I know this topic might make a lot of people squeamish, but I appreciate how thoughtful and honest Lil Sugar was in this post about “Reinventing the Afterbirth.” She says she reached her limit when she learned about the keepsake placenta teddy bear featured below:

She also offers less odd options, including burying the placenta in the garden, eating it or following the lotus birth tradition of creating a pouch to store the placenta until your child naturally separates from it.

Do any of these options appeal to you? Will you plan to follow any of them for your next child? What are your thoughts on keeping the afterbirth? You tell us!

Being a new mom is hard without support from family, friends and even in some cases co-workers. My friend who recently had a baby said that her boss and co-workers came every day the first week after she gave birth to provide meals for her and her husband. Since not all of us are lucky enough to have that kind of support, here are a few other ways new moms can reach out to get advice, share their experiences and feel supported by other mothers out there.

1) Check out Meetup.com, an online network of local groups coming together to share their similar interests and hobbies. You can also do a search for social groups for moms in your area. Bay Area Moms of 2007/2008, for example, holds several get togethers for stay-at-home moms such as gabbing over coffee or taking the strollers out for a walk. Out & About Mamas in Union City offer playgroups for the kids and space for pregnant moms to get advice.

2) Moms Club is a support group for stay-at-home moms that has local chapters. The club does everything from helping children in the community to fun get togethers.

3) If you want to find other parents out there who you can connect with in your area, check out the online parenting network Raising Them.

An article entitled, “Support Groups for New Moms“ expresses the importance of networking explaining that research has shown that spending time with peers decreases the likelihood of getting postpartum depression. Getting support is not only vital but can be fun. There are a number of new support groups for parents and new moms sprouting out everywhere. Check out groups in your area.

Pass these links along to any new moms you know who are looking for a lift!

• BabyZone offers their readers’ best advice for new moms, from letting friends and family help out to how to talk to your new baby.
• Feel overwhelmed by all the new changes in your life? Everyday Health proves that you aren’t alone.
• Ban the post-baby diet! BabyCenter lists the best energy-boosting foods for new moms looking to regain their shape.
• If you’ve been cleared by your doctor and you’re ready to start a workout regime, check out SheKnows‘ top five fitness tips for new moms.
• Read through Showing’s list of quick tips to make mom feel fabulous with baby in tow!