If there’s anything we continue to learn about motherhood, it’s that mothers need even more support. In a time filled with joy and love, the truth is, pregnancy and postpartum can be very dark and isolating. If you’re in the thick of it right now, I hope it helps to know you’re not alone. The darkness you feel is not your fault, and there should be no shame. Call your OB/GYN or primary care provider to talk about your feelings and symptoms. It’s a call that can make a world of difference in how you feel.
*This blog post is created in collaboration with The Christ Hospital. Like always, these thoughts and opinions I share are my own. As we prepare for the birth of our fourth and final baby, we feel comfort knowing we will be back at The Christ Hospital Family Birthing Center. The choice to collaborate and work with The Christ Hospital was a no brainer – a perfect fit! I am so very happy to share them with my local followers as my recommendation for your next child birth and beyond.*
After the birth of my son in 2020, I experienced postpartum anxiety and depression. In the thick of a pandemic, virtual school with my two older boys, taking care of a newborn, and changing my own diapers…it was a hard time for me to navigate. I found myself acting out of character. I was angry and anxious to the point of rage and tears most days. It didn’t feel good and became impossible to shake. If it wasn’t for the support I received from my care providers after birth and other mothers sharing their stories – I’m not sure I would have had the strength to speak up and reach out for help.
I would be lying if I said my upcoming childbirth and postpartum doesn’t scare me a little. That’s natural and no matter if it’s your first or fourth child, those feelings are valid. I will say though, there is an ease that comes from knowing the resources The Christ Hospital offers – right at my fingertips.
Did you know The Christ Hospital partners with Galia Collaborative to provide additional resources for mental health and overall wellness? Galia Collaborative’s mission is to guide women out of the trenches and into the spaces they want and deserve to occupy.
“Women often put their families before themselves, so it’s important for them to understand how recognizing and treating mental health needs is a benefit for themselves and their families.”
Leanne Olshavsky, MD, Medical Director of Women’s Health at The Christ Hospital.
The partnership provides patients delivering with The Christ Hospital Physicians complimentary access to Galia Collective’s mental health experts in two ways:
•One-on-one virtual consultation with a Galia psychologist
•Thrive Circle Support Group includes 6 weekly sessions with a Galia psychologist in a virtual small group setting with connection to other women seeking support.
Additional services and resources provided by the Galia Collaborative are available at normal pricing. More information is available on Galia Collaborative’s website.
Additional Resources Provided By The Christ Hospital:
BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT
The experts at The Christ Hospital are here to support you through the breastfeeding process so both you, and your newborn, have a successful experience.
Breastfeeding Classes The Christ Hospital offers free breastfeeding classes to their expectant moms. You will learn about baby positioning, latch-on techniques, bonding, father involvement, guidance for working mothers, trouble-shooting and pumping techniques.
Inpatient breastfeeding consultation As a patient at either of The Christ Hospital’s birthing centers (Mt. Auburn and Liberty Township), you’ll be visited by one of our International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants. They are available to assist you with any breastfeeding issues you have during your hospital stay and discuss with you any concerns or questions you may have.
Outpatient breastfeeding support Once you’ve gone home, you may have more questions or concerns about how your breastfeeding is progressing. Our consultants are available to answer your questions over the phone, or if you need a little more help, you can schedule an outpatient appointment with one of our lactation consultants.
Breastfeeding supplies Ninety percent of breastfeeding moms use a breast pump. The Christ Hospital offers breast pump rentals and sales.
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES
The Christ Hospital offers in-person childbirth education courses to prepare expecting parents and their families for their newest additions.
Classes Include:
Baby Care Basics
Breastfeeding Classes
Lamaze Five-Week Series
Natural Childbirth Course
Prepared Childbirth One-Day Course
Save a Baby – Infant and Child CPR
Sibling Class
BIRTHING CENTER TOURS
Every birth is a special experience. The Christ Hospital offers free tours of both Birthing Centers (Mt. Auburn and Liberty Township) so you can meet the highly trained care teams, see the many options you have for your birth, and get a feel for the thoughtful touches The Christ Hospital puts in place during your stay!
“Whether you are carrying on a family tradition by delivering at our Birthing Center in Mt. Auburn or starting a new tradition at our Birthing Center in Liberty Township – we want your delivery to be exceptional.”
The Christ Hospital Liberty Birthing Center
POSTPARTUM AND BEYOND
Reproductive and Mental Health
Preeclampsia Education and Screening
Everyone’s journey into motherhood may look different, but we all deserve the same amount of time and care. If you are delivering soon, congratulations! Remember that reaching out for support doesn’t discredit your strength. You’re an incredible mother.
Take a virtual tour, schedule an appointment, and learn more at https://www.thechristhospital.com/services/womens-health/your-care-and-treatment/pregnancy
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