New Moms
Step-by-Step:
Health
Your body will go through lots of changes right after giving birth. Some of these will be painless, but others can be uncomfortable. Know that stress and exhaustion can intensify that discomfort. Lean on your support system to find the relief you need. If you need extra help during this time, our helpline staff are ready to assist you. Just call 1-800-251-BABY (2229)!
After you give birth, it’s important to go to your postpartum doctor’s appointment. To find a doctor in your area that takes Medicaid, visit the Healthy Louisiana website. Select Obstetrics/Gynecology to find someone who specializes in caring for people who have recently given birth.
Family Planning – It’s best to wait two years before having your next baby, if you can. Your body has been through a lot. You’ll have a better chance for a healthy future pregnancy and baby if you give your body time to recover. You can learn more about the benefits of pregnancy spacing from the Mayo Clinic. To find a Family Planning Clinic near you, click here.
Habits
Keep up the good eating and drinking habits you started during your pregnancy. If you’re breastfeeding, the healthier your diet, the healthier the milk for your baby!
And while we’re on the subject: breastfeeding is super important, especially right after your baby’s born! Your body produces special kinds of milk that help your baby stay healthy and grow strong. For more information on breastfeeding, visit La Leche League. If you need help getting a breast pump, talk to your local WIC clinic or check out LouisianaBreastfeeding.org.
Can I get a little help?
Depression affects many women during pregnancy. There’s a lot changing, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re feeling tired, sad, or lost, call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for free, 24/7, confidential support from professional counselors.
If you or someone you know is not ready to take care of a newborn baby, Louisiana’s Safe Haven Law offers parents a safe, legal option. More information regarding the Safe Haven is available by calling toll-free: 1-800-CHILDREN (244-5373). Or you can click here for more info.
Healthy Start offers classes, transportation, supplies for baby, referrals, and much more. For more information or to join a program, call:
- New Orleans Area: 504-658-2600
- Baton Rouge Area: 225-201-8888
- Jefferson Parish Area (Crescent City PIC): 504-247-0592
- Lafayette Area: (337-981-2180)
Don’t forget – WIC is available for new moms, too! Find out if you’re eligible and learn how to apply here.
Health
As a new mom, it’s still important to visit the doctor regularly. You can find a local parish health unit here or a doctor who takes Medicaid here.
Family Planning – It’s best to wait two years before having your next baby, if you can. Your body has been through a lot. You’ll have a better chance for a healthy future pregnancy and baby if you give your body time to recover. You can learn more about the benefits of pregnancy spacing from the Mayo Clinic. To find a Family Planning Clinic near you, click here.
When flu season rolls around, it’s really important that you get your flu shot. Because you’re around your baby the most, it’s important that you protect yourself from getting sick as much as possible.
Habits
Breastfeeding should continue until your baby is at least one year old. It’s healthier for the baby, and can be great for you, too. Breastfeeding can help you lose weight, avoid depression, and bond with your baby.
Help
If you need help finding affordable daycare services, call Louisiana’s Child Care Assistance Program at 1-888-LAHELPU (1-888-524-3578).
Depression affects a lot of women after pregnancy. Doctors call this “postpartum depression.” You’re experiencing lots of changes, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re feeling sad or lost, then call the Partners for Healthy Babies helpline at 1-800-251-BABY (2229).
Healthy Start offers classes, transportation, baby supplies, referrals and much more. To join, call a Healthy Start program near you:
- New Orleans Area: 504-658-2600
- Baton Rouge Area: 225-201-8888
- Jefferson Parish (Crescent City PIC): 504-247-0592
- Lafayette Area: 337-981-2180
Don’t forget, WIC may be able to help with the grocery bills. They offer tips on breastfeeding, too! Find out if you qualify and learn how to apply here.