Lindenhurst Mom Shares Birthing Experience During Pandemic

LINDENHURST, NY — In early 2020, Lindenhurst resident Jacqueline Aiello was running her new business, The Nesting Place, and pregnant with her second child. Then the coronavirus pandemic hit Long Island.

Immediately, she had to make changes. At the beginning, the biggest adjustment was attending doctor appointments without her husband. After she gave birth via C-section at Stony Brook University Hospital, there were more adjustments.

She couldn't have guests over to see the new baby. In addition, she and her husband had to take care of the baby and their 2-year-old toddler without a babysitter.

"It was very isolating in those early days after giving birth because of the fact that you have to be careful who you invite into your little bubble," Aiello said. "That was one of the biggest difference, people weren't parading in and out of the house to come see the baby like they were the first time around."

For other parents preparing to give birth as the pandemic continues, Aiello advises them to educate themselves as much as they can and get prepared for the delivery.

"Learn everything you can by taking childbirth education classes, things like that," she said. "And set up your support network for after you give birth."

Having a group of mothers to talk to was the biggest help for Aiello to help her get through her pregnancy, which she was partially able to find thanks to her business. At The Nesting Place, which reopened in October at its new location in Farmingdale after closing in West Islip, they provide the "fourth trimester support circle."

A six-week support group is offered virtually or in-person to help parents get the support they need from other mothers in the same stage of life. It is led by a dula and each group has a different provider speak on a different topic.

"Having that support should be your top priority because it can be very isolating," Aiello said.

The business can now offer small in-person classes but also have virtual options for support groups and fitness classes.

"You really need to find that village of mom support around you and those you feel safe with," she said. "Having those stroller walk with other moms and getting out and being together was the biggest help. Just reach out and find that sense of community that you're going to need."