Prenatal / Postpartum Support
Maternal Wellness: Giving birth is arguably the most intense event a woman can experience. Both the time leading up to birth and the events and emotions that follow present challenges that are different for every new and expecting mother. Our mission is to help women understand and handle the challenges that occur during this time, often manifesting in physical, hormonal, mental, and emotional ups and downs. We are proactive about maternal wellness and provide education and support so women know what to expect and are better prepared to navigate through these difficulties.
Baby Blues/Postpartum Depression: Approximately 70-80% of all new mothers experience some negative feelings or mood swings after the birth of their child. Up to 28% of women may experience postpartum anxiety during the first six months after delivery. One in ten women may experience postpartum major depression, which is still significantly under-diagnosed. Left untreated, many symptoms may get worse over time and impact relationships as well as maternal bonding. We provide easy access to care for women who may be struggling through some of these feelings in the privacy and comfort of their home at a time that is both physically and emotionally daunting to seek help through traditional office visits.
Breastfeeding/Lactation Support: More than half of new moms do not breastfeed for as long as they had intended due to low supply or difficulty latching. Three days after giving birth, more than 90% of new moms report having problems breastfeeding. While many of the mother’s bodily changes, as well as the weight fluctuations of the newborn, are natural, understanding these changes is critical as many moms often feel guilt in regards to their ability to produce. Our board-certified lactation experts can assist new and expecting mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding. Whatever your nursing needs are, we will help you address your concerns and formulate a plan to achieve your goals.
Sleep Training: Adjusting to a newborn is hard enough. Doing it as exhausted parents is physically and mentally draining. We educate parents on how to implement and support healthy sleep habits for their newborn. While we teach proven techniques to maintain predictable sleep patterns for babies, much of our emphasis is on the parents’ responsibility in encouraging healthy habits.
Doulas: Certified doulas can provide extra guidance and support during pregnancy, childbirth and through postpartum. A doula can help you formulate a birth plan, navigate pregnancy, and provide emotional support throughout the motherhood journey. Whether it’s one consultation or ongoing support, you can easily schedule virtual sessions with our certified doulas from the convenience of your home.
...and Beyond
Paternal/Couples Wellness: Your newborn is not the only thing that is sensitive during this trying time. Your relationship with your partner is just as delicate. Babies naturally grow up and get stronger — many relationships, however, deteriorate if couples are not proactive about nurturing it and setting time for each other. In fact, within three years of the birth of a child, approximately two-thirds of couples find that the quality of their relationship declines and within five years, 13% of marriages end in divorce. While often overlooked, roughly 26% of new dads show signs of depression during the three- to six-month period after the baby’s arrival.
Nutrition: Gestational diabetes impacts nearly 10% of pregnant women in the U.S. Our registered dietitians can help you understand how nutrition factors into your wellness during your pregnancy and after giving birth. By working closely with your doctor, our nutritionists can provide support for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Physical Therapy: Physical and hormonal changes that occur during prenatal and postpartum periods cause changes to the musculoskeletal system. More than half of pregnant women have Diastasis Recti, (when the abdominal muscles separate), pelvic floor weakness and back pain. Physical therapy has been shown to be a highly effective approach to both the prevention and treatment of symptoms associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Our physical therapists can educate clients on exercises that address these common issues dealing with back muscles, core muscles, and pelvic floor strengthening.
Lifestyle: Stress and anxiety are normal for mothers who are juggling kids, their career, social life, among other things. Often lost in all this is self-care. Our counselors and lifestyle coaches can talk you through times when you feel overwhelmed and help you prioritize and refocus–including allocating time and attention to yourself. You can expect customized support incorporating a range of topics from health, diet, exercise, meditation, and work-life balance.