National Eating Disorder Awareness Week serves as an important reminder to examine the significant yet often overlooked challenges faced by mothers who struggle with disordered eating. The journey to motherhood is frequently laden with societal pressures and personal expectations that can be exacerbated for those with a history of eating disorders. With pregnancy and postpartum
Health & Wellness
The period following childbirth is often portrayed as a time filled with joy, chaos, and a whirlwind of responsibilities. Yet, many cultures, particularly in Asia, advocate for a crucial postpartum ritual known as “Sitting the Month” or Zuo Yuezi, which promotes recovery for new mothers and their infants. This ancient practice, deeply rooted in Chinese
Samantha Hanratty, a celebrated actress known for her role in the acclaimed series “Yellowjackets,” recently shared a deeply personal chapter in her life that speaks to the resilience of motherhood. Upon learning during her pregnancy that her son would be born with a cleft lip, Hanratty experienced an emotional whirlwind that many expectant parents can
For many families, receiving a diagnosis of peanut allergy in their child can lead to a landscape filled with anxiety and uncertainty. This condition, affecting approximately 2% of children in the United States, involves meticulous label-checking and an ever-present vigilance during meals and social gatherings. Peanut allergies can manifest with varying intensity—from severe reactions triggered
In a fascinating exploration of early childhood development, a study conducted by University College London (UCL) has unveiled significant insights into the effect of maternal communication on infant oxytocin levels. Commonly referred to as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is critical for establishing social bonds, trust, and emotional understanding between individuals. The research published in Development
On those chilly winter nights when your baby is tucked away in their crib, their soft breaths should bring ease to your mind. However, when you hear unexpected sniffles and whimpers, it might stir a sense of worry. Congestion in infants can be distressing—not just for them, but for worried parents who feel helpless while
The enchanting phase of toddlerhood often comes with delightful surprises, especially when it comes to language. Toddlers possess a distinct perspective on the world, articulating their thoughts in whimsically unexpected ways. They may refer to a simple Rice Krispie treat as a “raspberry Christmas tree” or comically identify a peppermint as a “hippo.” Such adorable
Bringing a new life into the world marks one of the most profound moments in a woman’s life. However, alongside the joy of motherhood comes a multitude of postpartum challenges, many of which can impact intimacy and overall well-being. It’s vital to establish that these experiences are not uncommon and to seek guidance from qualified
Early pregnancy can be an exciting yet challenging journey, filled with a myriad of emotions and significant bodily changes. Among the common complaints that expectant mothers share, insomnia stands out as a significant hurdle that many face. It can feel particularly overwhelming, especially when you hear the often-quoted advice to “get plenty of sleep before
The early days of motherhood often come wrapped in expectations, dreams, and an innate desire for connection. Yet, as I cradle my newborn in the midst of a pandemic, those romanticized visions have collided with reality. Each moment is a paradox: simultaneously filled with joy and tinged with worry. The constant rhythm of sleepless nights