Initial Breastfeeding

If you can imagine, being born has got to be an incredible experience.  It is the greatest transition any human will ever make during their existence on earth.  Most women today choose to breastfeed, even if it is only for the first few weeks of life.  We know that...

Who to Invite to the Birth

Check with your birthing facility, some hospitals may have rules about how many people may be in a delivery room.  A woman in labor will need to feel very comfortable emotionally and mentally.  As you consider who you may want to invite, make sure you have only...

Active Pelvic Rocking

View this video to see a comfort technique that can also help baby be in a good position.

What to take to the Facility

If you are having your baby at a hospital or birth center you will need to pack a bag.  You are welcome to take whatever will help that hospital room become your birthing environment.  As you think about what to take consider the five senses.  What do you want to see,...

Birth Stories

Women remember their birth stories.  It is an experience that will remain with her forever and one that can influence the rest of her life.  Women tend to remember a few aspects of labor or birth extremely vividly.  There are other things they may not even be aware...

Stripping Membranes

This is something that can be done to help begin labor  It can be done in your care provider’s office at a regular check up near your due date.  In order for this to have a chance of starting labor, it is helpful if the cervix is favorable—dilated at least 2 cm and...

Spinning Babies

So much of what the body is trying to do during labor is get the baby into the best possible position.  When the baby is properly positioned, labor can be more comfortable and more effective. Visit Spinning Babies to know how to help your baby be in a good...

Partner Involvement

One of a doula’s jobs is to help the partner be as involved as he/she is comfortable being.  For some that comfort level is providing all the hands-on and verbal support with guidance from a doula on when and how to do and say the right things.  For some partners the...

Relaxation

Relaxation is extremely important during labor and childbirth.  The more relaxed you are, the more efficient each contraction can be and the less pain/discomfort you will feel.  When tension is held in the hands, shoulders, neck, forehead, or any other place, it takes...

Recording the Birth

Some couples are interested in recording the labor and delivery of their baby.  Here are a few tips:  have someone specifically assigned to this job.  It is difficult for a partner to be a support person and record the events of the day.  Realize that the process can...

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