Sunday, November 23, 2014
The Mechanics of Breastfeeding
It's been a few months since I've posted anything, but I am back to share a really cool, informative breastfeeding video. I originally found this video posted in a Facebook group about breastfeeding. It's not a very long film. The video quickly, yet efficiently explains a newborn's anatomy and the vital part it plays in breastfeeding. Enjoy!
Monday, August 25, 2014
Happy Black Breastfeeding Week!
Today kicks off Black Breastfeeding Week.
What better way to start things than with this short video of this AMAZING breastfeeding mother.
Happy Black Breastfeeding Week! Be encouraged!
What better way to start things than with this short video of this AMAZING breastfeeding mother.
Happy Black Breastfeeding Week! Be encouraged!
Friday, July 11, 2014
Mothers of Color! We Need Your Voices!
A friend of mine on facebook shared this via one of the groups we are apart of and now I want to pass it on to you. Below is a copy of the original post. Please consider submitting your experiences and if you are unable to then please share with someone who may be interested.
Thank you!
"Attention moms! Avital Norman Nathman, editor of "The Good Mother Myth" is working on her next book and needs your help!
Thank you!
"Attention moms! Avital Norman Nathman, editor of "The Good Mother Myth" is working on her next book and needs your help!
However, 86% of the responses are from straight, white, middle class women- more Women of Color's experiences need to be recorded!
Please take a moment to complete this survey!"
Please take a moment to complete this survey!"
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Did You Know?
That I'm beginning my own, very small business?
http://iyajay1.blogspot.com/2014/06/new-cloth-and-wet-bag-designs.html
And I am open for business!
I am currently selling cloth sanitary pads and accompanying bags. Please check out the link at the end of this post and be sure to share with friends!
*Every purchase of 4 or more comes with a free bags.
*All items are shipped together so... you only pay 1 flat rate shipping fee
*A portion of each sale goes towards funding my doula work.
***The body butters are coming and will be sold on my blog as well as Etsy***
Thank you all!
I am currently selling cloth sanitary pads and accompanying bags. Please check out the link at the end of this post and be sure to share with friends!
*Every purchase of 4 or more comes with a free bags.
*All items are shipped together so... you only pay 1 flat rate shipping fee
*A portion of each sale goes towards funding my doula work.
***The body butters are coming and will be sold on my blog as well as Etsy***
Thank you all!
http://iyajay1.blogspot.com/2014/06/new-cloth-and-wet-bag-designs.html
Friday, June 6, 2014
Upcoming Community Baby Shower!
Expecting and new moms are encouraged to attend!
This event is absolutely free so please mark your calendars and tell a friend!
Space is limited so be sure to register here to reserve your spot.
Donations are also being accepted! Refer to the website linked below if you're interested!
Babies Love Breast Milk also offers free breastfeeding support classes (open to breastfeeding mothers and mothers interested in breastfeeding) every 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:30pm - 9:00pm and held at the West College Hill Community Center.
Please visit http://www.babieslovebreastmilk.com/ for more information on breastfeeding and postpartum services.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Privilege and Racism In The Realm of Birthwork
Status Update
By Sherry Payne
Post-racial diatribe: its what's for breakfast:
Rachel says:
May 21, 2014 at 11:07 am
I’m just curious why women of color would not feel comfortable attending an open to everyone LLL meeting? Why they need their own. As a LLL leader I’ve had women of every color and have never seen a problem with it.
Rachel says:
May 21, 2014 at 11:11 am
along the same lines, why would women of color have a more difficult time acquiring the required hours needed to sit for the IBCLC exam. I know this is a barrier and very difficult for everyone and finding a way to have a resource for all candidates would be very helpful in increasing the number of IBCLC’s in general which is always beneficial to everyone.
Reply
Sherry Payne MSN RN CNE IBCLC CD(DONA) SNM says:
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
May 22, 2014 at 8:56 am
Thank you Rachel for your questions I will try to address them one by one. Question 1: I know it may seem on the surface as if I am creating a racially-based division. But in fact, that division already exists. LLLI is well aware that its model of mother to mother support does not translate to communities of color and never has. While their meetings are officially ‘open to everyone,’ they do not meet the specific needs of communities of color. Their misstep is based on a common fallacy of thinking that many share. Let me give you an example: If you Rachel, ventured into say a new pediatrician’s office for your child, and the walls of the office were covered with photos of African-American families and children, you would think, “Oh, this practice is for African-American families. If you visited yet another doctor’s and found only photos of Latino families on the wall, you might think, “Oh this practice serves Latino families. However, if you found a practice that had photos on the wall of all Caucasian families, you would think, “Finally, a practice that serves everyone.” This fallacious thinking is based on culture norming that says everything ‘White’ is inclusive of everyone, making ‘Whiteness’ the norm, with everyone else measured against that standard. So now back to your first question: “why women of color would not feel comfortable attending an open to everyone LLL meeting” The truth of the matter is, those meetings are not open to everyone. They are Caucasian Normative in their style and approach, attracting White women because they were created by White women for White women (not intentionally of course- the creators just thought if it suited and fit them- it would suit and fit everyone), occur primarily in White neighborhoods, and subscribe to standards and guidelines that can be met primarily by middle-class White women. (I am aware that only a few weeks ago LLL has started to make some changes to broaden its appeal.) One or two women of color, does not diversity make. I have to wonder if you are seeing true inclusion or merely tokenism? True inclusion is purposeful, ongoing, and grows organically.
Do women of color regularly attend your meetings or just drop in occasionally? Do you have any leaders of color? Do any of your meetings take place in communities of color? Do you ever discuss issues of interest to women of color? Do women of color return and bring their friends? Do your inclusive meetings reflect the percentages present in the population as a whole? For example Black people make up about 12% of the US population, Latinos about 14%. Is that the breakdown that you see in your meetings? 26% or one quarter of your meetings are African-American and Latino women? Or did you perhaps mean that every few months, a woman of color attends one meeting or perhaps that you have one woman of color that attends regularly? I myself attended LLL for seven years as the only woman of color in my group. I had to go to a White neighborhood to do it, because there were no LLL groups in my own neighborhood. I enjoyed the ladies, and got good information, and was successful in breastfeeding several babies over that period of time. But- I had to check my cultural identity at the door to do so. I know what you are thinking, “Breastfeeding is breastfeeding, what does racial identity have to do with it?” The answer is ‘everything’. Breastfeeding is a human behavior and as such exists in a cultural context. I travel around the country teaching healthcare professionals how important it is to understand the cultural context of lactation for African-American women. We are a unique and distinct and diverse culture, with equally unique needs that go unmet in a dominant normative White culture construct around lactation. Groups like LLL send a subtle message: “Breastfeeding is for people like us.” Us being White, middle-class, stay-at-home moms with cloth diapered, amber necklace wearing, attachment style parented babies. Nothing about that description would appeal to the mamas I see everyday in my practice. Like nearly everyone else, LLL subscribes to the fallacy that they are inclusive, BECAUSE they are White, and White is the dominant culture norm, therefore it includes everyone. This of course is racist thinking at its finest. The fact of the matter is that there are disparities in breastfeeding. African-American women breastfeed at much lower rates and for much shorter intervals than their Caucasian counterparts, and the reasons for this are primarily racially-based. Healthcare providers are much less likely to discuss breastfeeding with their African-American clients prenatally. African-American women are less likely to see a Lactation Consultant in the hospital. Nurses are less likely to assist African-American women with their breastfeeding issues and offer a bottle instead. When African-American women go home from the hospital and seek out community-based support, they are likely to find it only in White neighborhoods and not in their own. Oh, and all those providers I just mentioned are likely to be White so that African-American women never see providers who look like them or share their values. This too is racism at its finest. Second question: “why would women of color have a more difficult time acquiring the required hours needed to sit for the IBCLC exam” Same answer as for question No. 1: RACISM.
You are correct in stating that finding mentors is difficult for everyone. Aspiring LCs of color have the additional burden of having very few LCs that look like them. Mentees of color, much like students of color, don’t get mentors because dominant culture mentors are uncomfortable selecting mentees of color. They want to choose someone they think they have commonalities with, someone of course who looks like them. Doing as you state, “finding a way to have a resource for all candidates would be very helpful in increasing the number of IBCLC’s in general which is always beneficial to everyone.” is not true. It would only benefit White people, because your “everyone” really only means White people, and not the ones who are suffering the disparities, who would be locked out of opportunities intended for ‘everyone’. Think about it, that is what we do now- have opportunities aimed at ‘everyone’. As a result, what percentage of LCs in the US are White? (hint: overwhelming, vast majority). We don’t need resources for ALL candidates, we need resources for underrepresented candidates, because they are being locked out of opportunities in a White dominated profession. Fewer professionals of color mean fewer women of color getting what they need. The ugly legacy of inequities and disparities continue. I know I have written an overly long response to your questions and I thank you in advance for both taking the time to read it and hopefully understanding another point of view. I think your questions are important ones, because so many Caucasian Americans are oblivious to the racial norming that keeps everyone else locked out. I believe many people believe as you do, that normative culture is every culture, but sadly this is not so. I hope that you will turn a more critical eye to your own social constructs surrounding lactation support and take the initiative to find out what you don’t know. In the meantime, I’ll keep fighting on the front lines for African-American women to get what they need to ensure breastfeeding success- the same things that normative culture women take for granted.
Rachel says:
May 21, 2014 at 11:07 am
I’m just curious why women of color would not feel comfortable attending an open to everyone LLL meeting? Why they need their own. As a LLL leader I’ve had women of every color and have never seen a problem with it.
Rachel says:
May 21, 2014 at 11:11 am
along the same lines, why would women of color have a more difficult time acquiring the required hours needed to sit for the IBCLC exam. I know this is a barrier and very difficult for everyone and finding a way to have a resource for all candidates would be very helpful in increasing the number of IBCLC’s in general which is always beneficial to everyone.
Reply
Sherry Payne MSN RN CNE IBCLC CD(DONA) SNM says:
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
May 22, 2014 at 8:56 am
Thank you Rachel for your questions I will try to address them one by one. Question 1: I know it may seem on the surface as if I am creating a racially-based division. But in fact, that division already exists. LLLI is well aware that its model of mother to mother support does not translate to communities of color and never has. While their meetings are officially ‘open to everyone,’ they do not meet the specific needs of communities of color. Their misstep is based on a common fallacy of thinking that many share. Let me give you an example: If you Rachel, ventured into say a new pediatrician’s office for your child, and the walls of the office were covered with photos of African-American families and children, you would think, “Oh, this practice is for African-American families. If you visited yet another doctor’s and found only photos of Latino families on the wall, you might think, “Oh this practice serves Latino families. However, if you found a practice that had photos on the wall of all Caucasian families, you would think, “Finally, a practice that serves everyone.” This fallacious thinking is based on culture norming that says everything ‘White’ is inclusive of everyone, making ‘Whiteness’ the norm, with everyone else measured against that standard. So now back to your first question: “why women of color would not feel comfortable attending an open to everyone LLL meeting” The truth of the matter is, those meetings are not open to everyone. They are Caucasian Normative in their style and approach, attracting White women because they were created by White women for White women (not intentionally of course- the creators just thought if it suited and fit them- it would suit and fit everyone), occur primarily in White neighborhoods, and subscribe to standards and guidelines that can be met primarily by middle-class White women. (I am aware that only a few weeks ago LLL has started to make some changes to broaden its appeal.) One or two women of color, does not diversity make. I have to wonder if you are seeing true inclusion or merely tokenism? True inclusion is purposeful, ongoing, and grows organically.
Do women of color regularly attend your meetings or just drop in occasionally? Do you have any leaders of color? Do any of your meetings take place in communities of color? Do you ever discuss issues of interest to women of color? Do women of color return and bring their friends? Do your inclusive meetings reflect the percentages present in the population as a whole? For example Black people make up about 12% of the US population, Latinos about 14%. Is that the breakdown that you see in your meetings? 26% or one quarter of your meetings are African-American and Latino women? Or did you perhaps mean that every few months, a woman of color attends one meeting or perhaps that you have one woman of color that attends regularly? I myself attended LLL for seven years as the only woman of color in my group. I had to go to a White neighborhood to do it, because there were no LLL groups in my own neighborhood. I enjoyed the ladies, and got good information, and was successful in breastfeeding several babies over that period of time. But- I had to check my cultural identity at the door to do so. I know what you are thinking, “Breastfeeding is breastfeeding, what does racial identity have to do with it?” The answer is ‘everything’. Breastfeeding is a human behavior and as such exists in a cultural context. I travel around the country teaching healthcare professionals how important it is to understand the cultural context of lactation for African-American women. We are a unique and distinct and diverse culture, with equally unique needs that go unmet in a dominant normative White culture construct around lactation. Groups like LLL send a subtle message: “Breastfeeding is for people like us.” Us being White, middle-class, stay-at-home moms with cloth diapered, amber necklace wearing, attachment style parented babies. Nothing about that description would appeal to the mamas I see everyday in my practice. Like nearly everyone else, LLL subscribes to the fallacy that they are inclusive, BECAUSE they are White, and White is the dominant culture norm, therefore it includes everyone. This of course is racist thinking at its finest. The fact of the matter is that there are disparities in breastfeeding. African-American women breastfeed at much lower rates and for much shorter intervals than their Caucasian counterparts, and the reasons for this are primarily racially-based. Healthcare providers are much less likely to discuss breastfeeding with their African-American clients prenatally. African-American women are less likely to see a Lactation Consultant in the hospital. Nurses are less likely to assist African-American women with their breastfeeding issues and offer a bottle instead. When African-American women go home from the hospital and seek out community-based support, they are likely to find it only in White neighborhoods and not in their own. Oh, and all those providers I just mentioned are likely to be White so that African-American women never see providers who look like them or share their values. This too is racism at its finest. Second question: “why would women of color have a more difficult time acquiring the required hours needed to sit for the IBCLC exam” Same answer as for question No. 1: RACISM.
You are correct in stating that finding mentors is difficult for everyone. Aspiring LCs of color have the additional burden of having very few LCs that look like them. Mentees of color, much like students of color, don’t get mentors because dominant culture mentors are uncomfortable selecting mentees of color. They want to choose someone they think they have commonalities with, someone of course who looks like them. Doing as you state, “finding a way to have a resource for all candidates would be very helpful in increasing the number of IBCLC’s in general which is always beneficial to everyone.” is not true. It would only benefit White people, because your “everyone” really only means White people, and not the ones who are suffering the disparities, who would be locked out of opportunities intended for ‘everyone’. Think about it, that is what we do now- have opportunities aimed at ‘everyone’. As a result, what percentage of LCs in the US are White? (hint: overwhelming, vast majority). We don’t need resources for ALL candidates, we need resources for underrepresented candidates, because they are being locked out of opportunities in a White dominated profession. Fewer professionals of color mean fewer women of color getting what they need. The ugly legacy of inequities and disparities continue. I know I have written an overly long response to your questions and I thank you in advance for both taking the time to read it and hopefully understanding another point of view. I think your questions are important ones, because so many Caucasian Americans are oblivious to the racial norming that keeps everyone else locked out. I believe many people believe as you do, that normative culture is every culture, but sadly this is not so. I hope that you will turn a more critical eye to your own social constructs surrounding lactation support and take the initiative to find out what you don’t know. In the meantime, I’ll keep fighting on the front lines for African-American women to get what they need to ensure breastfeeding success- the same things that normative culture women take for granted.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Breastfeeding Debate? Again? What Is There To Debate?!
Excuse the misspellings, but I just wanted to share with you all my comment to a post regarding the latest article going around about a mother breastfeeding her daughter at the age of 5. I was in the minority with my views. Sadly it's the mindset of majority of people in our society. Damnit ya'll! We have to do better!
"I see nothing wrong at all. Personally would i breastfeed my 5yr old for everyone to see? No. But in the privacy of my home it would be a go. i breast fed my youngest til she was 3 (most of it was comfort nursing by that age and no simply expressing milk into a cup would not do. Sucking at the breast provided a sort of soothing that would calm her fits, restlessness, and sickness)... she weaned herself, but i would have continued if she wanted to. i hate the stigma attached to breastfeeding. Our milk does not lose any nutrition or use when a child hits a certain age. It purposefully changes it's properties to accommodate a growing child. It's neither demented nor sexual. i dedicate my work to encouraging and supporting breastfeeding mothers of color... a demographic who suffers the lowest rates of breastfeeding. And i know many who wants to breastfeed as long as they can whether the age be 1, 2, 3, or 5, but stops early or don't do it for as long as they could or want because of uninformed backlash. 'They're too old. If they can ask for it they don't need it. If they can chew and swallow the they need to be weaned.' etc. It should be encouraged rather than shunned. Maybe not the same scenario as this person in the pic because her demographic has the highest rates of breastfeeding and support. But that doesn't negate the positive attributes of extended breastfeeding."
Here's the article: http://www.kpho.com/story/25345687/breastfeeding-mom-still-feeds-daughter-at-age-5
Let's stop demonizing and sexualizing a mother and child's choice to continue breastfeeding beyond the societal norm.
"I see nothing wrong at all. Personally would i breastfeed my 5yr old for everyone to see? No. But in the privacy of my home it would be a go. i breast fed my youngest til she was 3 (most of it was comfort nursing by that age and no simply expressing milk into a cup would not do. Sucking at the breast provided a sort of soothing that would calm her fits, restlessness, and sickness)... she weaned herself, but i would have continued if she wanted to. i hate the stigma attached to breastfeeding. Our milk does not lose any nutrition or use when a child hits a certain age. It purposefully changes it's properties to accommodate a growing child. It's neither demented nor sexual. i dedicate my work to encouraging and supporting breastfeeding mothers of color... a demographic who suffers the lowest rates of breastfeeding. And i know many who wants to breastfeed as long as they can whether the age be 1, 2, 3, or 5, but stops early or don't do it for as long as they could or want because of uninformed backlash. 'They're too old. If they can ask for it they don't need it. If they can chew and swallow the they need to be weaned.' etc. It should be encouraged rather than shunned. Maybe not the same scenario as this person in the pic because her demographic has the highest rates of breastfeeding and support. But that doesn't negate the positive attributes of extended breastfeeding."
Here's the article: http://www.kpho.com/story/25345687/breastfeeding-mom-still-feeds-daughter-at-age-5
Let's stop demonizing and sexualizing a mother and child's choice to continue breastfeeding beyond the societal norm.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Share Your Doula Story!
It's always encouraging to hear from your peers the positive experiences of allowing a doula to be a part of such an intimate journey.
I want to highlight those experiences.
There will also be a prize involved.
All you have to do is submit your story to jcherise1@gmail.com by 3pm tomorrow. The first to submission will receive a prize.
Please don't let the fact that there will only be one recipient deter you from submitting your experiences. I plan to publish all submissions to serve as encouragement for those who have not experienced having one.
I look forward to reading your stories!
I want to highlight those experiences.
There will also be a prize involved.
All you have to do is submit your story to jcherise1@gmail.com by 3pm tomorrow. The first to submission will receive a prize.
Please don't let the fact that there will only be one recipient deter you from submitting your experiences. I plan to publish all submissions to serve as encouragement for those who have not experienced having one.
I look forward to reading your stories!
Monday, March 24, 2014
So what is a doula???
Some people may confuse the role of a doula with one of a midwife. Although some of their duties overlap each other, they have very distinct roles. A midwife provides medical care. A doula, on the other hand, will provide non-medical care in the form of education and emotional support to not only the mother, but anyone else involved in her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
A lot of doulas come from many different backgrounds. Some are currently medical providers. They may be stay at home mothers. Some may not even be a parent. What's most important is their ability to provide specialized comfort, encouragement, and support to the mother.
Through this specialized care, doulas greatly reduce the possibilities of:
*Cesareans
*Infant mortality
*Pain medication
A doula is never there to take the place of a spouse or medical provider.
A doula works to encourage, reassure, and inform.
Are you interested in hiring a doula and worried about the cost?
Some hospitals, birth centers and independent doula businesses even offer low cost and/or pro bono services to mothers.
Including a doula in your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum does not have to be unaffordable.
Happy World Doula Week!
Saturday, March 22, 2014
World Doula Week
Beginning today until the 28th of March the world will celebrate the hard work and dedication of doulas and birthworkers alike.
In honor of this week I will post "Did You Know" facts, hold a few contests and highlight wonderful doulas doing great things!
Here are the rules to the contests:
*The first person to email me (my email is jcherise1@gmail.com) with the correct answer to the challenge will win a prize.
*Prizes are not revealed but they will be guaranteed useful!
*Those who win will not be eligible to participate in future contests during the week (just want to keep it fair!)
*Upon winning I will communicate with you via email to gather information in order to ship your prize to you in a timely manner. So be sure to check your email!
And don't forget to tell a doula that you appreciate them!
Be back in a few!
In honor of this week I will post "Did You Know" facts, hold a few contests and highlight wonderful doulas doing great things!
Here are the rules to the contests:
*The first person to email me (my email is jcherise1@gmail.com) with the correct answer to the challenge will win a prize.
*Prizes are not revealed but they will be guaranteed useful!
*Those who win will not be eligible to participate in future contests during the week (just want to keep it fair!)
*Upon winning I will communicate with you via email to gather information in order to ship your prize to you in a timely manner. So be sure to check your email!
And don't forget to tell a doula that you appreciate them!
Be back in a few!
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Good Music Sunday
From time to time I like to share music that I enjoy. I love this song. Hope you all enjoy it too. With the time change that just happened I know that some of us need a little extra motivation to keep from hitting the snooze button again. This song will do just that. Not only will you fully wake up. I gaurantee you'll be dancing :)
Happy Sunday!
Saturday, March 8, 2014
International Women's Day
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!!
"Be not ashamed women, … You are the gates of the body, and you are the gates of the soul." -Walt Whitman
I wanted to dedicate this post to the amazing mothers, daughters, nieces, aunts, grandmothers, and all women <3
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Making Milk with Quinoa
I've been trying to find unique ways to aid in milk production and I've found a few.
Today I'll share with you a lesser known grain that may help with your milk supply.
Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) has not only been purported as a way to boost milk supply, but it is also a superfood. Linked below are in depth (but easy to read) details regarding quinoa's nutritional facts.
Nutritional facts about Quinoa
In order to keep up milk production, a high protein and water intake is needed. With a total of 12g per one half cup, Quinoa offers just that.
Now, I don't have any recipes to share this go round, but I can share with you all some ideas on how to prepare it for any meal at any time of the day.
Breakfast: Quinoa can be eaten as a hot cereal in the morning.
Lunch: Quinoa can be added to a salad.
Dinner: Quinoa can be used as a side dish.
These are only suggestions so I know your creative minds can concoct great dishes that hopefully you won't mind sharing ;) The grain cooks just like rice so it's not difficult to make.
Hopefully this serves as a help and alternative to what's commonly suggested. If it doesn't work at least you can rest assured that you're eating healthy!
Today I'll share with you a lesser known grain that may help with your milk supply.
Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) has not only been purported as a way to boost milk supply, but it is also a superfood. Linked below are in depth (but easy to read) details regarding quinoa's nutritional facts.
Nutritional facts about Quinoa
In order to keep up milk production, a high protein and water intake is needed. With a total of 12g per one half cup, Quinoa offers just that.
Now, I don't have any recipes to share this go round, but I can share with you all some ideas on how to prepare it for any meal at any time of the day.
Breakfast: Quinoa can be eaten as a hot cereal in the morning.
Lunch: Quinoa can be added to a salad.
Dinner: Quinoa can be used as a side dish.
These are only suggestions so I know your creative minds can concoct great dishes that hopefully you won't mind sharing ;) The grain cooks just like rice so it's not difficult to make.
Hopefully this serves as a help and alternative to what's commonly suggested. If it doesn't work at least you can rest assured that you're eating healthy!
Monday, January 27, 2014
It's Hot and Baby Needs Water!
I've heard it all throughout the summer while I breastfed my 3. "You need to give that baby water. She's gonna dehydrate in this heat!"
Let me be the one to put your worry to rest. A baby needing water in addition to breastmilk due to hot weather is a MYTH.
Yes, it's true that a baby needs extra hydration in the hotter months, but breastmilk will provide all of the hydration needed. Furthermore, foremilk contains a high content of water to quench baby's thirst. Frequent nursing may be in order and that is fine. Just be sure that you're getting enough water. Being thirsty won't affect your production, but to avoid any possibility of dehydration on your behalf it's best to have some extra water nearby.
Let me be the one to put your worry to rest. A baby needing water in addition to breastmilk due to hot weather is a MYTH.
Yes, it's true that a baby needs extra hydration in the hotter months, but breastmilk will provide all of the hydration needed. Furthermore, foremilk contains a high content of water to quench baby's thirst. Frequent nursing may be in order and that is fine. Just be sure that you're getting enough water. Being thirsty won't affect your production, but to avoid any possibility of dehydration on your behalf it's best to have some extra water nearby.
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Making My Education Work for Communities of Color
My name is Jakki McIntosh. I am most often known as Jay.
I am currently training to become a Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator. My ultimate goal is to become a midwife.
The reason I chose to commit to this field of work is because I am well aware of the barriers and disparities that affect communities of color. These barriers extend far beyond an individual's control. From the closing of community health centers to the lack of adequate transportation to get to health centers that are further away. The closing of inner city grocery stores and grocery stores with overpriced goods or old, inedible foods turning predominantly black and low income neighborhoods into food deserts. I've watched the games played within companies who will schedule employees an hour under full time to keep them from giving employees health coverage and other needed benefits. This is not solely my observation, but my personal, firsthand experiences.
I'm sure some are asking, "What does this have to do with the work that you're interested in?"
Well, it has everything to do with the work that I am training for. With so many strikes against a child of color before he/she even exits the womb, it is imperative that we provide the mother with the education, preparation and guidance needed to ensure a mother and baby's health and survival before, during, and after birth.
Here are a few links explaining in depth the rate of infant mortality amongst people of color:
http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/content.aspx?ID=3021
http://www.prb.org/Publications/Articles/2007/ColorDivideinInfantMortality.aspx
Studies and statistics prove that doulas lowers the rate of infant mortality, lowers the risk of cesareans, allows for a higher percentage of successful VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean), and actually costs mothers, taxpayers, and insurance companies LESS.
Here's an interview and article going into depth about these facts:
http://radicaldoula.com/2011/04/14/interview-with-ina-may-gaskin-about-women-of-color-and-birth/
http://sph.umn.edu/doula-care-for-low-income-women-could-save-taxpayers-money/
And not only that! The completion of my certifications and the start of my doula business will allow me to educate and employ aspiring birthworkers.
I am now asking for your help in making this happen. I want to be of free service to women who likely wouldn't have access to the in depth and personalized education and care when it comes to preconception to postpartum. I can only make that happen with the support of those who care enough to help provide the opportunity for me to service these communities. I kindly ask you to consider donating to this cause. Whether it be 50 cents or $50. Give a mother, a baby, a family, an aspiring birthworker the ability to experience and provide what's desperately needed.
If interested, please click on the donate button at the top of my blog.
Thank you!
I am currently training to become a Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator. My ultimate goal is to become a midwife.
The reason I chose to commit to this field of work is because I am well aware of the barriers and disparities that affect communities of color. These barriers extend far beyond an individual's control. From the closing of community health centers to the lack of adequate transportation to get to health centers that are further away. The closing of inner city grocery stores and grocery stores with overpriced goods or old, inedible foods turning predominantly black and low income neighborhoods into food deserts. I've watched the games played within companies who will schedule employees an hour under full time to keep them from giving employees health coverage and other needed benefits. This is not solely my observation, but my personal, firsthand experiences.
I'm sure some are asking, "What does this have to do with the work that you're interested in?"
Well, it has everything to do with the work that I am training for. With so many strikes against a child of color before he/she even exits the womb, it is imperative that we provide the mother with the education, preparation and guidance needed to ensure a mother and baby's health and survival before, during, and after birth.
Here are a few links explaining in depth the rate of infant mortality amongst people of color:
http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/content.aspx?ID=3021
http://www.prb.org/Publications/Articles/2007/ColorDivideinInfantMortality.aspx
Studies and statistics prove that doulas lowers the rate of infant mortality, lowers the risk of cesareans, allows for a higher percentage of successful VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean), and actually costs mothers, taxpayers, and insurance companies LESS.
Here's an interview and article going into depth about these facts:
http://radicaldoula.com/2011/04/14/interview-with-ina-may-gaskin-about-women-of-color-and-birth/
http://sph.umn.edu/doula-care-for-low-income-women-could-save-taxpayers-money/
And not only that! The completion of my certifications and the start of my doula business will allow me to educate and employ aspiring birthworkers.
I am now asking for your help in making this happen. I want to be of free service to women who likely wouldn't have access to the in depth and personalized education and care when it comes to preconception to postpartum. I can only make that happen with the support of those who care enough to help provide the opportunity for me to service these communities. I kindly ask you to consider donating to this cause. Whether it be 50 cents or $50. Give a mother, a baby, a family, an aspiring birthworker the ability to experience and provide what's desperately needed.
If interested, please click on the donate button at the top of my blog.
Thank you!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
More Recipes to Boost Milk Supply
Sometimes cookies just aren't an option. I understand! So I wanted to share with you a smoothie recipe to up your milk supply.
Overnight Booby Smoothies: Energy-Boosting Banana Oatmeal
Happy Nursing!
Happy Nursing!
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Reservations About My Relactation Journey
A couple of weeks ago I made the decision to try to relactate.
Why? Well, I'll dedicate a post going into detail why I've decided to do so.
In the meantime I wanted to let you all know about my experiences so far.
I've been continuously producing milk since I've weaned my now 3 year old. I can only express by hand a few drops, but that's enough to let me know that I still have the ability to make milk. Now, my youngest child wasn't aware of my decision (she still isn't), but on the same day that I decided to begin my relactation journey she attempted to nurse. She cuddled up next to me. I thought she was on her way to sleep until I felt her tugging on my shirt. Although she's weaned herself almost a year ago, I do realize how much of a comfort it's been for her in the past. I wasn't going to turn her down. Just as soon as I thought she was going to nurse, she pulled my shirt back up, turned her head, and went to sleep.
Did she just "know" or was it simply a coincidence? I can't tell you. What I can tell you is that she was sick that day and I figured maybe it was worked like instinct. Then again she's been sick before, and she's never attempted anything like that before. I also thought that it may have been due to regression because her youngest cousin is currently nursing. I'm not so sold on that idea though. So I'm stumped as to why.
Since then she's been wanting to nurse.... I've said to myself and others over and over again that I'd never refuse her. But I've been contradicting myself by refusing her.
I never thought that the stigma of extended breastfeeding would affect me the way it does now. I never had reservations until now. As much as I've advocated for breastfeeding in both my words and actions, I am now experiencing a sort of fear that I've never felt before. For the first time I am scared!
I've read and heard the perverted arguments of those who believes extended breastfeeding is on par with abuse, rape, and other crude acts against children.
The radical in me can care less about what a person thinks of my child's decision to want her mommy's milk. I am human though. And the thought of no support near me for my relactation journey along with being shunned by an ignorant society is down right scary.
Despite this fear I find the thought of going against societal norms empowering! For those who are not aware... Rates of breastfeeding amongst people of color are just one of the MANY racial disparities that we are subject to. By choosing to NOT continue nursing my daughter as she'd like due to a perverted society, I'd not only be doing a disservice to my child, but to those who may need the support to breastfeed longer than what's socially acceptable. This relactation journey will be emotionally difficult for me. But I hope to serve as not only a healthy option for my child, but as continuous support for those in communities of color... My community.... My people.
Why? Well, I'll dedicate a post going into detail why I've decided to do so.
In the meantime I wanted to let you all know about my experiences so far.
I've been continuously producing milk since I've weaned my now 3 year old. I can only express by hand a few drops, but that's enough to let me know that I still have the ability to make milk. Now, my youngest child wasn't aware of my decision (she still isn't), but on the same day that I decided to begin my relactation journey she attempted to nurse. She cuddled up next to me. I thought she was on her way to sleep until I felt her tugging on my shirt. Although she's weaned herself almost a year ago, I do realize how much of a comfort it's been for her in the past. I wasn't going to turn her down. Just as soon as I thought she was going to nurse, she pulled my shirt back up, turned her head, and went to sleep.
Did she just "know" or was it simply a coincidence? I can't tell you. What I can tell you is that she was sick that day and I figured maybe it was worked like instinct. Then again she's been sick before, and she's never attempted anything like that before. I also thought that it may have been due to regression because her youngest cousin is currently nursing. I'm not so sold on that idea though. So I'm stumped as to why.
Since then she's been wanting to nurse.... I've said to myself and others over and over again that I'd never refuse her. But I've been contradicting myself by refusing her.
I never thought that the stigma of extended breastfeeding would affect me the way it does now. I never had reservations until now. As much as I've advocated for breastfeeding in both my words and actions, I am now experiencing a sort of fear that I've never felt before. For the first time I am scared!
I've read and heard the perverted arguments of those who believes extended breastfeeding is on par with abuse, rape, and other crude acts against children.
The radical in me can care less about what a person thinks of my child's decision to want her mommy's milk. I am human though. And the thought of no support near me for my relactation journey along with being shunned by an ignorant society is down right scary.
Despite this fear I find the thought of going against societal norms empowering! For those who are not aware... Rates of breastfeeding amongst people of color are just one of the MANY racial disparities that we are subject to. By choosing to NOT continue nursing my daughter as she'd like due to a perverted society, I'd not only be doing a disservice to my child, but to those who may need the support to breastfeed longer than what's socially acceptable. This relactation journey will be emotionally difficult for me. But I hope to serve as not only a healthy option for my child, but as continuous support for those in communities of color... My community.... My people.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Pre-TTC to Postpartum Resource List (Cincy/NKY)
For all of my pre-TTC, TTC, Expecting, or mothers who have given
birth. If you are in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area please check
out my list of resources. It's long but it's thorough. I hope it's of
some help to you all!
BIRTH PLACES
Anderson
Hospital Family Birthing Center (Level
2 nursery)
7500 State Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45255
513-624-4300
Back
to Basics Birthing (Home births)
Mt. Orab
Cincinnati, OH 45154
740-656-0355
Bethesda
North Hospital (Level 2 services)
10500 Montgomery Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-475-4500
Bowen
Center (Home and hospital births)
11317 Springfield Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-771-9100
Fairfield
Hospital Family Birthing Center (Level
2 nursery)
3000 Mack Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45014
513-870-7370
Good
Samaritan Hospital (Level 3 Neonatal
intensive care)
375 Dixmyth Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-475-4500
The
Christ Hospital Birthing Center (Level
2 special care nursery)
2139 Auburn Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-585-4847
University
Hospital (Level 3 Care Center)
234 Goodman Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-584-5239
West Hospital Family Birthing Center (Level 2 special care nursery)
3300 Mercy Health Blvd.
Cincinnati, OH 45211
513-215-5000
OB/GYN
Associates
in Ob-Gyn
(Springdale Location)
940 Ray Norrish Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-671-7700
(Montgomery Location)
8221 Cornell Rd, Ste. 420
Cincinnati, OH 45249
513-745-9045
(Eastgate Location)
4420 Aicholtz Rd., Ste. 110
Cincinnati, OH 45245
513-752-9122
The
Bowen Center for Women’s Health
11317 Springfield Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-771-9100
Crescent
Women’s Medical Group
10700 Montgomery Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-891-0211
Group
Health
2915 Clifton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-872-2000
Healthy
Beginnings
(Price Hill Location)
4898 Guerley Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-539-3414
(North College Hill Location)
1608 Sundale Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-521-5300
(Clifton Location)
47 E. Hollister St.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-861-8430
(Over The Rhine Location)
5 E. Liberty St.
Cincinnati, OH 45210
(Forest Park Location)
636 Northland Blvd., Ste. 250
Cincinnati, OH 45240
513-769-1160
Mt.
Auburn’s Obstetrics & Gynecology Assoc., Inc.
(Mt. Auburn Location)
2123 Auburn Ave., Ste. 724
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-241-4774
(Montgomery Location)
9122 Montgomery Rd., Ste. 100
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-791-4088
Obstetrics
and Gynecology Associates, Inc. of Cincinnati, OH
3050 Mack Rd., Ste. 375
Fairfield, OH 45014
513-221-3800
Pregnancy
Care Center of Cincinnati
108 William Howard Taft
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-961-7777
Pregnancy
Center East
3944 Edwards Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-321-3100
Pregnancy Center West
4900 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-244-5700
513-549-5041 (text)
Samaritan
Obstetrics & Gynecology
3219 Clifton Ave., Ste. 230
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-559-9411
Seven
Hills Women’s Health Center
(Mt. Auburn Location)
2123 Auburn Avenue #300
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-922-6666
(Montgomery Location)
10506 Montgomery Rd. #403
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-922-0009
(Western Hills Location)
3301 Westbourne Dr. #104
Cincinnati, OH 45248
513-922-6666
Tri-Health
Nurse Midwives
3440 Burnet Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45229
513-751-5900
UC
Health Obstetrics & Gynecology
3130 Highland Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-558-8448
Family Practice Doctors and Pediatricians
Cincinnati
Children’s Pediatric Primary Care Center
3333 Burnet Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45229
513-636-4200
Fairfield
Primary Care Clinic
3050 Mack Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45014
513-636-8259
The
Family Medical Group
6331 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45211
513-389-1400
Hopple
Street Neighborhood Health Center
2750 Beekman St.
Cincinnati, OH 45225
513-541-4500
Mid-City
Pediatrics
8250 Kenwood Crossing Way
Cincinnati, OH 45236
513-948-8444
Montgomery
Family Practice
10550 Montgomery Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-791-1201
Northside
Health Center
3917 Spring Grove Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-357-7600
Pediatric
Care Inc.
8250 Winton Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45231
513-931-6357
West
Side Pediatrics
663 Anderson Ferry Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-922-8200
4965 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-471-8592
Lactation Consultants
Babies
Love Breast Milk (Natashia Conner)
513-620-6455
Center
for Breastfeeding Medicine (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital)
513-636-2326
La
Leche League
513-357-6455
UCMC
Center for Women & Infants
234 Goodman St.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-584-5239
WIC Locations
Cann
Health Center
5818 Madison Rd.
513-263-8777
Children’s
Hospital B-1
3430 Burnet Ave. 2nd Floor
513-636-5818
Elm
Street Health Center
1525 Elm St.
513-352-3816
Millvale
at Hopple Health Center
3301 Beekman St.
513-352-3199
Northside
Health Center
3917 Spring Grove Ave.
513-564-2180
Price
Hill Health Center
2136 W. 8th St.
513-357-2727
Roselawn
7162 Reading Rd., Ste. 800
513-821-6813
Seven
Hills
10950 Hamilton Ave.
513-522-4300
Walnut
Hills/Evanston Health Center
2805 Gilbert Ave.
513-281-4116 ext.371
Western
Hills
4966 Glenway Ave., Ste. 301
513-251-4700
Winton
Hills
5275 Winneste Ave.
513-242-1720
Breast Pump Rental & Sales
Babies
Love Breastmilk
513-620-6455
Kunkel
Pharmacy
7717 Beechmont Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45255
513-231-1943
Mullaney’s
Pharmacy & Medical Supply
513-587-1470
1-800-522-7500
Massage Therapists
Affinity
Massage Studio
7813 Affinity Pl.
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-238-0970
Backbone
The Science of Chiropractic
5050 E. Galbraith Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45236
513-891-2111
Cincinnati
Massage Connection
3620 Glenmore Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45211
513-347-7338
Equilibrium
3
3440 Edwards Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-253-5681
Intuitive
Touch Massage Therapy (Kim Pham)
5400 Kennedy Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-230-0489
Massage
Envy
3774 Paxton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-533-3689
Chiropractors
Backbone
The Science of Chiropractic
5050 E. Galbraith Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45236
513-891-2111
Fick
Chiropractic Centers
(Clifton Location)
336 Ludlow Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-861-0033
(Roselawn Location)
1901 E. Galbraith Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45215
513-761-6002
(Springdale Location)
415 Glensprings Dr., Ste. 305
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-851-8686
Oak
Hills Back & Neck Care Center
5981 Harrison Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45248
513-598-1693
Rafey
Chiropractic & Health Center
2450 Kipling Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45239
513-322-2597
Western
Hills Chiropractic
5948 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-251-2273
Acupuncturists
Natural
Healing Arts
8220 Northcreek Dr., Ste. 210
Cincinnati, OH 45236
513-984-3334
Acupuncture
Health Alliance – Li Sparks
8833 Cincinnati Dayton Rd., Ste. 104
Cincinnati, OH 45069
859-795-1434
Childbirth Education/Prenatal Classes
Tri
Health Women’s Services
513-475-4500
Jeannie
Brigger
513-368-9272
Tracy
Kemper, AAHCC Bradley Method Instructor
513-910-7892
Amy
Scott, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator
513-280-6380
Childbirth
Education Association
P.O. Box 58573
Cincinnati, OH 45258
513-661-5655
UCMC
Women’s Services
234 Goodman St.
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-584-5239
Nurture
LLC
Pregnancy
Center West
4900 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-244-5700
513-549-5041 (text)
Pregnancy
Center East
3944 Edwards Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-321-3100
Parenting Resources
Beech
Acres Parenting Center
6681 Beechmont Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45230
513-231-6330
(Western Hills Location)
3325 Glenmore Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45211
513-231-6330
(Walnut Hills Location)
2330 Victory Pkwy.
Cincinnati, OH 45206
513-231-6330
Cincinnati
Family Enrichment Center
4244 Hamilton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-591-2332
Families
First
2400 Reading Rd., Ste. 126
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-7044
Pregnancy
Care Center of Cincinnati
108 William Howard Taft
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-961-7777
Pregnancy
Center East
3944 Edwards Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-321-3100
Pregnancy
Center West
4900 Glenway Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45238
513-244-5700
513-549-5041 (text)
Food Resources
Caring
Place
6312 Kennedy Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-841-1499
Freestore
Foodbank – E. Liberty
112 E. Liberty St.
Cincinnati, OH 455202
Fresh
Start Victory Center
7429 Hamilton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45231
513-985-0668
Manna
Outreach
931 McPherson Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45205
513-921-5344
Northeast
Emergency Distribution Services
8341 Kenwood Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-891-0850
Oakley
Community Emergency Pantry
4100 Taylor Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-871-3136
Over
The Rhine Kitchen/Walnut Hills Kitchen & Pantry
2631 Gilbert Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45206
513-961-1983
Rescue
Community Center
725 Whittier Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45229
513-221-6246
Valley
Interfaith Food & Clothing Center
420 W. Wyoming Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45215
513-821-3233
West
College Hill Neighborhood Services
2062 W. North Bend Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45224
513-542-7379
West
End Emergency Center
727 Ezzard Charles Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45203
513-381-5882
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