Woman holding newborn baby.Woman holding newborn baby.

"Meet The Baby" Season: One Pediatrician's Guide Share cookies, not coughs.

By Babe

Dr. Jennifer Millman has practiced at Greenwich Pediatrics Associates since 2017. She is board certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Millman lives in Armonk with her husband and two young sons, Will and Ollie. In her free time, she loves reading, hiking, squash, and musical theater.

It’s the most wonderful (read: germy) time of year! Sure you’re RSVPing and marking yourself down to bring three pumpkin pies, but you might also be wondering, ‘Am I going to let my 16 great aunts slobber all over my newborn’s face?’. You’re not alone, mama. We sat down with Jennifer Millman of Greenwich Pediatrics to let you know all the things to keep in mind when you decide to walk through those holiday party doors with your brand-new babe. 

It’s no secret that big parties and lots of greetings pose a potential threat to your baby’s health, but that doesn’t mean you have to keep your little bundle of joy (or yourself) at home for the holidays. Your MIL’s third cousin has been waiting ten months to meet them…how could you deprive them of that gift?! (Jk…you totally can if you want.)

“The holiday season is a lovely time to get together with your family,” says Dr. Millman. “But, if you have a young baby, especially one under two months, try to be careful around large groups of people as lots of viruses are circulating. As young babies’ immune systems aren’t fully developed, we try to be extra cautious to avoid risk of illness.” 

When going to a party or get-together with your babe, there are a number of other things Dr. Millman suggests do to keep them safe, and to take some of the anxiety out of the situation. Here, she shares her perspective.

Vaccinate your babies! (We know which vaccines you choose and when you choose to get them for your baby is a deeply personal choice.)

“The best thing you can do to keep your baby healthy and prevent complications of illness is vaccinate,” Dr. Millman tells us. “Babies can be vaccinated against many illnesses starting at six weeks to two months. We’re able to vaccinate for COVID and flu starting at six months. And amazingly, we can now give an immunoglobulin against RSV for babies under eight months of age which has shown to be hugely protective.”

Have everyone wash their hands.

Handwashing is a great way to kill bacteria and viruses and limit exposure to germs. There are many viruses that are circulating this time of year! Dr. Millman explains that the most common they are seeing are Flu and RSV, but also other viruses like Covid, rhinovirus, and adenovirus are also present.

“Strep, ear infections, and pneumonia are also going around and often need treatment with antibiotics,” says Dr. Millman. “If you’re concerned that your child may have any of these illnesses, bring them to the pediatrician to be checked!”

Encourage everyone to be vaccinated too! 

Flu and COVID vaccines both help limit transmission of those illnesses. 

“If you’re hosting, kindly ask your guests to decline the invitation if they’re sick,” Dr. Millman explains. “You can always blame your pediatrician for this one! We are more than happy to take it. There will always be another time to introduce the baby to that friend.”

Wear the baby! 

If you want the baby to meet other people, but are worried about other people asking to hold the baby, wear the baby! Carriers are great ways to keep the baby against you and limit access from hands, sneezes, coughs, and kisses of other people.

“If your baby is over two months, vaccinated and you feel comfortable that the people you are with are healthy, it’s also totally fine to let others hold the baby!” Dr. Millman adds. 

It is totally normal to feel anxious about bringing your baby to a party or get-together. Here are some extra tips to keep in mind… 

Ideally, try not to bring your baby to a big party. 

The more people, the more chance of the baby getting sick. Consider leaving the baby at home for the neighbor’s annual Christmas party that’s always a packed house. Besides, maybe mom could use a baby-free night off.

If you’re not ready, that’s fine!! 

“Everyone has a different risk tolerance and if yours is lower than your sister’s, friend’s, mother’s, there is NOTHING wrong with that,” Dr. Millman reminds us. “If you’re feeling pressure from other people, this is another great time to blame your pediatrician (“Oh I’m so sorry, my pediatrician said I’m not allowed to have her meet friends yet” – again, happy to take it).” 

Throw on a Christmas movie, order takeout, and enjoy your excuse. 😉

Keep. Mom. Healthy!! 

“It is SO important to take care of yourself so you can take care of your baby. Stay hydrated, get sleep (if at all possible – this is a tough one!), and wash your hands a ton in the winter. Get vaccinated for the flu and covid as babies under six months cannot be vaccinated against these illnesses and protecting yourself is the best way to protect your baby.”

“And enjoy,” urges Dr. Millman. “The holidays are such a wonderful and special time and spending the first holiday season with your baby should primarily be a time of joy and laughter.”

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A Groundbreaking Initiative in Understanding Pregnancy Loss Perelel Joins Forces to Support the HOPE Project

By Ruthie Friedlander

In a profound step towards unraveling the mysteries of pregnancy loss, our friends at Perelel have proudly partnered to support the HOPE Project, a pioneering research initiative. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with Perelel’s founding mission: to ensure everyone has the right to a healthful pregnancy. As the community around this mission expands, so does the commitment to understanding and supporting the full spectrum of the pregnancy journey, including its most challenging aspects

Related: I Lost a Baby Late in Pregnancy

As we at Babe know all too well, pregnancy loss is a deeply personal and often isolating experience, touching 15% of pregnancies. Despite its prevalence, there’s a staggering lack of clinical research and understanding in this area. The HOPE Project, driven by leading institutions like Stanford University School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, and Oregon Health & Science University, aims to change this narrative.

The initiative’s primary goal is to build the most comprehensive and inclusive participant registry to date. This registry is critical in aiding the research to uncover potential causes of pregnancy loss, enabling better prediction and management of pregnancy outcomes in the future.

The success of this study hinges on community involvement. The call to action is clear: spread awareness and encourage eligible individuals to contribute to this transformative research. Eligibility extends to anyone who has experienced pregnancy loss, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or couple status.

The HOPE Project aims to enroll 4000 participants by 2026, marking a significant stride towards understanding pregnancy loss at a clinical level. The focus is not only on genetic profiling of trios (mom, dad, and past pregnancy) but also on identifying gene pathways essential to human development. Currently, while over 3000 human genes are believed to be crucial for early development, there’s minimal knowledge about their impact on recurrent pregnancy loss.

Navigating the waters of pregnancy loss can be daunting and often, heartbreaking. Through the HOPE Project, Perelel and other participating partners are dedicated to shedding light on this sensitive, yet vital topic, offering hope and answers to parents-to-be. By joining hands in this endeavor, we can empower individuals with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their journey to parenthood with greater understanding and hope.

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It's Here: The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Mamas-in-the-Making Simply the best.

‘Tis the season to be pampered, especially for you, the new and expecting mamas out there navigating the joyous (and sometimes overwhelming) journey of mama hood. As the holiday lights twinkle and the year winds down, it’s time to think about the art of gifting – and what better way to celebrate than by sharing a touch of love and luxury with yourself and your fellow moms? We’ve curated a festive gift guide that’s like a warm hug for the soul, featuring eight enchanting picks that we’re eager to give and, no lies, receive.

From the most absorbent, skin-friendly diapers that promise to be a midnight change game-changer to a belly oil so lush it feels like an escape to the most serene spa – we’ve got you covered. Imagine unwrapping a cozy sweater perfect for those feeding sessions or diamonds because, yes they are a girls best friend. Picture the delight of discovering the ultimate diaper bag that marries functionality with fashion or indulging in a skincare treat that turns a quick shower into a rejuvenating ritual.

Our guide is about finding joy in the practical and splendor in the everyday. Whether you’re making a list for yourself or playing Santa for a special mama, these gifts are more than just items; they are everyday luxuries that uplift, simplify, and sweeten the moments of motherhood. So, curl up with a warm cup of your favorite seasonal beverage, and let’s unwrap the magic of the season with gifts that keep on giving.

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Navigating Sick Season: Expert Advice for Parents From an NP and Parent (just like you)

By Emily Silver

Emily Silver is a Family Nurse Practitioner, IBCLC, mom to 3 girls (8, 6, and 2 years), and the co-founder of NAPS. Through NAPS, Emily educates expecting parents, supports them in all things feeding and sleep, and facilitates new mom and working mom support groups.

As the seasons change and we anticipate the holidays, travel, and quality time with our families, there’s one concern that unites all parents: the dreaded sick season. But fear not, the nurses from NAPS are here to guide you through this challenging time with expert advice that’s both informative and to the point.

1. Handwashing: Your Ultimate Shield

It’s a top question every season: “How can I avoid getting sick?” The answer, though simple, remains unchanging: wash your hands, and do it seriously! Handwashing is your best defense against infections and your best way to keep healthy. Whether it’s welcoming guests into your home or returning from an adventure with your little ones, make handwashing a priority and the first thing you do when you walk in the door.

2. If You’re Sick, Stay Home

The pandemic has taught us to be diligent in testing for COVID, but the same rule applies beyond the virus. If you’re feeling unwell, it’s essential to stay home. Even if you test negative for COVID-19 – there’s more to consider! Whether you’re battling a fever, cough, runny nose, or gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, staying home is crucial to protect others and prevent the spread. For the love of all that’s good, heed the call and take a break. And remember, the same goes for the little ones: children should be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school or daycare.

3. Vaccines: Find what’s best for you and your family

Are you expecting a baby or have a newborn? Consider the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy (you can get it at any time in pregnancy), and encourage family and friends who will be around your baby to stay up-to-date with their flu and TDap vaccinations. Your newborn will receive vaccines at around two months of age, but ensuring those close to them are vaccinated, especially in the vulnerable early months, is a wise precaution. Additionally, during cold and flu season, consider RSV, a common cause of severe respiratory illness, with an immunization that is newly available for infants under 8 months. For a comprehensive guide on vaccines, talk to your obstetrician and pediatrician to decide what is best for you and your family.

4. Know the Fever Facts

What’s a fever? It’s a body temperature of 100.4°F or higher. During the first 12 weeks of life, if your newborn develops a fever in this range, contact your pediatrician immediately. A fever in a newborn is considered urgent and requires immediate medical attention. Learn how to take an accurate temperature using the right thermometer, which includes an axillary (in their armpit) and rectal reading for newborns. As your child grows, consider switching to a digital ear thermometer for ease. For children aged three months and older with a fever, you can usually monitor them at home, keep them hydrated, and provide age-appropriate over-the-counter medications. If the fever persists for more than 48 hours, call your pediatrician. 

5. When to Call the Pediatrician

Besides monitoring the fever, focus on your child’s overall well-being. If they struggle to breathe (not just nasal congestion, but tugging in their neck or chest), are showing signs of lethargy (aka being a wet dish rag), are having trouble drinking fluids, or are exhibiting signs of dehydration, such as not peeing (they should have four wet diapers in 24 hours when sick) or dry lips, it’s a red flag. Any concerns or red flags, no matter how minor, warrant a call to your pediatrician.

6. Master Medication Dosing

Dosing medications correctly is paramount. For newborns with a fever, reach out to your pediatrician for guidance. For babies aged three months and older, consider Tylenol as a fever remedy, and after six months, Ibuprofen becomes an option. Remember, dosing is weight-based, so consult the label and ensure you administer the correct amount according to your child’s weight.

Navigating the sick season may not be everyone’s idea of a jolly time, but with the right knowledge as a parent, you can keep your family safe and as healthy as possible. Stay vigilant, stay informed (way to read this article, you’re one step further already!), and remember, your child’s health is your top priority. Please do not ever hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you’re unsure as you navigate through the cold and flu season. That is what we are all here for and we would rather hear from you than not, especially if you’re having that parental instinct that something is not right.

Navigating the sick season can be quite a challenge, so be sure to follow all of these tips, but most importantly, just know when to contact your pediatrician, and if all else fails, always call to ask! Stay vigilant, stay informed, and trust your parental instincts as you navigate the cold and flu season.

NAPS educates expecting parents, supports them in all things feeding and sleep, and facilitates new mom and working mom support groups. You can count on Emily for some solid medical advice merged with some real-life parenting advice, and always served judgment-free.

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Woman holding Mixhers product.Woman holding Mixhers product.

Your Liquid Gold for Pregnancy and Beyond Meet Mixhers

By Ruthie Friedlander

Ever find yourself wondering why Mother Nature gifted you with those monthly mood swings, bloat, and cravings that seem to scream louder than a colicky baby? Ever glance at the universe and mutter, “Really, Mother Nature.” Well, Jess Toolson did. After birthing twins (yeah, two bundles of joy at once), her monthly rendezvous with Aunt Flo took a sharp turn from disruptive to debilitating. Jess’s questions and quest for relief led to the birth of another kind of magic: Mixhers.

When Jess’s usual go-to remedies, like Netflix and a pint of ice cream, didn’t do the trick, she found herself knocking on the door of Cody Sanders. Cody, a modern-day potion master with over 25 years of expertise in holistic health, had answers. But not just any answers; she had the natural answers Jess was seeking.

Together, Jess and Cody conjured up Hertime, Mixhers’ crown jewel. What is it, you ask?  A delightful daily drink mix, Hertime is crafted to balance those pesky hormones and give your uterus the peace treaty it’s been asking for. It’s like a happy hour cocktail for your hormones, without the dreaded hangover. Unwelcome guests like monthly cramps, mood swings, and bloating? They’re shown the exit.

Mixhers is no flash in the pan; Utah Valley BusinessQ dubbed them the “#1 Startup to Watch” in 2022. And why wouldn’t they? Mixhers is not just a company; it’s a revolution. A movement built by women, for women, looking for answers to their unique hormone health journeys.

And what part of a woman’s health journey is more exciting and overwhelming than pregnancy and becoming a mother? Sifting through prenatal and postnatal products can feel like navigating a maze of diapers—confusing, overwhelming, and, honestly, where’s the exit? 

Enter Herbaby, the trailblazer in the world of pre and postnatal supplements. Forget hard-to-swallow tablets and sneaky gummies stuck at the bottom of your purse. Herbaby is leveling up the game, one sip at a time.

Why a liquid delivery system, you wonder? Because speed is the name of the game when it comes to nutrient absorption. If our bodies were a concert, liquid delivery would be the VIP pass — front row, no waiting. Your body can’t groove to nutrients it doesn’t soak up, after all. And Herbaby ensures every drop counts!

Oh, and morning sickness? That unwelcome guest who seems to love an early AM surprise visit? Herbaby’s got your back. It’s crafted to soothe those nauseating waves, ensuring you can greet mornings with more “Ah!” and less “Ugh!”

As you navigate the post-birth whirlwind of baby giggles and late-night lullabies, Herbaby is still there for you. It lends a hand (or sip) in postpartum recovery, making sure you’re not just surviving but thriving.

So, darling mamas, let’s toast to a drink that supports both babe and the superwoman that is YOU. 

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Unlocking the Secrets of Childcare Insights from Remarkable Women + Vivvi.

By Image by Stocksy

Parenting is an incredible journey, but it comes with its unique set of challenges, and one of the most crucial aspects is finding the right childcare solution for your family. At Babe, we understand that every parent’s experience is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to childcare. That’s why we’re excited to partner with Vivvi, a childcare and early learning provider that aligns the exceptional quality families deserve with the flexibility they need.

Related: An Inside Look at Navigating Childcare Options from Moms in the Trenches

We recently hosted Vivvi’s Jessica Pallay, alongside moms and founders Tina Mangan and Corinna Williams, and trained doula Rachel Meakins for an in-depth conversation about childcare options, including advice on making a choice that’s right for your growing family.

Together, they share their personal stories, insights, and expertise, guiding you through finding the ideal childcare solution.

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Here are some of our favorite tips about finding childcare from their conversation:

  • Get clear on expectations. If you’re using a family member or nanny for child care, write down clear directions about what you want and when you want it.

    It will keep you and your caregiver aligned, and relieve the pressure for your caregiver to have to guess what mom or dad would do.

  • Consider the level of expertise you’re looking for. Do you want a team of early childhood experts that can offer you advice and perspective? Or do you prefer giving directions and having your caregiver follow? Take that into account when planning care.
  • It’s okay to use childcare for more than just work! Caring for yourself is necessary when caring for your child, so factor in extra time outside of work hours when you need it.

Watch the full event here:

Learn more about Vivvi here.

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WATCH: Pelvic Health 101 Everything you never knew you needed to know.

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Marcela KelsonMarcela Kelson

Knowing Your "Normal" Might Just Save Your Life A personal story.

By Marcella Kelson

On August 18th, 2022, when my daughter was only four months old, and my son four years old, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. 

Meet Marcella Kelson, here.

At the time, I was 35 years old, perfectly healthy, with no family history of breast cancer. When I asked my physician a few months prior if I was at risk of breast cancer, he said my risk was low. Something in my heart told me otherwise, though. In some ways, when I was diagnosed, I was shocked. In other ways, I always knew it could happen to me. I was familiar with the statistic that one in eight women develop breast cancer in their lifetime and that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer during pregnancy. So why wouldn’t it be me?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve checked my breasts, and I checked them often. I got to know them as well as possible, which is hard for a busy mom with very little downtime. I got used to taking advantage of opportunities like the shower, watching Netflix, or even sitting in the passenger seat as a chance to feel around. I created opportunities to check in otherwise uneventful moments. 

On August 12th, while in the passenger seat of my car, as my husband drove us to our first solo trip in years, I decided to do a superficial check of my breasts. It was hot, so I was wearing a sleeveless dress, which made it minimally inconvenient. I felt around my collarbone, under my armpits, around the sides, and on top of my breasts. As I ran my hand over my left breast, over the tissue that sits just over the breast bone, I noticed a hardness. It wasn’t a lump, and it wasn’t round. The tissue just felt hard, in a way that it never had before. I checked my right breast; soft, plump, unremarkable. 

It is probably nothing, maybe a clogged duct, but I needed to know for sure. I am lucky to call my OBGYN, Dr Sheiva Ghofrany a dear friend, so I texted her immediately. In her usual non-alarmist but empowering way, she recommended I go directly to imaging to figure out what was causing the change in my breast texture. I called my local hospital directly, told them my situation, and was booked for a mammogram and ultrasound within five minutes. 

What happened after that was a blur; a painful, terrifying, adrenaline-fueled blur. At my mammogram, my radiologist looked troubled and concerned as she reviewed my images. She couldn’t tell me exactly what she was seeing, but she knew that it needed to be biopsied immediately. Because of the urgent nature of her concern, she booked me for a biopsy appointment the next day. When MyChart updated that night, I naively read my notes. “BI-Rads 4,” it said. I Googled the term, discovering that it represented a 95% chance of malignancy. This was real – something was very wrong.

The days following my biopsy, awaiting my results, were a haze. It was hard to look at my children. I felt devastated, lost, scared. I’d never get to see them grow up. I survived on anti-anxiety medication and some level of denial. When I finally got the call confirming my diagnosis three days later, there was one piece of good news among the bad news: I caught it early. 

With breast cancer, even in the most aggressive types like Triple Negative, in most cases, the difference between life and death is early detection. Triple Negative (TNBC) is the most aggressive form of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma because it is fast growing, and it contains no receptors such as Estrogen, Progesterone or the Her-2 protein. This means that, unlike other forms of breast cancer, it does not have specific targets for chemotherapy to manipulate and, therefore, eradicate. But thanks to many advances in breast cancer research, new treatments are showing promising signs of improving prognosis. But here’s the thing: timing matters. Triple Negative grows and spreads very quickly, so the sooner you find it, the more effective the treatment can be. 

Though I would not wish this diagnosis on anyone, I learned so much about my own body and its limits, and the importance of looking after it just as well as we look after our children’s bodies. I am forever grateful for these lessons. As mothers, it is so easy to deprioritize ourselves, but I realized through breast cancer that denying ourselves time to look after our bodies can lead you to miss very clear warning signs. So make the time to check in, if not for yourself, for your family. 

Get to know your breasts by frequently familiarizing yourself with them. Learn their normal texture, firmness, lumpiness, softness. How do they feel before your period? After? Feel them in various positions when you’re watching TV. Feel around- does it feel like the breasts you felt just a few weeks ago? Don’t worry about doing it perfectly; a perfect breast check just requires you to answer the question: is this normal? If you see any changes, such as a rash, dimpling, discharge, firmness in your tissue, nipple changes, lumps, or swelling, don’t ignore it. Contact your OBGYN or GP and request an appointment or a referral for a mammogram and ultrasound. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself; your life might depend on it. 

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Your Fall Maternity Outfit Solution is Here Pants, Pants, Pants!

By Ruthie Friedlander

As the chill in the air deepens, and nature paints the leaves in warm autumn hues, the temptation to wrap up in our go-to cozy sweatpants is real, especially for our expecting mamas out there. But who says comfort can’t be chic? This season is ALL. ABOUT. PANTS. And we’ve rounded up this season’s most desirable options, ideal for those with a baby bump. Paired with plush sweaters and elegant dresses, they’re perfect for when you want to swap those loungewear moments for a touch of glam – even if it’s just for that decaf PSL run. Embrace the beauty of pregnancy this fall-winter with style and ease!

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MEGAN ROUP'S MAMA 2.0 PROGRAMMEGAN ROUP'S MAMA 2.0 PROGRAM

Megan Roup's Approach to Prenatal + Postpartum Fitness The Sculpt Society Mama 2.0

By Ruthie Friedlander

Motherhood is a transformative experience (read: totally bizarre, crazy, wonderful, terrifying, insert adjective of your choice). As our bodies go through the journey of carrying and birthing a child, it’s essential to have the right resources and tools to navigate this transition with joy, ease, and most importantly, proper education. Enter Megan Roup’s newly launched program: The Sculpt Society Mama 2.0.

Following the birth of her daughter, Mercer, Megan has introduced this program tailored specifically for expectant mothers and those in their postpartum journey. We sat down with Megan to learn more about this comprehensive initiative. We learned it is divided into four detailed programs, ensuring that mamas at all stages have easy-to-understand guidance at every step.

Prenatal Fitness Program

The Ultimate Prenatal Fitness Resource: This program is segmented weekly, ensuring that mamas get a balanced mix of low-impact workouts, stretching, yoga, and meditation tailored to their specific stage of pregnancy. New additions include quickie workouts targeting the arms, abs, legs, and booty. There are also 30-minute prenatal slow, controlled classes for early pregnancy, 20-minute prenatal sculpt + full-body sessions, and specialized stretches for common pregnancy ailments. Also, there’s the bonus of prenatal wellness chats and yoga classes to foster a well-rounded prenatal journey.

RELATED: Can I Do A Crunch In My First Trimester?

Prenatal Pelvic Floor + 360 Breathing Program

Strengthen, Lengthen, and Prepare: Megan emphasizes the importance of connecting with the deep core and pelvic floor during pregnancy. This program teaches mothers to prepare their bodies for labor and guides them throughout their pregnancy journey into the postpartum phase. With new classes focusing on labor prep, strengthening the pelvic floor, and managing post-birth conditions like diastasis recti, mamas can safely train these crucial muscles.

Postpartum Pelvic Floor + Core Recovery Program

Gentle Recovery after Birth: Once mamas are ready and have given birth, this six-week program aids in the foundational work of re-strengthening the core and reconnecting with the pelvic floor. Using slow, controlled movements, mothers can deeply attune with their bodies, ensuring a safe and nurturing beginning to their postpartum journey.

Postpartum Program

Rebuilding and Transitioning Back: After completing the core recovery program and getting a doctor’s approval, mamas can transition back to a fitness routine. With an emphasis on the deep core and pelvic floor and low-impact full-body workouts, this program ensures that mothers gradually rebuild strength in a safe and supportive manner.

Additionally, The Sculpt Society has added 100+ new videos to the TSS Mama Program. From detailed exercises to educational content, there’s a wealth of information to help mamas through their journey.

Megan Roup’s focus on the pelvic floor, especially immediately after giving birth, signifies the depth of her understanding of the female body’s needs during this transformative time. With The Sculpt Society Mama 2.0, mamas are not only equipped to stay active during pregnancy but are also supported in their recovery and strength-building post-birth.

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Zoom Saved My Postpartum Why an authentic community is the unlock to postpartum wellness.

By Betsy Riley

Betsy is the co-founder of Swehl, a one-stop-shop for breastfeeding, and previously co-founded the women’s community, Doyenne. 

“Community” is a bit of a buzzword these days, but for good reason: the connection of a shared experience will always be relevant and can be game-changing, especially when you’re in a crisis. 

And let’s be real, sometimes early motherhood can feel like a crisis. Becoming a parent in the earliest days of Covid in 2020 was a humbling experience (OK, it kinda rocked me). My life had gone from running a women’s social club in Los Angeles, where I was constantly surrounded by women who would emotionally lift me up to the opposite: a digital dashboard of strangers hiding behind usernames, where any difference of opinion was unabashedly shamed. Seven months into parenthood, the epiphany hit that I had PPA. The stress, fear, and isolation had been eating away at me and my family for months–but I was so close to it, I didn’t really have the tools to define it. 

I’m certainly not alone in experiencing postpartum mood disorders; up to 85% of new parents experience postpartum blues in the first two weeks of the fourth trimester, and many go on to have more formal diagnoses of Postpartum Depression or Postpartum Anxiety. We are all striving to feel validation in our experiences–yet there are many moments a mother’s feelings are perceived as exaggerated, or unimportant even. Postpartum is one of the most vital times in your life to have an authentic and truly supportive community.

In my early days of co-founding Swehl, we brought together acquaintances who were newly postpartum for zoom meetups. These turned into hours-long vent sessions, hearing about their breastfeeding journey, their parenting rage and everything in between. It was the first time I felt a connection with other mothers; I felt free to share the good, bad and ugly with these women who lacked the judgment close friends and family might bring. All of a sudden, my PPA fog lifted a bit.

Almost three years later, we’ve talked to thousands of new parents and community (not the buzzword—the real deal) is now embedded into Swehl’s DNA. We are intentional about creating a space for authenticity around parenthood, with an emphasis on putting parents and their full identities at the forefront.  

My favorite community resources:

SWEHL CIRCLES

Digital, expert-led community chats to hype up & hang with other parents. Hosts like Amanda Chantal Bacon, Amrit or Lori Bregman guide these 45-minute conversations.

COOL MOMS 

A podcast exploring what the coolest moms in town are doing? Yes, please.  Hosted by Elise Peterson, the pod features mothers who prioritize their passions and has in-person (yes, COOL) community events to back it.

BY WAY OF US

MOM WORLD, the motherhood staple from By Way of Us, is an in-person gathering across the U.S. dedicated to exploring all facets of a woman through the lens of motherhood. The events are a vibe.

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