Recent Articles
Motherhood and Eating Disorders
This is an article about eating disorders during pregnancy and postpartum. It discusses the causes, risks, and effects of eating disorders on both mothers and babies. The article also provides information on how to get help and cope with an eating disorder. Some of the important points from this website are that eating disorders can have serious consequences for both mothers and babies, and that it is important to seek help if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
Embracing The Unknown: A Journey Of Growth, Curiosity, and Connection
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth as you delve into the empowering message of embracing the unknown. This article highlights the significance of curiosity, encouraging you to step outside your comfort zone and explore new horizons. Uncover the transformative power of challenging assumptions and embracing life's unexpected turns. Keywords: embracing the unknown, curiosity, personal growth, overcoming fear, self-discovery, challenging assumptions, new experiences
An Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol, And How It Pertains To You
Recently, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine released its protocol for “Managing Nighttime Breastfeeding in Young Infants”. Here at Leva, we are firm believers in supporting mothers, and evidence-based practice. So, what does this lengthy protocol say, and how does it apply to you?
Reimagining Infant Feeding: Prioritizing Maternal Mental Health as the Path to Success
The traditional "breast is best" message has been harmful to many mothers who struggle to breastfeed. The "fed is best" philosophy, on the other hand, recognizes that every mother's journey is unique and that feeding decisions should prioritize both the mother and child's overall health and well-being.
Empowered Women: Listening to Ourselves
Throughout history, women have faced great societal pressure, which made it challenging for
them to follow their own instincts. However, as times change and women become more
empowered, it is essential for each woman to recognize the importance of listening to herself
rather than succumbing to the opinions of others. By honing in on our inner voice, women
can begin to make better life decisions that align with our goals, dreams, and overall well-
being. In this article, we will explore why women should trust their own judgment when
making life choices.
Holistic Postpartum Wellness
To say that the first year of motherhood is a challenge is a bit of an understatement. Your physical and psychological well-being is in full mode recovery. You are also under constant attack by a never-ending onslaught of stimuli that demand your full and undivided attention to keep that little human alive. Transitional changes that you have to undergo once you step into motherhood can leave devastation in their wake if you don’t have a plan to manage them well. A holistic approach will help you manage this transition physically as well as mentally and spiritually.
Mama, You're Not Alone: How to ask for Help
As a new mom, it's important to remember that you don't have to do everything alone. Asking for help is not a weakness but a sign of strength and self-awareness. It's common for new moms to feel like they should be able to handle everything on their own, but the truth is that it's okay to ask for help.
How to Begin Exercising Postpartum
Baby is finally here, and your days look completely different than they once did. This time in a mother's life is crucial, yet all attention is on her baby. Feed, sleep, change, repeat. For the first year of a baby’s life, there are numerous doctor appointments to check up on your baby’s health, yet - moms only have one 6-week “clearance” appointment.
Everyone Knows About The Baby Blues But What About Postpartum Anxiety?
Becoming a mother is an incredible journey filled with joy, excitement, and love. However, it can also be an overwhelming and stressful experience, particularly for first-time moms. While it’s common to experience some anxiety after giving birth, these feelings can become severe for some women and interfere with daily life.
Can You Get Rid of Stretch Marks After Pregnancy?
Throughout pregnancy, our bodies undergo so many changes it’s hard to keep track. One of the more obvious but unwelcomed changes is stretch marks. They usually appear during the second trimester of pregnancy as the body begins to stretch and fade postpartum.
Best Postpartum Exercises for New Moms
The fourth trimester is one that no one really talks about, yet it is one of the hardest for moms. Navigating your routine with a newborn is quite the task. Moms begin to feel out of touch with reality as they are sucked into the ongoing cycle of feeding, sleeping, changing, repeat. Trying to figure out your day seems impossible, and you often feel like you have lost touch with the woman you once were.
Breastfeeding and Mental Health
If you've experienced anxiety or depression in the past, you may have learned coping skills and be better prepared for dealing with postpartum depression. Unfortunately, sometimes mothers who have never experienced anxiety or depression find themselves in the depths of postpartum depression when their babies arrive. It has been found that up to 80% of women experience "baby blues" postpartum.
Why We Need Our Tribe
From the dawn of time, women needed each other to share the heavy burdens that fell upon them. They helped each other through the pains of childbirth. They joined forces in feeding and nurturing their families. They were "the village" we speak of when we say it takes a village to raise a child because they all looked after each other's children in their village. They shared their fears, dreams, hopes, sadness, and pain, but most of all, they shared their strength.
To Be or Not to Be a Stay-at-Home Mom
Sometimes, the stay-at-home option works better for moms and their families as it reduces the stressors influencing their daily life. Multitasking can take its toll on the mother's mental health. By letting go of job-related stress, moms can shift their focus to their families. Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of being a working vs. non-working mom.
Mom Rage is a Real Thing
Mom rage can't be a real thing, can it? Moms are all about love and cuddles, smiles and kisses, hugs, and happy things, right? A mother will move mountains for her children, shielding them with love and care. There is no feeling stronger than a mother's love. But moms are also human. And being a mother is considered one of the most demanding and challenging jobs there is. It’s no surprise that they may experience rage at times. Read on to learn about mom rage and how to deal with it.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Breastfeeding
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a well-known condition caused by increased pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. The median nerve runs from the forearm through a passageway in the wrist (carpal tunnel) to the hand. It provides sensation to the palm side of the thumb and fingers, but not the little finger. The nerve is affected by the intense pressure from a build-up of swelling, which causes a loss in sensation in the fingers.
Can I Take Cough Mixture While Breastfeeding?
Certain cough syrups may also pose a potential danger to the infant. It is good to understand why and what ingredients to watch out for.
How Does Exercise Affect My Breastmilk?
However natural breastfeeding is, it may not come easy for some moms - many of us have to put in a lot of effort to increase our milk supply. So it is no wonder that we were very wary of anything that may compromise that precious nectar, including exercise.
When Should I Give My Baby Water?
Water is essential for life. The human body needs water to function properly because it carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, protects body organs and tissues, and helps the kidneys and liver flush out waste products. Water essentially balances all our bodily systems. An adult should drink about 3 liters of fluid per day.
However, as counterintuitive as it may seem, babies under the age of six months should not be fed water, read on to learn why.
The Benefits of Babywearing
Babies that are "worn" in a carrier benefit on an emotional level because they crave close contact with their caregivers. Studies have shown that it can lead to 43% less crying, especially in the late hours of the day when they may be exhausted. Babies feel more comforted and cry less when carried closely. Read on to learn more about the benefits of carrying your baby in a sling.