One of our wonderful providers was on maternity leave for the last few months, but we’re now excited to be welcoming her back on August 3! Dr. Michelena has been with Cheyenne OBGYN for several years and has a special interest in adolescent health, minimally invasive surgeries, and high risk obstetrics. Her and her husband Brian Pieper, along with their daughter, Hazel (2), welcomed a new brother to the family in April! To celebrate her return, we asked her a few questions about what it’s like to be the mother of a newborn right now.
COG: When was your new baby born?
SM: April 8, 2020
COG: What is the baby’s name?
SM: Jack Sawyer Pieper
COG: What are you most excited about upon your return to Cheyenne OBGYN?
SM: Returning to the opportunity to take care of so many wonderful women in our area again.
COG: What will you miss about maternity leave?
SM: So much quality time with my husband and kids.
COG: Could you share a few of your favorite new baby parenting tips that work for you and your family?
SM: Having somewhat of a schedule has helped us and our kids tremendously. But I’ve also had to learn to be flexible within that schedule and go the flow a bit with a head strong toddler and newborn.
COG: Do you have any parenting tips for fellow moms during the time of COVID-19?
SM: Pregnancy, delivery, and maternity leave during COVID have had their own set of challenges. The biggest tip I would have (which I still struggle with some days) is giving yourself and your family more grace. Understand that taking care of yourself with rest, gentle exercise, and understanding are so important for you all during these unusual times. Schedules, baby sleep, and weight concerns will come with time. It’s easy to get caught up in what we can’t do right now or what our kids are missing out on … for example we skipped newborn photos, had minimal visitors, and were wishing for more park days and outings that we couldn’t do. All of this can make maternity leave feel more isolating than it already is. But focus on all of the special bonding with baby and family that this time allows!
