Author:

Samantha Kauffman

Samantha Kauffman, RNC, is the perinatal education coordinator at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial. She holds an extra certification in OB nursing, is a certified childbirth educator, a certified mother-friendly nurse, Rebozo certified, and a hypnobirthing practioner. She enjoys working with new parents or parents adding to their family. Samantha and her husband have been married for 32 years. Both grew up in Newaygo County and they have six children, four grandsons, and one granddaughter. Samantha enjoys working in her community and with the OB providers at Gerber Memorial to share how awesome childbirth and children are. She also enjoys scrapbooking, sewing, reading, and biking.

Posts from Samantha Kauffman

Thoughts about C-sections

Health officials worldwide are on a mission to reduce the number of cesarean section births.

Expecting? 10 tips to manage the merrymaking

Pregnancy adds a whole new dimension to hectic holiday schedules—but there are plenty of ways to keep life in check.

Epidurals—the upsides and downsides

It's often one of the most effective ways to manage pain during labor—but is it the best option for you?

New baby? Build safe sleep habits

Face-up sleeping and a toy-free crib—just two of many ways to shape the safest possible sleep environment for your new family member.

Breastfeeding’s great for baby—and mom, too

You've long known about the multitude of ways babies can benefit from breastfeeding. But did you know about the unique ways it might help moms?

Gallstones—the post-pregnancy affliction

For some women, this painful condition arises within a few months of giving birth. Food choices and water intake are your best lines of defense.

Bath time for new babies

There's no ironclad rule on when to bathe your newborn for the first time, but your little one might benefit if you wait at least half a day after delivery.

Loosening up the timetable

Have your baby your way, without feeling rushed in labor and delivery.

Counting on TENS

Labor pain relief comes in many forms, but the handy little TENS unit is a non-pharmacological approach with no known side effects.

The postpartum doula

A specialized doula can serve a critical role in the days and weeks after childbirth—an essential period in establishing long-term wellness for mom and baby.

New option for postpartum depression

The FDA has approved a new medication specifically for postpartum depression. The catch: It has some tight restrictions.

Spotlight on maternal depression

New moms face a host of changes in a short period of time. It's essential they have resources to navigate the fourth trimester.