J is for Job

J is for Job

Returning to work after your baby is born can be one of the hardest things to do—even if you really want to go back!  There are many things to consider when returning to work.  How much will it cost you to pay for child care?  Will you job cover that cost?  If so, you then have to consider who will watch your baby and where.  If you are breastfeeding you also need to speak to your work about when and where you will be able to pump. 

Before your first day back it is a good idea to work out the logistics of what returning to work will look like.  Will you need to leave earlier to drop off the baby?  That means you will also need to pack everything the baby needs for the day too, including milk.  Will someone be coming to your home to watch the baby?  You may need to have things organized clearly and meet with the nanny before you go back to work to make sure they are familiar with where everything is and how to care for your baby.  Wherever you baby ends up being, make sure you ask the caregiver to send you picture and video updates throughout the day!  This can be a huge emotional booster if you are feeling down at work, and can help you get through those pumping sessions…

Read More

C is for Cesarean Recovery

C is for Cesarean Recovery

These days it is not uncommon to labor for hours and possibly even push for hours, and end up needing a cesarean to deliver your baby.  If this happens, it means that your recovery is going to be hard.  Your body is tired and sore from the strains of labor, and then add on major abdominal surgery to that, and you are likely to be in a lot of pain.  If this happens, remember that it was the best choice for you and your baby – if you labored/pushed for hours with no change it likely means your baby was in a less than ideal position and may not have changed to allow for a vaginal birth.  Or you may have chosen to schedule a cesarean for personal reasons or due to having a previous cesarean.  In extreme cases, you may even have needed an emergency cesarean…

Read More