Look at any book, scroll any website, and consult any friend, and you’ll get a million different ideas of what ‘postpartum essentials’ really means. But, since we’re all moms around here in different seasons of motherhood, we’ve got the real mom lowdown on the postpartum essentials we really couldn’t do without. And we’ve even included some prenatal favorites to keep you going as you head toward the next stage of your mom journey.
Of course, anything you see on this list (or any others, really) shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. Always run things by your healthcare provider if you have any questions. That said, these postpartum goodies are some of the most tried-and-true out there. From nursing camis that save you some laundry time to cooling pads that soothe your healing body and everything in between, we’ve put together our faves for keeping comfortable, managing pain, taking care of yourself, and even staying organized while you get to know your newest family member. (There are even some great gifts for new moms on this list, so if you’re looking for products to really help out the new mom in your life, we’ve got you covered!).
Postpartum Essentials
Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads
Frida Mom on Amazon
Looking for some major relief? These 2-in-1 cooling and absorbent maxi pads are made with witch hazel (no funky chemicals here) and instantly cool and soothe sensitive bodies following delivery. They're full-coverage, too, to minimize leaks!
Ingrid & Isabel's seamless cooling bra features an innovative technical fabric with cooling minerals to wick away moisture and keep you feeling cool and dry. It includes drop-down cups and openings for pump flanges, plus it's compatible with wearable pumps. It's your 3-in-1 postpartum bra: support, nursing, and pumping-ready! Available in black and sand.
Not all prenatals are created equal. The Beli Women Prenatal is designed for when you're hoping to conceive, during all three trimesters, and the early months of motherhood. It's gentle on your tummy, too. What other prenatal does it all? Beli also has a subscription option, so it's one less thing you have to think about every month.
Extra-soothing and can help speed up recovery, this sitz bath soak is extra-gentle. Made with organic coconut oil, organic sweet almond oil, therapeutic lavender, and grapefruit essential oils to deeply hydrate while the fine-grain salt dissolves extra fast so you don't have to wait to relax.
Listen, new moms. It's vital that you stay hydrated. Of course, that's always true, but it's especially easy to forget when you're nursing, running on less sleep, and healing from labor and delivery. Mom Fuel is formulated for moms, it's caffiene-free and includes lactation support, all in an on-the-go packet. Mix it with a little extra water if you prefer a milder flavor.
Bodily really knocked it out of the park with this box. The kit contains 12 research-backed products, including goodies for hospital and home, so you can be covered from the big day to every moment of your healing journey. The Bodily Belly Band, nursing pads, cozy socks, nipple gel pads, mesh undies, and a lot more. There's also the Care for Birth Box if you don't need the Belly Band.
The Poppy Diaper Purse is a modern and minimalist take on the diaper bag. It replaces the bulky and big diaper bags that can be a huge pain and instead, includes a mini diaper bag with a dual-purpose design. Divided into two sections, the Poppy has a dedicated baby diaper compartment and a personal purse compartment, too. Multiple zippered and open pocket options, including an elastic pocket for baby wipes! Available in 4 colors, and fun straps (sold separately) to customize yours.
If you want, or need, to leave the house during your postpartum recovery, your healing regimen still can't take a backseat. This handy little portable bidet doesn't look like one, but works to effectively keep your postpartum hygiene in check no matter where you are. They also made sure the design mitigates leaks, because that's pretty much the last thing you need right now.
Super soft, belly hugging (read: supportive!) underwear with a dual-layer, 360° pocket design to securely hold ice or heat therapy between the legs, at the site of c-section, and around the back where postpartum recovering bodies need it most. Available in multiple sizes and bundle options (remember what we said about laundry?).
The name of the postpartum game is 'Support' (both physically and mentally), so having a compression wrap like this one on-hand is a great idea. You can adjust it to the level you prefer and wearing a wrap can help speed up your healing!
A super-soft, easy-fit pajama top with lift up nursing access, a comfy over bump pajama bottoms with a tapered leg, a maternity and nursing nightie with snaps at the front for easy nursing and skin-to-skin snuggles, and a cozy matching robe to keep you warm, covered up when you want to be, and excellent for busy hospitals or at home when you have visitors.
A yoga ball specifically designed to offer relief from back, pelvic, pubic, and round ligament pain, and may promote optimal fetal positioning for a smoother delivery. It's sturdy (max weight of 440lbs.) and is extra-thick to make sure you're totally supported. It's also great for use during postpartum recovery.
You can't beat this level of versatility! The ruched silhouette shows off your growing bump and can be worn all through pregnancy and postpartum. Add a denim jacket, sneakers, a blazer...with multiple colors to choose from, you might not want to wear anything else for a long time.
If there's going to be a prenatal vitamin in our list, and of course there is, it better be the best. SNAP Supplements Prenatal Vitamins make it easy to take care of your growing babe and yourself. Along with 15 vitamins and minerals with 100% daily value, they included ingredients to help prevent and alleviate nausea, so you can actually handle taking them. If you've been dealing with upset belly from prenatals, SNAP has you covered.
Bio-Oil is one of the most popular prenatal (and postpartum, and whenever...) products out there. Why? Because it's super effective at moisturizing, helping your skin stay elastic and not itchy as your bump grows, and soothes it after delivery.
Whether you're struggling to sleep or just looking for some extra support, this pillow will be a major favorite. It's also awesome for sitting up in bed and reading, nursing, or even using a corner as a lap desk. Available in multiple colors and prints.
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.
Having a baby means a million and one changes. Whether it’s your schedule, your body, and literally everything in between, everything is totally turned on its head. No pun intended, but your hair is definitely added to that list. Postpartum hair loss is a classic challenge for many, if not most, new moms, but until it’s actually happening to you, it’s hard to fully understand what the big deal is. But after having thick, luxurious hair during pregnancy (one of the bonuses), watching it thin back out, change texture or lose strength can be not-so-awesome.
But, rest assured you’re not alone. And, postpartum hair loss is such a common problem, there are definitely some solutions that are effective and accessible. No snake oil or empty promises here. These solutions are tried-and-true. Shampoos, styling products, concealers. They’re all here. We’ve gone through soooooo many options and have picked some of our favorites. They’re highly-rated, proven to work, and easy to get your hands on. Editor’s Note: Keep in mind, lots of good things take time. Don’t totally give up if you don’t see immediate improvement. Also, your results will vary. This is not intended to be considered medical advice. We encourage speaking to your healthcare provider about your hair loss concerns, especially if you’re noticing extreme shedding, sudden thinning, and/or irritation.
VEGAMOUR GRO Revitalizing Shampoo & Conditioner
Vegamour
The VEGAMOUR GRO Shampoo features a proprietary Karmatin b-SILK protein which smooths damaged hair, improves the appearance of damage caused by heat and coloring, absorbs dirt and oil, locks in hydration, and protects hair color. The moisturizing conditioner is ultra-rich and promotes visibly fuller hair. You'll start to notice a difference around month 3, with full effects around your 4th month of use when you follow the instructions.
Rice water is a powerhouse ingredient for hair strength, and inala's Triple Threat Tonic uses it to formulate a priming, styling, refreshing treatment for all hair types. You'll reduce breakage, add light hold, and hydrate and freshen up your hair between washes. inala Triple Threat Tonic can be used on wet, damp, or dry hair.
Okay, you caught us. We did say many of these products take time to see results, but if you're just not into waiting, Luvme Hair offers gorgeous wigs for immediate glam results. Of course, you can choose to rock them while you wait for other treatments to take effect, cover any thinning that makes you self-conscious, or just change up your look whenever you feel like it. Luvme Hair is all about the power to change. And with these options, you'll have lots of reasons to do just that.
2% Minoxidil has been proven to restore thinning hair, reduce hair loss, and help keep your scalp healthy. There are a lot of Minoxidil options out there, but this one has great reviews at a wallet-friendly price.
Editor's Note: This is not intended as medical advice. Speak to your healthcare provider before beginning treatment with Minoxidil or any other medicated product. Minoxidil is not for use by pregnant or nursing women, and those with other conditions outlined by your doctor.
OUAI Fine to Medium Hair Treatment Masque
OUAI
Don’t skip the conditioner even if you have fine or thin hair. It can still get damaged and coarse, and this hair masque from OUAI can be used as frequently as needed (though if you fall into the fine hair category, you'll likely use it less than you might otherwise).
This cream is powered by Living Proof’s "healthy hair molecule" to smooth and protect by forming a weightless shield around each hair strand, while the "thickening molecule" creates space between strands for hair that looks and feels fuller. That sounds like a lot of science, but the customer ratings speak for themselves. The result? Smooth, strong, voluminous hair—and endless compliments (here for that).
Free of toxic chemicals, 100% vegan, and safe while breastfeeding, this serum from ANYA is formulated with powerful ingredients shown to stimulate hair follicles and promote fuller, thicker hair. Best results are seen after 90 days of use. so patience is a virtue here.
Increase the appearance of thicker, fuller, healthier hair with this innovative blend of 100+ vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential oils that has been shown to support your natural healthy hair cycle and to combat signs of thinning & shedding. Caffeine, biotin, rosemary oil, and more are all safe for sensitive skin.
This powerful hair bundle is specially formulated to help you fight the scalp issues that cause slow growth, breakage, and excessive shedding. Formulated with stimulating herbs and extracts for growth, nourishing oils that heal and protect, and DHT-blocking ingredients that help fight the most common hormonal reason for hair thinning and fall-out.
We typically don't recommend supplements, largely because they work differently from person to person. But everything we've read about Nurtrafol makes us confident in their Postpartum Hair Growth Supplements. Their ingredients are standardized to make sure each serving is the same, plus this formula is breastfeeding-friendly. You know what we're going to say, though. Make sure you speak with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Even if you've never used hair extensions before, or even considered them, they can make a huge difference. Bombay clip-in hair extensions are so, so user-friendly, and come in a ton of colors, lengths, and weights (yep, weight matters with hair extensions—if you have weaker or brittle hair, you'll want to go for lightweight extensions to avoid breakage). Bombay Hair also does a custom color match—just send in photos of your hair per their website instructions and they'll tell you your best match.
Toppik is a well-known name in thinning hair solutions. These little fibers work like fibers in some mascara formulas—they conceal roots, fill in sparse areas, and add volume. It comes in several colors, and Toppik highly recommends finishing it with their FiberHold Spray.
This grid-patterned heated iron is designed to be used right at your roots, hidden by the rest of your hair, to provide immediate boost, volume, and texture. It's not a curling iron or a flat iron—it's created to lift your hair up and away from your scalp for volume that can last for days, depending on your hair type and products used.
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.
I was lucky to be pregnant alongside one of my best friends. She was two weeks ahead of me and we shared a philosophy: we talk about everything. On any given day, the ping-pong match that became our text thread looked a little something like this:
Her: Where did you buy your compression socks? Your OB suggested them for flights, right?
Me: Do you think it’s bad I woke up on my back?
Her: New adds for our research list: delaying the first bath, and cord blood banking. Have you looked into either?
Me: How did you know it was baby hiccups when you felt them?
You better believe I hung on every word of her OB-GYN appointment recaps too, as I waited for my own. I wanted to know how did it go, what did you learn, and most importantly… what happens next?
(Photo: Me and my pregnancy partner-in-questioning)
As her 40-week mark moved closer and closer, I couldn’t shake the visual that she and I were standing at the top of a giant slide. Her, ready to push off and shout to me what the ride was like, as she soared towards the bottom.
I found having her as a guide for what was ahead to be calming, and made me feel like I was in “control” (cue the laughter, I know). I’m all about sharing what worked for me in the hopes it helps someone else, so here we go!
You may already be experiencing this, but the reality is, that as your pregnancy progresses, your OB-GYN appointments begin to feel more like drive-thrus than sit-downs. And that’s exactly around the time you’ll hear phrases like posterior placenta, newborn stem cell preservation, mucus plug, and foley bulb induction.
While these are new terms for the majority of us (and they sound intimidating), they’re not to be feared or rushed through. Your appointments are your appointments after all. So, from one new mom to the next, take your time. Command the room. If you need it, bring your partner, family member or friend as reinforcement. Most of all, ask every question.
To get you started, here’s a glimpse into the notes section of my phone organized by trimester. You’ll find topics to anticipate and questions to consider before your next OB-GYN appointment, no matter where you are in your pregnancy journey. Of course, pick and choose what feels appropriate for your situation.
We’re all on this ride together, friends—and I’ll be here waiting for you at the bottom of the slide.
First Trimester (0-13 Weeks)
The newness and fragility is palpable. This is a great time to gather questions as you wait for your first appointment and ultrasound.
When should my partner and I get tested for our blood types?
Are my prenatal vitamins giving me enough of what I need?
Can I keep up my exercise routine throughout pregnancy?
Are there foods I should avoid while pregnant?
How do I choose pregnancy safe skincare?
What should I be feeling during my first trimester?
When do you recommend I tell my boss I’m pregnant?
Second Trimester (14-27 Weeks)
As you work through all the necessary blood work and testing, tackle some of the bigger questions around your delivery, and explore your preferences. This is a nice time for a babymoon too!
What pregnancy classes should I take, and when should I take them?
Is cramping a normal feeling while pregnant?
Do I really have to sleep on my left side? Is it bad to sleep on your back while pregnant?
Start thinking about birth intentions (I avoided the word “plan”, adds too much stress!) :
What does a doula do, and do I want one?
Who will be in the room?
Review pain management options
What ambiance do we want in the room (lights dimmed? music?)
Gearing up for the homestretch! Expect more frequent doctor appointments as the weeks progress. This is your time to decide on your birth “intentions” and postpartum care.
How long past my due date can I go before induction? Can you ask to be induced?
Cervical exams during pregnancy—pros/cons? Are they elective?
Reminder to decide on cord blood banking! When is our deadline, and what is the cord blood storage cost?
What are signs your water broke? How long after do you wait at home if it does?
What does a mucus plug look like?
Do you have pediatrician recs? When do we make our first appointment?
Start to freeze food! Any recommendations for the best postpartum meals?
What is the transition phase of labor?
What breast pump does my insurance cover? Should I get fitted for a breast pump now?
While there is a lot to consider (clearly!), I hope having this little list in your back pocket lets you feel prepared for your next OB-GYN appointment.
If you feel like you’re on a never-ending treadmill of diaper changes and naptime battles, getting out of the house and commiserating with fellow parents can be a sanity-saver. Now, more than ever, is the time to find your tribe, glean essential parenting tips, and bemoan about how our bundles of joy aren’t always so joyous (but how we love them anyway!). Read on for a rundown of our favorite parent groups in LA that you can join—you may even find a new best friend for yourself and your kid in the process.
Who They Are: A parenting "village" founded by state-recognized infant-family and early childhood mental health specialist Bryana Kappa. South Bay Mommy & Me has a variety of classes—both virtual and in-person—to help nurture mothers as they raise their babies and toddlers. There are groups for infants, toddlers and second-time moms, as well as twin groups, pregnancy and postpartum support.
What They Do: Mothers and babies meet weekly for 75 minutes, where they can ask questions and ruminate on the struggles and triumphs of baby and toddlerhood. Topics are timed according to the child’s developmental stage, with age-appropriate activities that allow tiny tots plenty of time for rolling, crawling, cruising, walking and more. Once moms "graduate" from the program, they get an invitation to join Kappa's Conscious Mommy Circle, which teaches mothers mindfulness techniques to enhance their awareness of parenting and motherhood.
Where They Meet: Redondo Beach & online via Zoom. What It Costs: $325 per 8-week session.
Who They Are: A Westside staple for new and expecting moms, this Santa Monica boutique offers a slew of classes and workshops to tackle all the stages of pregnancy and early childhood (plus a super-stocked store where you can buy all the things you never knew you needed for your baby). Moms can get all their questions answered about postpartum care, nursing, sleep, finger foods, milestones and more. There are also certified lactation consultants and doulas to help with various needs.
What They Do: In addition to Mommy & Me support groups that guide new mothers through all of the ups and downs of raising a baby or toddler, the Pump Station also offers a multitude of specialty classes, including Intro to Breastfeeding, Returning to Work and Coping with Preschool Panic. There's even an online class for new grandparents to keep them up to date with all of the latest trends in baby-raising.
Where They Meet: Virtual as well as in-person meet-ups at the Pump Station & Nurtury (2727 Main St. Suite F, 2nd Floor)—as well as at Early Childhood Development Associates (6411 Melrose Ave., in Los Angeles) and Healing Through Action Studio (1201 S. Victory Blvd., Suite 104, in Burbank). What It Costs: Mommy & Me groups (1st & 2nd/3rd time moms), $320 for a virtual 8-week session and $420 for an in-person 8-week session; Parents & Me (both parents) classes cost $380 for an 8-week virtual session and $480 for an 8-week in-person session; individual workshop prices vary.
Best LA Parent Group: MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
iStock
Who They Are: Anyone who's ever had a "threenager" can tell you: New baby moms aren't the only ones in need of support. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a Christian-based organization that offers support groups and meetups for moms of kids who are past the diapers and formula stage. With more than 100,000 members in 67 countries, there's likely a MOPS group near you, wherever you are.
What They Do: Weekly meetups to talk about child development, share stories and offer support to moms of young children. Whether you're fighting bedtime battles, epic tantrums or school anxiety, you are not alone. Note: While MOPS welcomes moms of all denominations, there is a strong Christian leaning to the group, with its mission statement being to help moms "realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders, in relationship with Jesus, and in partnership with the local church."
Where They Meet: Churches throughout Los Angeles (see the "Find a Group" section of the website) as well as virtually via Zoom. What it Costs: Membership fees start at $32 per year.
Who They Are: Mommy & Me and Mommy, Daddy & Me classes are led by a team of licensed psychotherapists, founded by parenting pro Julie Wright, MFT, co-author of The Happy Sleeper and Now Say This: The Right Words to Solve Every Parenting Dilemma. Classes for new parents start when your baby is one-three months and continue through the first year.
What They Do: Weekly 90 minute classes help you adjust to parenthood (it is an adjustment!) and learn what to expect during your baby’s first year. Find your tribe as you laugh, sing, have fun and ask questions. Topics follow the babies’ development and include guidance for improving sleep, introducing solid foods and many more.
Where They Meet: Santa Monica & Sherman Oaks. What It Costs: $340/session for one parent and $420/session for a couple (each session includes eight 90-minute classes).
Who they are: Formally known as Babytalk LA, Wevolve "provides a supportive and fun environment where parents explore current parenting approaches and also build life-long friendships with other parents who have children close to the same age." From expectant parent groups and sensory play groups to parent support groups for elementary school aged kids, Wevolve is a safe place for parents to share, learn and grow. There is also a group for parents who are going through separation or divorce.
What they do: Fans of the parent-and-me class compare it to group therapy in a good way. The environment is open, non-judgmental and supportive. In addition to giving parents the chance to connect, experts are also occasionally brought in to offer insight on topics including sleep, first foods, sign language and child safety. Of course, your little one will also have the opportunity to "mingle" (i.e. crawl, roll and wiggle around) as you sing songs, learn about baby massage, sensory play and other activities for you and child.
Where they meet: Outdoor spaces, parks and private residences in Beverly Hills & Westwood—as well as virtual via Zoom. What it costs: $495 for 10 week session.
Who They Are: The “Moms Offering Moms Support” acronym says it all. It's a place to meet other mothers and build support systems. Of course, the added bonus is your little one gets to have similarly aged kids to play with.
What They Do: Each chapter has their own meeting schedules and planned activities, including things like playgroups, moms night out, parenting speakers, craft and cooking activities, book clubs, and plenty of ways to help those in need with charitable activities and fundraising events. Visit the national MOMS Club website to find the nearest local chapter in your area. There are dozens and dozens in the LA area so you’re sure to find a great fit for both you and your brood.
Where They Meet: With chapters all across LA (including throughout the Westside, Valley and South Bay), you shouldn't have trouble finding a group close to you. What It Costs: An annual membership fee anywhere between $35-$45 depending on the chapter. Events and activities are generally free.
Who They Are: Using a carefully-curated curriculum developed over the past 25+ years, Sleepy Planet Parenting was founded by psychotherapists and sleep experts Jill Spivak and Jennifer Waldburger, authors of the bestselling book,” The Sleepeasy Solution: The Exhausted Parent’s Guide to Getting Your Child to Sleep from Birth to Age 5.” In addition to offering events, one-on-one consultations, and energy healings, they also offer parenting groups throughout LA.
What They Do: Groups are designed for first, second and third-time moms, and cover all the essential developmental issues including baby sleep, feeding and cognitive milestones—as well important parent-centric topics such as marriage, identity and self care. Each 90-minute group begins with general questions and answers, followed by a different educational topic. The session ends with singing and playtime for the children. Groups meet in person outdoors,
Where They Meet: Westwood & Pacific Palisades. What It Costs: $695 for 8 week session.
Best LA Parent Group: West LA Parents Of Multiples
via iStock
Who They Are: It should come as no surprise that moms (and dads) of multiples need all the extra help they can get. This group offers an extensive support system for LA parents (and even those expecting) of twins, triplets, quadruplets or more. With events and resources both on and offline, there are tons of ways to get involved, meet other parents of multiples and get much-needed encouragement both before birth and after.
What They Do: West LA Parents of Multiples offers seminars and informational meetings on parenting topics, playgroups with similar aged kids, an online forum, and even a collection of preemie clothes members can borrow. Support systems are also in place to provide meals for families with newborns and a helping hand to moms on bedrest or families in the NICU. As if all of this unconditional support wasn’t enough, WLAPOM taps into its philanthropic side by donating essential supplies and baby gear to needy parents of multiples through the Multiple Helpings program.
Where They meet: Across Los Angeles as well as via Zoom. What It Costs: Families are charged an annual membership fee of $55.
Who They Are: Dads need support squads too, and that’s exactly why the LA Dads Group was formed. Whether you're the lone dad at the playground, the only guy in your kid’s playgroup, or simply a father who wants to take an active role in your little one’s life while meeting other dads, this group is for you.
What They Do: The group hosts playdates, parenting workshops, social events like beach outings or movie screenings, and even dads-night-out. They also organize volunteer activities from time to time to do their part in paying it forward for those less fortunate.
What It Costs: The group is free to join. Where They Meet: Various locations.
Who They Are: Can’t go anywhere without your beloved baby carrier? Feel naked when you’re not strapped to your little nugget? Then this is the group for you. Whether you’re new to babywearing (or you’ve just mastered wearing two kids at once), you’ll find a whole lot of support here. A certified nonprofit organization, Babywearing LA believes that babies are designed to be carried and that doing so (with the right information and tools) can be mutually beneficial for both you and your little joey. In addition to monthly meetings, Babywearing LA also offers an online community via Facebook where you can ask questions and meet other moms.
What They Do: Monthly events all across the LA area include play dates and meetings with other babywearing parents, workouts while babywearing, and classes on the basics of babywearing. Meeting hosts will bring along a variety of different carriers for new parents to try out, and parents are welcome to bring their own carriers if they need help putting them on or a "fit check" to make sure they're wearing it right.
Where They Meets on the Westside and Eastside, alternating every month. Times and locations are listed on the website or on Babywearing LA's Instagram page. What It Costs: There is no fee to join the group and general meetings and playdates are free (and you don't need to RSVP—just show up!).
Who They Are: Breastfeeding (especially for the first time) can be enough to make any new parent think those all too familiar “what did I get myself into?” thoughts. Luckily you are not alone. A local chapter of La Leche League, a national organization dedicated to supporting women who are breastfeeding, is the perfect place to meet other nursing moms, ask questions and get help. There are several local chapters in the LA area, but the largest and most active is La Leche League Los Angeles Westside.
What They Do: Local groups meet monthly and any mom is welcome to join. Meetings are generally casual and offer a moms safe space to talk about issues, share solutions and support fellow moms and babies through the triumphs and trials of breastfeeding. The meetings are led by volunteer League Leaders, breastfeeding moms who have been trained and accredited by La Leche League. Leaders are also available to contact by phone for support outside of the meetings.
What It Costs: There's no fee to join. Where They Meet: Various locations plus virtual meetings. Check the website to find your nearest chapter.
Who They Are: Build your village while getting rid of some unwanted baby weight in the process? Yes please! This program offers a variety of kick-butt exercise classes, such as Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre programs, that will get you and your small fry out of the house and get your heart pumping at the same time (win/win!).
What They Do: Unlike some of the traditional support groups, Fit4Mom is a bit more of an expense offering many different types of fee-based exercise packages to choose from once you sign up to be a member. But they also offer playgroups, crafts, and mothers-nights-out for free to anyone who wants to attend, member or not!
Where They Meet: Fit4Mom Franchises are located all over LA County: Westside, South Bay LA, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Torrance, San Fernando Valley, Palos Verdes, and San Pedro and Long Beach. What It Cost: Cost varies by plan but your first class is always free to try.
Sometimes getting out of the house just isn't an option. Thanks to the invention of the good old internet, you can still make friends, seek help and support or just share some much-needed memes in the middle of the night. Here are some of our favorites: Peachhead: Before Facebook groups were even a thing, the OG parenting forum in Los Angeles was Peachhead. Founded in 1997 by Venice mom Linda Perry, the group now has over 10,000 members and continues to be a go-to place to gab, swap baby gear, and ask every parenting question under the sun.
LA Mommies: With the long-reaching influence of social media, there are literally hundreds of Facebook groups dedicated to moms, parents, and parents to be. One of these biggest networks in our part of the planet is LA Mommies. It’s a private group (so no one outside of it will see you post about having a mommy meltdown at 2 a.m.) but with over 50,000 members, be prepared to have your posts read (and potentially commented on) by thousands of people. Posts are anything and everything mom-related from pregnancy and parenting advice to the best spots for birthday parties or date nights.
Southbay LA Mommies: If you're in the South Bay with kids, you'll want to sign onto this Facebook group to get all the deets about local goings-on, free stuff for pickup, nanny recommendations and more. Looking for a kid-friendly restaurant by the beach? Need a good playgroup in Torrance for your 1-year-old? With more than 12,000 members, you can ask a question and it will usually be answered within minutes.
Westside Moms: Another local Facebook group, this is a group "with high hopes for creating real friendships among moms and our kiddos." Must live in Brentwood, Santa Monica or Pacific Palisades to join.
Moms Helping Moms: Need a new nursing chair? Want to unload you baby clothes? This group is for strictly for moms to donate to other moms (not an online forum for advice).
Solo Parent Society: Parenting is hard; parenting without a partner can be even harder. The Solo Parent Society connects you with other single moms and dads to share advice and offer support. Each week will cover a topic in the "52 topics related to Solo Parent Life."
LA’s vibrant Black community is worthy of celebrating year-round as an integral part of the fabric of our city of angels. During Black History Month, though, we’d like to remind you to support Black-owned businesses—from restaurants and cafes, to kid’s activity centers and yoga studios, here are some of our favorite LA Black-owned businesses for parents and kids.
Black-Owned Indoor Playgrounds & Creative Spaces in Los Angeles
Design Hive
Your little engineers and mini-creators will enjoy designing and being innovative in this process-based design and technology studio founded by two former veteran LA teachers. Kids can explore crafting, create their very own marble tiles, design their own LED wands and custom-designed jewelry through their various workshop options. They also host private parties and you can check their site for virtual engagement opportunities. Please note, they recently instituted a policy that all guests must be fully vaccinated, regardless of age. This means they are pausing programs for children ages 4 and under.
A paint and sip experience for all ages to have fun painting with two-hour painting sessions that allow you to create a masterpiece with the people you love in the comfort of your own home, their studio, or any preferred location. Virtual parties are also available.
This kid’s gym offers entertainment options for your littles for any occasion, big or small. They host birthday parties, offer private classes, access to a bounce house, and rent their play equipment. Their coaches inspire fun times for all! They are currently offering outdoor classes in two park locations.
9618 W. Pico Blvd. Pico/Robertson Online: bouncela.com
Black-Owned Restaurants, Cafes & Dessert Shops in Los Angeles
Not your ordinary shaved ice/sorbet treat in the least as Happy Ice is a whole experience to embark on. Made from a “secret recipe” from Philadelphia, these icy desserts are bursting with colors and flavors that will make all your senses happy. They have a retail location as well as truck locations. Check their site for details on where to get your Happy Ice. Try their Cherry Bomb and Sour Apple Lush and you will keep coming back for more! Added bonus, all flavors are dairy free, nut free, gluten free and vegan friendly.
This eatery will give you a real world experience with its revolving menu featuring international cuisine with a twist. Created by chefs who were former refugees and asylum seekers—the dishes they offer reflect the chefs’ vibrant cultures. For every meal purchased, Flavors from Afar donates non-perishable foods to a low-income family.
Voted as “the best gumbo this side of New Orleans” by the Los Angeles’s late, great food critic Jonathan Gold, Stevie’s Creole Cafe has delectable Creole cuisine bursting with flavors. Make sure you taste their Smokey Fried Chicken and, of course, don’t leave without trying their famous Seafood Gumbo. To finish off your heavenly meal, indulge in their Peach Beignets made with fresh peach juices and cinnamon sugar. Divine!
You don’t need to go all the way to Texas to get their signature BBQ thanks to Bludso’s Bar & Que featuring all the signature dishes from this Southern state. Owned by Kevin Bludso, he has created an empire out of his BBQ dishes and includes side dishes worthy of entree-status, like their Texas Cheese Fries made with brisket and pickled jalapeño.
This is not your ordinary coffee shop as not only does it serve tasty brewed coffee beans, it offers an aesthetically beautiful atmosphere featuring luscious greenery and art galore meticulously designed by co-owner Maurice Harris. Take time out of your day to enjoy a cup of Auntie Mabel’s Flat White flavored with sea salt.
Bringing Australian-inspired Rotisserie Chicken to Angelenos, Chicken N Chips will satisfy all your chicken sandwich cravings coated with their extraordinary signature rub. Pair your BBQ Fried Chicken Sandwich with their signature fries made with unique herbs and spices.
The Big Man, William “Chip” Brown, was once a physician-in-training, but he is now a bonafide baking star with his moistly sweet cupcakes made to perfection. He has all your favorite traditional yummy cupcake flavors, like red velvet and carrot cake, and takes it to a whole other level with caramel apple (perhaps a nice substitute to apple pie?!) and mounds cupcakes with all the chocolate goodness you could ever dream of.
Because Angelenos love their brunch spots, make sure to check out Poppy & Rose because this restaurant will elevate your brunch game. Best known for its chicken and waffles, they are open until 3 p.m. and serve both breakfast and lunch. Think outside the “brunch” box by ordering their açaí bowl filled with bananas, berries, cacao nibs, wrapped in a coconut bowl that will make your brunch look as delectably crafted as it is tasty.
This brunch spot is owned by two LA natives who are dedicated to bringing creative spaces that inspire community and connection. They offer nutritious and mouth-watering breakfast and lunch meals all day along with coffee, juices and pastries. They have three locations in the Los Angeles area.
Serving a modern vegan take on Ethiopian food, this restaurant boasts nutritious and delicious food that honors its Ethiopian roots and flavors. They are believers in the value of family and friends coming together around the dinner table to inspire conversation and connections.
4309 Leimert Blvd. Los Angeles Online: azlavegan.com
What was once a hot dog stand has become LA’s hot dog destination serving the Crenshaw community and the greater Los Angeles area for 30 years. Founded by brothers from Brooklyn, Cary and Duanne Earle, Earle’s offers all the tasty delights of a decadent hot dog with all the fixins made from whole food ingredients. They also have plenty of vegan, vegetarian and Kosher options, including Vegan Wednesdays and Kosher Beef Saturdays.
The essence of Swift Cafe captures the importance of offering nutritious and delicious food in communities of color where unhealthy options may be more readily available. Chef-owner Kyndra McCrary has developed an array of wholesome dishes without ever sacrificing taste in consultation with a nutritionist to provide quality food and affordable prices. Their smoothies are like no other, especially the Tiramisu one with all the dessert goodness in one drink.
4279 1/2 Crenshaw Blvd. Leimert Park Online: swift-la.com
This community based coffee shop, gallery and select shop offers coffee imported from Ethiopia and Tanzania which is roasted in Arcadia, CA. Their gallery hosts art shows every 2 months and they also have a shop with a variety of merchandise, such as hats and apparel, from mostly local and artist owned brands.
4336 Degnan Blvd. Leimert Park Online: harunintl.com
Go to South LA Cafe for the coffee and leave with a deep connection to the community it serves and be inspired to contribute to the worthy causes they support. They provide healthy and affordable food and drinks through their cafe and store. They live and breathe social justice by making positive changes to improve food insecurity among its community members by giving groceries to those in need as well as by promoting health education and resources to its community.
The owner of this dessert shop took the grief he felt from the passing of his mother, Wanda Elaine, to inspire his love of baking which ultimately resulted in a successful baking company specializing in his mama’s signature fresh baked bread pudding. He expanded her recipe to now include 25 different bread pudding flavors all worthy of savoring each bite. Outside of bread pudding, they also offer chocolate and cobblers. They operate through pop-up locations so follow them on Instagram and check their website for more details.
Is it possible to have your cake and eat it too without feeling guilty about it? Thanks to Art Delectables, created and owned by pastry chef extraordinaire “Chef Simone,” you most definitely can. Art Delectables is an organic gourmet catering company specializing in cheesecakes and other “delectable” desserts made with wholesome ingredients, all organic, ⅓ of the sugar from a traditional dessert, but with all the sweet-tasting decadence of the desserts you love. They offer a cheesecake bar as well as the most stunning high tea desserts that are displayed with gold leafs and the most beautiful treats.
Newly re-opened thanks to the generous donations of community members, this French bakery and cafe brings Paris right to you with their pastries, sandwiches and cakes which are très magnifique. It was created and is owned by a Parisian couple who have mastered the art of French baking one croissant at a time.
All your Louisiana favorites are served in this family-owned restaurant providing Creole soul recipes with plenty of Southern hospitality and charm to make you feel like you’re in the Big Easy.
What started as a hobby during the pandemic, has turned into a full-blown successful business and for good reason. Just one cookie in and you'll definitely need to order more. To get your hands on one (or a dozen) of these sweet treats, keep an eye out for Fleurs et Sel's weekly cookie drops via Instagram. Also check-in for pop-up shops around town at fun venues like Platform LA, The Grove and Palisades Village.
Feast in all the tasteful delights of authentic New Orleans cuisine featuring the Tiger Shrimp Po’Boy Sandwich and the most exquisite catfish outside of New Orleans. They serve all the Creole classic favorites like Jambalaya and Gumbo which are made with all the right New Orleans flavors.
Choose breakfast all day and savor the Spanish Lover Burrito or go veggie with the Veg-Out Burrito. If lunch is more your jam, we recommend trying their signature Gumbo made with a glorious combination of shrimp, chicken, and beef sausage.
The absolute best destination to get your fried chicken fix. But, Honey’s Kettle is a feast beyond just fried chicken. You will never get your fill of their homemade honey biscuits, their fresh corn on the cob, or their delectable mashed potatoes with gravy. Beyond that, they have sandwiches, fish ‘n’ chips, and salads to satisfy all your cravings. Don’t forget to wash this all down with their Cool Blueberry Mint Shaker Lemonade.
Vegan cooking doesn’t have to be devoid of any flavors. Stuff I Eat brings this point home with its mouth-watering vegan food full of textures and fresh herbs and spices that all come together for one memorable feast. Some of the popular dishes include BBQ Tofu, Mac n Cheese and their Organic Soul Food Platter.
If you ever wanted to try a kaleidoscope of bundts in one location, Bossy Bundts is your place. They prepare beautiful bundt cakes with all the flavors you crave including red velvet, strawberry crunch, golden chocolate, and coffee cake. Beyond bundts, they serve cobblers, cookies, brownies, and party treats. Follow them on their Instagram and their website for their latest pop-up locations.
Founder and owner Shayla Paige created this business of natural healthy beauty products inspired by her own struggles with eczema and her passion for natural beauty ingredients. Sole Soul Creations sells soaps, natural deodorants and luxury body butters in the most beautiful packaging.
Set in a historical landmark serving its community for over 30 years, Simply Wholesome is a health and wellness combination restaurant and store dedicated to supporting the well-being of its customers through wholesome food choices, nutritional counseling, natural haircare products, and black-owned health products.
This brand is on a mission to encourage little boys and girls to embrace their natural beautiful curls by providing hair care products that give extra moisture and conditioning while not being sticky, greasy, or heavy at a price affordable to the masses. Their hair products are sold at Walmart, Sally Beauty, Target and Kroger stores as well as online.
Their mission is to provide prenatal and postpartum care to members of their community. Co-owners, co-creators and Licensed Midwives, Allegra Hill and Kimberly Durdin run Kindred Space LA which provides complete prenatal support, including screening and lab work, as well as extensive postpartum assistance including lactation consultations. Donate to this community-minded organization by contributing to their latest effort to create a South Los Angeles Birth Center.
Find African print fabric and accessories, including face masks, crossbody bags, baskets and more. Fabrics are sourced from around the world, and handmade in Los Angeles and Atlanta.
Located in Long Beach, this "mind, body, spirit shop" offers everything from books and beads to incense and sage. They also carry their own line of hair and skincare products.
African American Museums & Non-Profits in Los Angeles
The Knowledge Shop
The Knowledge Shop, a secondary education resource for disadvantage kids in LA focused on STREAM Enrichment, founded by Carlton Porter (President/Co-Founder) & Yolande Beckles (CEO/Co-Founder)—were, as one parent said, "Total lifesavers to so many families during the pandemic—helping kids with school and more when so much was remote and many parents were essential workers who couldn’t stay home."
Today they offer Saturday Science for kids, Coding Bootcamp, a vigorous after school program for kids and teens, Sunday piano lessons, summer camps and more. They also offer power empowerment classes for parents and support groups like NAAAPY (National Association of African American Parents and Youth)—an organization that addresses the needs of Black and African American families, and more importantly, those of their children.
This hidden gem is more than an art gallery; it's a family run cultural space, offering free meditation and yoga, along with speakers, movie screenings and more. Reopening at the end of Jan. and we couldn't be more excited.
Located in the heart of Watts, The Watts Towers Arts Center provides classes in painting, sculpture, photography, music, dance, and more. During the last weekend of September, Watts Towers Arts Center also produces the Annual Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival and the Annual Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival.
Housed in historic Fire Station 20 in South LA, this off-the-radar museum opened in 1997 to honor the first 100 years of African-American firefighters in LA. It is currently the only free-standing African American Firefighter Museum in the United States. Admission is free!
Located in the heart of Exposition Park, CAAM is a hub of resources to explore the African-American diaspora in Los Angeles and beyond. Check out their events, including kids, teens & family workshops.
Moms are teachers, healers, chefs, doctors, sleep-consultants, chief story officers, entertainment executives, and food sources, and that’s usually just before noon. And above all else, moms are inventive. Like the moms in this story who are all are ground-breakers in the field of wellness. From chemical-free products to Black maternal health care to kids’ mental health, these amazing mompreneurs are here to heal the world, one kid, and one mama, at a time. Scroll on to see what they’ve invented.
Addressing the Disparity in Black Maternal Health: MaeHealth
Moved by the current racial and social climate and struck by the experiences of loved ones—primarily women of color—who have felt inadequately supported through their pregnancy experiences, Maya Hardigan, a Brooklyn-based mom of three, was moved to use her nearly two decades of experience in healthcare to found MaeHealth. With the goal of expanding access to pregnancy and postpartum resources for Black women who experience deep disparities in maternal health outcomes, she created this online destination to support pregnancy and postpartum health, providing symptom tracking and curated, culturally specific education and lifestyle resources for Mae mamas. A key goal of Mae's is to provide Black women access to local maternal health experts like doulas, who are known to improve pregnancy satisfaction and outcomes.
We already love mom-founded Mighty + Bright for their books and calendars that help support kids and families through tough times including divorce, cancer, and major change. During the pandemic, Mighty + Bright founder Sara Olsher was distressed by the lack of mental health resources for kids, especially amid a flurry of warnings from pediatric mental health organizations about a "national state of emergency for kids mental health." Olsher partnered with parenting educator Danielle Bettmann, and together they designed a 12-month "Kids Mental Health Skills at Home" program. Based on scientific research and backed by an impressive advisory board, the program is designed to create a positive foundation for kids' mental health. With a combination of a physical product delivered to your home every month and easy-to-follow parent support, Mighty + Bright has once again made it easy for families to build the necessary skills for handling life's toughest stuff.
It didn’t sit right with her when Melissa Bowley’s doctor told her that her postpartum bladder leakage just “came with the territory” of being a mom of two. Her doctor did not offer her wellness services or introduce her to pelvic floor therapy. And so, the Flourish Fund was born, the first-ever experiential baby registry where parents can register for support services and wellness items, from pregnancy to parenthood. New and expecting parents can register for services through a vetted network that includes lactation consultants, sleep consultants, pelvic floor therapy, and prenatal and postpartum yoga. There are also products that support wellness for baby and mama, including sleep machines, developmental toys, and more.
Guardian Lane sources counselors and therapists from around the world who take in-person therapeutic activities and turn them into self-guided videos so for families, children, and even school counselors, have access to coping mechanisms designed with children in mind. After leaving her first tech startup which she and her husband built, Guardian Lane founder Kristina Jones found herself reflecting on her childhood grief: Kristina was just seven years old when her father died, and she never received professional help to help her process this trauma. Kristina wrote a book, My Forever Guardian, about a group of young friends who help one another after the death of a loved one or a pet. While researching the book, she discovered that the kind of mental health services available for grieving families still involved in-person visits. She created Guardian Lane as a way to bring grief counseling and help directly into a child’s home. Guardian Lane started with grief counseling from the death of a loved one, but the platform will soon help children through other life experiences such as divorce, bullying, and the mental-health effects and stress of COVID in our children’s lives.
Developed by two moms, Stacey Graham and Brandi Vanderbeek, and their natural-born awareness of the germs and bacteria brought into the home, TAG (Together Against Germs™) is a biodegradable, disposable, and waterproof protective cover for the bottom of any bag. Designed to keep dirt and germs from the ground and surfaces, from public transportation to airports to restrooms, and even muddy fields, TAG is more relevant now in the time of COVID than ever. As Graham and Vanderbeek put it, “TAG is the accessory you never knew you needed for the problem you didn't know you had. Spread joy, not germs!” Sold in boxes of 10, the individually wrapped bags fit easily into a purse or pocket so you have it on the ready.
This mama-owned and operated new postpartum recovery subscription includes doctor-reviewed products and content designed to meet a women’s needs throughout the postpartum period, from birth recovery to hair loss. Think vitamins, recovery and energy tonics, scalp serum, body butter, nipple balm, and organic teas. Anya was founded by Jane Baecher, a mom of two who lived a rollercoaster postpartum journey while working at Rent the Runway, along with Ariana Saunders, a former senior leader of data and analytics for goop, One Kings Lane, and J. Crew. Their Chief Impact Officer is an Indian actress and new mom Freida Pinto, who leads social impact and advocacy for women’s postpartum health.
Founded by mom and inventor Davielle Jackson, Femi Secrets has become the most trusted, healthy, sustainable, and innovative source for feminine care. Davielle, the mother of a beautiful little girl, is on a mission to normalize period discussion and empower women to have real talk about their cycles and the products they use so they can make healthier, more informed decisions. Femi Secrets products include the Pretty Panty (a panty with a built-in linter), pads, liners, wipes, bath bombs, fibroid tea, and more. Davielle is a powerhouse unto herself, making entrepreneurial history by entering into Wal-Mart in a record period of six months. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, a two-time 43 North Startup Competition winner, author of Ready, Set, Go! and founder of “I am #1”, a not-for-profit dedicated to the success of young women.
Founded by mom Vanessa Dawson, Arber is the first-of-its-kind organic, non-toxic plant wellness company. Like so many of us, Dawson turned to gardening to cope with all of the stress of parenting in a pandemic. She was surprised at just how hard it was to find non-toxic, safe, organic products that she could use to ward off diseases and pests on her plants both indoors and out. She founded Arber to meet that need. Arber provides people-, pet-, and planet-safe products in concentrate form delivered right to you. Choose from products like fungicides, insecticides, and plant food, all designed to keep your plants, and you, healthy and happy.
Founded and owned by businesswoman, entrepreneur, and mom Zhena Muzyka, Magic Hour is a luxury tea brand that creates handmade, home-blended teas chosen to connect you to the world through tea ceremony. Muzyka, a former TV and radio host, is an intuitive herbalist, certified aromatherapist, a Level 3 Reiki Master, and the author of Life by the Cup: Inspiration for a Purpose-Filled Life. Drawing on her deep knowledge of herbal medicine and tea blending, each magical tea blend is curated to support mental and physical wellness, along with awareness and connection.
“I believe self-care is an art form like painting, poetry and dance,” says founder of SPARITUAL and mother of two, Shel Pink. SPARITUAL, a pioneering, sustainable, vegan beauty brand is based in the rituals of self-care, something we all know moms need more of. Pink is also the author of Slow Beauty and is an expert in finding those moments in which we can practice little self-care and wellness rituals. And, as Pink puts it, “When practiced over time, these small rituals add up to manifest results—not only feeling healthier and more joyful but in realizing true beauty and timeless aging.” The brand itself is committed to creating clean, non-toxic products for both individuals and spa professionals, and SPARITUAL’s is rooted in both the ancient and present healing traditions of the spa as self-care. Sign us up!
After having her third child, Michele Henry searched for skincare treatments that could support her changing skin, the shift in hormones, age, pregnancies, and life. And as much as she wanted to, as a busy mom, she couldn’t exactly fit multiple spa visits a week. It seemed no matter how much time, and money, she spent, nothing seemed to work. This is why she created FACE FOUNDRIÉ a walk-in spa and skincare service, which offers mini-facials, facial waxing, lash extensions, and an array of curated, custom skincare products. There are now locations throughout the country, and you can shop the products online.
As a childhood leukemia survivor and mother of three (including one with multiple learning disabilities), Tonya Harris has dedicated her life to helping parents learn how toxins in the home can affect their family’s health. In addition to Board certification and a Master's degree in holistic nutrition, she holds multiple certificates in the environmental health field. She created the Slightly Greener Method™ as a way of offering busy moms simple solutions to reduce toxins without turning their lifestyle upside-down. She is also the author of The Slightly Greener Method: Detoxifying Your Home Is Easier, Faster, and Less Expensive Than You Think.
Founder and mother, Narineh Bedrossian, created the ella+mila brand in 2014 out of necessity — she wasn't finding nail-care products that her daughters could safely use; everything was made with unpronounceable and harmful chemicals. Not only do they make nail care products, but they also now make makeup and body care products all made without parabens, phthalates, lanolin, formaldehyde, Xylene, Triphenyl Phosphate, and other toxic additives There’s more than 22o nail shades, and we’re betting you’ve seen them at Target, Ulta, Rite-Aid, CVS, Walgreens or on Amazon. Now you’ll know that ella+mia is mom-founded and has your family’s well-being at heart.
Keeping Kids Hydrated: Water Your Body, Water Your World
Amber Tamar Harris
As a parent of a two-year-old baby girl mom, Amber Tamar Harris found getting her to drink enough water a daily struggle. So she decided to write a book, Water Your Body, Water Your World, to help her own daughter, and other kids, understand the importance of water and why it is so beneficial. From taking a bath and brushing our teeth to sustaining life on the planet, when we celebrate water it puts kids in the mindfulness mindset from an early age: one sip at a time!
When Stephanie Boone's beloved dog, Luna, began suffering from devastating side-effects caused by pesticide poisoning caused by commonly prescribed monthly flea-and-tick medication and quarterly pest control services, Luna's vet recommended putting her down. In Stephanie's own words, "That was just not an option." Her research led her to the shocking discovering that Luna's story was not unique and that there were many common household and pet pesticides that were toxic. So, she founded Wondercide, making safe and effective pest protection for pets, humans, and homes. Six years later, on the day Luna passed away, Stephanie was invited to be on Shark Tank. Wondercide is now the leader in non-toxic pest protection, making products that are naturally derived, DEET-free, have no harsh chemicals, and are safe and effective. In addition, Wondercide is a Green America, gold-certified business for high standards in social and environmental impacts and all their products are made with biodegradable and recyclable packaging. Once pet-parent, now busy mom, Stephanie's story will inspire us all!
When it came time for Kiley Taslitz Anderson to transition her first son from breastmilk to formula, her pediatrician recommended "any" probiotic. But what was the best one? It turns out, there really wasn't one: so she decided to help invent one herself. Jetson's probiotic for kids, Jettie offers clinically proven probiotic strains for kids and babies, in an easy-to-take, flavorless powder that can be mixed in with any food or drink. In addition, Jetson is now offering a new Gut Recovery for Kids which helps combat side-effects from antibiotics, including replenishing the good bacteria. replenish the good bacteria and combats uncomfortable side effects like nausea and diarrhea as a result of antibiotics.
When Krystn Keller discovered her son Elliot was born with severe eczema and over 50 allergies, she knew it would take special care to combat outbreaks. After all the recommended soaps failed to help, she decided to try making a gentler soap herself. Keller had no prior experience making soap, so she spent hours watching tutorials and experimenting in her own kitchen. After three months, she made the perfect batch. Soon after, Keller and her husband started Keller Works to help the scores of other people looking for hypoallergenic soap. Now, her Mobile, Alabama-based business serves people all over the country, employs local residents, and sells raw and refined products that include soaps, body butters, salves and essential oils.
When Arizona mom Cindy Trevizo took her kids to a restroom in a public park and found an empty soap dispenser, she’d had it. Tired of a lack of ways to keep kiddos hands clean, Cindy, a former elementary school teacher, and her husband, Gabe, set out to solve the problem. So, they invented Suds2Go, the first dual-purpose water bottle that allows you to both hydrate and wash your hands. The patented design includes a refillable container, a pump, and separate valves for drinking and rinsing to avoid contamination. Now you can have clean hands, wherever you are!
Jaime Cross worked in corporate banking for years but left to be home with her newborn son. Two years later, she couldn't staunch the desire to build an empire that had a worldwide impact and was powered by purpose. In response, she founded and launched MIG Living, a True Beauty movement focused on restorative products, health and wellness. In addition to her best-selling ritual cleansing bars, MIG Living sells oils, lotions bars, balms and even men's products.
Carolyn Harrington was thrilled to welcome her first baby girl into the family after having two boys. But when they discovered Maty was born with major heart defects and Harrington was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, she knew there had to be better options than modern medicine. So, she began researching natural ways of healing and found a new passion. She created Maty’s natural and organic whole food health alternatives in her own kitchen after researching natural and alternative health. She relied on old-time remedies and used ingredients from her own kitchen, turning them into health promoting agents. Now she sells complete lines of products for babies, kids and adults everywhere!
Kori Estrada was on a mission to eliminate scary chemicals found in everyday products like toothpaste from her home. When she had a hard time finding a natural replacement for her oral care products that she actually enjoyed and that worked, she and her husband, John Estrada, along with her brother, Dr. Derek Gatta DMD MS FACP started formulating oral care products backed by science and that were safe enough to eat. With main ingredient, hydroxyapatite, a natural mineral that makes up 90% of tooth enamel, RiseWell was on its way. Launched in May 2019, the company is now bringing to market "the safest and most effective oral care products."
Joy Elena's family has been in the mattress business for over 50 years. Taking her knowledge in the mattress industry, IT, marketing and PR she took a leap and created her own bed in a box brand, after giving up a prior venture doing the same thing back in 2003. The mom of two now runs Sleepenvie, a company that offers high-density foam mattresses with optimal structural support, which means mattress reliability and longevity. The end result is an amazing and comfortable mattress that lasts.
After having her first child, Carolyn Ellspermann became very conscious of the products and ingredients she used on her family. She shifted to using more organic, natural and clean products, but ended up avoiding bug spray all together because of the harsh aerosol chemicals. Natural products didn't bring the confidence that they were actually providing enough protection, especially when it came to Zika, West Nile and Lyme disease. In 2016, Ellspermann started to work on a new kind of insect repellent that was both safe and extremely effective at repelling disease-carrying insects, and Proven Insect Repellent was born. The safe products use Picardin as long-lasting and non-hazardous bug repellent that gives parents peace of mind and pesky bugs away from kids.
Online Destination For All Things Postpartum: Bodily
Bodily
After having her first child, Tovah Haim was startled to find the lack of information, poor products and the "taboo" nature surrounding birth and recovery. In response, she launched Bodily, a modern approach that supports women, partners and anyone else with resources, products and research to navigate the postpartum period. Currently, Bodily's shop carries Birth Boxes, breastfeeding supplies, belly support and mesh undies.
Becky and six-year-old daughter Lola Vandenbroek founded Girlpalooza as a safe way to play "dress up" with bath and beauty products. The two set out to create products free from harmful ingredients like parabens, mineral oils and talc. In addition, Girlpalooza products are vegan, come with empowering scents and messaging and a portion of each sale go towards charities that support young girls.
Two years ago, when mom of four and health coach Melissa Evans’ daughter came down with a sore throat, Melissa wished there was something she could provide to soothe her kiddo. That’s when she noticed there were no options that she felt comfortable with. Cough drops and lozenges posed a risk for choking and, for the most part, contained chemicals like artificial colors, flavors and ingredients. She then came up with the idea for a worry-free, healthier, effective and fun alternative for kids. Lolleez are available at Target, CVS, Stop & Shop, Kroger and on Amazon! Lolleez come in packs of 15 pops: Watermelon, Strawberry, Orange Mango and a Variety Pack for a suggested retail price of $6.99.
Jennifer Holland had her “aha!” moment at the doctor’s office with her young son. It led her to create Throat Scope—the world's first illuminated tongue depressor that lights up the entire throat and mouth. Her invention is not only popular, in 2017 it won silver at the Edison Awards in New York for her innovation. This mama always dreamed of inventing something that would make the world a better place and she’s achieved that goal: she’s on a mission to educate families on how to recognize the signs of oral cancer or detect a sore throat, strep throat, thrush, inflamed gums and tooth pain. The stay-at-home mom’s innovative product is now available in 140 countries.
Kat Schneider wanted to do the right thing for her health and her baby, so when she found out she was pregnant she started taking prenatal vitamins. That’s when she noticed that many supplements had questionable ingredients, and worse, the ones she was taking didn’t even list the ingredients. So she decided to found Ritual: subscription-based supplements delivered directly to your door, each month. They are all non-GMO, vegan, gluten and soy-free and all are designed exclusively for women, with clear ingredients lists so you always know what you are putting in your body.
We all know parents are warriors who can work miracles on very little sleep. But we’re also human, and humans need support sometimes. These online resources can connect you with experts, answer your questions, calm your mind, and provide valuable help to you and your baby.
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The Lactation Network Get the breastfeeding support you need, including 100% health insurance-covered consultations with lactation consultants (in-home, in-office or telehealth), help choosing a breast pump, and lots of useful articles to support your nursing journey.
New Kind Get one-on-one newborn support from certified postpartum doulas with years of experience in feeding, sleep and postpartum issues. Pick a plan, then get matched with an expert and meet them by video call.
Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS) This nonprofit organization provides parents expecting rainbow babies with online support groups, in-person local groups, and an app with a milestone tracker, community support, self-care and coping tools and more.
pumpspotting This breastfeeding app gives you access to experts for virtual consultations and connects you with a community of parents living that nursing life. Read articles tailored to your experience, based on baby's due date and the date you go back to work. There's even a crowdsourced map of places to nurse and pump, with ratings and photos.
Cluster Get answers to all your questions about feeding your baby on Cluster, in a judgment-free, peer-powered community. Brought to you by baby nutrition company ByHeart, Cluster can set you up with appointments, classes and events with experts in the field, along with ways to connect with other parents with similar feeding concerns. Whether you're bottlefeeding or breastfeeding, you'll find answers about feeding and sleep, breast issues, setting schedules, baby digestive issues, bonding, self-care and more.
Motherfigure This maternal wellness startup is committed to supporting mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and raising children through providing them access to care and education. Find childbirth education classes (online or in person); search for doulas, lactation consultants and more in your area; shop for maternity and nursing clothes; and read lots of first-person accounts and reviews.
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Exhale Parent This educational resource gives new parents and parents-to-be the legal and financial information they need. If you have questions about topics such as maximizing paternal leave, writing a contract for a caretaker for your child, budgeting, creating a will or choosing a 529 plan, Exhale Parent can help. The site breaks down topics so they're easier to understand and lets you know the steps involved so you can tackle them efficiently.
boober Founded by a doula, this online marketplace helps expectant and new parents find high-quality classes on childbirth and postpartum support (topics include infant CPR, pumping and newborn sleep), as well as vetted, expert maternal care providers, including lactation consultants, doulas and mental health therapists. Sessions are held in-person or virtually and include free live webinars.
Postpartum Support International This organization offers online support groups, helplines & text services for new and expecting moms to help manage postpartum stress, isolation, anxiety and depression. Call or text the helpline 24/7 to leave a message that will be answered by a trained volunteer. There are weekly online support meetings for a variety of groups, including: pregnancy mood support, perinatal mood support, NICU parents, military moms, pregnancy and infant loss, and black mothers. Dads can also call for support or attend the monthly Just for Dads chat.
Parent Lab Parent Lab offers online parenting courses (online or audio) on a variety of topics geared toward new parents, including dealing with anxiety, increasing quality time, screen time guidance, sleep, and coparenting. The team of experts includes child development experts, behavioral experts and parent coaches.
Nurture by NAPS Founded by two labor-and-delivery nurses, who are also moms, Nurture by NAPS is a subscription service that offers evidence-based, instructional content on pregnancy through the first year of a child's life, including videos from medical professionals, live webinars, weekly live Q&A sessions, and the ability to ask nurses questions and receive an answer within 24 hours.
Tinyhood Tinyhood is an app and website that provides advice and support to parents and parents-to-be. Through live online parenting classes and one-on-one consultations with experts, Tinyhood tackles a ton of topics, including developmental milestones, sleep, introducing solid foods, breastfeeding, your postpartum health and more. The experts range from certified lactation consultants and sleep consultants to pediatric nutritionists and potty-training specialists.
Major Care If you need support as you care for your new baby, consider a doula service like Major Care. This organization matches moms with a certified postpartum doula that can provide 24/7 virtual postpartum care and support. This includes lactation, pumping, perinatal body care, vaginal healing and mood disorder screening and resources. You choose whether you want the services to begin before or after your little one arrives.
Tot Squad This service offers virtual sessions with experts on home safety, sleep issues, lactation, car seat installation checks and doula services (prenatal, early labor and postpartum).
FoodSafety.gov This government website lists exactly which foods pregnant women should avoid and why. There's also a handy graphic you can print out to make it easier.
La Leche League International This nonprofit organization provides education, training and advocacy around breastfeeding. There's extensive information on the website on issues related to breastfeeding, including food allergies, biting, caffeine, alcohol, mastitis, oversupply, reflux, tongue ties, vitamins and weight loss.
Kelly Mom Kelly Mom provides tons of helpful, evidence-based information around breastfeeding, parenting, health and nutrition. Founded by a lactation consultant, the site is organized by topic (including pregnancy and ages & stages), so you can find the information you need.
Healthy Children.org This website from the American Academy of Pediatrics hosts articles prenatal and baby information on a variety of topics. It covers milestones, nutrition, emotional wellness, immunizations, safety, family dynamics and health issues, all from a medical perspective.
Heal Talk to doctors using phone or video chat. The video chat happens within the Heal app so there's no additional software to download aside from the app. Doctors can order labs, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists, making it easy for you to get remote care from the comfort of your own home. Heal also provides mental health services from doctors of clinical psychology. Covered by many health insurance plans (check for yours on the Heal website). Currently available in the following states: Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C.
With COVID-19 keeping everyone indoors, expecting parents may find themselves at a loss for childbirth classes. In response to the challenge, Pampers has launched no-cost access to virtual Childbirth Education––and it’s available now!
The new series consists of nine classes led by two clinical childbirth experts. Each part features real-life expecting parents and covers in-depth info on the various stages of parenting.
photo: Courtesy of Pampers
Pampers Childbirth Education will consist of the following topics: Body Changes & Discomforts, Prenatal Health & Nutrition, Preparing for Labor & Birth, Labor & Birth Part One, Labor & Birth Part Two, Immediately After Birth, Feeding Your Baby, Bringing Baby Home and Postpartum Care.
With a goal of “caring for the healthy development of babies through their journey fro womb to world,” Pampers has developed its Childbirth Education series with accredited sources and will contain the most accurate and up to date information on childbirth.
The new program is available for registration beginning Mon., Apr. 13 at 1 p.m. ET at Pampers.com.
You’re having a baby! Now it’s time to tackle that to-do list, which includes everything from picking out a crib to choosing a name. What might not be top of your list right now is taking a hospital tour. But, did you know a hospital tour can help you get a better sense of how you might labor, deliver and recover with your new bundle of joy? So before the big day, schedule a tour and be sure to ask these key questions so you’re as prepared as possible.
Who will be with me when I’m in labor?
Everyone deserves the comfort and reassurance of having someone they can trust with them while going through labor. With Kaiser Permanente, you can expect access to a team of highly trained doctors, midwives and nurses. Rest assured that you’ll be in the careful care of a dedicated nurse during your entire labor experience. In fact, Kaiser Permanente birth centers are staffed 24/7 with labor and delivery doctors, anesthesiologists and other key team members who are well qualified to make clinical decisions, such as pivoting to a cesarean section delivery when necessary.
If this is your second, third or beyond(!) baby and you’re hoping to deliver vaginally, you’ll be thrilled to learn that the VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) rate is 15% higher than the national average.* That’s reassuring for moms-to-be who want to try for a vaginal birth after a previous C-section.
What resources do you provide for moms before the big day?
As your belly grows, so does the need for consistent and quality prenatal care. And the team at Kaiser Permanente is available to ensure you have as healthy a pregnancy as possible with each prenatal visit, test and ultrasound. From nutrition and fitness to relationships and emotional health, you’ll have your care team, articles, videos and resources to help guide you through each trimester.
Kaiser Permanente also offers birth planning and childbirth classes, so you can go into your delivery empowered with the confidence and knowledge you need. You can know that you’re receiving high-quality prenatal care up to and during delivery day, with highly trained professionals and state-of-the-art facilities leading up to and during delivery day.
What resources do you offer once I give birth?
Once your adorable baby is cozy in your arms, it’s time to get some rest and let your body heal. Postpartum care is just as important as all of those prenatal check-ups! And Kaiser Permanente makes an extra effort to help mom and baby thrive. Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center has a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to treat critically ill newborns. And every Kaiser Permanente medical professional is on your team to support breastfeeding and bonding after the birth experience.
Comprehensive follow-up care includes postpartum classes, lactation consultants and your care provider who already knows your baby. Whatever you may experience physically or emotionally, your Kaiser Permanente care team is there to support and guide you.
To learn more about Kaiser Permanente’s maternity care, visit kp.org/maternity/nw.
—Whitney C. Harris
All plans offered and underwritten by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest. 500 NE Multnomah St., Suite 100, Portland, OR 97232. 2019 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest
*Kaiser Permanente internal data, data covering the period from January 2015 through March 2018; “VBAC Rates by State,” cesareanrates.org/vbac, accessed August 12, 2019.
Being pregnant and giving birth are experiences like no other. So it’s no surprise that they come with unique challenges. Here are five that many expecting and new moms face, with resources to turn to for help.
1. Total exhaustion
Caring for your baby is exhausting! So it’s important to take advantage of your post-birth time in the hospital to rest. If you’re at a Kaiser Permanente hospital, you’ll have access to a team of doctors, midwives and nurses who are all there to take care of you during the healing process.
Once you’re home, ask for help with daily tasks like grocery shopping and errands. Then ask for meals you can freeze from visitors coming to see you and the baby.
When possible, divide and conquer house chores and baby responsibilities between you and your partner. Lastly, accept that all of the dishes and laundry won’t get done most days. Remind yourself you are tired and overwhelmed right in this moment, but this won’t last forever.
2. Health issues for your newborn
If your baby has health issues, be sure to follow up immediately with your advice line or pediatrician. If you’re a Kaiser Permanente member, you can rest assured that Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center has a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with the ability to treat critically ill newborns, as well as premature babies arriving as early as 23 weeks.
For the past 5+ years, this NICU has cared for more than 1,700 babies, including 190 sets of twins and 5 sets of triplets! What’s more, the pediatricians at Kaiser Permanente are highly skilled at answering all your pressing questions and will help make sure you have the necessary follow-up support, such as postpartum classes and check-ups.
3. Trouble breastfeeding
When you’re doing your birth tour of potential hospitals, ask if they have lactation consultants for new moms. From rooting to cluster feeding, a lactation consultant will explain everything there is to know about breastfeeding and help new moms problem-solve their way through any nursing hiccups.
Lactation consultants at Kaiser Permanente will make sure that your latch is sufficient to minimize discomfort and help your baby feed and be set up to thrive. In fact, more than 80% of babies born at Kaiser Permanente Northwest hospitals are exclusively breastfed while in the hospital, and nearly 50% are still breastfed at 6 months.*
4. Feeling isolated
It’s normal to feel lonely taking care of a newborn. But there’s no need to feel isolated. Now is the time to make new friends! Join a new moms group or Facebook group of parents with children close in age to yours, check out storytime at your local library, register for an infant music class or sign up for postpartum workout classes like Stroller Strides (once your provider clears you to exercise, of course!). If you’re signed up for daycare, then contact the center to ask about meeting other families even before your first day.
5. Postpartum depression or anxiety
Not feeling like yourself? Trust your gut and ask for help. Make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible instead of waiting for the 6-week postpartum check-up. Tell your care team exactly how you’re feeling and ask for specific things you can do to relieve feelings of depression or anxiety. Meanwhile, try your absolute best to get some sleep, exercise, “me time,” quality time with your partner and time out of the house with friends, too.
Want to learn more about Kaiser Permanente’s maternity, labor and delivery, and postpartum care? Check out kp.org/maternity/nw
—Whitney C. Harris
*Kaiser Permanente internal data, data covering the period from July 2016 through March 2019.
All plans offered and underwritten by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest. 500 NE Multnomah St., Suite 100, Portland, OR 97232. 2019 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest
