Supporting Working Parents: No Longer Just a Nice-to-Have—It’s a Strategic Advantage

Supporting Working Parents: No Longer Just a Nice-to-Have—It’s a Strategic Advantage

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A joint study between Great Place To Work and Maven has found that there are significant benefits in creating a supportive environment for working parents, demonstrating its positive impact on both employees and companies.

Key Findings from the Study:

  1. Significant Business Gains- According to the study, companies that provide strong support for working parents experience notable financial gains. Businesses that excel in supporting working parents see 4.4 times greater profitability and 2.1 times greater revenue growth compared to those that don’t. These results demonstrate that a commitment to family-friendly policies isn’t just good for employees—it’s also good for business.
  2. Improved Employee Engagement and Loyalty- Employees at workplaces that prioritize family support report higher levels of engagement. The study found that employees in these environments are 5.6 times more likely to feel valued and 4.5 times more likely to recommend their company to others. This translates to higher retention rates and a more engaged workforce that is eager to contribute to the company’s success.
  3. Retention of Top Talent- One of the most significant challenges businesses face today is talent retention. This challenge becomes even more pronounced when it comes to parents in the workforce. Research from the study shows that companies with robust parental benefits are better able to retain key employees, particularly women. Without this support, 43% of women leave the workforce within the first year of having a child, which can result in expensive turnover costs. Offering parental leave, flexible work arrangements, and childcare support can help retain these valuable employees.
  4. The Power of Flexibility- Flexibility in work arrangements is one of the most effective ways to support working parents. The study found that companies offering flexible hours or remote work options saw higher levels of productivity and job satisfaction. Parents who are able to manage their work schedules around family commitments are more focused, less stressed, and able to contribute more effectively to the business.

The findings from Great Place to Work’s largest-ever study on working parents are clear: businesses that invest in supporting their employees’ family lives are reaping the rewards in terms of higher revenue, profitability, and talent retention. By embracing family-friendly policies and offering flexible work options, companies can build a more engaged, loyal, and productive workforce—ultimately driving long-term success.

As the workforce continues to evolve, it’s time for more companies to recognize the powerful business case for supporting working parents. The future of work is not just about driving profits; it’s about building a thriving, inclusive workplace where everyone, including working parents, has the support they need to succeed.

Learn more about how companies can support parents in the workplace here. (link Creating a Family-Friendly Workplace: Best Practices blog)

Citation:

Great Place to Work. (2020). Parents at the Best Workplaces 2020. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/reports/parents-at-the-best-workplaces-2020

The Idiocracy of the Balancing Act: Motherhood, Career, and the Choices We Make

The Idiocracy of the Balancing Act: Motherhood, Career, and the Choices We Make

I didn’t want to go back. There, I said it. After each of my four boys, I didn’t want to go back. And no, it’s not because I didn’t love my job. I adored my job. I spent all my twenties and the early part of my thirties chasing my dream, and guess what? I caught it. But I didn’t want to go back because I’d become a mother.

And before you start getting judgey, trust me—I was judgey too. Before motherhood, I didn’t get it. I didn’t understand it. I couldn’t comprehend it. Scratch that—I didn’t even see it. I didn’t acknowledge the seismic shift my body, mind, and life had endured for over a year.  (Side note, that scientific term is matrescence, a birth of a mother and patrescence, a birth of a father.)

My thirties became a juggling act: growing my family, working, and chasing that utterly ridiculous concept of “work-life balance.” Spoiler alert: there is no balance. There are only choices. You make decisions in each moment to create some semblance of normalcy— decisions made in the moment to keep things from falling apart. Sometimes you nail it. Sometimes you’re handing your three-year-old your Lean Cuisine after a 30-hour hospital shift because that’s all you’ve got left in the tank. And sure, you’ll spiral down the rabbit hole of what ifs when you’re exhausted and vulnerable. But at the end of the day, you choose the best path you can at that moment.

There are two constants in life and society— breeding and capitalism. And why should capitalism support breeding? Because, at its most basic level, breeding supports capitalism (you know—future workers). If you want a deeper dive into how these two intertwine, check out The Doctor and Her Black Bag, an evidence-based book that explores the economics of maternal mortality.

Bottom line? Supporting working parents isn’t just a moral obligation anymore. It’s a smart business move. Supporting working parents isn’t just a warm, fuzzy idea anymore—it’s a strategic advantage. It drives growth, sustains industries, and creates a future workforce. Companies that figure this out aren’t just doing the “right thing”—they’re setting themselves up for long-term success.

The Critical Role of Vitamin D for New Moms and Babies

The Critical Role of Vitamin D for New Moms and Babies

Pregnancy and early infancy mark significant periods in a person’s life, demanding utmost care and attention to ensure optimal health and development. Among the essential nutrients needed during these stages, Vitamin D stands out for its pivotal role in maternal and infant well-being. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the critical importance of Vitamin D for new moms and babies, discussing its necessity, sources, deficiency testing, treatment methods, and the latest literature supporting its significance.

Mechanism of Vitamin D

Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. 

Here’s a breakdown of how Vitamin D is used in the body.

1.Sun Exposure: When your skin is exposed to sunlight, a precursor molecule in your skin called 7-dehydrocholesterol undergoes a chemical reaction, converting it into pre-vitamin D3.

2. Conversion in the Liver: Pre-vitamin D3 then travels to the liver, where it undergoes further modification to become 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], also known as calcidiol. This form of Vitamin D is the major circulating form in the bloodstream and serves as an indicator of overall Vitamin D status.

3. Activation in the Kidneys: 25(OH)D travels to the kidneys, where it undergoes another transformation catalyzed by an enzyme called 1-alpha-hydroxylase, resulting in the production of the active form of Vitamin D, known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], or calcitriol.

4. Regulation of Calcium and Phosphorus: Calcitriol plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. It enhances the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestines into the bloodstream, ensuring an adequate supply for various physiological processes.

5. Bone Health: One of the primary functions of Vitamin D is to maintain bone health by promoting calcium absorption in the intestines and preventing calcium loss in the urine. Adequate Vitamin D levels help ensure proper mineralization of bones, preventing conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

6. Muscle Function: Vitamin D also contributes to muscle function and strength by maintaining calcium levels within muscle cells. Sufficient Vitamin D levels may help reduce the risk of falls and fractures, particularly in older adults.

7. Immune Regulation: Emerging research suggests that Vitamin D plays a role in modulating the immune system, potentially reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases and supporting immune function.

8. The relationship between Vitamin D and mental health is an area of growing research interest, with evidence suggesting that Vitamin D may play a role in various aspects of mental well-being. Here’s an overview of the relationship between Vitamin D and mental health:

  • Mood Regulation: Vitamin D receptors are present in areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Studies have suggested that Vitamin D may influence the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are involved in mood regulation. Low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Cognitive Function: Adequate Vitamin D levels have been linked to better cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline in older adults. Research suggests that Vitamin D may play a role in neuroprotection, promoting nerve growth and repair, which could contribute to maintaining cognitive health.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of the year, usually during the winter months when sunlight exposure is reduced. Vitamin D deficiency, resulting from decreased sunlight exposure during winter, has been implicated in the development of SAD. Supplementing with Vitamin D or light therapy, which mimics natural sunlight, has shown some benefit in managing SAD symptoms.
  • Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders: Some studies have found an association between Vitamin D deficiency during prenatal or early life stages and an increased risk of developing schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders later in life. However, further research is needed to establish a causal relationship and understand the underlying mechanisms.
  • Neuroinflammation: Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties and may help modulate immune responses in the central nervous system. Dysregulation of immune responses and neuroinflammation have been implicated in various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory effects may contribute to its potential role in mental health.

While these findings suggest a potential link between Vitamin D and mental health, it’s essential to note that the relationship is complex, and Vitamin D supplementation is not a standalone treatment for mental health disorders. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, diet, and environmental influences also play significant roles in mental well-being. Therefore, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the relationship between Vitamin D and mental health and to determine the potential therapeutic implications. Individuals concerned about their mental health should consult with healthcare professionals for personalized assessment and treatment recommendations.

Vitamin D Needs Increase During Pregnancy

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D escalates to 400- 600 IU/day, ensuring adequate support for the developing fetus and newborn.  Insufficient levels of Vitamin D during these phases can elevate the risk of complications such as preeclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm birth, underlining the significance of supplementation to avert adverse outcomes. Moreover, a randomized control trial even advocated for pregnant women taking up to 4,000 IU of daily vitamin D to prevent preterm labor/births and infections.  Talk to your OB/GYN for the right amount of Vitamin D for your individualized health and verify the amount of vitamin D in your prenatals.  

Benefits of Vitamin D for Newborns and Infants

Beyond skeletal health, Vitamin D offers a myriad of benefits for newborns and infants. It shields against infections, asthma, and eczema while potentially reducing the likelihood of type 1 diabetes. Moreover, Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in cognitive and neurodevelopment, underscoring its influence on a child’s academic performance, behavior, and overall growth trajectory. Recent studies have further elucidated the importance of Vitamin D in maternal and infant health. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that maternal Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus and low birth weight (Aghajafari et al., 2013). Another study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlighted the link between maternal Vitamin D status during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes, emphasizing the long-term implications of adequate Vitamin D levels for child development (Whitehouse et al., 2012).

For infants, the recommendations for Vitamin D supplementation vary depending on the country and healthcare guidelines. However, the end goal is for the breastfeed baby to receive a minimum of 400 IU of vitamin D.  

  • American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): The AAP recommends that exclusively and partially breastfed infants receive a daily Vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (international units) starting from the first days of life. For breastfeeding mothers, the AAP suggests they continue taking prenatal vitamins containing Vitamin D or supplement with 600 to 800 IU of Vitamin D daily to ensure sufficient levels in breast milk.
  • Health Canada: Health Canada recommends a daily Vitamin D supplement of 400 IU for breastfed infants until they reach one year of age. For breastfeeding mothers, Health Canada advises a daily intake of 600 IU of Vitamin D to ensure adequate levels in breast milk.
  • National Health Service (NHS) UK: The NHS suggests that breastfeeding mothers should take a daily Vitamin D supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) to ensure they and their breastfed infants receive sufficient Vitamin D.
  • World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO recommends a daily Vitamin D supplement of 400 IU for infants and children under five years of age who are at risk of Vitamin D deficiency. They also advise lactating mothers to take Vitamin D supplements if they have limited exposure to sunlight or are at risk of deficiency.

In the 4th trimester: How New Moms and Babies Can Obtain Sufficient Vitamin D

Attaining optimal Vitamin D levels during pregnancy and lactation necessitates diverse strategies. Moderate sun exposure, approximately 10-15 minutes per day, enables the skin to synthesize Vitamin D; however, precautions against excessive sun exposure are vital to prevent sunburn and skin damage. Additionally, incorporating Vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified products into the diet can augment intake. When dietary sources are insufficient, supplements offer a reliable means of meeting the required Vitamin D levels, with dosage tailored to individual needs under healthcare provider guidance. Furthermore, breastfeeding mothers should prioritize maintaining their own Vitamin D levels to ensure adequate transfer of the nutrient to their infants via breast milk.

Breastfed babies can receive this supplementation directly. An alternative way is for breastfeeding mothers to increase her own intake of vitamin D supplementation safely to 6400-8000 IU/day.  Formula fed babies receive adequate amounts in their formulas.  When newborn feeding is from breastmilk and formula or families are transitioning from breastfeeding to formula feeding, supplementation of vitamin D should continue until the baby is receiving over 50% of nutrition from formula. 

Deficiency, Testing and Treating

Research has shown that 40-60% of the US population is vitamin D deficient.  Contributing factors include lack of foods that contain vitamin D, lactose intolerance, and usage of sunscreen. Other factors can include the ability to make/absorb vitamin D.  In terms of sunscreen which prevents skin care, most sunscreen products are activated after 15 minutes of application.  Thus, applying sunscreen right before exposure can ensure the 10-15 minute exposure needed while balancing the protection from sun exposure.  

Regular assessment of Vitamin D status through blood tests is suggested during pregnancy to detect deficiencies.. Upon diagnosis, healthcare providers prescribe high-dose supplements to rectify deficiencies, followed by maintenance therapy to sustain optimal Vitamin D levels. A combined approach involving supplementation and judicious sun exposure proves effective in addressing deficiencies and safeguarding maternal and infant health.

Take Home Message

In essence, Vitamin D emerges as a cornerstone of maternal and infant health, exerting profound impacts on bone strength, immune function, and neurodevelopment. By prioritizing adequate intake of Vitamin D through sunlight exposure, dietary sources, and supplementation, expectant mothers can optimize outcomes for themselves and their babies. Regular screening for deficiency and prompt intervention further enhance the prospects of a healthy pregnancy and infancy. With ongoing research continuing to underscore the importance of Vitamin D, it remains a key focus in maternal and child healthcare.


References

Aghajafari, F., Nagulesapillai, T., Ronksley, P. E., Tough, S. C., O’Beirne, M., & Rabi, D. M. (2013). Association between maternal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Journal of Nutrition, 143(5), 765-772.

Whitehouse, A. J., Holt, B. J., Serralha, M., Holt, P. G., Hart, P. H., & Kusel, M. M. (2012). Maternal serum vitamin D levels during pregnancy and offspring neurocognitive development. Pediatrics, 129(3), 485-493.

Vitamin D Supplementation during Pregnancy Part 2 NICHD/CTSA Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT): Outcomes.

The Benefits of an Ayurvedic Diet for Postpartum Health

The Benefits of an Ayurvedic Diet for Postpartum Health

As a new mother, it’s common to experience a range of postpartum health concerns including fatigue, anxiety, and digestive issues. To address these issues, many new moms turn to supplements. While supplements can be helpful in some cases, relying solely on isolated nutrients can do more harm than good. A better approach may be an ayurvedic diet. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importance of balance in all aspects of life, including diet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of an ayurvedic diet for postpartum health and provide some helpful tips for getting started.

A More Holistic Approach Tailored to the Individual

One of the biggest benefits of an ayurvedic diet is that it provides a more holistic approach to health. Rather than addressing isolated nutrients, ayurveda focuses on bringing balance to the body and mind through food. An ayurvedic diet is customized to suit the unique needs of the individual, taking into account their dosha (individual body type) and any specific health concerns. This tailored approach helps to address postpartum health issues at their root cause, allowing for long-term relief.

An Emphasis on Whole Foods

An ayurvedic diet emphasizes whole foods that are fresh and in season. These nutrient-dense foods help to nourish the body and bring balance without relying on supplements. Focusing on locally grown produce

Eating Fresh, Seasonal Foods

Another benefit of an ayurvedic diet is that it places a strong emphasis on eating fresh, seasonal foods. This means that the diet changes with the seasons, providing the body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy throughout the year. This approach is particularly beneficial for new mothers, who are often in need of extra nourishment after giving birth.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices Provide Micronutrients

Ayurvedic herbs and spices are an important part of the diet, providing the body with the micronutrients it needs to stay healthy. For example, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory, while cumin aids in digestion. By incorporating these herbs and spices into their diet, new mothers can address specific health concerns while also supporting their overall health and wellbeing.

Problems with Relying on Supplements

While supplements can be helpful in some cases, there are some downsides to relying solely on isolated nutrients. For one, quality and safety regulations for supplements are limited. It can also be difficult to know which supplements to take and in what doses. Additionally, supplements don’t address the importance of lifestyle factors like emotional health, exercise, and sleep.

Tips for Getting Started

If you’re interested in trying an ayurvedic diet, there are a few steps you can take to get started. Firstly, it’s important to find out your dosha (individual body type), as this will help you tailor the diet to suit your own needs. You can do this by taking

Sample Ayurvedic Meals and Recipes for New Moms

Creating an ayurvedic meal plan can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some dosha-specific meal ideas with their benefits:

Vata: quinoa porridge with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (warming and grounding)

Pitta: steamed vegetables with coconut oil and cilantro (cooling and cleansing)

Kapha: lentil soup with turmeric and cumin (warming and stimulating)

For an easy recipe idea, try this kichari recipe:

1 cup brown rice

1 cup yellow mung dal

3 cups water

½ teaspoon turmeric

1 tablespoon ghee

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon coriander powder

½ teaspoon rock salt

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Combine rice, mung dal, water, and turmeric in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice and dal are tender (about 30 minutes). In a separate pan, melt ghee and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and coriander powder. Cook until fragrant, then add to the kichari. Add rock salt and chopped cilantro and serve.

Lifestyle Tips to Support the Ayurvedic Diet

In addition to changing their diet, new mothers can support their overall health and wellbeing by incorporating these lifestyle tips:

Get enough rest and sleep

Practice gentle yoga, meditation, and massage

Use aromatherapy to uplift mood and energy

Spend time in nature and with supportive loved ones

An ayurvedic diet provides a holistic approach to postpartum health that addresses the unique needs of the individual. By focusing on balance through fresh, seasonal foods, herbs and spices, and dosha-specific meal planning, new mothers can support their overall health and wellbeing in a way that supplements simply can’t match. By incorporating lifestyle tips like rest, gentle movement, and supportive social connections, new mothers can further enhance the benefits of an ayurvedic diet. So don’t hesitate to give it a try and experience the transformative power of ayurveda for yourself.

Supporting Vaginal Health After Childbirth: The Role of Estrogen

Supporting Vaginal Health After Childbirth: The Role of Estrogen

The beauty of childbirth brings along several changes, such as hormonal fluctuations that can significantly impact the body. One crucial factor affected by childbirth’s hormonal changes is vaginal health. Estrogen has a significant role in maintaining the thickness and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. Let’s delve deep into how to support vaginal health post-childbirth by understanding the impact of estrogen and other practices.

How Estrogen Levels Change Postpartum

After delivery, there is a rapid drop in estrogen levels in the body. This decline becomes more pronounced while breastfeeding, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort in the vaginal area. Though this is a normal physiological change that occurs in the postpartum period, thinning and decreased elasticity of the vaginal tissues can lead to microtears causing painful urination, defecation, and also during sexual intercourse.  Hence, a healthy level of estrogen is vital for maintaining proper vaginal health.

Treatment Options

Topical vaginal estrogen preparations, such as creams and suppositories, help provide localized estrogen without any systemic effects. However, oral estrogen is not recommended while breastfeeding. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you.

Additional Ways To Support Vaginal Health

There are several ways other than medical treatment that can support vaginal health. Keeping the body hydrated is one of the simplest but most effective ways to do so. Seeking pelvic physical therapy to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and incorporating perineal massage during the postpartum phase are few other essentials in promoting the healing of the perineum. Lastly, using lubricants during intercourse enhances comfort and reduces the likelihood of vaginal microtears.

Knowing When To Seek Help

While a drop in estrogen levels is a normal postpartum change, the symptoms associated with it should resolve within 6-12 months. However if you have these symptoms, consulting with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine if there are any underlying issues related to your vaginal health.

Take Home Message

Maintaining vaginal health after childbirth is crucial to recover well and lead a healthy lifestyle. The role of estrogen in this is undeniable, and there are several ways to support it. Along with medical treatment, keeping the body hydrated, pelvic physical therapy, perineal massages, and using lubricants during sex can aid in vaginal health. Always remember to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or symptoms to determine the best treatment plan for you. Lastly, focus on restoring elasticity and moisture to promote optimal vaginal health and enhance postpartum healing.

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