Consultant

Peace. It doesn't mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

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FAQ

What is a doula (Doo-lah)?

Doula: a greek word meaning woman's helper. A woman who assists another woman and provides emotional and physicla assistance to her and the infant(s) after childbirth. Doulas are trained, knowledgeable, and non-judgmental professionals who assist during this critical period of adjustment. Doulas offer vital informational support to the family as a whole. Their expertise in mother/baby care allows them to be confident in assisting mom in a variety of areas that may be of concern such as: Postpartum comfort measures, c-section care and breastfeeding support, newborn basic care, and reduction/elimination of anxiety and stress.

What do Doulas/Baby Nurse's Charge?

Doulas/Baby Nurse's may establish rates based on their experience, expertise, number of infants, level of care provided, and distance in travel time. The average rate for 8 hours of care ranges from $25.00 to $35.00 per hour. Multiples of an Awesome Love will meet and evaluate each family's circumstances on an individual basis.

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Breastfeeding Tips for Mom's with Multiples...

  1. Begin with skin to skin...
    This is essential in the breastfeeding process, particularly in the first few days. It is important for the baby/babies to feel the warmth and closeness of mom.
  2. Allow yourself to get comfortable...
    You may breastfeed in whatever position you're most comfortable in. Whether you're sitting upright, lying on yoru back, or on either side, the choice is yours. For moms who have had a c-section, you may find a reclining glider or recliner more comfortable. This allows you to be more at ease and the baby will likely nurse a slong as he/she likes when mom is relaxed.
  3. Allow yourself time...
    Nursing frequently doesn't mean that you're not making enough milk. Some babies require more than others. Don't get discouraged. Instead, consult with a doula, lactation consultant, healthcare professional, or pediatrician. If and when having to possibly consider other options and approaches, be mindful that circumstances vary from individual to individual and only you can persue techniques that will be conducive to your baby's/babies' overall growth and well being. After all, you've done something that is unique and extraordinary in itself - you've given birth not only to one, but to multiples.
  4. Most importantly, be gentle and kind to yourself...
    Breastfeeding is wonderful and indeed an art. Enjoy, receive, and embrace it. Happy Breastfeeding!!

Recommended Read: The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, LaLeche League


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Positions for Breastfeeding...

Getting in Position...
No matter which of these four common breastfeeding "holds" you choose, it helps to cup your breast outside the areola, with your thumb on top and your fingers under.

  1. "Cradle" hold: secure the baby's head in the crook of your arm on the side you're going to nurse from. Use this arm to move the baby toward you. Cup your breast with the other hand.
  2. "Cross Cradle" hold: This is the traditional position. The baby's head is placed inthe crook of the mother's arm with the baby's arm around mom's waist and the baby's buttocks supported by mom's hand, while maintaining a tumy to tummy position.
  3. The "Side Lying" position: Every mom should be encouraged to use this position. It is regarded as the most favorable position that allows mom good rest while she nurses. Lie on your side with your head on a pillow. Position your baby parallel to you, tummy to tummy, with baby's mouth pointed toward your nipple.
  4. The "Football" position: This is the recommended position for moms who have delivered via c-section. The baby is placed in a horizontal position at mom's side with baby's legs underneath mom's arm, so that they're behind you while you support baby's head and back.
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Guidelines for Storing Breastmilk...

  1. Colostrum (first day's breastmilk): Kept at room temperature, 27-32 degrees C (80.6 - 89.6 degrees F) for 12 to 24 hours.
  2. Mature Milk:
    1. Kept at 15 degrees C (59-60 degrees F) for 24 hours
    2. Kept at 19-22 degrees C (66-71 degrees F) for 10 hours
    3. Kept at 25 degrees C (79 degrees F) for 4 to 8 hours
    4. Refrigerated 0-4 degrees C (32-39 degrees F) for 5 to 8 days
  3. Frozen Milk:
    1. Freezer compartment located inside a refrigerator - 2 weeks
    2. Separate door regrigerator/freezer - 3 or 4 months (temperature varies due to door being open frequently)
    3. Separate deep freezer 19 degrees C (0 degree F) - 6 months or longer
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Baby Talk...

  1. What can my baby see?
    At birth, a baby can see 7-10 inches away from his/her face. This is the distance for sight when breastfeeding. Typically, a baby can only destinguish contrast (black/white). By 8 weeks, the baby visuall prefers a human face as opposed to objects. At 12-16 weeks, color is an important part of vision.
  2. What is colic:
    Inconsolable crying that doesn't stop or worsens throughout the day. Usually intensifies in the evening. Some experts regard it as the rule of "threes."
    1. Crying for at least three or more hours a day, at least three days a week, for a period of at least three weeks.
    2. Colic is equally common among formula fed and breastfed babies.
  3. What is jaundice?
    A buildup of bilirubin in your baby's blood, jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the baby's skin. Pediatricians typically order a blood test to determine the bilirubin level. If it's not high, it's usually re-checked in a few days because jaundice often subsides without treatment.
  4. Are baby massages effective?
    Yes, message can be a miracle cure for a cranky spell or a blissful way to bond with your baby. It's powerful effects include increasing baby's neurological and physical development. Consult with your doctor if your baby is premature or has existing medical conditions.
  5. How can I console/calm my crying baby/babies?
    First show your baby your face. Then proceed by talking to your baby in a quiet tone. If this is not effective, place your hand on the baby's chest (torso) or stomach. If not done, swaddle the baby, as this gives a feeling of security and warmth. If this isn't calming your baby, hold and rock the baby. The baby can then suck your finger or you may offer the pacifier.
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Shush, Shush, Calm Down...

Here are some soothers using the suck, motion, sound, vision, and touch strategic approaches.

  1. Suck: This switches on a calming reflex in your baby's brain.
    1. Sucking on your finger
    2. Nursing/bottle feeding
    3. Pacifier
  2. Motion: Rhythmic - it's like being in the womb.
    1. Rocking
    2. Swinging
    3. Strolling
  3. Sound: Tones out stimuli that is annoying and non-calming.
    1. Shushing in the ear
    2. Soft music
    3. Soothing sounds (birds chirping / waves)
  4. Vision: Allows baby to focus on its surroundings.
    1. Color objects/toys
    2. Mobile with motion & sound
    3. Outdoor scenery
  5. Touch: Stimulates the brain and calms baby, giving a secure feeling.
    1. Swaddling
    2. Massage
    3. Cradling baby close to your heart
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© 2008 Multiples of an Awesome Love