“Mary Duke Lcce how do I get my 13 yo daughter prepared to see me give birth? She has been wanting to be there for the last several children…When the time comes she will kind of be stuck there until the end and I want her to be ready. Any advice?"
Read More“professional photos can help Mom and Dad process a traumatic birth experience, celebrate a joyous experience and share images with a loved one or friends who were not able to be present for the birth. For me personally, the benefit was being reminded of special moments that I may have forgotten about all together, even years later. “
Read More"What struck me as I sat there, was my view in that hospital Labor & Delivery room. In front of me, despite an active birth, was an empty bed with the monitor straps left behind. I want every one of you planning a hospital birth to know that freedom of movement and intermittent monitoring is a safe option for most moms and should be discussed with your care provider.”
Read More“The topic of racism in birth work has been on my mind for years. I've spoken to a few trusted friends, but never on social media. I've never even spoken publicly about its existence. Why? Because it's a scary topic. It's also a topic I'm pretty ignorant about as a white woman and I know I have zero authority on the topic...”
Read MoreI've experienced the helpless feeling of standing just on the other side of the "scrubs only" sign. It’s an anxious feeling, as you are suddenly separated from the family you've supported throughout their pregnancy and birth. There you wait. Helpless. Everything is out of your hands. Some relief comes when you hear the cries of a newborn, but full relief never comes until you see mom and baby, both safe, healthy and together in recovery.
Read More"Her name is Amanda. Alone, she kneels in the birthing pool surrounded by only water with my hands holding hers. She was distracted by doubts about her abilities to manage the pain and a swirling flood of emotions, as her body began to prepare her for delivery. In this moment, a Doula needed a Doula. When we all find ourselves stripped down to our vulnerable places, may we all lift each other up. In labor and in life."
Read More"Students are typically in their 3rd trimester at their 1st Lamaze class, and fairly close to meeting their baby. I often find myself wishing they had known some pertinent information much earlier in pregnancy or even prior to conception. This led me to compose a list of 10 things to know BEFORE pregnancy that I talk about now in Pregnancy Prep Workshops."
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