New Mom Naturopath: postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, newborn milestones, breastfeeding tips, extreme fatigue

Tips From A Naturopath: Managing Breastfeeding Postpartum

In today's podcast, I tell you about the struggles of nursing during postpartum. Breastfeeding can be challenging, even though it should be second nature. I shared how I managed a difficult start to my breastfeeding journey. I discuss how I handle tongue ties with my son and ways I would do postpartum differently in terms of breastfeeding. I give some breastfeeding tips, whether finding the right breastfeeding positions or having compassion for yourself.  
As always, I tell you who you should contact, even if you are at your wit's end. The main point is if you want to breastfeed, you can breastfeed. Period. But also, you should give yourself grace and know you can still connect with your child even if you do not choose to nurse.
You got this, mama! Nursing is not easy. Postpartum is difficult, but I am here as you go through each step in this beautiful journey. 
Want to know more? Check out my free Facebook group: The New Mom Doc. 

How to Meal Plan during postpartum?

In this episode, I discussed how I planned my meals postpartum. It is ideal to plan some freezer meals during the end of the 3rd trimester. The meals last about three months in the freezer and can be used through that 4th trimester to help keep you from eating out when you are overwhelmed and exhausted. Nothing is more comforting than a warm meal after a day of crying (I don’t just mean the baby).  
I used three different resources to help me get meals completed: 
Family Freezer 
This resource gave me recipes to try for my postpartum. They are easy to make and delicious. My husband and I love them. And then you don’t have to worry about meal planning 
Meal Train
Send this to your friends and family so they can provide you with meals. This app lets your friends tell you when they can drop off food. And for those with family out of town, it can send you a gift card. If you feel awkward asking friends for help (which you shouldn’t!), have a close friend send it out. 
Hungry Root 
This meal service is excellent. It takes less than 30 minutes to cook the meals and minimal groceries. I felt great; The meals were healthy and delicious. I was very thankful my husband got it for me. 
Eating during postpartum is hard. You are so focused on the baby and their needs (and catching up on sleep whenever possible) that you forget to eat. And some of you might be thinking, there is no way I could forget about the food! But from one foodie to another, yes, Yes, you can. 
Want more information? Check out our free Facebook group at The New Mom Doc. 

How to Get Sleep During Postpartum

Sleep is vital for functioning as a New Mom, and the steps to getting sleep during the 4th trimester are difficult. In this episode, I guide you through the steps you need to take now to get rest as a new mom. 
Sometimes getting sleep postpartum means sleep training and using available resources. Still, it usually involves setting boundaries, asking for help, creating routines, and readjusting your expectations daily. 
In this episode, I get real with how I made it through postpartum with rest on the forefront of my mind even when it was utter chaos. 
Need more assistance, or do you want another mama to vent to? Check out our free Facebook group, The new mom Group 
 
 

How Your Funeral Can Help You with Postpartum Stress

Welcome to the podcast "How Preparing for your funeral can help you as a Mom." In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the challenge of setting strong values within your family and explore an unconventional approach to finding clarity and inspiration. By taking a few moments to imagine your values and answer the questions in this episode, you can profoundly understand who you want to be as a mother and leave a lasting legacy. Although initially daunting, this exercise has the potential to transform your perspective, empower you in your role as a mother, and guide you toward a more purposeful and fulfilling life. Through sharing personal stories and offering practical steps, this episode aims to provide hope, encouragement, and guidance for listeners as they navigate the complexities of motherhood.
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How to Make Tough Decisions as New Mom in Postpartum

In this episode, I address how to make a tough decision as a new mom. From choosing circumcision or not to seat belts and rear-facing car seats to give up coffee because your toddler wants to join you every morning, the choices can be easy and difficult.
I understand the challenges of being a new mom, as I experienced it firsthand. Two weeks into my son's life, he couldn't latch, and I was a crying mess. I share this personal story to emphasize the problem and make you feel heard.
But I want to offer you a message of hope. There is a solution to this decision-making struggle. I break it down into three steps to allow you to follow along.
Step #1 is to assess your feelings, both bodily and intellectual. Take a moment to ask yourself what you're feeling, where you've felt this way before, and what specific conflict you're worried about.
Step #2 involves journaling or discussing feelings to create an action plan. Open your mind to different possibilities and make decisions with open and closed-fisted approaches. Consider what you'll do when certain situations arise.
Step #3 is all about giving yourself grace. Remember that the emotions you feel are valid. Find ways to support yourself emotionally while making decisions for your child. It's essential to distance yourself from mom groups that disagree with your boundaries and seek support from your family, especially your partner. Take a deep breath and believe in yourself—you've got this!
I want to leave you with the message that there is hope for you. You can navigate these tough decisions as a new mom. And if you need more help, don't hesitate to contact me. Together, we can find the support and guidance you need on this journey of motherhood.
 
Interested in connecting with me? Message me at The New Mom Doc Facebook.
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How to Ask for Help as New Mom During postpartum

How to ask for help as a new mom? The answer is to prepare yourself and be ready with these three things before entering the postpartum experience! 
Lesson 1-  Plan your meals 
Create snacks, freezer meals, and meal train. 
Have groceries delivered if possible, or schedule you to go out one day a week. 
Have snacks by the rocker, bed, and in the diaper changing station to remind you to eat Make them healthy; make them protein heavy.y
 
Lesson 2-  Plan your visits 
Schedule visits 
Have a preset list of chores you will need help with 
One chore per visit
If you are uncomfortable with holding a baby - babywear!
Lesson 3-  Plan for alone time. 
Part of asking for help is also essential to ask for time to be alone. You have to build that relationship with them. 
Have any Questions? Message us at The New Mom Doc on Facebook.

3 Things I did to prepare for Postpartum

In this episode, I take you through the 3 topics I would journal on and communicate with my family prior to giving birth. These are tactical steps you can take to help set yourself up for healthy communication and boundaries during the postpartum period. 
Lesson 1- What is a way you can communicate with your partner? Family? Friends, even when you're exhausted? 
Lesson 2- What are the mindfulness exercises you can use at the moment you are overwhelmed? 
Lesson 3-  What is your partner's before-work and after-work routine? How can you all prepare for them leaving?
Ultimately, You prepare for the chaos of motherhood by intentionally setting yourself up for success. I hope these tips help you prepare for the journey you are about to embark on. 
Have any questions? Message me on the New Mom Doc Facebook page!

What I would Tell My 3rd Trimester self now - Episode 10

In this heartfelt and insightful podcast episode, join Me as I reflect on her journey through motherhood and share the three valuable things I would tell myself during her third trimester now that my son is two years old.
As I look back on those final months before my little one's arrival, I dive deep into the emotions, challenges, and joy I experienced during that transformative period. With the wisdom and hindsight gained from raising her child into toddlerhood, she offers heartfelt advice and reflections to expectant mothers in their third trimester.
Throughout the episode, I candidly explore the key lessons I wish I had known during that pivotal time. From self-care practices to emotional readiness, I delve into prioritizing one's well-being and embracing the inevitable changes with motherhood. I share personal anecdotes and stories that will resonate with mothers-to-be and provide reassurance during this beautiful yet challenging phase of life.
Whether you're currently in your third trimester, a new mother navigating the early stages of parenthood, or simply curious about the transformative journey of motherhood; this podcast episode offers a wealth of insights and reflections.
 
Check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/thenewmomdoc
 
Note: This podcast episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance during pregnancy and early parenthood.
 
 

How to Create a Birth Plan the Healthy Way

In this episode of "The New Mom Doc" podcast, I, Dr. Kailyn Galloway, discuss birth plans and the healthy and not-so-healthy ways of approaching them. I share my personal experience and shed light on the anxiety that can arise from striving for a perfect birth plan.
Initially, I hoped for an unmedicated, natural birth at an outpatient birth center. However, my pregnancy had complications, forcing me to change my plan for my safety and mental health. Each adjustment meant mourning the loss of the pregnancy I had envisioned.
It's important to address more than just personal desires in birth plans. While we would love to get everything we want, the reality often differs. I experienced challenges like painful contractions without progress and exhaustion due to medical school commitments.
Setting boundaries when seeking advice and support is crucial. I made it clear in my birth plan who I would accept advice from and engaged in open discussions with my healthcare team to ensure my needs were met.
I believe organizing plans is similar to the birthing process. Birth plans act as guideposts amid the chaos and pain of labor, helping us stay focused on our heart's desires and providing direction in difficult moments.
Preparing for worst-case scenarios and having action steps in place is essential. It's also crucial to have plans for the postpartum period, including emotional support and seeking help if needed.
Acknowledging and processing emotions is vital when birth experiences are not as desired. I personally struggled with my child's birth and postpartum period, realizing the importance of allowing myself to feel and express my emotions, even if they deviated from my expectations.
To sum it up, this episode of "The New Mom Doc" podcast, hosted by me, Dr. Kailyn Galloway, offers insights into birth plans, emphasizing flexibility and emotional aspects. I share personal anecdotes and practical advice and encourage self-care for new moms navigating the complexities of birth and early motherhood.

Introducing the New Mom Doc Podcast and Why I am making the Changes to the podcast

In my podcast, I, Dr. Kailyn Galloway, open up about my personal journey as a mother and share my reflections on the challenges and transitions that come with pregnancy, postpartum, and becoming a mom. I've realized that many of my life transitions revolve around pregnancy and motherhood. I want to use this platform to support and connect with fellow moms who may be going through similar experiences.
During moments of contemplation, I realized that the stories I want to share are centered around motherhood's mental and emotional aspects. It's not just about physical parenting techniques or guidelines but about the mental health transition that occurs when you become responsible for another human being. There are countless decisions to make as a mom, and I want to create a space where moms can exercise their autonomy and make choices that align with their values.
Despite having medical training, I found myself overwhelmed and constantly seeking guidance during the early stages of motherhood. I believe that having a mentor or support system would have been invaluable during that time. It's essential for moms to know it's okay to feel afraid and to be uncertain, and to disagree with others. Each mom has her own path to follow, and I want to provide advice and encouragement on embracing that journey and stepping into one's own power.
 
In the podcast, I touch on various topics, such as the physical changes of pregnancy, postpartum emotions, and the challenges of making decisions that may cause discomfort for our children but are ultimately for their well-being. I share my experience with my child's clubfoot treatment, a difficult decision with long-term benefits. Being a mom involves constantly navigating our children's emotions, communication, and development, which can be challenging and rewarding.
Through my podcast, I aim to create a sense of community and reassure mothers that they are not alone in their struggles. Whether it's dealing with postpartum depression, finding empowerment as a mom, or embracing the changes in our bodies, I want to provide support and resources. Motherhood is a transformative journey, and I hope to be a source of guidance and understanding.
I invite listeners to connect with me on my Facebook page, "The New Mom Doc," and look forward to sharing more insights and experiences in future podcast episodes.