Better Beginnings

10/10/2026

The placenta is a remarkable organ, performing an extraordinary range of duties for the fetus. It does the work of the lungs, gut, liver, and kidneys, while helping the mother’s body adapt dynamically to the changes of pregnancy. But the placenta’s significance may also extend beyond pregnancy; research into its cellular growth could bear key insights into life-threatening conditions like cancer: https://thereader.mitpress.mit.edu/the-placenta-is-more-powerful-and-more-mysterious-than-you-think/

08/07/2026

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication, but one that remains poorly understood despite being a leading cause of maternal and fetal deaths worldwide.

Now, a breakthrough in the search for the underlying cause of this condition has come from an unlikely source—a dermatology lab. While investigating why autoimmune diseases are more common in women, scientists identified a potential genetic driver behind preeclampsia, offering an explanation that could point the way to a cure.

Learn more about this molecular breakthrough: https://on.natgeo.com/gIM1Ja

07/08/2026

🚨HERO: A Venezuelan mother kept her three children alive by breastfeeding them for 11 days while they were trapped beneath the rubble of the OPP building in La Guaira.

All four were rescued alive in what many are calling a miracle.

06/10/2026

✨TICKETS GIVEAWAY!✨

Want to win a ticket to Babies & Bumps on Sunday, June 14? We have 1 general admission and 1 VIP ticket to giveaway! 🤩

Here’s how to enter:

🩷 Follow
🩷 Like this post
🩷 Tag a mama or mama-to-be who you’d love to take with you, or who would like to attend this event
🩷 Bonus 10 entries if you share in your stories and tag us!

✨ That’s it! ✨

We’ll draw two winners on Friday, 6/12.

Babies & Bumps is a day filled with support, education, local resources, shopping, giveaways, and connection for pregnant and postpartum moms and parents growing their families.

Want to learn more? DM us and we’ll send you the direct link with event details!
and.bumps

06/07/2026

Can you feed a baby without the baby? United Healthcare seems to think so. 🤦‍♂️

UnitedHealthcare has announced a horrific new policy: they will no longer cover the infant's portion of a lactation appointment.

By pretending the baby isn't an active participant in learning to feed, UHC is loudly declaring that infant health doesn't matter to their bottom line.

This loophole slashes lactation consultant pay by 50%, which will drive top providers out of network and leave regular families stranded without affordable care.

The clock is ticking. We only have 9 days to make them walk this back.

👇 TAKE ACTION NOW: 👇

Instagram: Head over to https://www.instagram.com/unitedhealthcare to comment AND DM them, and demand they protect infant care.

Mail a Letter: Grab a 1-minute template at https://paperlesslactation.com/blog/fight-uhc/ to print and mail to UHC management.

Contact NJ Reps: Let your local state assembly people and senators know UHC is violating NJ Law (§ 52:14-17.29cc). Look them up here: njleg.gov/district-map.

Don't let a massive insurance company compromise the health of our newest community members. Please SHARE this post! 🔄

02/11/2026

Which one is your favorite? 💘

01/13/2026

This may be helpful for you. ❤️‍🩹

On sorrowful days, many parents and caregivers are searching for ways to support their children as they hear about violence and traumatic events in the news. We’ve gathered trusted guidance and reputable resources to help you have age-appropriate, supportive conversations that can reduce fear and build a sense of safety. Visit our website to read Talking With Children About Violence in the News: Guidance for Parents and Caregivers and find tools to support your family during difficult times: https://namimn.org/talking-with-children-about-violence-in-the-news-guidance-for-parents-and-caregivers/

Via Early Risers Podcast

12/11/2025

There’s something wrong with this. Does this seem off to you?⠀
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We believe women need to be checked on and cared for more than just once at 4-6 weeks post-birth. ⠀
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Doulas are not medical professionals, but we *are* trained to help parents recognize what’s normal and what may not be normal when it comes to their mental and physical health. We are there for you and your family, for the days AFTER the big event of birth, when your new universe is taking shape.

Because that event is just as big, and deserves just as much attention.
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