A growing body of research reveals profound connections between a woman's birth experience and her ability to get breastfeeding off to a good start. But if you think of putting your baby to your breast as the fourth stage of labor it can help you visualize this connection.

In cases of Rh incompatibility, a baby's red blood cells have a substance called the Rh D factor, and the mother's blood cells do not. In medical terms, the baby is Rh positive and you are Rh negative.

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
Hi, I had a difficult delivery involving three failed vacuum attempts and forceps resulting in a 3rd degree tear which is now healing nicely.

Your baby is here! You've heard a first cry! The announcement of boy or girl has been made. The first test, the Apgar, has been administered and everything is great, but there's more.

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
Suppose if my male partner and I have same blood types (for example, O positive), should I have a baby? If I am pregnant from the guy with same blood type, will I have a shot to prevent further complications? Or can't I have a baby at all?

You may find that some of the expectations you had for your first weeks with new baby are far from the reality. Below you will find some of our favorite mom-to-mom tips for helping you through this initial honeymoon period with your new baby:

Unfortunately, fatigue is part of the postnatal period. Although sleep deprivation is almost inevitable, utter exhaustion is avoidable. Here are a few tips and recommendations on how to manage your energy levels in the weeks and months after childbirth.

Try putting on some soothing music or having a cup of decaffeinated tea. The more you are able to relax, the easier let-down will occur. If you are experiencing pain that is preventing you from relaxing during nursing, see the section below on pain management.