To Push Present or Not? Here’s the Low Down

by Kate CartiaJune 12, 2023

We have a few thoughts on push presents.

If you haven’t heard of the idea of a “push present”, get this: the concept might actually be centuries old. The Indian ritual of godh bharai is similar to a baby shower, although in this case, instead of the typical bottles and baby swing, the expecting mom is lavished with gifts and cash (um, yes please). To absolutely no one’s surprise, celebrity culture has increased the push present’s popularity. Kristin Cavallari was treated to a Birkin Bag in 2012, courtesy of now-hubby Jay Cutler. Jay-Z gifted Beyoncé a blue diamond worth $35K (apparently, Jays give solid presents).

On the flip side, some people aren’t big fans of the concept. We’ve heard that the baby is (obviously) the best gift already, so if you’re in the “nope” camp, we get it. That said, many believe that new moms should have whatever they want. We can’t really argue that, either.

Our take? If you or your partner is Team Push Present, we have some excellent ideas (though we skipped the Birkin Bag thing because…wow). Not into the idea? Consider just making sure your favorite new mom is as supported as possible—cooking, cleaning, watching the little one while she gets a much-needed shower. Actually, we have a little experience in New Mom Territory and would highly suggest doing that, regardless of gift-giving. New mom yourself? You have all the permission in the world to pick yourself up something from our (awesome) list below. Or link your partner for a little hint-dropping.

The Louise Dress from Marea

It's totally possible you don't feel like dressing up in the days and weeks after delivering your little one, and we so get it. That's why we love The Louise. It's a lounge dress. It's a swim cover-up. It's your go-to to feel more polished—add a belt, wear it off or on your shoulders. 100% cotton means you'll be temperature-regulated and comfortable. One size fits dress sizes 0-16. The Louise Dress from Marea ($198.00)—Buy Here!

Mini Love Letters "Mama" Necklace

This dainty necklace in 14k solid gold is a quintessential push present. If you're not really a "mama" person, it also comes in a "mom" option. Mini Love Letters "Mama" Necklace ($315.00)—Buy Here!

Everyday Nap Earrings Trio

Okay, so you're probably not thinking a lot about jewelry, but that's why we love the Nap Earrings from Maison Miru! They're the set-it-and-forget-it of the accessory world and can be worn all the time, thanks to the flat backs that even make it easy to sleep on. Maison Miru Nap Earrings ($230.00)—Buy Now!

Virgin Experiences

There's no reason to limit your gifts to stuff. Virgin Experiences has everything from massages, spa days, yoga experiences, art classes, city tours, and more. Or, give a Virgin Experiences gift card and let mom pick for herself. Virgin Experiences (Price Varies)—Buy Here!

Pearl Apple Watch Band by Goldenerre

You're already keeping track of...everything. Your smartwatch is a lifesaver, so keep it on a pretty band that makes it feel a little more like jewelry and less like a tool. It's available in both gold and silver, and may we suggest adding the matching pearl tennis bracelet? Pearl Apple Watch Band by Goldenerre ($158.00)—Buy Here!

Sterling Silver Birth Flower Earrings

Dainty earrings are always welcome with grabby baby hands about, and these birth flower earrings are perfect for commemorating your baby's birthday month. They're available in sterling silver or 14k gold plating. Sterling Silver Birth Flower Earrings ($52.00)—Buy Here!

Chagaccino

A super healthy & delicious mushroom-based adaptogenic coffee boost? The Chagaccino is the health & wellness version of the mocha latte, and spiked with an effective dose of the planet’s greatest adaptogens. It also tastes amazing. (If you're nursing, you'll want to speak to your healthcare provider before starting a supplement, just to be safe.). Chagaccino 30-Serving Starter Kit ($74.99)—Buy Here!

A Powerful Force Necklace Set by Air & Anchor

While the description of this lovely necklace set mentions Cupid, we're seriously firm believers that holding your babe for the very first time is even more powerful. A Powerful Force Necklace Set by Air & Anchor ($318.00)—Buy Here!

Sculpting Square Neck Swimsuit

We know. We have the nerve to add a swimsuit to this list. Trust us, though. After having a baby, few things feel as good as feeling supported—mentally, obviously, but physically, some compression helps with postpartum recovery. The Stylest swimsuit is ultra-supportive, extremely flattering, and perfect for dipping your toes back in the water. It also comes in several colors, so you can find the perfect suit for your style. Stylest Sculpting Square Neck Swimsuit ($198.00)—Buy Here!

Initial Diamond Pendant by Keyzar

Settling on a baby name can be a challenge in itself, so celebrating your little one and their perfect name is a must. The initial diamond pendant comes in yellow, white, or rose gold, and these stunning lab-grown diamonds let you feel good about an ethical purchase. Initial Diamond Pendant by Keyzar ($780.00)—Buy Here!

Delia Dress in Multicolor Floral

Something about having a go-to dress makes all the difference. It can be challenging to find clothes that are comfortable and make you feel good, and this stunning dress checks both boxes. It's an all-occasion piece that you can wear to weddings, brunch, and running errands (while staying cool and unrestricted). It's also maternity-friendly, so it'll easily be a favorite for years to come. Ivy City Co. Delia Dress in Multicolor Floral ($118.00)—Buy Here!

Leather Jewelry Pouch

It's so easy to misplace your most treasured jewelry, especially when you're focused on more important things. This beautiful jewelry pouch from Lucrin holds all of your sparkles securely, will last an incredibly long time, and comes in a ton of colors. Keeping your special pieces in a special place is definitely a gift. Lucrin Leather Jewelry Pouch ($265.00)—Buy Here!

The Elena Woven Handbag

Made from handwoven premium Vachetta leather, this stunning handbag is perfect for a seriously stylish diaper bag, travel bag, or everyday tote. It's handwoven in L3 Marche, Italy, comes in two hues, and is lined with 100% cotton. This is truly an heirloom. The Elena Woven Handbag by Milaner ($765.00)—Buy Here!

Primal Life Face Sculptor Ultrasonic Wand

This beauty does it all—from cleansing, moisturizing, and sculpting, it's an all-in-one tool that clears pores, lifts, and refines. It's ideal for sensitive postpartum skin and increases circulation. A spa treatment in the bathroom? Find us a mom who doesn't deserve that. We'll wait. Primal Life Face Sculptor Ultrasonic Wand ($141.75)—Buy Here!

Cadis Line Bracelet

Jaw-dropping? Absolutely. This multi-shape line bracelet from Cadis is designed with ethically-created lab diamonds and 925 silver. It's the true definition of "bling" and we can't stop staring. Cadis Line Bracelet ($580.00)—Buy Here!

Butter & Me Renew Essential Selfcare Kit

This is serious luxury. A lotion melt bar, moisturizing bar soap, body scrub, skin mask, and lip balm round out this beautiful collection from Butter & Me. Butter & Me Renew Essential Selfcare Kit ($70.00)—Buy Here!

Halo 42 Oil Over Me Face & Body Elixir

This isn't just body oil. It's moisturizing, smoothing, and anti-inflammatory. After applying this golden serum to your whole face and body don't forget to enjoy the relaxing aroma that comes from the au natural geranium, rosehip, chamomile and rosemary oils. Use it anywhere you need some extra love. Halo 42 Oil Over Me Face & Body Elixir ($96.00)—Buy Here!

Google Pixel Pro 7

The new Google Pixel Pro 7 offers a seriously state-of-the-art camera with easy-to-use features that’ll capture every family moment perfectly—whether that’s using Photo Unblur to resurrect shaky photos taken while wrangling the kids or an ultrawide front-facing camera to fit the whole crew in a selfie. Google Pixel Pro 7 ($699.00)—Buy Here!

Baby Keepsake Library

Store cherished keepsakes like hospital name bracelets, lost teeth, and favorite binkies safely and all in one place with this library-style organizer using its illustrated labels, acid-free drawers, vertical files, and tiny envelopes. This library-style display keeps everything together where you can reach for it anytime. Baby Keepsake Library ($95.00)—Buy Here!

Manta Sleep Mask

We know that this isn't the time where many new parents are getting a ton of sleep, and that's why making the most out of the sleep you do get is so important. Adjustable eye cups mold perfectly to your face to block 100% of light, and true blackout unlocks maximum deep sleep in any environment & any position. Manta Sleep Mask ($39.00)—Buy Here!

Labor & Delivery Essentials Bundle

Create the perfect comfort kit with a full nine pieces in total, featuring Kindred Bravely's best-selling hospital and postpartum styles. Kindred Bravely Labor & Delivery Essentials Bundle ($133.95)—Buy Here!

Big Blanket Co Premiere Plush Blanket

One big fluffy blanket. The Premier Plush blanket is a 10’ x 10’ ultra-plush, breathable, all season microfiber blanket that wraps you in cozy, cloud-like comfort. For sleeping, nursing, couch cuddles, and generally keeping new moms feeling cozy. Big Blanket Co Premiere Plush Blanket ($279.00)—Buy Here!

Rainbow Moonstone Point

These beautiful crystals are created with rainbow moonstone—a stone linked to the divine feminine, and is a symbol of love. It can be helpful in alleviating emotional tension and enhancing creativity, intuition, and self-expression. It's said to promote ease and help balance the hormones during the menstrual cycle, puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Whether they're into the whole crystal thing or not, it's such a pretty gesture. Rainbow Moonstone Point ($19.00)—Buy Here!

Bouqs Flower Subscription

Whether it's every week or every month, gift them farm-fresh flowers from one of our favorite florists. Starting at just $44/month, you can pick your frequency and give them something to look forward to over and over again. Bouqs Flower Subscription ($44.00/month+)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Pregnant Mom’s List of ‘Rules for Meeting the Baby’ Goes Viral for Good Reason

by Karly WoodJune 8, 2022

If there’s one thing the pandemic taught us, it’s that you can never been too careful. It also taught us to safeguard our homes and feel empowered to speak up about what makes us uncomfortable, which is what Maisie Crompton did recently in a now-viral TikTok video.

Following the “rules for when our baby arrives” trend that’s been popular for some time, the expecting mom shared her eight-part list of boundaries that she is instituting when her bundle of joy comes. The list wasn’t outlandish or discriminatory––in fact, it was pretty much common sense and courtesy.

But that didn’t stop people from criticizing the 20-year-old mom-to-be, warning her that she was being too strict or that she’ll be too tired to enforce them when rude visitors show up at her door unannounced. But Crompton isn’t worried, and despite some of the negative Nancys, she’s had plenty of support, too.

@

♬ –

“Honestly as a visiting guest I would feel so much more comfortable being handed this list so I can make sure I’m making the mum most comfortable,” said one comment. Another agreed with Crompton, saying “Love it, 👏🏽 I am the same way and DO NOT CARE who gets offended. Don’t like it?? Don’t visit us.”

Despite her boundaries being just the baseline for being a respectful human being, that didn’t stop tabloids like The Sun and the Mirror from picking up the story. The TikToker has done several follow-up videos on how she plans to enforce the rules, which doesn’t really involve handing over the list to family and friends. She’s actually crafted a thoughtful message that outlines her main priority, which is keeping her baby safe.

It looks like Crompton is already learning a valuable lesson: It’s never too early to protect your children.

2-Year-Old DoorDashes 31 McDonald’s Cheeseburgers

by Julie ScagellMay 19, 2022

One toddler did what many of us have thought about at least once in our lives—he ordered not 30 but 31 McDonald’s cheeseburgers through the DoorDash app, which showed up on his doorstep less than an hour later.

Kelsey Burkhalter Golden thought her son, Barrett, was using her phone to take pictures of himself. Turns out, he was actually putting in a pretty big lunch order at the local McDonalds. She posted about the hilarious mishap on Facebook, writing, “I have 31 free cheeseburgers from McDonald’s if anyone is interested. Apparently my 2 yr old knows how to order doordash.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kelsey Burkhalter Golden (@kelseyrb3)

“He was really just flicking it around and making like roller-coaster moves with his arms and fingers,” Golden told TODAY. “I thought he was just looking at his reflection and carrying the phone around and about 30 minutes later, I got a text from the DoorDash company that was like, hey, it’s gonna take a little bit longer than usual to take your order.”

She didn’t think much of it at the time. That is, until the delivery driver showed up on her doorstep with 31 cheeseburgers. The order total was $61.58, but little Barrett thought of everything and also tipped the driver $16. In total after fees, the toddler spent a whopping $91.70 on his lunch.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kelsey Burkhalter Golden (@kelseyrb3)

“So I go and open the door and there’s this girl standing there and she’s like, ‘Your 31 cheeseburgers?'” Golden explained. “I just stared at her awkwardly for like 15 seconds but then I just took them, like, ‘Oh, thank you!'”

The most hilarious part of the story is that her son isn’t really a fan of the food. “He actually doesn’t even like cheeseburgers. He ate half of one,” she said. “We had about 30 and a half cheeseburgers on our hands.” Leave it to a toddler to work that one out.

For her part, mom took it in stride. She posted in a local Facebook group to see if anyone was hungry for a free burger (or 12) and ended up giving them all away to a local family, her neighbors, and an expecting mom.

“One was a pregnant woman and she wanted six, no judgment, you know? I was pregnant three times,” Golden laughed.

No judgment at all.

Party On(line): How to Plan a Virtual Baby Shower

by Suzanna LoganMay 26, 2021

There is nothing as precious or as important as the arrival of a new baby, and the little one’s arrival should be celebrated accordingly—no matter what. Thankfully, technology makes it easy to shower a new mama with all the love she deserves via a virtual baby shower, whether social distancing is a factor or mom’s nearest and dearest are simply miles away. If you’re hosting for a family member, or friend or even looking for ways to celebrate your own little one in utero, read on for how to get the preggo party going—virtually.

1. Keep It Simple—or Don’t!
When planning a virtual baby shower, the first thing to keep in mind is that, like a traditional, in-person shower, a virtual event can be as simple or as detailed as the mama-to-be wants it to be. There is no right or wrong way to host a baby shower, so let go of the pressure or any preconceived notions of how it “ought” to go and just have fun!

2. Make a List of Attendees
If you’re in search of a silver lining to having a virtual baby shower (there are lots!), here is one to get you started: unlimited invites. Having to pare down an invite list due to venue size or budget restraints can be one of the hardest parts of this type of event, but with a virtual party, you can open the doors for as many people as you want to pour on the love to the soon-coming bundle of joy.

3. Pick a Platform
There are a few different ways to go about throwing a virtual baby shower. Some reliable go-tos are Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, or Evite. There is a bit of a learning curve to learning how to use these video-conferencing sites, so familiarize yourself with the platform of your choice and try out a few test runs with friends before the big day. That way you can help guide attendees, especially those who aren’t that tech-savvy. (Important note: On Zoom, you’ll have to pay for a “Pro” account or restart your meeting every 40 minutes. Google Hangouts and Skype don’t have set time limits on meetings.)

4. Invite Right
Choose a party time when most people are likely to be available to attend. Create an online invite using a service like Minted, Paperless Post, or Evite (which now offers direct video-chatting capabilities) with the shower’s date, time, and name of the host. Be sure to note clearly that this baby shower is a virtual event, and include any necessary meeting log-in information. It can be helpful to set the party time 10 minutes earlier than the time you share with the mom-to-be so everyone is ready and waiting to celebrate when the special guest logs in. Of course, traditional registry information should also be included if gifts are desired by the mama-to-be. (Including an “order by” deadline can be helpful to encourage gifts to arrive on time.)

5. Encourage Guests to Decorate
It can be easy to overlook the decorations in a virtual baby shower, but having a few decor items—-balloons, banners, streamers—will turn a hangout into a special event. Ask all invitees to jazz up their backgrounds with some basic party decor or baby-shower-themed items. To give guests extra motivation, frame the request in the invite as a contest, with a virtual gift card to be sent to the winner.

6. Get Ready for Game Time
In a traditional party setting, the small talk and side conversations can easily fill an hour or two, but a video call doesn’t allow for the same easy-flowing conversation that would happen at an in-person shower. So you’ll want to plan games that encourage interaction among invitees. Some fun ideas: charades (only baby-themed words allowed, of course!) or a scavenger hunt show-and-tell. In this game, you give everyone a minute to dash around their house and find items that could be used, for example, to entertain/soothe/clothe/etc. an infant, and then have each person explain what they chose. Laughs guaranteed.

7. Plan for Gifts
If the new mom created a registry and information was sent out via invites, opening gifts that arrived before the virtual baby shower is a fun activity to round out the event and give the gift-givers a chance to see mom-to-be’s reaction to their gifts. If the baby shower is more of a “sprinkle,” and opening gifts isn’t part of the plan, there is a way to still shower the expecting mom with love in a tangible way: Compile a basket with always-appreciated baby items (like wipes and pacis) and self-care products, such as a new water bottle or gift cards for coffee or takeout. Drop off the basket before the event with instructions not to open it until shower time.

These Prenatal Massage Spots Will Make You Melt

by Rachel SokolNovember 8, 2020

Carrying a kid around for nine months or so is no joke. Doing it in New York City, in these strange times? Oof. Luckily, there are tons of great prenatal massage places in NYC where an expectant mom can find stress relief and help for those gestational aches and pains. And yes, Covid safety procedures are in effect to keep everyone healthy—and relaxed! Below, our picks for the city’s best places to get a prenatal massage.

The ‘In-the-know’ Massage Therapist: Prenatal Massage Center of Manhattan

For over 16 years Anne Heckheimer has been offering support in the form of massage to NYC’s pregnant women. She incorporates unique add-ons such as gua-sha relaxation (repeated strokes using a smooth stone) and facial rejuvenation into prenatal massages upon request. (Heckheimer is also a certified personal trainer!) All safety rules are being followed: there’s a new medical-grade air purifier on-site, there’s a new intake form for clients with specific COVID-related questions, and clients will be required to bring their own water bottles to reduce the number of surfaces to be touched by everyone. Don’t forget your mask! New modalities: Spinning Babies® Body Balancing, Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy® and Labor Enhancement Massage Sessions.

231 West 96th St. Suite 2B, Office 7
Upper West Side
917-359-8176
Online: prenatalmassagecenter.com

Makes Housecalls: Motherly Love Massage and Acupuncture

This housecall pre-natal massage small business services Manhattan and Brooklyn. Says owner, Leigh: “We exclusively offer housecalls, specializing in massage and acupuncture for pregnancy, postpartum and parents!” Perfect for de-stressing during challenging times, Motherly Love’s practitioners thoroughly employ the new covid-safety protocols and professional guidelines, “with sessions designed to nourish your well-being from the comfort of home.” Housecall services have recently expanded to Westchester county, Princeton and Rumson, NJ, too.
motherlylovenyc.com

119 West 23rd St., Suite 802
Chelsea
Online: motherlylovenyc.com

Fertility-focused: The Yinova Center

Due to COVID19, The Yinova Center launched a new Remote Bodywork Program designed to empower patients through guided self-massage techniques known to support and optimize the reproductive system. The virtual bodywork program will guide you through the self-massage techniques that are appropriate for whichever stage of the cycle you are in. For those coming in, all COVID safety guidelines are being followed and there’s heightened staff & patient screening. Everyone coming into the center is required to sign a health declaration and have their temperature taken. There’s also enhanced cleaning and PPE required for staffers. For pregnant women, initial consultations are currently divided into two parts: The intake portion of the treatment is done virtually, after which you will be able to come into one of their centers for a treatment.

37 W. 17th St., Suite 300
Flatiron
212-533-2255

Best for An Afternoon of Pampering: Melt massage

Says owner, Alexis: “While getting an indoor massage at this time cannot be risk-free, we're doing everything we can to make it as safe as possible.” This includes limiting the number of people in their space - the desk is almost entirely working remotely - and all sessions are staggered by at least 15 minutes. “Both clients and LMTs are wearing masks the entire time in our space.” The small team is constantly cleaning the air with HEPA filters and dual direction fans and surfaces are disinfected thoroughly between each client. Adds Alexis: “Finally, we are making an effort to communicate with clients both before and after their sessions over email or on the phone since talking (even while wearing a mask) makes the situation risky.”

84 Lafayette Ave.
Fort Greene
646-450-6353
Online: meltmassagenyc.com

The Holistic Haven: Earth & Sky Healing Arts

Earth & Sky Healing Arts offers prenatal and postpartum massage, cranial-sacral therapy and newly expanded acupuncture services. Specializing in fertility and supporting clients through the childbearing cycle, Earth + Sky's therapists offer years of experience and evidence-based care. This holistic wellness spot is both comforting and dedicated to providing excellent care. They adhere to all COVID safety guidelines and have a new acupuncture program.

5-31 50th Ave.
Long Island City
Online: earthsky.dreamhosters.com

Best for Shared Spaces: HND + TMPL Massage Therapy

“Since the start of the pandemic, there's been an increase in stress levels and a reduction of social interaction and external physical contact,” says owner Ben Brown, LMT. “An expecting mother needs all the support available as she manages the growth of another life. Conscious touch in the form of prenatal massage can help assist in these challenging times.”

Brown is certified in pre and postnatal massage and has worked in a medical setting, a day spa, and private practice over his 14-year career. “I currently work out of City Wellness Collective in Chelsea, which is a group of individual wellness practices operating in a shared space.” Aside from his practice, there’s an on-site fertility acupuncturist, and a chiropractic practice specializing in pregnancy healthcare. Each treatment room has ventilation, a Hepa air-filter, and its disinfected between appointments. While in session, Brown wears PPE, including goggles, face mask, and an apron. Clients have the option of wearing their mask when face down but are required to wear one when face up. Temp checks upon arrival.

141 West 28th St., Third Fl.
Chelsea
917-806-1854
Online: handandtemple.com

The Park Slope Full Service Spot

The popular Sage Spa once occupied this Park Slope storefront. Now it’s occupied by Red Moon Wellness, a center for massage, childbirth education and assistance, and herbal medicine. Massage services include both prenatal and postpartum work. Run by certified massage therapist, birth doula, lactation consultant and clinical herbalist Lena DeGloma, this is also a good resource for expecting and new parents looking for education and support. As far as COVID-19 safety rules go, this Brooklyn gem upgraded ventilation, installed touchless faucets, implemented masks for both clients and therapists and more.

405 5th Ave.
Park Slope
347-699-8751
Online: redmoonwellness.com

For Moms of Multiples: Liza Adara Healing

Liza Adara’s bodywork and massage utilizes Craniosacral Biodynamics and restorative acupressure to assist the body in finding optimum wellness. She supports many twin pregnancies – she’s even a twin herself – and advocates that regular massages for moms carrying twins makes a tremendous difference in the pregnancy and birth. Manhattan home visits and various studio locations in Manhattan and East Hampton

Lizaadarahealing@gmail.com
917-346-1120
Online: lizaadarahealing.com

For the Mama On the Go: BodyMechanics

BodyMechanics always operated as a medical practice and had 30 min between appointments so when the pandemic hit they were actually fully stocked with gloves, sanitizer and masks. Says the team: “All of our in room furniture is fully wipeable (always was); now you will find hand sanitizer in each room for patient use and our cleaning practices include things, like light switches and sterilizing your chair!” Expectant moms can completely relax because everything is cleaned for their visit. They also added table top hepa air filters to each room to help with air circulation. Additional upgrades include the fact that we ported all of our old paper files into an online HIPPA-compliant system so you can now fill out all of your medical records via your smart phone, as well as check out without passing staffers your card. (Note the new address!)

1 W 34th St., Suite #204
Midtown West
Online: bodymechanicsnyc.com

Most Accommodating: Remedy Massage

Remedy Massage is great for making you feel comfortable at any stage in your pregnancy. It has a number of different pillows meant to support your body and belly in any position. It also lets you schedule online and often has last minute appointments available.

107 West 82nd St., Suite 103
Upper West Side
Online: remedymassage.com

Best for Pain Relief: Massage Williamsburg

The practitioners at Press Massage Williamsburg, a woman-owned business, are experts in pain relief, which is great for women who may be experiencing lower-back pain or swelling during their pregnancy. Owner, Rachel Beider, is the prenatal massage expert so you know you are in good hands. You can choose to lie face down on the Preggo Pillow, or lie on your side if you are a little farther along.

169 Wythe Ave., Suite 202
Williamsburg
917-538-6560
Online: massagewilliamsburg.com

Best for a Reflexology Combo: Lori Singer Massage

Lori is a board-certified reflexologist as well as a certified prenatal and postpartum massage therapist. The internet talks a lot about reflex points that should not be used during pregnancy, but since Reflexology balances all our bodies functions thru deep relaxation there is a lot of good too, explains Lori. “And, of course, I know what reflex points to stay away from. When I combine reflexology with a massage I am facilitating your body to balance and heal it’s self both internally and externally.” She also offers postpartum massages, which are beneficial in facilitating stress reduction, fatigue, restoration of your pre-pregnancy shape and less postpartum depression. Regarding COVID safety, there are HEPA air purifiers are in treatment rooms, lots of hand-washing, mandates masks required, and more.

LMSinger@mac.com
718-607-0450
Online: LoriMassageStudio.com

feature photo: Press Massage Williamsburg

— Rachel Sokol

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5 Classes Expecting Parents Should Take Before Giving Birth

By Shari Stamps

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

September 10, 2020

You’ve probably heard a lot of different things from everyone you know on the internet or in real life about what to do in order to prep for baby. But their birth journey isn’t yours, and their advice might not work for you! Maybe you’re expecting your second or fifth little one so you think you’ve got this covered. But whether you’re a first-time mom or fifth, there are still classes you need to take before giving birth. Here are my top 5 classes you should consider taking before your little one arrives.

1. Postpartum Prep. I’m including this one first because it’s the last class you’d think about taking. This is not Newborn Care or Baby Basics 101. This is not a birthing techniques class. Postpartum prep is a class dedicated to preparing new and new-again parents for what they will face in postpartum and what they need to do while expecting to have plans, meals, care kits, and support in place. Taking a postpartum prep class means there are fewer surprises when it comes to your relationships, your body, and your mental health. It’s essential and goes hand-in-hand with a Postpartum Healing course that is dedicated to nurturing the whole family as they bond with baby.

2. Labor & Birthing Techniques Class. This may have been the one class you expected to see on this list, but sadly many first-time parents miss this class before birth. Attending a birthing technique class significantly reduces possible feelings of regret or trauma from birth. Having a birth doula? Even more. I’m a huge fan of the Hypnobabies Home Study Course—it’s how I was able to achieve my super fast natural birth with my second kiddo after getting the full induction package complete with a catheter at my first birth 6 years earlier. But there are a lot of amazing classes out there (Discover Birth Education Course is another favorite) for you to choose from and you may even want to take a few! One class might focus on comfort measure techniques, while the other focuses solely on your mindset. Find the right balance for your desired experience.

3. Prenatal Exercise. A birthing techniques class can help you to emotionally and mentally prepare for labor and learn great labor positions, but a good prenatal exercise class prepares your body for the birth of your little. Targeted exercises designed with the expecting mother in mind can release tension, open the pelvis, increase blood flow, and strengthen the body for the tough job of labor. Expecting and Empowered is a great prenatal workout program designed by a chiropractor and nurse with the whole body in mind (since it all works together).

4. Lactation Education. I’ve met expecting parents who were adamant about not breastfeeding once the baby arrived, not because of trauma but because they didn’t want to lose that part of their sexuality. But once the baby arrived, they breastfed! Whether you aren’t sure if you want to breastfeed, are afraid you can’t, or are determined that it’s something you’ll do once baby arrives, it’s important to take a class to know what to expect. Your body will produce milk whether you breastfeed or not and you will want to know what your body is going through, why, and how the hormones related to all of this are affecting your whole self.

Most hospitals offer a sort of Breastfeeding 101 class and some birth doulas include this in their client education, but I recommend taking another class by a stand-alone professional who is not affiliated with a specific hospital because they can get into more detail about things and tend to have more up-to-date info that the Lactation Consultants at a hospital might not be able to teach due to policies. I’ve been to several hospital-led classes but learned so much more after becoming a Lactation Educator.

5. Baby Care. Basic baby care classes can be extremely helpful for first-time parents. In this class, you learn how to swaddle, communicate with your baby, general feeding information, and more. Doulas typically cover some of this with you after birth, too.

This post originally appeared on Navigating Parenthood.

Shari Stamps

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Shari Stamps is the founder of NavigatingParenthood where she shares stories, info, services, and programs for expecting, new and veteran parents. As a mom of three, a freelance writer, postpartum doula, infant massage instructor, and lactation educator she's always learning something new. Join the journey via social at @NavigatingParenthood and @NavigatingPostpartum.

Katy Perry Gives Birth to First Child With Orlando Bloom

by Jennifer SwartvagherAugust 27, 2020

Katy Perry has given birth to a baby girl named Daisy Dove Bloom. The singer and partner Orlando Bloom confirmed the birth on Instagram on Thursday. Both shared a post by charity Unicef, of which the couple are ambassadors, confirming the arrival of their daughter along with a black and white photograph of the cuple holding their child’s hand. Perry’s nail has a sweet Daisy painted on it in honor of her new daughter.

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Posted @withregram • @unicef Welcome to the world, Daisy Dove Bloom! We are honoured to introduce Goodwill Ambassadors @KatyPerry and @OrlandoBloom’s new bundle of joy.⠀ ⠀ “We are floating with love and wonder from the safe and healthy arrival of our daughter,” Katy and Orlando told us.⠀ ⠀ “But we know we’re the lucky ones and not everyone can have a birthing experience as peaceful as ours was. Communities around the world are still experiencing a shortage of healthcare workers and every eleven seconds a pregnant woman or newborn dies, mostly from preventable causes. Since COVID-19 many more newborn lives are at risk because of the increased lack of access to water, soap, vaccines and medicines that prevent diseases. As parents to a newborn, this breaks our hearts, as we empathize with struggling parents now more than ever.⠀ ⠀ “As UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, we know UNICEF is there, on the ground, doing whatever it takes to make sure every expecting mother has access to a trained health worker and access to quality healthcare. In celebration of the heart we know our daughter already has, we have set up a donation page to celebrate DDB’s arrival. By supporting them, you are supporting a safe start to life and reimagining a healthier world for every child. We hope your ♥️ can bloom with generosity.⠀ ⠀ Gratefully-⠀ ⠀ Katy & Orlando.”⠀ ⠀ Please tap the link in our bio to support the most precious gift: a healthy child.

A post shared by KATY PERRY (@katyperry) on Aug 27, 2020 at 12:31am PDT

The post was captioned, “Welcome to the world, Daisy Dove Bloom! We are honoured to introduce Goodwill Ambassadors @KatyPerry and @OrlandoBloom’s new bundle of joy,”

“‘We are floating with love and wonder from the safe and healthy arrival of our daughter,’ Katy and Orlando told us.”

The post continued with a message from the couple, “But we know we’re the lucky ones and not everyone can have a birthing experience as peaceful as ours was. Communities around the world are still experiencing a shortage of healthcare workers and every eleven seconds a pregnant woman or newborn dies, mostly from preventable causes. Since COVID-19 many more newborn lives are at risk because of the increased lack of access to water, soap, vaccines and medicines that prevent diseases. As parents to a newborn, this breaks our hearts, as we empathize with struggling parents now more than ever. As UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, we know UNICEF is there, on the ground, doing whatever it takes to make sure every expecting mother has access to a trained health worker and access to quality healthcare. In celebration of the heart we know our daughter already has, we have set up a donation page to celebrate DDB’s arrival. By supporting them, you are supporting a safe start to life and reimagining a healthier world for every child. We hope your ♥️ can bloom with generosity.”⠀

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Tinseltown via Shutterstock

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Expert Prenatal Care Right in Your Own Home

by Jamie AderskiJuly 30, 2020

Congratulations–you’re expecting! And one thing every pregnant woman expects? A whole lot of doctors appointments. But heading to the doctor—during current times, or any time—isn’t always a picnic. Which is why UW Medicine provides virtual visits to meet your prenatal care and wellness needs without having to set foot in a doctor’s office. Read on to learn all about it.

UW Medicine’s TeleOB program was created to reduce the number of in-clinic appointments required to monitor the health and development of your baby. Before your first video-based appointment, your UW Medicine doctor will give you equipment and teach you how to take your own blood pressure and find your baby’s heartbeat using a doppler. All UW Medicine OB/GYNs can provide TeleOB appointments, so rest assured you can still count on your go-to MD throughout your pregnancy journey!

By using your computer, tablet or smartphone and monitoring equipment, you can easily access expert maternity care when you need it and between in-person office visits. You can also expect the same privacy and personal attention with UW Medicine’s secure video conferencing. UW Medicine OB/GYNs help you manage your pregnancy with much less time stressing in the waiting room. Virtual hugs to UW Medical for this one!

As an expecting mom, you’ve got enough on your plate. Now, you don’t have to worry about your safety or all the scheduling switcharoos that come with the abundance of OB/GYN prenatal appointments. Learn more about the UW Medicine TeleOB program.

—Jamie Aderski

All photos courtesy UW Medicine

When Your Expecting Plans Take an Unexpected Turn

By Dr. Wael Salem

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

July 20, 2020

Photo: CCRM Fertility

There was a time just a few months ago, before our world knew anything about COVID-19, when you may have decided to start trying to have a baby. Or, maybe you fall into the 1 in 8 couples experiencing infertility and had gathered the courage to embark on your fertility journey. Either way, your initial excitement to start a pregnancy was then shaken by resounding uncertainty with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In mass, couples and individuals took to the Internet to ask, “What does the coronavirus do to my pregnancy?” Meanwhile, the news cycles were churning out what feels like an encyclopedic volume of medical literature. “No effect in pregnancy” turned into “Possible vertical transmission,” a few days later. In the midst of this never-ending news, women everywhere were scrolling and clicking endlessly to find an answer to, “Is it safe for me to get pregnant now?”

While it’s great to be informed about your pregnancy, it is an unfair burden for you as a patient and expecting mother to aggregate and distill all the new research being published. Furthermore, it’s very possible that it’s leading to increased stress, anxiety, and possibly even despair as you try to get pregnant. Ultimately, it’s our job as physicians to stay current and appropriately distill fact from fiction and theories from the simply unknown. The expert teams of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) have been working tirelessly to synthesize the relevant pregnancy and fertility data so that individuals aren’t left with that burden.

While we are still learning how COVID-19 affects pregnancy, what we know so far, on the whole, is reassuring. First, pregnant women do not appear to have more severe complications of COVID-19. The literature does not suggest a consistent transmission from an infected mother to her baby. Next, it’s too early to definitively say if there is any risk to the fetus if it were to become infected, but it does not appear to be the case. Finally, no medical organization or society has recommended against initiating a pregnancy in and of itself.

It’s known with near certainty that this pandemic is causing a lot of anxiety about getting pregnant. Controlling that anxiety, stress, and uncertainty is a part of your fertility journey in which you have a tremendous amount of power. To decompress, meditating for five minutes is a great way to start or end your day. Acupuncture and massage are excellent methods for stress reduction once they become available. If you continue to feel overwhelmed, talk with your doctor or mental health provider. At CCRM Fertility, we’ve developed a series of videos on CCRM TV that offer pregnancy preparedness education. We know this is a really difficult time for all, and our goal is to be a resource for patients.

Fortunately, those lifestyle habits that are beneficial for your pregnancy haven’t changed with COVID-19. For starters, take care of yourself. Get plenty of high-quality sleep. Focus on eating healthy, whole foods. Continue to exercise regularly. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Meanwhile, continue to follow all the usual precautions to avoid the coronavirus (including washing hands often, avoid touching your face, wear a mask in public, etc.). Finally, leave the unending ebbs and flows of news and talk to your healthcare provider. They have gladly done the research for you.

Dr. Wael Salem

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

I am Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Board Eligible in Reproductive Endocrinology. Like all CCRM Fertility physicians, I believe in providing people who want a family with the very best chance to do so. My interests include fertility for cancer patients, PCOS, fertility preservation (egg freezing) and preimplantation genetic testing for hereditary genetic diseases.

Hilaria Baldwin’s Post About Her Possible Miscarriage Is So Important

by Shahrzad WarkentinApril 9, 2019

Despite the role of social media in openness about parenting and the experience of pregnancy, a taboo still remains when it comes to talking about miscarriage and pregnancy loss. When Hilaria Baldwin posted about her possible miscarriage last week, it served as an important reminder for that it’s okay for women to open up more about this difficult subject.

Baldwin shared a moving post to her Instagram feed explaining that although she is still technically pregnant, she is most likely experiencing a miscarriage. “I always promised myself that if I were to get pregnant again, I would share the news with you guys pretty early, even if that means suffering a public loss,” the mom of four and wife of Alec Baldwin shared.

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A post shared by Hilaria Thomas Baldwin (@hilariabaldwin)

“I have always been so open with you all about my family, fitness, pregnancies…and I don’t want to keep this from you, just because it isn’t as positive and shiny as the rest,” she wrote in the lengthy post, explaining “the embryo has a heartbeat, but it isn’t strong, and the baby isn’t growing very much. So we wait—and this is hard. So much uncertainty…but the chances are very, very small that this is a viable pregnancy.”

Previous research indicates that anywhere from 15 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage; the March of Dimes estimates that as many as half of all pregnancies end in miscarriage but happen so early, the pregnancy may not yet have been detected. Despite this, miscarriage is a topic many women find too painful to discuss, and understandably so. But as Baldwin’s post shows, being open about the experience can help other women going through the same experience realize they are not alone and miscarriage is a common experience that can happen to any expecting mom.

Baldwin wrote, “I’m hoping, that by sharing this, I can contribute to raising awareness about this sensitive topic.”

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Hilaria Baldwin via Instagram

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ML Interest Tag: expecting-mother

To Push Present or Not? Here’s the Low Down

We have a few thoughts on push presents.

The Louise Dress from Marea

Mini Love Letters "Mama" Necklace

Everyday Nap Earrings Trio

Virgin Experiences

Pearl Apple Watch Band by Goldenerre

Sterling Silver Birth Flower Earrings

Chagaccino

A Powerful Force Necklace Set by Air & Anchor

Sculpting Square Neck Swimsuit

Initial Diamond Pendant by Keyzar

Delia Dress in Multicolor Floral

Leather Jewelry Pouch

The Elena Woven Handbag

Primal Life Face Sculptor Ultrasonic Wand

Cadis Line Bracelet

Butter & Me Renew Essential Selfcare Kit

Halo 42 Oil Over Me Face & Body Elixir

Google Pixel Pro 7

Baby Keepsake Library

Manta Sleep Mask

Labor & Delivery Essentials Bundle

Big Blanket Co Premiere Plush Blanket

Rainbow Moonstone Point

Bouqs Flower Subscription

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