have a new baby and you've finally mastered getting him in and out of the carseat. You know what to pack in your diaper bag and you are comfortable with feeding him in public. Great! <br />
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But...where do you go? <br />
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Getting out of the house is not only a multi-hour project, it is also vitally important to your mental health. One of the best ways to beat the baby blues is to leave your house with the baby and spend some time with other adults. The perfect scenario is a Mommy & Me group or class, places where you can hang out and not have to leave if your baby gets hungry or starts to cry. <br />
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These groups also give you a chance to connect with other local moms who have babies the same age as yours and perhaps develop friendships. Below you will find a list, but be sure to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000200069253">"like" me on Facebook</a> for the most updated info on local classess and resources. <br />
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">Here's a day-by-day guide to getting out of the house with your baby in the Dover, NH area: </span></em></strong><br />
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9:30 - 10:30 am <strong>NOGGIN FACTORY, Dover NH</strong><br />
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New Baby Play Group<br />
This is an open and free Play Group for wee ones ages birth to 12 months and their caregivers. New Baby Play Group is mostly participant driven, though we will occasionally schedule special guests to present information about popular topics. Special sessions will be announced on Facebook. We recommend that you bring a blanket for baby.<br />
<a href="http://www.nogginfactorytoys.com/">http://www.nogginfactorytoys.com/</a><br />
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Also - check out the Noggin Factory's private nursing and changing room - open every day! <br />
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10:30 - 12:00 PM<strong> TWICE THE FUN in Dover, NH</strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.twicethefunnh.com/">http://www.twicethefunnh.com/</a></div>
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Busy Babies class on Mondays 10:30 – 12 Noon – for babies 18 months and under</div>
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12:00 - 1:00 pm <strong>Peace Baby Yoga at ChildLight Yoga in Dover</strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><span class="890031302-04012011" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">In this special class, you will l</span>earn yoga and infant massage for baby, as well as some restorative yoga and affirmations for you. For more info and to register: <a href="http://www.childlightyoga.com/">http://www.childlightyoga.com/</a></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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1:30 pm - 3:00 pm <strong>New Parent Support Group at Wentworth Douglass Hospital</strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Come and meet other new parents and discuss topics of concern to you. Facilitated by lactation consultants and child life specialists. Held every Monday, EXCEPT for holidays, 1:30-3pm. No registration necessary for this class. They even have a scale for weighing your baby!</span></span><br />
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10:30 - 11:30 am Baby Signs Class at Seacoast Birth Matters in Kittery, ME<br />
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<span style="font-family: helvetica;"> “Sign, See & Play” with Heather Mladek</span><br />
<span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="http://www.seacoastbirthmatters.org/">http://www.seacoastbirthmatters.org/</a></span><br />
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<em>class starts on 3/13</em><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">9:30 - 11:30 am at <strong>Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NH</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Frisbie’s Mom and Baby Group held on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.— 11:30 a.m.</span></span></div>
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<strong>CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF NH in Dover</strong></div>
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<b><span style="color: #666666; font-size: 10pt;">First Friends Playgroup<br />
Wednesdays,March 7 - April 11 (no playgroup 4/18 & 4:25)</span></b><span style="color: #666666; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
<b>9:30 - 11:00 am</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 10pt;">The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is offering a new weekly program for its very youngest visitors. The <b>First Friends Playgroup for children ages 6 months – two years</b> will be offered on Wednesday mornings. Parents and children are invited to come to the museum from <b>9:30 – 11 am</b> to meet and play together on the second floor of the museum. This area features the <i>Primary Place</i> exhibit area designed especially for babies and toddlers, as well as other engaging exhibits. This informal program is included in the museum’s regular admission price and is free for museum members. The non-member price of admission at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is $9 for adults and children, and $8 for adults age 65+. Children under age one are always admitted at no charge.</span></div>
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THURSDAYS:<br />
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10:00 - 11:00 am <strong>Mom & Baby Yoga at ChildLight Yoga in Dover</strong><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><span class="890031302-04012011" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic; font-weight: normal;">Interested in a gentle and safe way to begin to restore your body to its pre-pregnancy state, but don't want to leave your baby? Here's the perfect class for you! For more info and to register: <a href="http://www.childlightyoga.com/">http://www.childlightyoga.com/</a></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<strong>1:00 - 2:30 pm Hatchlings Group at SEACOAST BIRTH MATTERS in Kittery, ME</strong> </div>
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<a href="http://www.seacoastbirthmatters.org/">http://www.seacoastbirthmatters.org/</a></div>
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Hatchlings: Babies 0-4 months</div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Get support, resources & stay connected with other parents as you navigate the parenting waters. Honest, open & non-judgmental discussions about “newborn” parenting are held weekly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Am I missing something? Please let me know at darcy @ doverdoula.com.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/">http://www.doverdoula.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><em style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula, lactation counselor and the owner of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dover</st1:place></st1:city> Doula (</span></em><a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" style="color: #993322; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">www.doverdoula.com</span></em></a><em style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">) in the Seacoast area. She is passionately committed to helping new moms find the support, resources and information that they need. </span></em><em style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at</span></em><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><a href="mailto:darcy@doverdoula.com" style="color: #993322; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">darcy@doverdoula.com</span></em></a><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><em style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">or 603-988-5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period and local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000200069253" style="color: #993322; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Facebook</span></a></span></em></span>
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<br />
However, as a postpartum doula, I am also very interested in having a calm Mom! So, I would like to take this opportunity to present my Three S's for moms. These three S's will help a new mom stay calm, avoid postpartum blues and mood disorders and most of all enjoy her baby. A happy and relaxed mom can take better care of her baby. And also - YOU DESERVE IT!<br />
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<a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/">Dover Doula's</a> Three S's:<br />
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1. <strong>S</strong>leep - There is nothing, absolutely nothing, like the sleep deprivation that comes along with a newborn. So, go lay down in your bed EVERY SINGLE CHANCE YOU GET! This means: napping when the baby naps, napping when your partner gets home from work, napping when a friend comes to visit (they only want to hold the baby anyway), napping on the couch when your baby is safely snuggled on your chest, napping when your doula comes, napping all the time! <br />
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Not only are you exhausted from all the nighttime feedings, but your body needs to recover and heal from birth (particularly if you've had a cesarean birth). The only time your body can heal is when it is relaxed and resting. Also, if you are breastfeeding, you need to be getting enough sleep so that your body can produce milk. Breastfeeding burns a lot of calories/energy!<br />
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So, after you read #2 and #3 - close your laptop and go lay down!<br />
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2. <strong>S</strong>ustenance - nourish yourself so that you can sustain life - your own and your baby's. Drink plenty of water to help withe healing process, cleansing process and the production of milk. Eat yummy, warm, healthy food. Change your morning routine to having your partner cook you a nice big breakfast before leaving for work. Eating lots of healthy meals and snacks throughout the day helps keep your blood sugar steady and your head clear. <br />
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Breathe! Throughout the day, notice your posture and try to sit up straight, allowing your lungs to fill to capacity as you inhale. As you exhale, feel your navel pulling in toward your spine and imagine that you are exhaling all the stale air up and out from the bottom of your lungs. Taking some moments to take some nice deep breaths can rejuvenate and relax you.<br />
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3. <strong>S</strong>elf-care - New moms (hey - all moms!) need to put a lot of focus on self-care. The postpartum time period is a sacred time. Nurture yourself. Be sure you are resting when the baby rests, eating healthy meals and snacks, drinking plenty of water. Yes, it would be fantastic if you could sneek away for a massage or a pedicure, but let's get real here. Self-care can also be as simple as ensuring you have a moment to brush your teeth, taking the time to take a nice, long, hot shower. Massaging your skin with a gentle oil. Enjoying a nice, long snuggle on the couch with your yummy baby. Self-care means postponing the thank you note writing while you and your baby go back to bed after the first early morning feeding. <br />
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This is hard, because your "mother bear" instincts are kicking in full force with a rush of natural hormones and it is completely normal and common to put the baby first. New moms tend to push their own basic needs to the back burner as they focus on their baby, but as any good flight attendant worth their salty peanuts will tell you, you need to put your own oxygen mask on first, before you can help your baby.<br />
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Take care of yourself. Put yourself first - ahead of the laundry, the thank you notes, the unpacking, and the dishes. Step over that laundry basket and go for a walk outside for some fresh air and sunshine. Close the door on the unfinished nursery, light a candle and take a nice long soak in the tub. <br />
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You, and your baby, are worth it. <!-- Place this tag where you want the +1 button to render. -->
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And then it starts. The fussing and the crying. Maybe even some screaming. It's the Witching Hour.<br />
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Before you know it, your sweetie pie has called to say he'll be late and you and the baby are both sobbing. And that's usually when you also realize you haven't even brushed your teeth yet. Never mind had a shower.<br />
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Does the so-called Witching Hour exist? It sure does! Is there anything you can do to help your baby avoid The Witching Hour? There sure is!<br />
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The Witching Hour is simply your baby's reaction to a long day of stimulation. Remember, this baby just spent nine months in your womb. Being here on the "outside" is like Disneyworld to him or her, even if you never left the first floor of your house. <br />
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When my clients ask about the Witching Hour, I always tell them that babies are like computers. And sometimes you just have to re-boot.<br />
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When I say "re-boot", what I really mean is try to recreate the womb. Allow your baby to relax in a womb-like setting to counteract the stimulation from the day and let you both relax.<br />
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Steps for recreating the womb:<br />
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1. Dim the lights<br />
2. Turn off the tv, music and the ringer on your phone<br />
3. Swaddle the baby up <br />
4. Depending on the level of fussiness either sit down and snuggle the baby, holding him or her really close to you with his ear resting right next to your mouth. Whisper and/or sing softly to your baby. Or, if the baby is really worked up, start to bounce/pace/swing your baby while "shushing" in his or her ear.<br />
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These steps will help the baby to feel safe and make it easier for him/her to calm down.<br />
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Tips for avoiding the Witching Hour:<br />
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1. Allow your baby to sleep as much as s/he can during the day. Babies need LOTS of sleep. This helps them avoid that over-tired, over-stimulated state.<br />
2. Keep your daily activities to a minimum. Both you and the baby need to rest and take it easy.<br />
3. Watch your baby's cues. If s/he is slowing down and not really focusing on anything, give him or her a break. The baby is probably ready for a nap.<br />
4. Limit visitors. I know it's hard because you want to show your baby off and the whole world wants to come see him/her. But long days of visitors can wear both you and the baby out.<br />
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Two VERY important things to keep in mind while dealing with the Witching Hour.<br />
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1. When your baby is upset, s/he learns that you will be there to comfort him or her. This is an important thing for them to learn - that they can trust you.<br />
2. This is normal. Find solace in the fact that thousand of other new parents are pacing the halls of their own homes across the globe at this very moment.<br />
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When the baby does eventually calm down, reheat that lasagna your neighbor brought over and then call a friend or a postpartum doula to come over the next day and help you get a break.<br />
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<em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Darcy Sauers is a certified postpartum doula¸ lactation counselor and the owner of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dover</st1:place></st1:city> Doula (</span></em><a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;">www.doverdoula.com</span></em></a><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">) in the Seacoast area. She is passionately committed to helping new moms find the support, resources and information that they need. </span></em><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> Please do not hesitate to contact Darcy with any questions at</span></em><span class="apple-converted-space"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><a href="mailto:darcy@doverdoula.com"><em><span style="color: #897038; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;">darcy@doverdoula.com</span></em></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><i><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></i></span><em><span style="color: #6f7870; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10.5pt;">or 603-988-5945. For more information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period and local resources and events for new moms, follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000200069253"><span style="font-style: normal;">Facebook</span></a></span></em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
However, for me and other postpartum doulas, it is NOT about the babies. It's about the new mom. <br />
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Postpartum doulas "mother the mother" and nurture them to help ease their transition into motherhood. Holding the baby is just a bonus! Postpartum doulas do a lot of listening to help new moms process their birth story (positive or negative) and the tremendous range of emotions that they experience in those first few postpartum weeks. <br />
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A big part of what I do is also teaching these new moms to remember to nurture themselves. The baby does not always have to come first. Moms need to take the time to eat healthy meals, drink plenty of water, take a shower, take a walk, take a nap. <br />
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A <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/Dover_Doula_FAQs.html">common question</a> I hear is "What's the difference between a baby nurse and a postpartum doula?" I love to watch peoples' reaction as I answer, "A baby nurse takes care of the baby. A postpartum doula takes care of the whole family."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-5833435537597823422011-06-13T11:41:00.000-07:002013-06-26T12:57:10.653-07:00Easing Sciatic Nerve Pain with Prenatal YogaIn addition to being a Postpartum Doula, I also teach Prenatal Yoga at <a href="http://www.childlightyoga.com/">Childlight Yoga</a> in downtown Dover, NH. One of the most common physical complaints I hear from students in class is that they have pain down the back of one or both of their legs. Sciatica is a common discomfort associated with pregnancy and there are several great yoga poses you can do to relieve the pain.<br />
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First, it helps to understand what causes Sciatica during pregnancy. Usually, it is because of swelling of and around the the piriformis muscle. In simple terms, the Piriforis muscle starts at the Sacrum, goes through the muscle of your butt/pelvis and then connects to the top of your femur or thigh bone. During pregnancy, as your body begins to create more fluid and everything in the pelvic area begins to swell, the piriformis muscle can tighten and put pressure on the Sciatic nerve. This pressure on the nerve can cause pain, numbness and tingling down the leg.<br />
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So, by stretching the piriformis muscle, you can alleviate the pressure on the nerve and help to relieve your symptoms.<br />
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Pigeon Pose:<br />
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<img align="bottom" alt="" src="http://www.yogajournal.com/images/old/poses_section/pose_step1.gif" />Begin on all fours, with your knees directly below your hips, and your hands slightly ahead of your shoulders. Slide your right knee forward to the back of your right wrist; at the same time angle your right shin under your torso and bring your right foot to the front of your left knee. The outside of your right shin will now rest on the floor. Slowly slide your left leg back, straightening the knee and descending the front of the thigh to the floor. Lower the outside of your right buttock to the floor. Position the right heel just in front of the left hip. <!--- Step 2 ---><br />
<img align="bottom" alt="" src="http://www.yogajournal.com/images/old/poses_section/pose_step2.gif" /> The right knee can angle slightly to the right, outside the line of the hip. Look back at your left leg. It should extend straight out of the hip (and not be angled off to the left), and rotated slightly inwardly, so its midline presses against the floor. <br />
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Join one of Darcy's Prenatal Yoga classes at the <a href="https://www.childlightyoga.com/Prenatal_Yoga_p/class_prenatal01.htm" target="_blank">ChildLight Yoga</a> studio in downtown Dover, NH. Classes run on Sunday and Tuesday evenings. For more info or to register, <a href="https://www.childlightyoga.com/Prenatal_Yoga_p/class_prenatal01.htm" target="_blank"><b>click here</b></a>.<br />
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<i>Darcy Sauers is a certified Prenatal Yoga teacher and a certified Yoga Birth Method instructor. She is also a DONA certified Postpartum Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. Darcy teaches prenatal yoga classes and Yoga Birth Method workshops and private sessions in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire. She is the owner of <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/" target="_blank">Dover Doula</a> and a member of <a href="http://www.greatbaydoulas.com/" target="_blank">Great Bay Doulas</a>. Darcy lives in Dover, NH with her husband and three children. For more information on her upcoming classes and workshops, please visit www.doverdoula.com. She can be reached at 603-988-5945 or darcy@doverdoula.com. </i></div>
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</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0Dover, New Hampshire, USA43.189157876544471 -70.87280310937501341.88491237654447 -71.863848609375012 44.493403376544471 -69.881757609375015tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604065609396116998.post-90479120337113356642011-06-13T07:11:00.001-07:002011-06-13T07:11:58.682-07:00Postpartum Doulas Provide Vital Support to the CommunityPostpartum doulas are knowledgeable professionals who assist families during the critical period immediately after the birth of their baby. They “mother the mother” and offer physical, emotional and informational support to the family, as well as practical help. The doula’s expertise in mother and baby care enables her to assist with postpartum comfort measures, breastfeeding support, non-judgmental guidance in infant care techniques, information on normal postpartum restoration, and family emotional assistance through this major transition.<br />
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These doulas provide essential support during the modern postpartum experience, a time when many mothers today feel uninformed, isolated and anxious. Traditionally, the postpartum period was a “nesting period,” when a new mother was attended to by other experienced mothers. They helped take care of her and her family, so that the mother could focus on the vital tasks of postpartum recovery, emotional adaptation to great change and getting to know her precious little one.<br />
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Today few families have such support, and frequently become exhausted and overwhelmed by the immense work of becoming parents. Postpartum doulas gently guide and support families through this transition so that they may get off to the best start with their new baby. <br />
The practical help that is included with a postpartum doula’s services vary, but most doulas make simple meals for the family, comfort and diaper the baby, answer the phone and door, and take care of the baby and any siblings while the parents nap, shower or take a much-needed break. Some doulas will assist with laundry, errands or light housekeeping as well.<br />
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The doula is not a maid, though, nor is she a nurse. She leaves diagnoses and clinical procedures to medically trained personnel, but will make referrals to a medical professional if she notices something of concern. However, it is commonly felt that a doula can help a mother stay healthy and reduce her chances of postpartum complications. She does this by educating the mother and enabling her to focus on her recovery from birth and to rest as much as possible. Doulas keep the mother well nourished and hydrated, and help to reduce incidences of sleep deprivation and postpartum depression. Studies have shown that with the help of a postpartum doula, breastfeeding duration is increased, while feeding problems and depression decrease. Also, parents report feeling more confident and less stressed or anxious.<br />
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Darcy Sauers of Dover Doula offers postpartum doula services in the Seacoast area and she is nationally certified by DONA (Doulas of North America). Darcy is knowledgeable about many aspects of postpartum, including infant care and development, normal postpartum restoration and cesarean recovery, breastfeeding assistance, postpartum depression, facilitating bonding and more. For more information contact Darcy via her website at <a href="http://www.doverdoula.com/">http://www.doverdoula.com/</a> or 603-988-5945. <br />
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From: Perinatal Education Associates, Inc.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11791697714974873924noreply@blogger.com0