December is often a time when we look back over the year, taking stock if you will, celebrating the joys, mourning the losses. For most, this has been a heck of year to say the least; for others, especially those who have lost loved ones, it has been the worst. There is a saying we've … Continue reading We’re Not All in the Same Boat
Category: Childbirth
When 9/11 occurred, our world was completely changed; but we quickly moved to the new "Post 9/11 World." As the pandemic hit (and has continued it's spread), our world has completely changed -- but the shift to a "Post COVID World" has not happened yet (and may not for some time.) I am left with … Continue reading Temporary Exemption
As a doula and childbirth educator, I continually strive to get my clients evidence so they can make the best decisions for themselves and their babies. I truly believe in the autonomy of my clients and I work hard to create the space for them to use their voices. Evidence Based Birth® is an excellent resource … Continue reading
As a independent doula, and like many other birth workers, I am on-call from the moment my clients sign a contract with me. Birth can happen during any week of pregnancy and at any time of day, any day of the week. Because of this, it may seem that I don't really start working until … Continue reading “Unless I’m at a Birth”
Are you anxious about your upcoming hospital birth? Are you planning a home birth, but nervous about a possible hospital transfer? Is this the first time you’ll be admitted to a hospital and you’re unsure what to expect? Have you had a bad hospital experience and you’re wondering how to make this time different? About … Continue reading Savvy Birth 101
We live in a time when most people do not like uncertainty. We have instant knowledge at our fingertips, we can contact people anytime, and there are apps that allow us to know exactly where our family and friends are. We like to know the what, when, where and how. Then the pregnancy test comes … Continue reading Go With Your Gut
As a doula I am often asked nutrition questions by my clients, so I am always on the lookout for good resources. I recently read a book that I think is an excellent guide for pregnancy (and beyond) and I would love to tell you a bit about it. Lily Nichols RDN, CDE is a … Continue reading
Recently my husband needed hand surgery, so one of the first things he did was ask the doctor about the different options for the procedure. Then he went and looked up the options online. He read articles and watched videos of the actual procedure. He wanted to know as much as he could about what … Continue reading I Don’t Need a Childbirth Class
What is it about being pregnant and having a baby that seems to elicit advice from everyone we meet? “You’re robbing your children of their childhood if you do not take them to Disney World.” “You really need to leave your children with their grandparents overnight – you owe them that.” “That baby is way … Continue reading No, I’m Not Interested In Your Advice
It’s hard to really understand what someone else’s pain feels like. Birth also comes with a lot more “stuff” than just discomfort – there are other physical things going on, not to mention the myriad of emotions, fears, doubts, joys, decisions, etc. And each birth is so unique. Whatever number this birth is for you, … Continue reading JUST RELAX?!?! – What to say instead