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Parenthood SOS Part 2 – Diapers, Wipers and that other stuff
Every parent has their own way of changing a diaper…really, they get a system down about the 100th diaper and BAM! However, there are a few items that remain the same; the diaper, the wipes and the other stuff.
Welcome to the world of trial and error. Every baby and every diaper is different! My first child could wear one brand and the second had to wear another. There are two general options: disposable and washable.
Disposable diapers come in many brands. There are organic, generic and name brand diapers. Your personal preference and the sensitivity of your precious baby’s bottom are the holders of the magic wand here.
Our family chose disposable diapers. It was easier for us to have a drop shipment to our door, because at one time we had 3 in diapers at once. Yes, we are that crazy. Thank you, Amazon Mom!
Washable diapers are a whole different level of coolness. You can have a diaper washing service in some areas of the country! (Think baby shower gift.) Or you will need to follow the manufactures instructions on how to wash your baby’s diapers properly. There are washable all-inclusive and ones with separate inserts. Sometimes it is trial and error, but over all this is a wonderful cost saving option for families.
Wipes also come in washable and disposable options too! Our go to brand came from our local membership store. Kirkland wipes have won the test of time and mess around our home. You will find what works best for your family, too.
Now for the other stuff. Every new parent has there go to items for diaper rash. You will find yours. Three options exist: powder, ointment, and crème. Over the years, some have strayed away from powder due to the airborne nature and possible risks. Each has its place and purpose. We have been a crème family, specifically Destin. It works, its effective and it never comes off. Once a certain child used it as war paint…yes, it never comes off especially in hair!
Please share what works best for you and your family!
Live Inspired,
Ang
Parenthood SOS
Have you ever wondered which diaper is best? How to care for an umbilical cord? Why you want to breastfeed or bottle feed your baby? Who has the best stroller or carseat for your precious bundle? How do I get my 5 month old to sleep for more than 4 hours at a time? Do I always need to use diaper cream? How can we bond as couple now that we have this baby?
These questions and more will be tackled in a series of upcoming blog posts (With the hope of becoming classes in the future for the postpartum stages of parenthood.)
Parenting is hard and each parent is unique! Your baby is unique too! I remember being a new parent and reading every book, website article, blog and magazine I could get my hands on! How many of you are the same way?
Then this sweet little baby was placed in my arms and POW…I immediately knew nothing!
NOTHING!
My birth was harder than expected. My baby struggled to nurse right away. I was deliriously sleepy, and my partner was too! We tried everything, twice! Do you know what I mean?
Dear sweet new parents or parents again,
Your baby is special and you might be finding that you need support! Well, I don’t claim to know everything, however I want nothing more than your success as a parent!
Stay tuned as I unpack some of the great mysteries. Be prepared to laugh with me and maybe cry as I share the reality of becoming a parent. My hope is to put tools in your arsenal as you jump of the cliff into the greatest calling there is…PARENTHOOD.
Feel free to message me with questions. I will respond with links of ways you can educate yourself! And feel free to share yours! Parenting well is a two way street and it takes a village!
Until next time!
Live Inspired,
Ang
Doulas, Baseball and Dads
What’s a doula from the Dad’s Perspective?
Okay dads, this is written just for you. Yes, I am a doula. I also love sports. I know you probably have a hundred questions, but I hope to answer a few here. If not, please email.
What is my role in birth?
A doula, also known as birth supporter or labor coach, is a person who assists a woman before, during, or after childbirth. This coach may also provide encouragement to the spouse and family by providing physical and emotional support. Continuous support during labor has been linked with improved maternal and fetal health, including lower risk of induction and interventions. These benefits are particularly significant when continuous support is provided by someone who is not there as family/friend or as medical staff (such as a doula). Sometimes, a doula is hired to support families in the postpartum stages for as long as needed (sometimes, this support can be ongoing for several years)1. A doula, in this role, may care for the newborn while the parents sleep, work or take care of their physical or emotional needs.
So, let’s put that into a sport. How about baseball?
Baseball Analogy
Mom is the pitcher. She is going to control the game. She wants this win!
Dad is the catcher. Not to say you will do the catching, but it is the relationship between the pitcher and catcher that will win the game! The catcher can calm the pitcher and knows her the best.
The doula is the base coach. They watch the field, encourage the players, and knows the game very well.
Head coach is your care provider. He/she is there to take lead of the game when necessary.
Does that make sense? Dad’s you have an amazing opportunity during the birth of your sweet baby to become a new dad and to be the hero of your spouse.
Doulas want you to feel supported and cared for too! This a family job. We care for mothers, babies, and fathers. During the birth process, which can go on for many hours, a doula is there to grant you opportunities to go for nourishment or to take a brief break. Your spouse will be supported the entire time. Once the baby is born and you are enjoying those precious new moments as a family. Many doulas will take pictures for you. When you are settled, your doula slips away to allow further bonding.
In a few weeks, your doula will make an appointment to follow-up. At that time, they will make sure the family is adjusting well. She will offer encouragement, support and be on her way. She is available for other services as requested.
Take care new dad and enjoy your family!
1 Doula. n.d. In Wikipedia. Retrieved August 28, 2017. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doula
Why I became a doula and how am I qualified?
Birth is intimate and challenging, beautiful and inquisitive. I have seen birth in many aspects and experienced trials and triumphs. My reason for becoming a doula starts with my own birth experiences. We struggled for many years before we were able to become pregnant. I remember that first day like today. Pregnancy is beautiful!
I noticed that between the birth of my first special baby and my last sweet one…the hands on support the care givers were able to provide was hindered. I am unsure of why this change has happened, but I know that I do not want any woman to be without full on support during birth. It is a precious and special time. A time for family bonding and first moments.
In the past 8 years, I have attended births in different capacities from photography to birth support. I love it! I cannot tell you how it feels to see this miracle of birth, but each time I get goosebumps! Being hands on support to a family prenatally through birth and to see the beautiful moments postpartum… I live for this!
So down to the nitty-gritty, how am I qualified to be your doula?
I am a proud mother of 4. ProDoula trained labor doula. I have a deep passion for family and that lead me to receive my Masters in Counseling Psychology with a focus in marriage, family and child development. I have various other certifications and an unquenchable love of learning. I strive daily to develop myself personally and professionally, so I am at my best.
I look forward to hearing from you and would love to support your very own inspired birth!
Live Inspired,
Ang
*Contact me today (248) 919-8182!