Epidurals have become synonymous with childbirth relief for a significant portion of expectant mothers in America—nearly 75% of women utilize this method during labor. The choice is steeped in practicality; epidurals provide a much-needed respite from the intense pain associated with labor without drastically impacting a woman’s consciousness. Dr. Sarah Bjorkman, an obstetrician-gynecologist and advisor
Health
As parents, the heart-stopping moment when our children get hurt is something we all dread. Recently, my two-and-a-half-year-old son experienced a significant fall at the playground, suffering a gash on his forehead that required immediate medical attention. One second he was happily playing, and the next, he was on the ground, tangled in his own
The transformative journey of motherhood begins with a remarkable yet overwhelming experience—the birth of a child. This time, often filled with joy, can also evoke profound emotional challenges that escape the casual observer. It’s crucial to recognize that new motherhood encompasses a wide spectrum of emotional responses. While many women experience mild mood swings known
As a parent or guardian, the struggle to instill good dental hygiene habits in children can often feel insurmountable. We all know that a trip to the dentist can evoke anxiety for little ones, often drowning what should be an educational experience in tears and tantrums. The discomfort stems not only from the unfamiliar environment
Recent research has unveiled a startling yet under-discussed issue concerning the safety of breast milk—the presence of brominated flame retardants (BFRs). These chemicals, designed to mitigate fire hazards primarily in electronic products, have been discovered accumulating in the human body, raising concerns about their long-term health impacts. Composed of various toxic compounds that resist breakdown,
The realities of motherhood unfold in the most unexpected ways, and I was woefully unaware of this before welcoming my little one into the world. Prior to my pregnancy, I envisioned the transition into motherhood as a seamless continuation of my life with my partner—a narrative painted by friends and family filled with rosy hues
In the vibrant world of childhood, germs thrive, spreading like wildfires in the dry season as children interact in daycare, preschools, and playgroups. For parents navigating the frustrating maze of constant coughs, fevers, and runny noses that come home with their little ones, the idea of social interaction can seem like an invitation to perpetual
Emotional courage is a profound, often underappreciated quality that empowers individuals to face their feelings with authenticity, even in times of adversity. It challenges the conventional wisdom that emotions, particularly “negative” ones like sadness, fear, or vulnerability, should be suppressed or concealed. Instead, emotional courage urges us to embrace our feelings wholeheartedly, framing them as
Anticipating the birth of a child can feel like preparing for a major life event—one that requires extensive planning, practical packing, and a focus on comfort. Expectant parents often dedicate hours to assembling the perfect hospital bag, ensuring they have everything from baby clothes to their favorite snacks, all aimed at creating a stress-free experience.
Potty training often poses as a monumental milestone in parenting, marked by a myriad of challenges including messes, accidents, and the common toddler battle of withholding bowel movements. Traditional methods such as the “potty-training weekend” or variations of the Montessori approach have been a staple for many in the Western world. However, there exists a