Bringing a new life into the world is a remarkable journey filled with joy, anticipation, and sometimes, uncertainty. As birth workers, we understand the importance of equipping expecting mothers with the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Here are some vital resources that every expecting mother should know about, along with guidance on when and how to use them. Please Note: If you are reading this and you are having thoughts of self harm and/or feel you might harm others including your baby, please call 911. You are not alone, and while these thoughts feel so scary and isolating, you are not the first to have them. We are here for you and you can always reach out to us immediately for whatever emergency you are facing. There are resources and people that love you. We will fight for your healing along side you.
You are not alone.
1. Pharmaceutical Drugs in Breast Milk - Quick Reference Guide
Resource:Â UKMI Central, National Health Service UK
Link:Â UKMI Central - NHS UK
When to Use:Â This comprehensive guide provides invaluable information on the safety of various medications during breastfeeding. Expecting mothers can consult this resource to make informed decisions about medication use while breastfeeding, ensuring the health and well-being of both themselves and their babies.
2. TOXNET: LACTMED
Resource:Â United States National Library of Medicine
Link:Â TOXNET - LACTMED
When to Use:Â LACTMED is an essential resource for expecting and breastfeeding mothers seeking information on the effects of medications and other substances on breast milk. Mothers can utilize this database to access evidence-based information on the safety of specific drugs during lactation, empowering them to make informed choices about their medication use.
3. National Hopeline Network & National Strategy for Suicide Prevention: LifeLine
Resource:Â National Hopeline Network
Hotline:Â 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
Resource:Â National Strategy for Suicide Prevention: LifeLine
Hotline:Â 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
When to Use:Â Pregnancy and the postpartum period can bring about overwhelming emotions and challenges. Expecting mothers experiencing feelings of distress or thoughts of self-harm can reach out to these hotlines for immediate support, guidance, and resources to ensure their mental health and well-being.
4. Postpartum Depression Support Resources
Resource:Â PPDMoms
Hotline:Â 1-800-PPDMOMS (1-800-773-6667)
Resource:Â Postpartum Health Alliance
Hotline:Â San Diego Access and Crisis Line - (888) 724-7240
Resource:Â Postpartum Support International
Hotline:Â (800) 944-4PPD or (800) 944-4773
Resource:Â The Seventh Mom Project, Inc
Link:Â The Seventh Mom Project
When to Use:Â These resources offer invaluable support, information, and guidance for mothers struggling with postpartum depression (PPD) or other perinatal mood disorders. From hotlines and online communities to local support groups and professional services, these organizations provide a lifeline for mothers in need of assistance and understanding.
5. National Domestic Violence Hotline
Hotline:Â (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or (800) 787-3224 TTY
When to Use:Â Pregnancy can be a vulnerable time for women experiencing domestic violence or abuse. This hotline offers confidential support, safety planning, and resources for individuals experiencing domestic violence, ensuring that expecting mothers have access to the help and support they need to protect themselves and their babies.
As birth workers, our commitment extends beyond the delivery room to ensuring the holistic well-being of expecting mothers throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. By equipping mothers with these essential resources and support networks, we empower them to navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood with confidence, resilience, and strength. Remember, you are not alone, and help is always just a phone call away.
