Healthy Iron Levels During Pregnancy

If you’re like 35% of the female population in the U.S., you probably don’t have enough iron in your body. Iron deficiencies come with a host of unwelcome symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or irritability, but when you’re pregnant, healthy iron levels suddenly become even more important.

What Is Iron and Why Is it Important?

Iron is a mineral that plays a key role in producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases significantly, leading to a higher demand for iron to deliver enough oxygen to both her own tissues and to the growing baby.

Your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels will likely get checked during prenatal blood work to check for anemia or iron deficiency. If iron levels are low, your midwife can recommend dietary adjustments or quality supplements to start taking.

Why Mama Needs Iron:

1. Preventing Anemia: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Anemia during pregnancy can increase risks such as:

   Fatigue and Weakness

   Increased Risk of Infections

   Preterm Delivery

   Postpartum Depression

2. Supporting Increased Blood Volume: A pregnant woman’s blood volume increases by about 50% to support the growing baby, requiring more iron for hemoglobin production.

Why Baby Needs Iron:

1. Development: Adequate iron is essential for the baby’s growth and brain development.

2. Preventing Low Birth Weight: Insufficient iron levels in the mother can lead to low birth weight and delayed development in the baby.

3. Placenta Health: Iron keeps the placenta developing and functioning effectively.

Recommended Iron Levels

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for iron during pregnancy is 27 milligrams (mg) per day. This is higher than the RDA for non-pregnant women, which is 18 mg per day. The body's ability to absorb iron increases during pregnancy, but it can still be a challenge to meet the increased needs. 

A whole food diet is the best way to get iron in your body, but sometimes this is easier said than done, especially if it is hard to keep certain foods down. That’s why we recommend reputable iron supplements if you are struggling to keep your iron levels up.

Best Foods for Maintaining Healthy Iron Levels

Heme Iron Sources:

Heme iron, found in animal products, is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron found in plant sources. Foods rich in heme iron include:

1. Lean Red Meat: Beef, lamb, and pork are excellent sources.

2. Poultry: Chicken and turkey.

3. Seafood: Particularly shellfish like oysters, clams, and shrimp.

Non-Heme Iron Sources:

Non-heme iron is also important and can be found in:

1. Legumes: Lentils, beans, chickpeas, and soybeans.

2. Tofu and Tempeh: Good sources for vegetarians.

3. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard.

4. Fortified Cereals and Bread: Many grains are fortified with iron.

5. Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and cashews.

Nutrients such as vitamin C and animal proteins can improve the absorption of non-heme iron.

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Looking for quality iron supplements to support your pregnancy?

Check out our natural and vegetarian Gaia Herbs Liquid Iron for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers!

We also recommend grass-fed beef liver supplements from reputable sources as a way to maintain iron levels.

Pitocin: Risks and Side Effects

Pitocin has become a go-to solution of convenience for managing labor, whether used for induction or to speed up a slow progression. Hospitals across the United States use Pitocin as a regular part of the birth process - often as a time management tool - which means that longer labors will either deliver faster or may result in a C-section.

In some high-risk cases, Pitocin can be valuable when used correctly. However, our medical system is pushing Pitocin more and more when unnecessary, frequently causing complications where there were none to start with. 

Birthing Interventions in the U.S.

Maternity care in the U.S. involves a lot of interventions. According to the Listening to Mothers III report [1]:

• 89% of women had electronic fetal monitoring (66% continuously)

• 62% received IV fluids

• 79% weren't allowed to eat during labor

• 60% weren't allowed to drink during labor

• 67% of women who had vaginal births got an epidural

• 31% were given Pitocin to speed up labor

• 20% had their membranes artificially ruptured

• 17% had an episiotomy

• 31% had a C-section

Sometimes there are true birthing emergencies. But why does every birth suddenly “need” so many medical interventions? 

Such heavy use of interventions comes from a mindset of expecting problems and viewing birth as a medical emergency. However, research is showing that a routine use of interventions in the past several decades has actually caused more complications for both moms and babies.

The Paradox of Pitocin

Pitocin is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring hormone, oxytocin. It’s used for inductions: when the birth is scheduled, when the pregnancy goes beyond the due date, or when there is a high-risk medical reason such as preeclampsia or diabetes. It is also used for labor augmentation to strengthen and regulate contractions if labor is not considered to be progressing.

Did You Know? It’s actually super normal for pregnancies to go beyond their due date! The due date is just an estimation, and there’s no reason to be worried if the baby hasn’t arrived a week or two after (as long as there are no medical concerns). 

Here is where the paradox of Pitocin comes in: while it is supposed to facilitate labor, Pitocin often leads to complications that can slow the process and increase the chance of a C-section. Forcing a pregnant woman’s body to labor before it is ready can cause several issues, usually related to uterine hyperstimulation or protracted labor.

• Uterine Hyperstimulation: Pitocin can cause overly strong and frequent contractions, known as uterine hyperstimulation.

• Protracted Labor: Even though Pitocin is supposed to progress labor, it often does the complete opposite. For many women, it actually prolongs labor. The uterus can become fatigued or the cervix may not dilate as expected, leading to a slower, more painful labor process.

Other Side Effects and Risks of Pitocin

Maternal Side Effects: 

• Nausea, fever, or headaches

• Increased risk of postpartum depression and anxiety

• Breastfeeding problems

• Study shows that half of the women who received Pitocin had less optimal breastfeeding outcomes than those who did not receive Pitocin [2]

• Rare cases of uterine rupture

Fetal Side Effects: 

• Hyperstimulation can cause fetal distress, often leading to an emergency C-section

• Oxygen deprivation from hyperstimulation is a leading cause of birth injuries such as cerebral palsy [3 , 4]

• If Pitocin leads to a C-section, the baby misses out on the huge benefits of traveling through the birth canal (improved microbiome, less allergies, less risk of obesity, diabetes, or asthma)

Pitocin When Used with Other Interventions

Using Pitocin often sets off a domino effect of interventions. Pitocin usually goes hand-in-hand with electronic fetal monitoring, which can restrict the mother’s mobility and make labor more uncomfortable. This, in turn, can lead to an increased use of pain relief such as epidurals, which often slows labor down even further and increases the risk of more interventions, including C-sections.

Epidurals and Pitocin are often used together, which tends to cause a downward spiral in speed and ease of labor. 

To navigate the birth canal, the baby needs SPACE. To give the baby space in your pelvis, we recommend walking, squatting, or laboring on all fours so gravity can help. With an epidural, you are typically confined to a bed, which means you cannot walk around or get into natural positions that will help the baby engage.

At the same time, if Pitocin is administered, your body will start to experience strong contractions. If you are in a less-than-ideal position that does not give the baby enough room to move down, yet your uterus is being forced to contract, labor can easily stall, possibly putting the baby in distress and making a C-section more likely.

We recommend caution when dealing with Pitocin - there are certainly times when it works as intended and women have the births they want! Unfortunately, there are also many times when it only hinders labor and causes preventable problems. Our goal at the Cincinnati Birth Center is to help women make informed decisions for their births so they can choose what is best for them and their babies.

Midwife Model of Care - Our Philosophies

Over the centuries, midwifery has evolved into a woman-centered model of care using philosophies that align with local cultures and scientific research. 

In the United States, the Midwife Model of Care views pregnancy and birth, not as something to fear, but as a normal life process that does not always require interventions or invasive practices.

Find out how the Cincinnati Birth Center handles topics such as:

Schedule a free tour of our birthing center!

• Epidurals

• Natural Pain Management

• Breech Babies

• Hospital Transfers

The heart of midwifery lies in prioritizing the health of mother and baby while standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the mother in personalized approaches.

What Does the Midwife Model of Care Include?

The Midwife Model of Care is an approach that attends to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of the mother throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

This model is distinguished by several key practices:

1. Holistic Monitoring: Midwives continuously monitor the overall health of the mother, including her physical condition, emotional state, and social environment.

2. Individualized Support: Mothers receive personalized education, counseling, and prenatal care. During labor and delivery, midwives provide continuous, hands-on assistance, followed by supportive postpartum care.

3. Minimizing Interventions: Technological and medical interventions are minimized to help mothers achieve natural childbirth whenever possible while ensuring safety.

4. Timely Referrals: Midwives are trained to identify situations that require obstetrical intervention and make timely referrals when a pregnancy is no longer considered low-risk or a hospital transfer is needed.

The above key practices are shaped by the following philosophies:

• Midwives are considered the most suitable caregivers for women during childbirth, offering specialized and compassionate care.

• Midwife care promotes, protects, and supports women's health and rights, respecting ethnic and cultural diversity.

• This care model is continuous and holistic, addressing the social, emotional, cultural, spiritual, psychological, and physical experiences of women.

• Midwives build up the health and social status of women, empowering them through their ability to cope with childbirth.

• Midwives are respectful, personalized, continuous, and non-authoritarian, referring back to the philosophy of a woman-centered model of care.

• Midwife care is guided by ongoing education, scientific research, and the application of evidence, making sure that it is both ethical and competent.

History and Evolution of the Midwife Model of Care

The role of midwives in the United States has constantly evolved over the years. Historically, midwives were the primary providers of maternity care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. However, the rise of hospital-based obstetric care in the 20th century led to a decline in midwifery services. It wasn’t until the latter half of the century, amidst growing concerns over high intervention rates and a movement towards more personalized care, that midwifery began to experience a resurgence.

The establishment of professional organizations, such as the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) in 1955, played a role in professionalizing midwifery and integrating it into the broader healthcare system. Today, midwives are recognized as key providers in maternal healthcare, working in various settings including hospitals, birth centers, and home birth practices.

Midwifery Today

Today, the number of births attended by midwives in the U.S. is increasing as awareness grows and home birth myths are dispelled. Studies have proven that midwife care reduces the need for cesarean sections or medical interventions, and significantly lowers the rate of birth injury or trauma [1 , 2]. 

Despite the proven benefits, midwifery in the U.S. faces challenges such as:

• Varying state regulations

• Limited integration into some healthcare systems

• Public misconceptions concerning safety

We need to constantly advocate, educate, and address policy reforms to push our cause forward.

Looking ahead, integrating midwives into regular healthcare and increasing access will help meet the needs of diverse populations, reduce medical interventions, and lead to healthier outcomes for mothers and babies.

Midwifery Legislation in Ohio

Meghan speaking at the capitol

Midwife legislation has experienced a lot of evolution in the United States. Regulations vary across all 50 states depending on how each approaches healthcare, autonomy, and professional standards.

Ohio is currently a focal point with a bill in review which could open up midwife licensure and integration into healthcare. Our very own Meghan Nowland recently visited the state capitol and advocated for midwifery legislation, coinciding with the International Day of the Midwife on May 5, 2024!

Midwife Regulation in the US: CNMs vs CPMs

Midwifery is governed by a web of state-specific laws and regulations across the U.S. These laws typically distinguish between Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs).

• CNMs generally enjoy broader practice privileges due to their nursing background and advanced education. CNMs are licensed in all 50 states and are usually authorized to practice in hospitals, birth centers, and home settings.

• CPMs, on the other hand, tend to work exclusively at home births and birth centers and face more restrictive licensing laws. Only 36 states have specific licensure pathways for CPMs, which leaves them advocating for their right to practice. 

Ohio Legislation - House Bills 496 & 545

In 2022, House Bill 496 was introduced which would allow midwives to become licensed and fully integrated into the healthcare system. 

Meghan with State Representatives Riordan McClain & Melanie Miller

As of May 2024, House Bill 545 was also introduced into the 135th General Assembly to further the cause of midwife regulation. 

The proposed legislation, backed by a coalition of midwifery advocacy groups, healthcare professionals, and lawmakers, seeks to create a regulatory framework that acknowledges the competencies of CPMs while ensuring safety and quality standards.

The bills have received substantial support from both the public and professional communities. Proponents argue that formal licensure will enhance access to midwifery services, particularly in underserved rural areas where traditional healthcare facilities are sparse. It will also integrate CPMs into the broader healthcare system, providing better collaboration and emergency care protocols.

Currently, we are facing a shortage of midwives due to restrictive regulations. The enactment of these bills will increase the number of those who can practice and will open up employment opportunities in Ohio.

To summarize, the formal licensure of CPMs would:

1. Enhance Access to Care: By providing a clear regulatory framework, the bills will likely increase the number of practicing CPMs, improving access to midwifery services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

2. Integrate Midwifery into Healthcare: The bills will foster greater collaboration between midwives and other healthcare providers, promoting a more integrated and comprehensive approach to maternal and infant health.

3. Standardize Quality and Safety: By setting educational and practice standards, the bills aim to ensure high-quality care and enhance patient safety, addressing concerns about the variability in midwifery practices.

4. Improved Outcomes: This change could potentially improve maternal and infant outcomes by providing more birthing options and integrating midwifery more fully into prenatal and postnatal care frameworks.

When to Transfer to a Hospital During Home Birth

Most home births go smoothly without the need for any medical interventions or hospital transfers. Since a low-risk pregnancy is required to qualify for a home birth, any emergencies that occur can usually be handled by the midwife at home. 

Sometimes, despite careful planning and preparation, a hospital transfer might be necessary. The decision to transfer during labor is never taken lightly and is one your midwives will carefully consider with you, prioritizing the safety of both you and your baby. At the Cincinnati Birth Center, we average around 10% of our clients transferring during labor with a 6% cesarean section rate. Even with these low numbers, it is always best to be prepared. In the event of an emergency, what are some reasons a transfer might need to happen?

4 Reasons for a Hospital Transfer

1. Stalled / Slow Labor

Usually, slower labor isn’t something to be too concerned about, especially during the first part of labor or if you are a first-time mom. If nothing seems to be progressing or contractions are slowing down, you may want to try different ways to get things moving that don’t involve medical interventions:

• Try going for a walk to encourage the baby to descend.

• Change your surroundings if you are uncomfortable, feel closed in, or need more privacy.

• Switch up positions frequently - being stationary for too long can slow things down.

• Stimulate your nipples to produce oxytocin for contractions.

However, if labor is progressing too slowly during the second stage of labor, the mother may become exhausted and the baby could run the risk of fetal distress. Your midwife will work with you to make a judgment call if it’s time to move to a medical facility.

2. Postpartum Hemorrhage

At a home birth, midwives are equipped to handle most hemorrhages the same as a hospital doctor would, and there is very rarely any cause for concern. Most hemorrhages are mild and are easily managed. Sometimes postpartum hemorrhages happen after the first 24 hours post-birth, which is one reason why your midwife will conduct multiple postpartum visits to check on both you and baby.

In the rare event of a severe hemorrhage, an ambulance will be called while the midwife massages the uterus to stimulate a contraction, administer an oxytocic drug, and put up an IV if this does not stop the bleeding.

3. Infant Respiratory Problems

After the baby is born, his or her respiration is monitored and recorded until it has remained stable for two hours. If the baby is born in respiratory distress, the midwife will immediately perform resuscitation with her emergency equipment. However, a medical transfer will take place if the infant continues to show signs of respiratory distress or cyanosis (blue skin due to lack of oxygen).

4. Request for Epidural 

Sometimes mothers (especially first-time moms) change their minds and decide they want to transfer to a hospital for an epidural or help with accelerating labor. Before choosing a provider, it’s wise to consider whether you can commit to a birth without medical pain management. If you change your mind during labor, your midwife will respect your choice and transfer you to your chosen backup hospital.

Remember, a decision to transfer to a hospital is not a home birth “failure!” Your midwives are committed to ensuring the safety of you and your baby, and sometimes extra medical attention is needed. At the end of the day, what matters is that your baby is in your arms no matter where you are.

How Should I Plan for an Emergency Transfer?

Although most births proceed without complications, you will want to have a plan in place just in case of an emergency.

• Start by researching or asking your midwife reasons a transfer might be necessary to help you understand when and why it might need to happen. 

• If you have a written birth plan, include a “plan B” if you need to go to a hospital and make sure your preferred location is listed along with a phone number. Include a section specifically addressing the possibility of a transfer, detailing preferences for transportation, choice of hospital, and preferences for medical interventions if needed.  If you aren’t writing out a birth plan, keep the hospital’s address and contact information somewhere close by, such as hanging on the refrigerator.

• Discuss transportation options in advance and make arrangements if needed so that you have a reliable mode of transport to the hospital if needed.

• Even if you are planning on a home birth, you will still want to pack an emergency bag just in case you have an unexpected hospital stay. Include clothing, toiletries, personal documents, and any comfort items that can help make the transition smoother. Keep the bag nearby in case of a sudden transfer.

• Keep an emergency contact list close by of healthcare providers, family members, and anyone else who may need to be notified in case of a transfer.

How to Turn a Breech Baby

When your baby drops into position, usually they will assume the “head down” position ideal for childbirth. However, about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies experience a breech presentation where the baby’s buttocks, feet, or both are positioned to enter the pelvis first instead of the head [1].

Some breech babies can be delivered vaginally, but if the baby doesn’t turn before delivery, we recommend transferring to your preferred hospital in case of complications.

If you’ve found out your little one is breech - don’t panic! Around 30% of babies are breech at 30-32 weeks and only 3% are still breech at 37 weeks. Even if the baby is still breech at full-term, most of them will turn before labor begins, or even during labor. 

7 Ways to Turn Your Breech Baby 

Spinning Babies is an excellent resource to learn how to balance your body at home to get baby back into the proper position. They offer several easy activities to help turn your baby and get your body ready for birth. 

Some of the most effective ways to turn your breech baby are outlined below.

1. Forward Leaning Inversion

The forward leaning inversion is a commonly used technique that has seen great results for turning babies in breech and other unwanted positions. It untwists and lengthens ligaments in the uterus by using gravity to make room for a good fetal position. 

Download Spinning Babies’ Daily Essentials Video tutorial or read step-by-step instructions to learn the technique yourself.

2. Breech Tilt

The breech tilt, or pelvic tilt, creates an angle that encourages the baby to tuck their chin and flip. Many women use an ironing board and prop it at an angle and lie on it with their head toward the floor and feet in the air. Try lying on the board 20 minutes at a time 1-3 times a day often to help turn the baby.

3. The Webster Technique

Chiropractic care during pregnancy helps with all kinds of issues, from sciatica to reducing labor time. Did you know it can also help turn babies in poor positions? Known as the Webster Technique, this approach realigns the pelvis to create more space for the baby. 

Balance Chiropractic, located at our main office on 841 Lincoln Avenue, specializes in this technique along with further care for infants and mothers.

4. Acupuncture with Moxibustion

Moxibustion, used by Chinese medicine for thousands of years, is a form of acupuncture that uses “moxi sticks,” which contain the leaves of the mugwort plant. Moxibustion stimulates the BL57 acupuncture point and has been shown to be effective in turning breech babies and preventing c-sections [2].

5. Music

Try playing gentle music through headphones and placing them on the lower part of your belly. Sometimes the sound will encourage the baby to turn in the direction it is coming from, which can ease them into the proper position.

6. Heat and Cold

Babies like to stay warm, so one strategy to turn your breech baby is to place a warm pack at the bottom of your belly and a cold pack (such as a bag of frozen peas) at the top of your abdomen. This can encourage them to shift and turn to get more comfortable and closer to the heat.

7. Sleeping Positions

You’re probably already sleeping on your side, but if you haven’t tried this already, lie on your left side when you go to bed with a pillow between your legs. Keep your abdomen and upper leg in a forward position to give your baby more room to turn. At the very least, this may help alleviate some of your aches and pains!

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Sometimes, if nothing else has worked, we will schedule an external cephalic version (ECV) with a doctor when the baby is term. This is a short, but uncomfortable procedure where the doctor attempts to manipulate the baby’s position by pushing on your belly and abdomen. This does not always work and is not always recommended, but may be the best route if unable to naturally turn the baby.

If you have more questions or concerns about your baby’s position, your midwife will be more than happy to sit down and discuss a plan with you to help turn your baby! Most importantly, don’t stress - at the Cincinnati Birth Center, we’re here to walk you through each step of your pregnancy and tailor care specifically for you and your child.

Home Birth Safety - Myth vs. Reality

If you have had or are considering a home birth, you’ve probably heard responses ranging from excitement to surprise to not-so-subtle judgment. You’ve probably also gotten a lot of questions about the safety and practicality of home birth. 

Unfortunately, a lot of misinformation spreads around the topic of home birth - and misinformation provides a breeding ground for skepticism. Today, we’re going to debunk some of the top myths surrounding the safety of home birth.

Myth #1: Home births are riskier than hospital births

One of the most common myths about home births is that they are unsafe compared to hospital births. “What if you need a c-section?” or “What about hemorrhaging?” are common concerns people may have.

Research shows that home births of low-risk pregnancies attended by trained professionals are just as safe (if not more safe!) than hospital births.

In fact, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal, planned home births for low-risk women resulted in lower rates of interventions such as cesarean sections, epidurals, and episiotomies compared to hospital births, without compromising the safety of mothers or babies [1].

Myth #2: Home births are messy and unsanitary

It’s true, birth is a messy business. However, this doesn’t mean that you will need to tear out carpet or replace your mattress. 

Your midwives carefully plan and organize births, using waterproof coverings and pads so that surfaces are kept spotless. After the birth, midwives and/or doulas typically handle the cleanup so that there are no signs that a birth just took place in the room.

As far as sanitation goes - the midwives bring professional, sterile equipment, and the risk of infection is actually much lower at home than in a hospital [2].

Myth #3: Home births don’t have professional medical support

Home birth is not the same as “free birth,” which is when the mother gives birth without any health professionals present. A home birth is attended by certified midwives who are highly trained professionals equipped with medical supplies and emergency protocols. Plus, midwives build relationships with expecting families, offering personalized care throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.

With the Cincinnati Birth Center, you can be confident that our midwives and assistants are experts in their field and will take care of you every step of the way.

Myth #4: Emergencies cannot be managed at home

In the last few decades, the philosophy behind birth has evolved from being thought of as a natural process into being considered a medical concern that “requires” hospital interventions. While emergencies do happen, and hospitals certainly are needed for some of these, not every emergency requires a location transfer.

Certified midwives are trained to recognize signs of complications and are equipped to handle many emergencies. They carry emergency medical supplies and constantly monitor both mother and baby. If a situation arises that must be addressed at a hospital, a transfer can quickly and easily take place. Otherwise, any other issues can likely be handled at home.

Myth #5: There are no pain relief options

When people think of birth pain management, their minds often jump straight to epidurals. Of course, epidurals are not an option at home, so many assume that having a home birth means having no pain relief options, making it intolerable for birthing mothers.

The truth is, there are many other natural pain management techniques that can be extremely effective without the side effects. These may include massage, water immersion, breathing exercises, and different positions to help labor progress. Some families choose to use alternative therapies such as acupuncture or hypnosis.

Myth #6: Home births are only for hippies

Another misconception is that home births are only for alternative lifestyles or for those with extreme birth ideologies. 

In reality, home birth is an amazing choice for anyone who simply wants a more intimate and personalized birth experience - it doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with lifestyle or beliefs. When choosing natural home birth, families get to have more control over their birth environment, reduce medical interventions, and make their own laboring choices.

Mushrooms - A Pregnancy Superfood

When you think of healthy foods to add to your diet during pregnancy, you’re probably not thinking about mushrooms. But did you know that medicinal mushrooms are packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that support healthy immune function?

Beta Glucans: Healing Nutrients in Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms are a group of mushrooms known for their health benefits and often consumed as a supplement for their therapeutic properties.

Some well-known medicinal mushrooms include:

• Reishi

• Chaga

• Shiitake

• Lion’s Mane

• Cordyceps

• Turkey Tail

One of the key components in medicinal mushrooms that make them particularly beneficial during pregnancy is beta-glucan. Beta glucan is a type of soluble fiber found in the cell walls of these mushrooms that has a wide range of health benefits such as boosting the immune system and improving cholesterol levels [1]. For pregnant women, beta-glucan’s immune boosting properties can be especially valuable for protecting both mother and baby from illness.

Beta-glucan has also been linked to an increase in milk supply for breastfeeding mothers. By stimulating the production of prolactin (the hormone responsible for lactation), beta-glucan can help provide nursing mothers with an ample supply of breast milk for their infants.

Reishi for Buddha Babies

The Reishi mushroom is known for promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. They have a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine for their calming effects on the mind and body. 

Have you heard of the term “Reishi Babies?”

Herbalist Ron Teegaurden has observed over the years that mothers who include reishi mushrooms in their diet give birth to babies who are calm and zen, almost like “little Buddhas.” This calm and easygoing nature often follows them into childhood [2]. 

Not only does reishi bring a sense of peacefulness to babies, but their mothers also receive these benefits [3]: 

• Calmer during pregnancy, labor, and birth

• Balanced mind, body and spirit

• Stronger immune system and cardiovascular system

• Packed full of nutrients

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• May help balance blood sugar levels

• Better quality of sleep

Whether you’re looking to enhance immune function, increase milk supply, or create a sense of calm for yourself and your baby, medicinal mushrooms - particularly reishi mushrooms - are a valuable source of bioactive compounds that boost health during and after pregnancy.

Troubleshoot a Poor Latch for Breastfeeding Success

Breastfeeding is a beautiful connection between mother and child that not only nourishes with nutrients unique to YOUR child, but also helps build a strong bond. Most mothers want to be able to experience this and provide their baby with the best possible sustenance, but many are not prepared for when challenges arise. 

A poor latch is one of the most common breastfeeding obstacles that leaves women frustrated, in pain, and ready to give up.

Before you assume breastfeeding won’t work and decide to turn to a bottle, keep reading to see if you and your baby are experiencing a poor latch that can be resolved.

Signs of a Poor Latch

When a baby latches onto the breast correctly, they can effectively extract milk for adequate nutrition and stimulate milk production. Plus, a good latch helps prevent nipple pain and damage - a common concern for many breastfeeding mothers.

• Recognizing the signs of a poor latch is the first step towards addressing the issue:

• Nipple pain or discomfort lasting longer than a few seconds and persisting between feedings.

• Nipple damage, such as cracking, blistering, or bleeding.

• Baby's mouth is not fully covering the areola, instead only latching onto the nipple.

• Baby making clicking noises while nursing.

• Poor weight gain or inadequate diaper output.

Common Causes of Poor Latching

Experiencing any of the signs above? Now it’s time to identify what is causing the poor latch so that you can get to the root of the issue.

Some common causes of a poor latch include:

1. Inexperienced breastfeeding: For both mother and baby, breastfeeding is a learning process. In the early days, it may take time for both parties to figure out the best positioning and technique, especially as a first-time mother.

2. Engorgement: When the breasts are overly full and firm, it can be challenging for the baby to latch properly.

3. Flat or inverted nipples: These variations in nipple shape can make it difficult for the baby to latch effectively. You can definitely still breastfeed, but you want to be aware that you have one of these variations and learn techniques for latching with flat or inverted nipples.

4. Tongue tie or lip tie: Ankyloglossia (tongue tie) or a tight frenulum (lip tie) can restrict the baby's ability to latch deeply.

5. Latch-on technique: Improper positioning of the baby at the breast or incorrect latch technique can lead to a poor latch.

How to Resolve Latching Issues

Don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group for guidance. These professionals can provide valuable tips and support tailored to your specific situation. Your midwife knows you and your baby best, and can walk you through your latching issues and come up with a solution.

Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find what works best for you and your baby. Common positions include the cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position.

Check on your latch technique - find pictures so that you have a visual of what you should be seeing. Ensure that your baby's mouth is wide open with lips flanged outwards before bringing them to the breast. Aim to have the baby latch onto the entire areola, not just the nipple.

If you're experiencing nipple pain or damage, try using lanolin cream or hydrogel pads to soothe soreness and promote healing.

Take your baby to a chiropractor to ensure their neck, jaw, palate, and cranium are aligned for successful breastfeeding. Balance Chiropractic at Cincinnati Birth Center is experienced in helping resolve these kinds of issues for a healthier, happier baby.

If your baby has underlying issues such as a tongue tie or lip tie, talk with your midwife and/or pediatrician to discuss treatment options. 

***

Above all, remember that breastfeeding requires patience and persistence. With the right support and resources, most challenges can be overcome. By prioritizing a proper latch and addressing any difficulties promptly, you can create a positive breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea Health Benefits

Red raspberry leaf tea uses dried leaves from the red raspberry plant - rich in several nutrients and compounds, including vitamins (such as vitamins C, E, and B), minerals (like calcium, iron, and magnesium), flavonoids, tannins, and powerful antioxidants that help protect against free radicals.

Benefits of Drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

• 1. Uterine Tonic: Red raspberry leaf is hailed for its uterine toning properties, allowing more efficient contractions during labor. Studies show that it can increase blood flow to the uterus for strengthening, which helps with efficient contractions and can help prevent hemorrhage [1]. 

• 2. Nutrients for Pregnancy: Red raspberry leaf tea supports a healthy pregnancy by providing essential nutrients such as iron and magnesium. It is also rich in antioxidants such as ellagitannins, hydroxybenzoic acids, and anthocyanins.

• 3. Easing Labor: Studies suggest that regularly drinking red raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy may help shorten the duration of labor and reduce the need for medical interventions (cesarean sections, assisted deliveries, etc.) [2].

• 4. Postpartum Recovery: Red raspberry leaf tea also assists with postpartum recovery by promoting uterine involution (the return of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy state) and increasing lactation.

When Should I Start Drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea?

There is no one right answer for when you should start drinking red raspberry leaf tea. It’s generally safe to start drinking it around the 2nd trimester, and you can often drink it even earlier if your midwife gives the green light. If you have a history of fast labors or you feel uncomfortable drinking it earlier, you can wait until the 3rd trimester, keeping in mind that this might not allow enough time for it to have significant toning effects.

So how often should you drink red raspberry leaf tea? If you start drinking it early in pregnancy, try sticking with 1-2 cups a day (keep an eye out for any uterine cramping - if you experience this, cut back on your dosage and ask your midwife when you should try drinking it again). Later in pregnancy, you can increase your intake to 1-3 cups as part of your daily routine.

At Cincinnati Birth Center, we offer Potent Pregnancy Tea as a nourishing boost for expecting mothers. A blend of red raspberry leaf, nettles, alfalfa, oatstraw, and spearmint, this tea provides all the benefits of regular red raspberry leaf tea - plus extra!