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Tag: baby

SIDS prevention and breastfeeding

SIDS prevention and breastfeeding

New parents and expectant parents often ask me about the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). SIDS is still the leading cause of death for infants between the ages of 1 month and 1 year, but education and control of environmental factors have helped reduce SIDS deaths in the US steadily for decades (the risk is now approximately 1 in 2000 according to the National Institutes of Health). But we still want to do all we can to protect…

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Family-centered or gentle cesarean birth

Family-centered or gentle cesarean birth

Lately there’s been buzz about options for family-centered cesarean or gentle cesarean births. But what does that mean for families pursuing this option? How do you know what your options will be? How is this different from a traditional cesarean birth? In many hospitals, a cesarean birth means that parents will not get to hold their baby right away. In some cases, they may not even get to see the baby immediately; instead, baby may be routinely whisked away for…

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Is it getting easier to continue breastfeeding?

Is it getting easier to continue breastfeeding?

Recent data from the US Centers for Disease Control shows that Pennsylvania is behind the national average in terms of breastfeeding, but the numbers are increasing. According to the data, 71% of infants born in PA in 2012 were ever breastfed; 48.9% are still breastfed (whether exclusively or not) at 6 months (national averages were 81% and 52%, respectively). What’s interesting is that while there was a 4% increase in Pennsylvania infants who’d ever breastfed since 2000, there was a 12%…

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Now offering in-home course: newborn care and breastfeeding basics

Now offering in-home course: newborn care and breastfeeding basics

First baby on the way? First time planning to breastfeed? Want some new techniques for soothing and caring for baby? Want a private class where you can ask all your questions and learn in the comfort of your own home? Want a class that meets your busy schedule? This class is for you. In this two-session class, I come to your home and work with you and your partner on newborn care skills from breastfeeding and/or bottle feeding to newborn…

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Want your baby to grow up to be a great eater?

Want your baby to grow up to be a great eater?

Ever wonder why some kids will only eat grilled cheese and chicken nuggets while others will happily munch specialty foods from all over the world? Studies show that the foods a pregnant and nursing mother eats can broaden a child’s diet down the road. Eating a diverse diet while pregnant and breastfeeding may impact the foods your baby will like once he or she is eating solids. So get those future gastronomes off to a good start and let’s break…

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