HospitalBag.org Blog

Group B strep (GBS) is a big deal!

Theresa — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 12:19:00 GMT

July is Group B Strep Awareness Month and we would like to do our part to help raise awareness and help protect mothers and babies infected with GBS.

According to www.groupbstrepinternational.org:

Approximately 1 in 4 pregnant women carry GBS, the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborns according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). GBS can also infect babies during pregnancy and the first few months of life.

Not all babies exposed to GBS become infected, but, for those who do, the results can be devastating. GBS can cause babies to be miscarried, stillborn, born prematurely, become very sick, have lifelong handicaps, or die.

Fortunately there are ways to help protect babies from Group B Strep. It is now the standard of care in the USA and Canada for all pregnant women to be tested for GBS at 35 to 37 weeks of pregnancy.

If you are GBS postive you will likely be given intervenous antibiotics 4 hours prior to delivery while in labor. This reduces but does not eliminate risks to the baby so please visit this page for a comprehensive list of things you can do and questions to ask your doctor. http://www.groupbstrepinternational.org/info_main.html

Please educate yourself about GBS. Remember that many women test positive and have healthy babies with no complications or infection to the baby. Know your options and prepared ahead of time.

Free Printable Birth Plan

Theresa — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:44:00 GMT

As part of the HealthyBabyNetwork.com we try to make planning for baby easier and less stressful for mom (and Dad). Along with a free hospital bag checklist, you can also print a free birth plan to fill out and give to your birthing team.

A birth plan helps answer many of the questions and concerns around labor and delivery. A birth plan is designed to help you, your partner and doctor sort out all the options from pain management to birthing positions. It will give you an opportunity to discuss these options and help you be proactive in your care and help ensure that you have the best birth experience possible.

A birth plan is not a legally binding document but it serves as a guide for your birthing team. Your healthcare provider will always consider the health and safety of you and the baby and will act accordingly and will not put you at risk even if it means completely straying from your birth plan. In many cases, with labors without complications, your spouse, doula and doctor will help you to have the experience you want.

More than ever moms have options. Gone are the days of delivering a baby while Dad has a cigar down in the hospital waiting room. With proper planning and information, you can have a the birth experience you want. Good Luck!

Win a LaborKit

Theresa — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 21:47:00 GMT

In a special feature "All Things Baby" CoffeeWithTheMrs.com recently reviewed LaborKit and posted a video of all the items you discover as you unpack your pre-packed hospital bag. CoffeeWithTheMrs.com is hosting a giveaway of one Standard LaborKit to a lucky subscriber. Check out her video review and the blog to see how to enter. It's easy -- just post a comment to be entered! To learn more about LaborKit, visit http://www.laborkit.com/. Contest ends July 22. Good Luck

Labor Kit Vlog Review from TheMrs. on Vimeo.

Why non-slip socks in my hospital bag?

Theresa — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:03:00 GMT

Many checklists will recommend that you pack warm socks in your hospital bag but, although its a little harder to find, we recommend packing NON-SLIP socks. Labor for most women is not a fast process and once you are admitted to the hospital or birthing center you will likely be encouraged to walk or pace the halls to help encourage labor. For your safety, non-slip socks are best. The floors of hospitals are often smooth and when you suddenly feel a contraction starting, you want to be still, hold on to a railing or chair and let it run its course. You will feel more stable with socks that aren't slidding. It's a small thing to consider but a very important addition to your hospital bag. Also, as more and more hospitals cut back, having your own packed in your bag is one less thing to worry about.

You can find non-slip socks for adults at your local medical supply store or in a prepacked hospital bag like LaborKit which includes Pillow Paws.

If you are packing your hospital bag, consider this...

Theresa — Sun, 31 May 2009 02:01:00 GMT

At the time you are packing your hospital bag you are probably just a few weeks away from meeting your new baby. This is a good time to consider hiring a photographer that specializes in newborn photography.

Your baby will change quickly and the pure innocence of the first few days is unlike any time in your baby's life, or yours for that matter. A photographer will capture the vulnerability and tenderness of a newborn like no one else can. These photos will be cherished forever.

With the growing popularity of photo birth announcements, having a beautiful photo is a wonderful way to celebrate the new little person's arrival.

Check out photographers in your area that specialize in newborn and maternity photos and plan to have some images taken in the first few days -- you will be glad you did.

Giveaway News on MeTime.com

Theresa — Fri, 08 May 2009 18:18:00 GMT

Could you or a mom you know use a little pampering? Let’s face it. Moms are extremely busy ladies with very little time to themselves, spending their days working, cleaning, schooling, caring for kids, parents, grandparents and pets, taxi-ing children from sports/lessons and feeding the masses. Moms can always use a little break to relax and renew the soul… AKA: me time! MeTime.com is celebrating moms through the end of May. They have selected a grouping of products that will pamper you, relax you, or assist you in making everyday task a little easier! Enter the “Me Time Celebrates Mom” Giveaway for a chance to win.

Visit MeTime.com for more information on how to enter and and a detailed list of product prizes including a LaborKit, Spa Package, Scentsy Warmer and Bars, Mothers Need Time-Outs, Too (book), Care4Hire (1 Month Subscription) and a Mom’s Meal Mastery Session from Dinner Together ... just to name a few!

What does the hospital provide when you have a baby?

Theresa — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:29:00 GMT

There is no easy answer to this question. Ideally the hospital would provide everything, and some do, but many don't. Many would like you to bring the basics like diapers, pads and water bottles. Others pamper you with Egyptian cotton robes, free local calls and cable TV.

I think its pretty safe to assume your needs will be met. You won't starve, your incision will be cared for and your baby will be safe BUT if you have preferences, a hospital may not be willing to accommodate them so you will want to be proactive. If you prefer organic and natural products you will want to pack your own soap, moisturizer, lip balm and cloth (or environmentally friendly) diapers. If you are breastfeeding, bring nursing pads. Many hospitals do not provide these and there are many options (cloth, organic, disposable) so choose one that you like and have some handy. If you would rather not be seen in a hospital gown, bring some comfy clothes. Hospitals may ask you to bring your own pads and many women really don't like the large "feels like I am wearing a diaper" pads the hospital provides so bring your own and you will be much more comfortable. Other nice-to-haves are a soft blanket for baby, refillable water bottle, slippers, baby wipes and lots of snacks (not too many moms rave about the fantastic meals at a hospital). Patient care (ultimately your birth experience) varies depending on geographical locations, type of insurance, birthing center or hospital, and the quality of care from staff. This is a wonderfully exciting time so as you pack your hospital bag, think of things that would make the birth experience comfortable, relaxing and what you want it to be and pack accordingly.

For more ideas on what to pack in your hospital bag, view our Free Printable Hospital Bag Checklist

Nausea Relief During Pregnancy and Labor

Theresa — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:09:00 GMT

If your pregnancy experience is anything like mine, you would have been nauseous for the first trimester (especially in any moving vehicle) and desperately tried to find something to help make you feel better. Teas helped me, especially peppermint or ginger teas, but often I often experienced nausea on the move so I needed something that could travel with me. Then, when I went through labor and delivery, I experienced nausea again only this time it was from my body being weary and the medications that were given to me during labor -- I was vomiting for hours!

So, to help all you soon-to-be moms out there, here are some fabulous, drug-free, inexpensive, effective remedies and products for the relief of nausea:

Psi Bands - Psi Bands (pronounced "Sigh Bands") are stylish, FDA-cleared acupressure wrist bands for the relief of nausea due to morning sickness (pregnancy). Unlike any product on the market, Psi Bands are: Adjustable, Comfortable, Drug-Free, Fashionable, Waterproof, Reusable and Affordable. Learn more at: http://www.psibands.com/
I recommend these especially in the first trimester when nausea can be rather relentless. Wear these and feel better!

Sweetsation Therapy Lip Balm - Organic lip balm specifically for nausea caused by morning sickness or labor. A blend of Litsea and Peppermint oils help combat nausea by delivering aromatherapy benefits right under your nose. This balm is an easy, soothing way to ease nausea. http://sweetsationtherapy.com/ Perfect anytime but especially labor when rhythmic breathing will dry out your lips -- it's actually a very common complaint in labor.

Preggie Pop Drops - A combination of essential oils and aromatherapy, Preggie Pops Drops alleviate dry mouth, provide quick calories and energy during labor, and ease nausea. Safe for pregnancy, Preggie Pops are drug free and healthcare provider recommended. Choose from organic, sour and fruity flavors in drops or lollipops. Available online at www.threelollies.com

Some baby bottle companies stop using BPA -- finally!

Theresa — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 22:35:00 GMT

BPA will no longer be used for baby bottles. I think we all anticipated this announcement. You can see the brief article at www.msnbc.com. This is fantastic news but the it seems quite concerning that the article stated:

"...the companies stopped manufacturing bottles with BPA a couple of weeks ago."

A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO? This issue has been in the news for well over a year but bottles were continued to be made until just recently! Also, only six of the eleven companies have agreed to stop using BPA.

I guess there is still a lot of work to do. You can buy Born Free or Medela bottles which have always been BPA free. Always read labels carefully. Breastfeed if at all possible -- even just for a while.

Natural Disposable Nursing Pads

Theresa — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:21:00 GMT

Now you can have the convenience of disposable nursing pads while still making a healthy choice for you and the environment!

Many nursing pads (even reusable, washable ones) are made with plastics and other petro-chemicals which are not healthy for mom or the environment. I just found out about Natracare (although they have been around for a long time) who offers nursing pads, feminine pads especially for the postpartum days, baby toiletries and other natural, organic products just for women. They use organic cotton and their products are biodegradable.

I haven't tried them but I know the biggest concern for a breastfeeding mom is leaking through the nursing pad. I have read several reviews and all were positive (absorbent and comfortable) but some women noted that the nursing pads were a little more "lumpy" and would show through a bra BUT the Natracare pads were worth using for the environmental benefits. They cost the same or less than Gerber or Medela. Even if you choose to use these around the house or at night and another brand when you really need to, the overall impact on the earth is lessened and you are putting less toxins in your body -- every little bit helps.

Check out some reviews and the Natracare website.

Add a Labor Candle to your hospital bag

Theresa — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:37:00 GMT

Check this out! Now there is a candle that has been created with the very specific goal of helping a mom during childbirth. Sweetsation Therapy has created a wonderful aromatherapy candle specifically for labor and delivery. But its not all about setting a calming environment -- this candle gets the body working by enouraging contractions and helping to open up the pelvis making pushing a little easier. It may help speed labor which is welcome by just about every mom I know. Sweetsation’s proprietary Essential Oil Blend is quite powerful and is only recommended to use on or after the baby’s due date. Please be careful and follow the instructions. Visit www.sweetsationtherapy.com to find out more about the ingredients and what you might expect from the Sweetsation D-Day Blessing Candle.

Win a $200 Gift Card for The Children's Place

Theresa — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:59:00 GMT

We are working together with several sites to offer a comprehensive newsletter called Bellies and Babies. You can subscribe to the newsletter through www.laborkit.com or www.babyshowergifts.net and be entered to win a $200 Gift Card for The Children's Place. The draw will be on March 30th and only newsletter subscribers can be entered.

Join for your chance to win and to receive the Bellies and Babies Newsletter filled with information, products recomendations, services and tools for pregnancy, life with a new baby and parenting.

Prepacked Hospital Bags great for Dads too

Theresa — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 21:52:00 GMT

For the Dad who wants to be prepared (and impress the mom-to-be), a pre-packed Hospital Bag or LaborKit is a great purchase or baby shower gift. There are several to choose from depending on whether it's a first baby, "they've been through three times already" or are giving birth at home. The Deluxe LaborKit includes a baby care DVD, Bringing Baby Home, to help answer every question a first-time mom and dad may have. The DVD even includes a section on how Dad can bond with Baby.

Also, since Dad is often the one excitedly trying to call all friends and family, each LaborKit includes a "Share the Joy" contact list to ensure Dad has all important phone numbers and emails handy when he's ready to share the joy of the arrival of his new son or daughter.

Gone are the days of dads sitting in the waiting room while mom gives birth in a ward down the hall. Dads are right there on the frontlines helping moms physically and emotionally. Plan ahead and be prepared -- it will ease the anxiety that comes with labor and delivery and let both of you focus on the joy and excitement of welcoming your new baby into the world.

Why on earth do I need Mesh underwear?

Theresa — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:57:00 GMT

There are many women who swear by these not-so-sexy mesh pants after having a baby.

First, they are super stretchy and fit better than regular or maternity underwear 24-72 hours after birth. They are breathable and soft for moms who have had c-sections or an episiotomy. The mesh underwear will allow you to heal without putting any pressure on incisions or your abdomen. You won't need to use them for long but many moms wouldn't have babies without them and I recently read a forum that the moms said that the hospitals weren't even providing them or they only gave them a pair or two.

Consider mesh underwear something you should definitely pack in your hospital bag. You can buy them at health care supply stores or purchase a pre-packed hospital bag like LaborKit which includes mesh underwear in every LaborKit.

Product recalls for Baby Cribs

Theresa — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:41:00 GMT

If anyone recently purchased a StorkCraft crib or is planning on using a borrowed or second-hand one, please read the recall that was just posted on The Today Show website: "Stork Craft Recalls 535,000 Baby Cribs." The cribs were sold on Amazon.com and at Wal-mart, KMart, JC Penny, Costco, BabiesRUs which means there are many moms using these cribs. The recall is "because the metal mattress-support brackets can crack and break. This could cause the mattress to collapse and create a gap where a child could get trapped or suffocate."

The cribs were sold between May 2000 and January 2009 so please check your crib especially if its borrowed or handed down from family -- a recall spanning 8+ years is going to affect a lot of people and a crib that has been around for a while may be even more prone to collapse.