Home Birth vs. Birth Center Outcomes

There is a constant back and forth about the safety of planned home birth vs hospital birth. Sometimes a “compromise” is reached where it is agreed that going to a birth center is a “safer” option rather than having one's baby at home. 

Recent research shows that planned home births are just as safe as planned birth center births for low-risk individuals [1]. This finding may help families who are exploring their birthing options to feel more at ease when considering a birth at home.

Home Birth vs. Birth Center Study

The study compared outcomes in planned home and birth center births among low-risk individuals, revealing important data for families considering their birthing options. Both settings demonstrated comparable safety for maternal and neonatal outcomes, underscoring that with proper planning and skilled providers, home births are as safe as birth center births.

Key Findings

• Maternal and Neonatal Mortality: There was no significant association between either setting and increased rates of intrapartum or neonatal death, with a calculated rate of 1.07 (confidence interval 0.68–1.67).

• Transfer Rates: Planned home births showed a lower rate of transfers to hospital care compared to birth center births, highlighting effective management of the birthing process at home.

• Hemorrhage Risk: Unlike some misconceptions about home births, the study found no association with increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage, supporting its safety when attended by qualified providers​.

Why Both Settings Are Safe

1. Low-Risk Selection
   Eligibility for both settings is based on stringent criteria. Individuals must have uncomplicated pregnancies, with no significant medical or obstetric risk factors, ensuring that they are well-suited to non-hospital births. Most pregnancies qualify as low-risk, but if you have questions, ask your provider.

2. Qualified Providers
   Certified midwives and other trained professionals lead care in both settings. These providers follow evidence-based guidelines, conduct thorough prenatal assessments, and are qualified to manage complications if they arise.

3. Emergency Transfer Plans
   Both settings emphasize well-coordinated plans for hospital transfers in the rare event of complications. Clear protocols, combined with proximity to medical facilities, are essential for ensuring timely care if needed. Transfer rates are actually lower for home birth than for birth centers, which may reflect higher levels of preparedness and personalized care in the home setting.

Benefits of Midwife Care

Midwife-led care carries a lower risk of unplanned cesarean and instrumental vaginal deliveries, augmentation of labor, epidural/spinal analgesia, episiotomy, and active management of labor third stage [2]. Whether at home or at a birth center, midwife care is a safe option for most women that carries a range of benefits such as:

• Lower rates of medical interventions (e.g., cesarean sections, inductions).

• Greater continuity of care, with personalized support from midwives.

• Higher maternal satisfaction, often attributed to the autonomy and comfort of birthing in familiar environments​

The findings in this study and others highlight the importance of integrating midwifery-led care and community-based birth settings into the broader maternity care system. This way, more families have access to safe and respectful care and can make decisions aligned with their preferences and clinical circumstances. 

Check Yourself! Cervical Exams at Ho

Whole body health is important - and that includes “down there!”

Performing self-cervical exams is a great way to get in touch with your anatomy and understand more about your reproductive health. Knowing how to check your cervix is a window to learning about your fertility, menstrual cycle, and even labor progression.

Why Self-Cervical Exams?

Self examinations put the knowledge of your body back into your own hands. 

Our healthcare system often keeps people reliant on doctors for basic information about their bodies, but doing your own cervical checks helps you to take an active role in understanding what’s normal for you. 

This awareness can help with:

Fertility Tracking

Cervical position and cervical mucus change based on your cycle. Your cervix is higher and softer in your fertile window and releases a stretchy, egg-white-like mucus ideal for sperm survival and fertilization.

Pregnancy Changes

Toward the end of pregnancy, your cervix softens, moves lower, and may begin to dilate. Self-checks in labor can help you gauge how far along you might be.

Healthcare Decisions

When you know your anatomy, you’re in a better position to advocate for yourself in healthcare settings, making decisions that align with your needs.

How to Perform a Self-Cervical Exam

Don’t know where to start? No worries! A lot of women are unsure of how to navigate this part of their bodies at first.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to performing a cervical self-exam. It may feel a bit strange at first, but with practice, it can become a comfortable part of your routine.

1. Prepare: Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid introducing any bacteria. Get into a comfortable position (such as sitting on the edge of a chair or squatting) where you can easily reach your cervix.

2. Use Lubrication: A small amount of water-based lube on your fingers can make the process far more comfortable. Remember to stay relaxed and to not tense up!

3. Insert Your Fingers: Insert two fingers (usually your index and middle fingers) slowly into your vagina. Feel for a round, firm structure towards the back, which might feel like the tip of your nose. If you’ve given birth before, it may feel slightly softer or have a small dimple in the center.

4. Assess Cervical Position and Texture: During your cycle, you’ll notice changes in your cervix. When you’re fertile, it will feel soft, open, and may be higher. At other times, it may feel firmer, lower, and closed. As you practice over time, you will become familiar with these sensations and better understand the phases of your cycle.

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always okay to ask for help or guidance from a healthcare provider. Just remember that you are the most important decision-maker when it comes to your body and that checking yourself puts you in control of your healthcare journey!

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Want to support safer Ohio birth options and get a cool “Check Yourself” t-shirt? Visit us at the Buckeye Birth Coalition and grab yours!

How to Fight Preterm Birth Statistics

November 17th is Prematurity Awareness Day, drawing attention to the realities of preterm birth, especially among vulnerable communities. Prematurity is a leading cause of infant mortality and lifelong health challenges, especially affecting families from minority and low-income backgrounds. 

Did You Know… Ohio ranks 7th worst in the U.S. for infant mortality, and in Cincinnati, the city’s overall infant mortality rate at 11.1 per 1,000 births [1]. Black babies in particular face mortality rates 2 to 3 times higher than white babies. 

One of our main goals at the CBC is to develop solutions for better birth outcomes for all families in Ohio.

Want to make a contribution? Check out the Safer Birth Foundation and learn how you can make a difference.

Visit the Buckeye Birth Coalition to learn about impacts being made in our communities for safer birthing options in Ohio.

Why Are Minority and Low-Income Groups at Higher Risk?

Preterm birth rates among minority and low-income families are significantly higher, a disparity rooted in several factors:

1. Health Inequities and Chronic Stress
   Black women and those in low-income households often experience chronic stress from economic challenges and inadequate access to resources. This sustained stress raises cortisol levels, which has been linked to preterm labor [2]. Racial biases in healthcare can also mean these mothers are less likely to receive early interventions or responsive care, increasing preterm birth risk.

2. Limited Access to Prenatal Care
   Access to quality prenatal care is the first step in identifying and managing risks early in pregnancy. However, financial barriers, lack of transportation, and fewer healthcare facilities in underserved areas often hinder timely prenatal visits. Without regular monitoring and preventive care, complications may go undetected.

3. Higher Rates of Pre-existing Health Conditions
   Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are more prevalent in minority and low-income communities, partially due to socioeconomic factors that limit access to nutritious food, safe exercise options, and regular healthcare. These conditions increase the likelihood of preterm birth and can exacerbate complications during pregnancy.

Preventing Preterm Birth Through Community and Policy Solutions

Here are some key strategies to address preterm birth disparities:

• Expanding Access to Comprehensive Prenatal Care
  Improving access to prenatal care means investing in community clinics and creating more flexible prenatal programs that consider patients’ financial and logistical needs.  Parents and practitioners need to be vocal about lobbying for new laws that ensure the safety and health of mothers and infants in Ohio.

• Increasing Support for Midwifery and Doula Services
  Midwifery and doula support have shown excellent outcomes in reducing preterm births. Studies consistently show that midwifery care leads to better health outcomes, including significantly lower preterm birth rates. The Cincinnati Birth Center has maintained a 0% preterm birth rate over the past two years, aligning with broader U.S. data showing midwifery practices often have fewer preterm births compared to traditional obstetric care.

• Implementing Community-Based Health Programs
  Community initiatives focused on maternal and infant health equip mothers with valuable resources, guidance, and consistent check-ins. Collaborating with community organizations also helps address broader social determinants of health, from housing instability to food insecurity.

Midwifery Care: A Path to Healthier Birth Outcomes

Midwifery care offers a solution to many of the challenges faced by women at risk of preterm birth. Midwives emphasize relationship-building, continuity of care, and addressing the holistic needs of mothers throughout pregnancy, which can significantly reduce the stress that contributes to early labor.

Many pregnancy risks can be lowered simply through good nutrition and support.

On Prematurity Awareness Day, we’re reminded that reducing preterm birth rates—especially in underserved communities—requires both individual and systemic changes. By expanding access to midwifery care, improving prenatal services, addressing issues within the system, and building community-based support programs, we can work toward a future where all babies, regardless of their background, have a healthy start. 

Visit the Safer Birth Foundation and the Buckeye Birth Coalition to see how you can make a difference

Newborn Procedures: Eye Ointment and Vitamin K

There are several newborn procedures that take place directly or soon after your baby is born, and it’s one of our goals to help parents reach a full understanding of each practice long before birth so they can decide what is best for their child.

Two common procedures are the application of an eye ointment and an injection of vitamin K. These practices have been routine in many countries for decades, but an increasing number of doctors, midwives, and parents are conducting more research on whether these are necessary 100% of the time.

Eye Ointment: What Is It and Why Is It Used?

The eye ointment applied to newborns is usually an antibiotic, such as erythromycin. Its primary purpose is to prevent eye infections caused by exposure to bacteria during childbirth. Historically, the concern was about Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea, which can cause severe eye infections in newborns, potentially leading to blindness. Chlamydia is another infection that can be passed from mother to child during delivery, and the ointment also offers some protection against this.

Why are more and more parents opting out of the eye ointment procedure?

• While these infections are serious, they’re mainly an issue if the mother has an STI. If the mother is STI negative, the risk of an eye infection is extremely low.

• The ointment used can cause temporary vision blurriness, which might interfere with early bonding and eye contact between newborn and parents.

• When antibiotics are overused, there is the potential for developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. While the risk is small in the case of eye ointment, some parents prefer to avoid unnecessary antibiotics.

Vitamin K: What Is It and Why Is It Given?

Vitamin K is a vitamin needed to clot blood. Newborns naturally have low levels of vitamin K since it does not pass through the placenta very well. This puts them at risk for a condition called Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), which only occurs in about every 1 of 10,000 infants. However, this condition can lead to serious, often fatal bruising,bleeding, and/or brain hemorrhage. It is completely unpredictable which babies will be affected and which will not.

To prevent VKDB, newborns are routinely given a vitamin K injection shortly after birth. A single injection provides protection for months, giving the baby time to naturally build up their own vitamin K levels.

Are there any reasons to not give Vitamin K?

• Some parents are hesitant to give their newborn an injection immediately after birth, preferring to minimize medical interventions.

• Others are concerned with administering anything synthetic, preferring natural approaches to increasing Vitamin K levels (such as through diet or oral supplements). Unfortunately, breast milk supplies very little Vitamin K, so babies do not get an adequate amount of the vitamin until they start eating solid foods. 

The decision on whether or not to administer Vitamin K is nuanced. While VKDB is extremely uncommon, the consequences are devastating. 

Not sure which direction you want to take with newborn procedures? We’ll be more than happy to discuss your options during appointments and come up with a plan that works best for your family!

Should You Circumcise Your Newborn?

Circumcision has been practiced for centuries, often rooted in religious, cultural, or social traditions. In the United States, the procedure became widely normalized during the 20th century, based on claims of improved hygiene, reduced infection risk, or even just on grounds of aesthetics. For parents weighing this important decision, it's important to also consider the potential harms of circumcision before their child is born. 

Take a deep dive with Dr. Eric Tygenhof on newborn circumcision

What Does the Foreskin Do?

The foreskin is not just a redundant piece of tissue - it serves several important biological functions. It protects the glans (head of the penis) from irritants, keeps the area moist, and contains thousands of nerve endings that enhance sexual sensitivity later in life. From a purely anatomical perspective, the foreskin is a naturally occurring, functional part of the male body, and its removal permanently alters functionality.

Debunking the Health Benefits of Circumcision

Circumcision advocates often cite health benefits such as reduced risks of urinary tract infections (UTIs), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and penile cancer. However, the data behind these claims is often overstated or context-dependent. For example:

• Urinary Tract Infections: UTIs are relatively rare in male infants, with only about 2% of boys experiencing one before they turn 5. Even though circumcision might reduce the risk slightly, infections can typically be treated effectively with antibiotics. The small risk reduction does not justify the removal of healthy tissue from all newborn males.

• Sexually Transmitted Infections: While some studies suggest a lower risk of HIV transmission among circumcised men in high-prevalence areas, such as sub-Saharan Africa, the situation is not comparable in countries like the U.S., where HIV prevention through safe sexual practices and education is far more effective.

• Penile Cancer: Penile cancer is very rare in both circumcised and intact men in the USA, making circumcision an unnecessary preventive measure for this condition. About 300,000 babies would need to be circumcised to prevent one case of penile cancer. Proper hygiene and regular medical checkups are far more relevant factors in minimizing cancer risks.

Parents may also choose to circumcise their newborns on religious grounds, for aesthetic reasons, or because it is more culturally accepted. If you are not considering circumcision based on religious reasons, we want to challenge you to explore why circumcision may not be the best choice.

An Ethical Debate: Bodily Autonomy and Consent

One of the strongest arguments against newborn circumcision is the question of consent. A newborn simply cannot provide informed consent for a permanent surgical procedure that has no immediate medical necessity. Many critics, including medical ethicists, argue that circumcision infringes on the individual’s right to bodily autonomy, as it removes a healthy, functional part of the body without the person’s consent. Waiting until adulthood, when the individual can make an informed choice, respects their autonomy and allows them to weigh the pros and cons based on personal preference or health considerations.

The Risks of Circumcision

Though often described as a routine procedure, circumcision carries more risks than people realize. These risks include bleeding, infection, and complications from anesthesia. In some cases, circumcision has led to more severe outcomes, such as damage to the penis or excessive scarring. Studies have also shown that newborns experience significant pain during and after circumcision, despite the use of local anesthetics. 

This directory of articles on the complications of circumcision show the dozens of adverse affects many people experience.

Circumcision also often affects sexual experiences later in life. Circumcision removes one of the most sensitive areas of the penis - in fact, the moveable skin creates more sexual pleasure than circumcised males are able to experience. This Danish study concluded that circumcision is responsible for sexual difficulty among many men.

Caring for an Intact Penis: Education Is Key

One common reason parents opt for circumcision is the belief that it will make hygiene easier. However, with proper education, caring for an intact penis is straightforward and requires no more effort than caring for a circumcised one. Misconceptions around intact care often stem from a lack of understanding or outdated medical advice.

• For Newborns and Infants: During the early years, the foreskin is fused to the glans, making it unnecessary (and harmful) to retract the foreskin for cleaning. Parents should simply wash with water and mild soap.

• As Boys Grow: Over time, the foreskin naturally becomes retractable. When this happens, boys should be taught to gently retract the foreskin to clean underneath during baths or showers, much like how one cleans other body parts. There is no need for aggressive cleaning or special procedures—just normal hygiene.

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The decision to circumcise a newborn is a deeply personal one, but it's important that parents make this choice with accurate, up-to-date information. 

As awareness grows and the science behind circumcision is critically re-examined, more families are recognizing that the most natural option is often the best one. By keeping their children intact, they allow them to make their own choices about their bodies when they are ready, giving them autonomy, respect, and a balanced approach to health.

Yoni Steaming for Fertility, Birth, and Postpartum Healing

Women’s health has been seeing a decline, especially in the United States. Infertility, Endometriosis, PCOS, and other health issues have skyrocketed, alongside childbirth complications. Many women are realizing that it’s time to start looking to tried and true medicinal practices that have been around for centuries to get their health back on track.

Yoni steaming, also known as vaginal steaming, is an ancient practice traditionally used in various cultures around the world. When used correctly, this is a safe therapy that involves exposing the vaginal area to steam or smoke infused with medicinal herbs. For centuries, women have used yoni steaming for help in boosting fertility, easing childbirth, and aiding postpartum recovery.

The Benefits of Yoni Steaming

• Fertility and Menstrual Health: One of the main draws to yoni steaming is to enhance fertility. The practice is believed to balance hormones, regulate menstrual cycles, and cleanse the uterus, making it an attractive option for women seeking to conceive. Herbal blends used in yoni steaming often include ingredients such as mugwort, rosemary, wormwood, and basil—plants known for their detoxifying and circulation-boosting properties.

  The steam is thought to soften and nourish the tissues of the reproductive system, increasing blood flow to the pelvic area and helping to remove any blockages that could affect fertility or other health problems such as fibroids, infections, or painful periods. 

• Pregnancy: Some use yoni steaming to prepare the body for labor, usually at 37 weeks or after (we do not recommend steaming during pregnancy at any point before 37 weeks). The warm steam relaxes the pelvic muscles and perineum, which may reduce the risk of tearing. 

• Postpartum Recovery: After delivery, the vaginal area may experience swelling, soreness, or discomfort. Yoni steaming is believed to help cleanse the uterus, promote tissue repair, and reduce inflammation.

The warm steam infused with healing herbs can soothe the perineal area, support the body in releasing lochia (postpartum discharge), and restore the reproductive organs to their pre-pregnancy state.

How to Yoni Steam

What is Used?

• Herbs (Commonly used herbs include mugwort, rosemary, lavender, oregano, basil, chamomile, and calendula)

• Large bowl or pot

• Heat source

• Towel or blanket to create a tent around your lower body, trapping the steam

• A comfortable chair or yoni steaming stool (These are specially designed with a hole in the seat to allow the steam to rise directly to the vaginal area)

How to Steam

Use about one cup of dried herbs or two cups of fresh herbs and place them in the pot or bowl. Boil 2-3 quarts of water and pour over the herbs. Allow the mixture to steep for a few minutes and so that the water slightly cools. 

In a comfortable, relaxing area, sit or squat over the pot so that the steam can rise directly to your vaginal area. Drape a large towel or blanket like a tent around your waist to trap the steam, then remain seated over the steam for 20-40 minutes.

Drink water during and after steaming to remain hydrated.

Safety Precautions

1. Temperature Control: Do not burn yourself! Always check the temperature of the steam before positioning yourself over the pot.

2. Timing: It’s generally recommended to steam 1-2 times per month, especially before and after menstruation. However, frequency may vary based on individual needs. Avoid steaming during menstruation or if you have an active infection.

3. Medical Conditions: If you have any medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, yeast infections, or open sores, avoid yoni steaming. Women who are pregnant should hold off from steaming until after at least 37 weeks gestation, and then only under professional supervision.

4. Hygiene: Make sure all equipment used for steaming is clean and disinfected before and after each use to prevent infections. Use only high-quality, organic herbs to avoid exposure to pesticides or contaminants.

5. Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms during or after steaming, stop the practice immediately and consult a healthcare provider.

This Fall, we will be offering traditional Yoni Steaming as a part of the Cincinnati Birth Center services for pre- and post-pregnancy!

Please feel free to reach out with any questions - we are happy to discuss with you!

Mayan Abdominal Massage Therapy

Services starting at the Cincinnati Birth Center this Fall

Contact us with questions!

Mayan Abdominal Massage, also known as the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, is rooted in the traditional medicine of the Maya civilization. The abdomen is a central hub for health, so abdominal massage focuses on balancing and aligning internal organs for full system health. 

What is Mayan Abdominal Massage?

Mayan Abdominal Massage dates back thousands of years to the Maya civilization. The Maya were renowned for their advanced understanding of medicine, astronomy, and spirituality. They understood that misalignment of the body’s internal organs (due to physical trauma, emotional stress, poor posture, or other factors) often could lead to various health issues.

Mayan healers, known as "curanderos," developed a system of massage techniques to reposition the organs, improve circulation, and enhance the flow of energy throughout the body. 

In the 20th century, Dr. Rosita Arvigo, an American herbalist and naturopath, studied under a Maya shaman in Belize named Don Elijio Panti. She later systematized and introduced these ancient techniques to a modern audience.

The main purpose of Mayan Abdominal Massage is to restore balance within the body by aligning the internal organs, particularly those in the abdomen and pelvic region. 

This alignment is believed to support the body’s natural healing processes and prevent various health problems.

Benefits of Mayan Abdominal Massage

The benefits of Mayan Abdominal Massage are for everyone, whether they are pregnant or not!

Benefits for Non-Pregnant Individuals:

• Digestive Health: Mayan Abdominal Massage can relieve chronic digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by improving digestion and elimination.

• Menstrual and Reproductive Health: For women, this massage can alleviate menstrual pain, irregular cycles, endometriosis, and other gynecological issues by enhancing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and addressing uterine misalignment.

• Emotional Well-being: Massage can help release stored emotions and tension, which helps improve mental clarity and reduce anxiety or depression.

• Detoxification: By stimulating the lymphatic system and improving circulation, abdominal massage helps the body eliminate toxins.

Benefits for Pregnant Individuals:

• Pregnancy Discomfort: Abdominal massage can relieve common pregnancy discomforts such as back pain, sciatica, and digestive issues by improving circulation and relieving tension in the abdomen and lower back.

• Fetal Positioning: Massage may also help with correct fetal positioning by making sure the uterus is properly aligned and has enough space for the baby to move into the ideal position for birth.

• Labor Prep: Massage can help prepare the body for labor and delivery, which may lead to a smoother birthing experience.

• Postpartum Recovery: After birth, abdominal massage supports the uterus in returning to its pre-pregnancy position, reduces the chance of hemorrhage, and helps with breastfeeding challenges.

Conditions Addressed by Mayan Abdominal Massage

This is a list of some conditions that Mayan Abdominal Massage can help manage:

• Constipation

• Bloating

• Gas

• IBS

• Infertility

• Menstrual Irregularities

• Pelvic Pain

• Fibroids and cysts

• Incontinence

• Bladder Infections 

• Emotional Stress

• Endometriosis

• Labor and Delivery Aid

How Mayan Abdominal Massage is Performed

Mayan Abdominal Massage involves gentle, non-invasive manipulation of the abdomen and surrounding areas to reposition organs, improve circulation, and promote healing. 

Your practitioner will use their hands to apply gentle pressure and move the abdominal organs into their proper positions. This may involve massaging the lower back, hips, and pelvic area as well.

After the massage, clients are often given self-care techniques to continue at home, such as specific exercises, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes to support the healing process. Regular sessions are recommended for optimal results, especially for chronic conditions or during pregnancy.

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Whether used during pregnancy or to address other health concerns, Mayan Abdominal Massage offers a pathway to healing rooted in traditional medicine. 

We’re so excited to start offering Abdominal Massage services at the Cincinnati Birth Center this Fall! 

Want to find out more? Contact us with any questions!

How to Handle Postpartum Hair Loss

If you have a shedding pet, you’re probably used to vacuuming up pet hair ALL. THE. TIME. After having a baby, you might feel like your own shedding rivals that of your four-legged friends!

Postpartum hair loss happens to almost every mother, and it can actually be difficult to cope with when you lose handfuls of hair every day and it starts to lose its fullness. Why does hair loss happen, and how can you manage it?

What Causes Hair Loss?

Hair loss after birth is called “pregnancy alopecia”, and usually starts around 2-3 months postpartum. It can be startling to start losing hundreds of hairs every day and watching your hair thin out, but don’t worry! Shedding usually slows down around 6 months and new hairs start to grow back.

Postpartum hair loss happens when hormones disrupt the hair growth cycle. During pregnancy, estrogen levels spike, which causes more hair follicles to enter a “resting” phase simultaneously. Did you have thick, glossy “pregnancy hair?” This is why!

However, after giving birth, estrogen levels take a sharp drop, returning your hair to its normal cycle and shedding all the hair stored up during pregnancy at once. This can be alarming, but it’s temporary and will level out later. 

Keep in mind, other factors can contribute to hair loss as well, such as inadequate iron levels and high stress levels - both common after giving birth.

Managing Hair Loss

It can be distressing to lose so much hair at once, but rest assured there is an end in sight! In the meantime, there are ways you can manage your hair loss so that it isn’t worse than it needs to be.

1. Nutrition: Diet is everything when it comes to health! Keep eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support hair growth. Key nutrients include iron, zinc, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Gentle Hair Care: For the next few months, avoid harsh hair treatments, reduce heat styling, and use gentle shampoos and conditioners to minimize additional hair damage. It can be tempting to throw your hair in a tight ponytail or bun each day (especially with a baby to care for), but this can actually weaken your hair follicles. Try either wearing it down or using a thick scrunchy and keeping your hair style loose.

3. Stress Management: Stress is a huge reason for hair loss even outside of postpartum. Stress-reducing activities such as yoga and meditation, and getting enough rest can help manage physical and emotional strain.

4. Consult a Professional: If hair loss is severe or persists beyond a year, consulting a healthcare provider or dermatologist can help rule out underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or alopecia areata.

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Remember, hair loss is temporary after giving birth - this too shall pass! Keep focusing on healthy practices, enjoy this season with your new baby, and let time and regrowth take its course. 

Can New Fathers Get Postpartum Depression?

Families welcoming a new child are usually aware to watch for signs of maternal postpartum depression, with 10-15% of mothers affected worldwide [1]. But did you know that fathers can also experience PPD?

Studies show that around 10% of fathers are affected by paternal postpartum depression, often occurring between 3-6 months after birth [2]. That’s a big number! The issue isn’t talked about much in the medical field, so couples are often caught completely unaware, leading to stress and tension while trying to raise a new baby.

What Causes Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPPD)?

It’s easy to pinpoint why mothers experience PPD, but what causes fathers to struggle as well? As it turns out, many of the same factors that contribute to women’s postpartum depression also cause men’s symptoms as well.

1. Hormonal Changes: While not as pronounced as in women, fathers also experience hormonal changes during their partner's pregnancy and after childbirth. Shifts in testosterone, cortisol, and oxytocin levels can affect mood and emotions.

2. Psychological Stress: The transition to parenthood is often overwhelming for both parents. Fathers may experience stress related to financial responsibilities, changes in relationship dynamics, and the demands of caregiving.

3. Personal and Relationship History: A history of depression or anxiety, unresolved trauma, or strained relationships can cause a predisposition to PPPD. This is only exacerbated by a lack of social support or feelings of isolation. 

4. Sleep Deprivation: Usually, both parents tag-team to some degree in caring for the newborn at night. Sleep deprivation is a known risk factor for depression in both men and women.

5. Expectations vs. Reality: Unrealistic expectations about fatherhood and the perceived loss of freedom or identity can contribute to feelings of disappointment or inadequacy.

PPPD not only affects fathers but also impacts the entire family. Untreated depression can put strain on relationships, hinder bonding with the infant, and make it difficult for the father to support the mother as much as she needs.

Symptoms of paternal postpartum depression might include:

• Aggressiveness

• Irritability

• Anxiety

• Depressed mood

• Fatigue 

• Feelings of worthlessness

• GI symptoms

• Headaches

• Withdrawing from relationships

• Negative parenting behaviors 

• Low motivation

• Substance misuse

Recognition and Treatment

Despite how common it is, PPPD is often overlooked. Fathers are less likely to recognize or admit their symptoms if they feel societal pressure to be a strong support and focus solely on the mother’s well-being. Healthcare providers may also overlook PPPD symptoms during routine screenings.

Spreading awareness of PPPD will improve its recognition and support system so that fathers also can navigate birth and postpartum. Some ways to address PPPD:

Education and Awareness: Healthcare providers should be trained to recognize PPPD symptoms and offer appropriate support and referrals for treatment.

Peer Support and Counseling: Support groups and counseling can provide fathers with a safe space to discuss their feelings and learn coping strategies.

Partner Involvement: Encouraging open communication between partners and shared responsibilities in childcare can reduce stress and the risk of PPPD.

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.