Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experience as a two-time NICU parent, Rebecca shares practical advice and deeply moving insights for anyone preparing for birth or recovering after an unexpected hospital stay.

From NICU Parent to NICU Nurse

Rebecca’s path to becoming a nurse began after a traumatic postpartum experience. Her first child was born with a heart condition and whisked away to the NICU moments after birth.

Grieving, overwhelmed, and in physical pain, Rebecca felt completely alone. That experience drove her to become a postpartum doula—and eventually a NICU nurse.

Her rare perspective as both parent and professional allows her to offer care that’s truly trauma-informed and deeply empathetic.

What Postpartum Doulas Really Do

While many families focus on preparing for birth, postpartum often gets overlooked—especially when complications arise.

Rebecca explains how postpartum doulas provide emotional, physical, and practical support. From helping with feeding and newborn care to preparing meals and honoring cultural healing rituals, doulas show up when families need it most.

She also highlights how postpartum doulas can be essential during NICU stays and in processing birth trauma and grief.

How to Prepare for a Possible NICU Stay

While no one wants to imagine their baby needing intensive care, Rebecca gently encourages parents to prepare—just in case.

She shares three simple but impactful steps:

Have a flexible food plan: Prep meals in advance, ask for help with a Meal Train, or list out local delivery options so nourishing food is ready when it’s most needed.

Line up extended support: Identify trusted friends or family who can help with older children, pets, or your home in case of an extended hospital stay.

Choose a communication liaison: Appoint someone to update family and friends, so you’re not reliving emotional updates multiple times a day.

What to Expect in the NICU

The NICU can be overwhelming. Rebecca offers tips to help parents feel more grounded:

• Bring comfort items like a blanket, pillow, slippers, or essential oils.
• Ask for an orientation—learn what monitors do, who’s on your care team, and what to expect during rounds.
• Use a notebook or your phone to jot down questions and record updates.
• Advocate for what you need, like a more comfortable chair or privacy.

“You are part of the care team,” Rebecca emphasizes. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak up.”

Staying Connected with Your Baby

Even in the NICU, there are powerful ways to bond:

• Leave behind scent cloths or comforting items so your presence remains when you step away.
• Practice skin-to-skin contact when possible for both bonding and healing.
• Talk, sing, or read aloud so your baby can hear your familiar voice.
• Leave behind scent cloths or comforting items so your presence remains when you step away.

When You Have to Leave the Hospital Without Your Baby

One of the most emotionally painful experiences is going home without your newborn. Rebecca offers compassionate suggestions:

• Create a simple ritual for saying goodbye, like a special phrase or gesture.
• Take home your baby’s blanket or hat to stay connected through scent.
• Remember you can call the NICU anytime for updates—just ask about getting a security code.

Healing in the NICU and Beyond

Rebecca’s book, Navigating the NICU: A Self-Care Guide for Parents, centers on one powerful idea: your postpartum period still matters—even in crisis.

She encourages parents to nourish themselves with warming, grounding foods and to make space for emotional healing by:

• Telling or recording your birth story—unedited and unfiltered.
• Naming the grief and trauma without shame.
• Letting yourself feel everything, and knowing you are not alone.

Learn even more during episode 228 of the Plus Mommy Podcast.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 228

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• Buy the book: Navigating the NICU: A Self-Care Guide for Parents
• Explore the shop and community: WeAreMarigolde.com
• Follow on Instagram and Facebook.

Rebecca Servoss, the Co-Founder and COO of Marigolde, is a nurse, writer, and mother. Rebecca has dedicated her adult life to supporting new parents through the transformation of birthing to becoming a family. She profoundly cares that all people traversing the deeply transformational experiences of birth, death, and loss, are met with a compassionate multifaceted framework that centers equity and safety. Rebecca is a Board Certified Holistic Nurse Coach and Certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor, and offers clients an intuitive and holistic approach to vitality and resilience while creating structure to safely explore and express their grief and reflect on their story.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post The NICU and Postpartum: What One Nurse Hopes You Know appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Shari Stamps, a postpartum educator, doula, certified breastfeeding specialist, and cranial sacral therapist, shares essential tips for navigating the postpartum period.

Shari will teach you how to nurture your body, seek professional support, and maintain healthy relationships during this transformative time.

Planning for Postpartum

Postpartum planning for plus size families is critical for helping with a smooth transition into parenthood, yet it often gets overshadowed by the excitement of birth preparation.

Shari emphasizes the importance of this planning, with key postpartum tips including organizing a support system that encompasses healthcare professionals like lactation consultants, mental health providers, and postpartum doulas.

Practical preparations such as meal planning with warm, soft foods that aid digestion and setting up comfort tools like a bidet and peri bottle are also vital (especially for that first bowl movement).

Shari’s insights highlight how thoughtful postpartum planning can alleviate stress, promote healing, and provide new parents with the necessary resources to focus on nurturing their baby and themselves.

Nourishing the Postpartum Body

Shari explains the need for nutrient-rich foods to replenish the body after birth.

Warm, Soft Foods: Foods like congee and soups are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients.

Shari recommended the Ayurvedic diet and Chinese medicinal foods, which help keep the body warm and aid in digestion.

These foods are particularly beneficial for ensuring a gentle and healthy first bowel movement after birth, which can be a daunting experience for new mothers.

Meal Planning: Having meals prepared ahead of time can alleviate stress and ensure proper nutrition. Organize a pantry party or ask friends and family to contribute meals.

Postpartum Tips for Comfort

Shari provided several practical tips to enhance comfort during the postpartum period.

Bidet and Peri Bottle: Using a bidet can significantly improve comfort and hygiene during postpartum recovery.

Shari also recommended having a peri bottle to clean gently after using the bathroom, which can be soothing and help reduce discomfort.

Along with stool softeners and warm, nourishing food, these tools can make the first few bowel movements after birth less daunting and more comfortable.

Padsicles: A padsicle is a menstrual pad infused with soothing ingredients, such as sitz bath tea, and then frozen. It provides cooling relief and reduces inflammation.

Padsicles are beneficial for both vaginal and cesarean births to help soothe the perineal area or the c-section scar, making bathroom trips more comfortable.

Craniosacral Therapy: Shari introduced craniosacral therapy (CST), a modality she has been training in for several years.

CST works with the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and bones, to release tension and promote healing.

CST can address issues like torticollis, reflux, and oral ties in infants, as well as support postpartum mothers. Releasing stored trauma and tension can lead to improved physical and emotional well-being.

Building a Supportive Postpartum Care Team

Shari emphasized the importance of creating a comprehensive postpartum care team during pregnancy, which should include mental health providers, lactation consultants, pediatric dentists, and postpartum doulas.

Mental Health Providers: Regular check-ins with a mental health professional can help manage postpartum depression and anxiety.

Lactation Consultants: Early support from a lactation consultant can address breastfeeding challenges and improve outcomes.

Pediatric Dentists: Early evaluation can identify and address oral ties and other issues affecting feeding.

Postpartum Doulas: A postpartum doula can assist with various tasks, provide emotional support, and help parents navigate the early days with a newborn.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of seeking professional support early on.

While services like lactation consultations might seem expensive, they can save parents significant time, money, and stress in the long run. Shari encouraged parents to reach out for help and utilize available resources.

Setting Boundaries and Maintaining Relationships

Shari also discussed the importance of setting boundaries with friends and family and maintaining open communication with partners.

She advised parents to check in regularly with each other, reassessing their needs and expectations as they navigate the challenges of parenthood.

Shari’s wealth of knowledge and compassionate approach to postpartum care make her an invaluable resource for new parents. Learn more during this informative podcast episode!

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 220

Transcript happily provided upon request.

Resources Mentioned On The Show

• Connect with Shari Stamps via her website, Navigating Parenthood, and on Instagram.
• Size-Friendly Birth, size-inclusivity training for birth workers.

Shari Stamps is a neurodivergent mom of six and founder of Navigating Parenthood where she offers content, courses, consults, and virtual services to families worldwide, as well as in-person services to families local to Central Valley California. She calls herself a Mom & Baby Specialist because she combines her years of training and certifications to help expecting & postpartum families from a whole health, whole heart functional practice perspective.

The post Practical Postpartum Tips: From Bowel Movements to Boundaries appeared first on Plus Mommy.

A strong support team can significantly impact your overall experience and well-being, from physical and emotional support to guidance through the complexities of childbirth and early parenthood.

Let’s delve into the importance of creating a solid team for birth and postpartum with insights from Kristen Revere, an elite birth and postpartum doula. 

Kristen shares her expertise on assembling a dream team of professionals, the benefits of having a doula, and practical tips for finding and affording the support you need.

Join us as we explore the various types of birth support team members, the value of postpartum care, and the strategies to make these essential services accessible. 

Whether you’re an expectant parent or a birth professional, you’ll gain valuable information to help you navigate this transformative journey.

Benefits of Hiring a Doula

When it comes to birth support, the first thing that often comes to mind is a doula, so let’s begin there.

A doula provides continuous physical, emotional, and educational support, reducing the need for interventions and increasing overall satisfaction, even if the birth plan changes. 

Doulas are familiar with hospital policies and can help navigate decisions by providing information on the risks, benefits, and alternatives to non-emergent interventions. 

The evidence is clear: doula support leads to better outcomes and higher satisfaction rates.

Finding the Right Doula

When interviewing doulas, consider their experience, personality, and budget. 

Look for doulas with specific training or certification in areas that are important to you, such as a size-friendly doula who has completed size-inclusivity training. 

A good fit between you and your doula is crucial! 

Postpartum Doula Support

Postpartum doulas offer invaluable support to the entire family, not just the newborn. 

They assist with household tasks, accompany clients to appointments, provide sibling care, and offer emotional support for the family.  

This holistic approach helps ensure the family feels supported and cared for during the critical postpartum period.

Creating Your Support Team

Building a birth and postpartum support team goes well beyond hiring a doula.

Kristen emphasizes identifying your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum goals if you’re wondering where to start. 

Whether it’s trying to avoid induction or seeking Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), having a clear understanding of your goals helps in assembling the right team. 

It’s essential to have open conversations with your care provider early on to ensure they are on board with your preferences.

Types of Birth Support Team Members

In addition to doulas, there are several key professionals and support team members you might consider for your birth and postpartum journey:

• Midwives: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and home birth midwives can provide personalized care throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
• Lactation Consultants: International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) offer specialized lactation support.
• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists: These specialists help with recovery and strengthening post-birth, addressing issues such as incontinence and pelvic pain.
• Chiropractors: Chiropractors can help with prenatal adjustments to align your body for an optimal birth.
• Acupuncturists: Prenatal acupuncture can support overall wellness, reduce stress, and prepare your body for labor.
• Mental Health Therapists: Therapists specializing in perinatal mood disorders can provide crucial support for mental health during and after pregnancy.
• Sleep Consultants: Postpartum sleep consultants assist in establishing healthy sleep patterns for your baby, which can significantly impact the entire family’s well-being.
• Childbirth Educators: Classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care can prepare you for the journey ahead, providing valuable knowledge and confidence.

Supporting the Cost of Your Birth and Postpartum Team

Here are several strategies for making these essential services more accessible:

• Insurance Coverage: Check if your insurance covers services like physical therapy, lactation consulting, and chiropractic care. Some states now include doulas in their Medicaid programs.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Use these pre-tax accounts to pay for eligible services, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
• Employer Benefits: Some companies offer maternity benefits that include coverage for doulas and other support services. 
• Community Resources: Look for nonprofit organizations and hospital programs that offer doula services and other support on a sliding scale or for free.
• Registries and Gift Funds: Instead of traditional baby gifts, set up a registry for support services through platforms where friends and family can contribute.
• Personal Budgeting: Prioritize your spending based on your birth and postpartum goals. Consider reallocating funds from non-essential items to invest in support services that will benefit your family’s well-being.

Whether through a doula, community resources, or personal support networks, having the right team in place can make a significant difference in your experience. 

Learn even more during episode 215 of the Plus Mommy Podcast. During this episode, we explore how to build your birth and postpartum support team with expert insights from Kristen Revere. Discover the benefits of having a doula, the importance of postpartum support, and practical tips for finding and affording essential support services. You’ll also learn about Kristen’s book, “Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby.”

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 215

Transcript happily provided upon request.

Resources Mentioned On The Show

• Connect with Kristin via her Gold Coast Doulas website and Instagram.
• Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby
• Ask the Doulas Podcast
• How Research is Revealing Fat Shaming in Maternity Care

Kristin Revere owns Gold Coast Doulas and co-hosts the Ask the Doulas podcast. She is an elite certified birth and postpartum doula. Kristin is also a newborn care specialist. She lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with her two children and husband. She has a step daughter who is in college.

The post How to Build Your Birth and Postpartum Support Team appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Bonnie helped pave the way for postpartum images like the one below to be proudly shared all over the internet.

The Story Behind The Shape Of A Mother

Bonnie always expected to get stretchmarks during pregnancy, as they appeared during puberty. But she didn’t think stretchmarks would spread from her shoulders to her toes.

And nothing prepared her for how her belly sagged after she had her second child.

In the early 2000s, Bonnie didn’t see images online of postpartum bellies like hers. While Facebook was a popular social media site, people weren’t sharing images of their postpartum bodies as they do today.

One fateful day, while out to eat with her family, she noticed a woman’s postpartum belly that looked a lot like hers. This prompted Bonnie to talk with friends about their bodies after having babies.

One of her friends shared an image of their bottom covered in stretch marks. When Bonnie saw the picture, she felt less alone and knew other mothers needed to feel the same way.

So, in 2006, Bonnie launched the website “The Shape of a Mother.”

As Bonnie shares on her website, “It is my dream, then, to create this website where women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and nationalities can share images of their bodies so it will no longer be secret. So we can finally see what women really look like sans airbrushes and plastic surgery.” 

Within a week of launching, “The Shape of a Mother” went viral, and Bonnie’s inbox was flooded with photo submissions.

Celebrating All Postpartum Bodies

Bonnie’s site currently holds over 2,500 images and heartfelt stories of people sharing (and celebrating) their postpartum bodies.

Over the years, her website traffic has slowed as many other resources are available. But it’s incredible to know that hers was the first website to normalize the strength and beauty of postpartum bodies.

Bonnie loves seeing how the conversation around postpartum bodies has shifted. She’s clear that her work isn’t just for cis women; it’s for all postpartum people!

Tune in as Bonnie shares her story and wisdom about body image during episode 195 of the Plus Mommy Podcast.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 195

Transcript happily provided upon request.

Resources Mentioned On The Show

• Connect with Bonnie via her website, Facebook, or Instagram.
• Support The Shape of a Mother via Patreon.

Bonnianne Ratliff is an autistic activist committed to intersectional feminism. She is a single mom to two teenagers in Southern California. Bonnie graduated from San Diego State University in 2018 with a degree in English and a minor in Women’s Studies. She started The Shape of a Mother in July of 2006 because she saw that there was a distinct lack of representation of realistic postpartum bodies in the media at the time. Bonnianne also uses the site as a platform to educate about feminism and related topics through her series on Badass Bitches From History and her educational info posts and flyers. In her free time, Bonnianne likes to play Animal Crossing way too much or give her teens a cultural education by making them watch old John Hughes movies.

The post The Shape Of A Mother – A Conversation About Postpartum Bodies appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Tip From A Size-Friendly Lactation Consultant

Ana Hill is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) with a background in birth. Since 2012, she has served families in Southeast Denver, Colorado, and online as an IBCLC. Ana is also a skilled doula trainer and educator.  

Preparing To Breastfeed

Studies show one critical thing to support lactation is to take a class.

Becoming educated allows you to prepare for what you might need along your bodyfeeding journey. An example is how much privacy you may want while feeding your baby.

Speaking of privacy, consider wearing layers while nursing. Having a tank top under a shirt means you don’t need to worry about exposing your belly.

You can also get some privacy while nursing your baby in a carrier. Thankfully there are many plus size babywearing carriers and wraps available.

If possible, work with a doula! They will support you and help connect you with size-friendly birth and lactation providers.

Consider reaching out to an IBCLC during pregnancy for a prenatal appointment to create a plan for success. This support is especially encouraged for parents with PCOS, gestational diabetes, planning for cesarean birth, or people who have struggled with breastfeeding in the past.

How Birth Impacts Breastfeeding

One of the biggest things we don’t talk about is the impact of IV fluids on breastfeeding.

Fluids tend to delay milk production, and people should be aware that this can occur. There is a study that looks at delayed milk production for plus size people. Ana questions how many people in the study had interventions and IV fluids.

In Ana’s experience, she sees a delay in milk production for people of all sizes when there are IV fluids.

Breastfeeding Tips

Ana emphasizes the importance of seeking help as early as possible with someone trained in lactation.

When it comes to feeding positions, you don’t need to sit up when nursing. Instead, lean back (45-degree angle or further back) and use pillows to help to make your body more comfortable. By doing so, your baby uses their natural feeding reflexes, and you’ll likely be more comfortable.

It can also be helpful to roll up a small hand towel to tuck under your breast to lift it.

Being able to relax is key!

You’ll also want to set yourself up for pumping by ensuring the flange is the correct size and selecting a pump that will meet your needs.

There’s a lot of misinformation and societal beliefs about larger bodies. As Ana points out, when people are busy doubting themselves, it can impact their feeding journey. She encourages people to hold onto the idea that their bodies are amazing just the way they are today!  

Tips For Birth Professionals

For birth professionals who support plus size parents, it’s so important to affirm people’s bodies!

Don’t delay a referral to an IBCLC if your client is struggling with bodyfeeding. We all need to stay in our wheelhouse and know our area of expertise. And when referrals are needed, make sure you’re recommending someone who is size-friendly.

For doulas, if your client has a complicated birth, be sure to refer out to an IBCLC early on if any lactation issues arise.

It’s important to understand the unique benefits and different levels of expertise of breastfeeding peer counselors, lactation educators, and IBCLCs.

Listen below as Ana shares even more bodyfeeding tips for families and birth professionals.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 154

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• Connect with Ana via her website to learn more about her in-person and online lacation support services.
• You might also enjoy Plus Mommy Podcast episde 58, Everything You Want To Know About Plus Size Breastfeeding.

Over the years I began specializing in breastfeeding and completed my international board certification (IBCLC) in 2012. I love my work as a lactation consultant, and feel so blessed to do it. I am committed to providing respectful care for all individuals and families seeking lactation support within my scope of practice and professional ability.

The post Size-Friendly Lactation Consultant Ana Hill Shares Helpful Tips appeared first on Plus Mommy.

There are unique obstacles plus size people face while breastfeeding. From the lack of plus size nursing apparel to a delay in milk production and how plus size moms are sometimes mistreated in public – let’s talk about it all!

Disclosure: Plus Size Birth is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.

How To Prepare For Breastfeeding When You Are Plus Size

1. How To Find Plus Size Nursing Bras, Clothes, Pillows, And Other Apparel

When you’re plus size, options for plus size nursing bras and large breastfeeding pillows are limited.

Thankfully they do exist, and here are some helpful resources that include options for plus size pumping bras.

The Best Plus Size Nursing Bras And Plus Size Pumping Bras

7 Plus Size Nursing Cover Tips And Tricks

4 Mom Approved Plus Size Nursing Pillows

Along with the resources above, some of my favorite plus size nursing apparel tricks include making your own nursing bras!

You can order nursing bra clips online and watch YouTube videos on how to transform your regular bra to a nursing bra.

Are you worried about showing off your belly while nursing?

It can be helpful to wear a plus size nursing cami underneath your top. This way when you lift your shirt up, the tank top covers your stomach.

My go-to nursing bra is the nursing wrap sleep bra as it’s so comfortable. While it’s probably not supportive enough for you to wear it alone while out in public, it’s perfect for around the house and when you’re sleeping.

When you’re going out in public, I have the nursing bra resource above and below is the most popular plus size pumping bra among plus size moms.

By having access to nursing apparel and breastfeeding essentials designed for larger bodies, plus size women feel appropriately supported.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Plus Size Birth (@plussizebirth) on Apr 28, 2020 at 5:35pm PDT

2. Put A Support System In Place For Breastfeeding Success  

Connect with an IBCLC, tap into community support groups, and get your family involved with your breastfeeding plan.

Studies show that connecting with a lactation consultant (specifically an IBCLC) can improve breastfeeding outcomes for plus-sized women.

An IBCLC can help make sure you’re confident in your ability to breastfeed. If needed, they can recommend items like a nipple shield or supplements to help with milk production.

From local breastfeeding groups like La Leche League to spending time with other breastfeeding moms, community support is incredibly beneficial.

By reading breastfeeding books (like the ones recommended here by an IBCLC) and taking a breastfeeding class, you can have the support and knowledge you need to feel prepared to nurse.

Also, be sure to talk to whoever lives in your home about your breastfeeding plan, and share how they can best support you.

3. Plus Size Breastfeeding Positions And Pumping Needs 

There’s no one position that is best for breastfeeding when you’re plus size.

Be sure to try different positions and pillows to find what works best for you and your baby!

Besides finding what position works well, you also want to ensure you’re using the correct size flange when pumping.

A flange fits over your nipple to form a vacuum seal that allows for milk extraction from your nipple.

Talk to a lactation consultant about what size flange is best for you.

4. Your Milk Might Take One Day Longer To Come In When You’re Plus Size

On average, it takes 2 – 3 days for milk production, but it can take an additional day for plus size people.

Laurel Wilson is a highly respected IBCLC who presents around the world. During episode 58 of the Plus Mommy Podcast, Everything You Want To Know About Plus Size Breastfeeding, she goes into detail of how hormones impact breastfeeding.

It’s essential for anyone who struggles with their insulin levels or has Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome to be aware that breastfeeding can be more challenging.

To encourage milk production, keep your baby skin to skin on your chest often. This releases oxytocin, the love hormone that helps your body to produce breast milk.

Even though you’re probably not producing breast milk immediately after giving birth, you will have colostrum to nourish your baby.

Work with your care team to ensure your baby is getting all they need in those first few days. Don’t feel defeated if supplementation of formula or donated breastmilk is recommended.    

5. Take Care Of Yourself 

Have you heard of the 4th trimester? As a society, we are so focused on pregnancy, and then the focus shifts to the baby following childbirth. But what about the mom?

The 4th trimester is the 12 weeks following childbirth.

During the 4th trimester, your hormones are shifting, and organs are returning to their original place. You’re bleeding, have swollen breasts, you might experience postpartum hair loss and other physical changes.

All the while, you’re also caring for a tiny human who is 100% dependant upon you.

Everyone wants to hold the baby, but who is holding mom?

We know that how you’re caring for your body during this time can directly impact breastfeeding.

For example, if you’re not drinking enough water and become dehydrated, that can impact your milk production.

Be sure to do all you can to take care of yourself during this time, regardless if you’re breast or bottle feeding.

Below are some helpful tips for taking good care of yourself during the 4th trimester.

Drink Water
Keep a water bottle with you at all times, one with a straw that’s easy to bring to your mouth while you’re holding your baby.

Eat Nourishing Food
For breastfeeding, you need about the same additional 500 calories as you were taking in during pregnancy. Be sure to fuel your body with nutritious food and take vitamins and supplements recommended by your care provider.  

Rest And Recover
Now isn’t the time to be a host when people come over to meet your baby. Now is a time for you to be pampered and rest!

Rest as much as possible.

The saying, “sleep when the baby sleeps” can sound annoying, but it’s true!  

Monitor Your Mental Health
Your mental health matters! You can’t be everything for everyone else if you’re not taking care of yourself.

Be aware of signs to look, and talk to your loved ones about how they can also know if you’re struggling with your mental health.

Don’t Focus On Weight Loss During Breastfeeding
There’s this misconception that you’ll lose weight by breastfeeding. The reality is that not everyone does.

Stop focusing on the number on the scale!

Nourish your body with all it needs to help you feel healthy, from eating a balanced diet to being physically active following your six-week postpartum checkup.

6. Be Aware That People Can Be Cruel To Plus Size Breastfeeding Moms

I wish this point didn’t need to be here. Sadly, the reality is people of all sizes who breastfeed can deal with rude confrontations from strangers. Yet, when you’re plus size, you face another layer of societal bias.

People might stare.

Cruel comments might be said.

It’s crucial to take care of your well-being, set healthy boundaries, and lean on your support system to shake off any negative experiences.

Hopefully, you won’t ever have anything happen, but knowing what you can face is helpful, so you’re not caught off guard.

7. Accept That The Way You Feed Your Baby is BEST 

While all the tips above will help you feel prepared to breastfeed, sometimes things don’t go as planned.

You might still need to formula-feed your baby – and that’s okay!  

What’s most important is that you feed your baby and do so in whatever way works best for you and your family.

Hopefully, that can be breastfeeding! But if it isn’t, or if it starts off that way, and then ends up being exclusively pumping or formula feeding, know that you’re not alone.

If you’re unable to breastfeed exclusively, you might feel disappointed. Be sure to talk about those feelings with your loved ones and consider getting therapy if you need further support.

Whatever path your journey to breastfeeding while you are plus size takes, from breastmilk to formula, know that you are an amazing mom.

We’re all doing the best we can – and it’s enough!

In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, Jen McLellan shares the detours along her breastfeeding journey, and what she wishes she would’ve done differently during episode 110 of the Plus Mommy Podcast.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 110

Be sure to subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or iHeart Radio. I’d be incredibly thankful if you took the time to leave a review. Follow Plus Mommy via your favorite social media outlet (Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter). Thanks for being part of this community!

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• Additional Plus Mommy Podcast episodes about breastfeeding when you are plus size include Sam’s Plus Size Pregnancy And Breastfeeding Story, Does Being Plus Size Make It Harder To Breastfeed? and The Breastfeeding Complication We’re Not Talking About Enough 
• My Breastfeeding Detour: When Expectations Meet Reality
• No One Prepared Me For A Baby Blues Postpartum Experience

Thank You To Our Sponsor:

I’m excited to tell you about Ready. Set. Food! founded by a team of physicians, leading allergy experts and parents, it’s a groundbreaking solution to childhood food allergy prevention. It conveniently mixes in with breastmilk, formula, or food and is pre-dosed to give your baby the right amount of peanut, egg, and milk – even if they’re not yet ready to eat solid food. Use code PLUSMOMMY to get $20 off the first month of a 6-month subscription to Ready. Set. Food! valid for new customers only and through the end of the year.

The post 7 Things You Need To Know About Breastfeeding When You Are Plus Size appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 91

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• Postpartum.net is an outstanding resource for anyone struggling during postpartum.

Thank You To Our Sponsor:

This episode on plus size motherhood was brought to you by Plus Size Birth! Use coupon code Plus Mommy to receive 20% off the My Plus Size Pregnancy Guide. This guide covers everything you could want to know about having a plus size pregnancy.

The post No One Prepared Me For A Baby Blues Postpartum Experience appeared first on Plus Mommy.

The answer is it doesn’t automatically make breastfeeding harder. With that said, there are unique obstacles people of size face while nursing. From a lot of misinformation to a lack of nursing bras and apparel – breastfeeding can suck (pun intended).

I’m joined by Suzanne of Plus Size Breastfeeding to dig into this topic with helpful tips and resources. We’re answering the most commonly asked questions.

Answering – Being Plus Size Make It Harder To Breastfeed?

Related: Sam’s Plus Size Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Story

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 78

Thanks for listening! Please rate and review the show via your favorite podcast app – it truly makes a difference and means a lot. If you’re a big fan, be sure to tag us on Instagram stories while you’re listening to the Plus Mommy Podcast for a chance to be featured. 

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• Resources for nursing bras, nursing pillows, and 6 Things Every Breastfeeding Mom Needs.
• Listen to even more Plus Mommy episodes on breastfeeding.
• Connect with Suzanne of Plus Size Breastfeeding via Facebook and Instagram.

Below you’ll see images of nursing positions talked about during the episode beyond the standard football hold.

Thank You To Our Sponsor:

Plus Size Birth 

Use coupon code PlusMommy to receive 20% off the My Plus Size Pregnancy Guide that covers everything you could want to know about having a plus size pregnancy.

The post Does Being Plus Size Make It Harder To Breastfeed? appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Breastfeeding Complication

Overall breastfeeding can work for you and your baby 75% of the time. For those in the 25%, there are issues that should be addressed.

As an ear, nose, and throat doctor Dr. Dahl found a connection between tongue-tie and breastfeeding struggles after listening to the concerns of lactation consultants.

Clipping a true tongue or lip tie has resolved many complications. However, over the years, Dr. Dahl has watched the harm caused by the overdiagnosis of tongue-tie.

Related: Everything You Want To Know About Plus Size Breastfeeding

Watch the video below that shows all that needs to happen for a baby to be able to latch. We discuss this a lot throughout this episode.

Moms can self-diagnose breastfeedings issue most of the time. Yet, they don’t have the resources or expertise to fix the problem. Parents should watch for how wide their baby can open their mouth.

Beyond working hard to encourage and support breastfeeding, Dr. Dahl addresses that a mother’s mental health during postpartum is critical and often overlooked.

When breastfeeding struggles occur a push for “breast is best” can cause more harm than good. To sum it up, If breastfeeding doesn’t work out, there are many ways to bond with your baby. Many parents enjoy doing skin-to-skin with their infants. Above all, Oxytocin is the best!

Listen in as we discuss all of the above and well beyond!

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 66

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• You can learn more about Dr. Dahl via her website dolcenter.net, author page, and Clinician’s Guide to Breastfeeding.
• Haberman feeder is one of the best nipples for bottles that can be beneficial for this breastfeeding complication.

Dr. Dahl lectures in a myriad of settings: Screen Actor’s Guild, Actor’s Equity, lactation conferences, medical conferences, and hospitals. She educates residents from Beth Israel Hospital, New York University Hospital, and Weill Cornell Hospital. She has also written and co-written articles published in scientific journals Dr. Dahl recently published a Clinical Guide to Breastfeeding through Springer International. She has appeared on numerous television and radio shows discussing ear nose and throat issues.

Thank You To Our Sponsor:

This episode is also brought to you by Plus Size Birth! Use coupon code PlusMommy to receive 20% off the My Plus Size Pregnancy Guide. This guide covers everything you could want to know about having a plus size pregnancy.

The post The Breastfeeding Complication We’re Not Talking About Enough appeared first on Plus Mommy.

I know you were probably expecting something far sexier. But communication is sexy!

Communication lays a foundation of trust, love, and support. Most importantly, communication opens a dialogue for consent and what you and your partner need from intimacy in your relationship.

Learning one another’s Love Language can take your communication skills to the next level! You can determine your Love Language by reading a book or taking an online quiz.

Speaking of love, lube is love, and you’re going to want to use a lot of it, especially for postpartum sex!

During episode 59 of the Plus Mommy Podcast, sex educator Meg Snyder joins us to talk about all things pregnancy and postpartum sex when you’re plus size. From communication, postpartum changes, plus size sex positions, to size-friendly adult toys  – we’re talking about it all!

We need to be having these conversations far more often because just as your body will change, so will your sexual relationship during and after pregnancy.

When you’re pregnant, you might not want intercourse as often as you used to due to morning sickness or other discomforts. Right after having a baby, your care provider will tell you to abstain for the first six weeks while your body heals.

As Meg shares, “Sex is not intercourse exclusive.”

Meg recommends being kind to yourself and your body. Listen to what your body wants, and what it doesn’t want.

There’s A LOT you can do to connect while also pleasuring one another without intercourse (listen to this podcast episode for all kinds of tips).

If you’re kind to yourself while having an open line of communication, you’ll find a new level of intimacy with your partner!

Related: Fat Fertility Matters 

Let’s talk about being comfortable during intimacy!

Whether you’re pregnant or not, as a plus size woman, you might want special wedge pillows to help get your body into different positions. Another fun example is transforming your pregnancy sleep pillow into a plus size sex pillow!

Note that sex can be messy so you might want to have some washable pads on hand that are also beneficial for if your water breaks during pregnancy.

When it comes to adult toys, they can be great for alone time or playtime with your partner.

We talk about quite a few options on the show. I’m obsessed with this “massager” (get one, and you’ll thank me later!). We also discuss Kegel Balls for strengthening your pelvic floor. Then Meg blew my mind by telling me about vibrating Kegel Balls!

During intimacy, wear as little or as much as you want! What matters most is your comfort level. During postpartum, you might find plus size lingerie with a built-in bra so you can slip in a nursing pad if you’re lactating.

Meg’s favorite plus size lingerie site is yandy.com and mine is curvygirllingerie.com.

Want to learn even more and hear about helpful plus size sex positions? Listen to the episode below!

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 59

Be sure to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or iHeart Radio. I’d be incredibly thankful if you took the time to leave a review. Follow Plus Mommy via your favorite social media outlet (Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter). Thanks for being part of this community!

Madame Glitter or Meg has been in the sex industry for over five years as a sex and relationship educator and Dominatrix. As a sole single parent to a five-year-old, I aim to help women (and couples) regain their sexuality. As well as their sexual health pre and post-baby. I am currently working on becoming a doula. I aim to help plus size mommies have the best delivery possible. Plus size mommies are grossly underserved in labor and delivery and I hope to change that. As well as the stigma of plus size individuals in the sex industry.

You can send inquiries at @the_madame_glitter on Instagram or thehouseofmadameglitter@gmail.com.

Thank You To Our Sponsor:

This episode is also brought to you by Plus Size Birth! Use coupon code PlusMommy to receive 20% off the My Plus Size Pregnancy Guide that covers everything you could want to know about having a plus size pregnancy.

The post Pregnancy And Postpartum Sex When You’re Plus Size appeared first on Plus Mommy.