Last Birth for 2012

2012 is ending with a bang. I attended my 6th birth on December 18th. My client wasn't due until early January, but labor came on fast and furious. This was my first truly precipitous labor. By the time we met at the hospital, she was ready to push. I didn't do much as a doula, but my client said she found what I said to her during pushing very helpful. I learned that words can be as powerful as touch!

On a personal note, this birth was very meaningful to me. Last year on December 18th, I suffered my 5th miscarriage and this year I was able to witness my 5th birth (since one I attended was a c-section). Also, baby's name means "blessed". I feel really blessed and redeemed!

I am looking forward to what is in store for me in 2013. Stay tuned...

Come on! Get Homebirth Happy

I attended my first natural and homebirth  on Sunday. One word--AWESOME!  Attending a homebirth is so much different than a hospital birth. It feels peaceful and relaxing and mom was able to labor wherever she wanted. This is the first time that I was super hands-on as a doula. I did massage, position changes, and other comfort measures. At one point when labor stalled, I was actually napping with mom on the same bed. It was very rewarding when she really needed me. The midwives were great. We really had a great team. Mom was such a trooper. She overcame many obstacles and achieved her goal beautifully. It was worth every hour!

I highly recommend homebirth if the circumstances are safe for you!

Free Breastpumps??

Pretty cool article that describes how to get a free breastpump!

http://www.hellobee.com/2012/11/08/dont-pay-for-a-breast-pump-until-you-read-this/

A Little Catch Up

Well...it has been a while since my last post! And boy has a lot happened...

October 1st: Attended my third and final certifying birth. It was about a 12 hour labor with a vaginal birth and my client had a girl. Since my client had an epidural very early on in her labor, I learned that a doula is as much an emotional support as physical one.

October 8th: I started accepting clients through a doula group called Informed Birth Choices. This group will allow us to provide a continuum of care since the founder of the group also teaches childbirth classes, so she has lots of prospective parents seeking out doula, which allows for them to have a doula with the same philosophy that Danielle offers in her classes. I am very excited about this new group!

October 26th: Baltimore Bike Party. My husband and I dressed like the "Birds and the Bees"...just something fun to throw in there :)

November 1st: I signed up for a Certified Lactation Counselor course through the Healthy Children's Project. I am very excited for this 5 day class, and the best thing is, that it's in Gettysburg. Part of my family lives there...can you stay "free lodging"?!

November 9th:  I had the privilege of attending the birth of another friend, which was my fourth birth. My friend's water broke sometime on the evening of Nov. 7th. So the next morning she went into the hospital and started on pitocin. She labored for 12 hours on pitocin, but after failure to progress and approaching the 36 hour mark of her water being broken, she had a c-section. She gave birth to a baby girl! I learned that it is good to have a plan and be very prepared for labor (while on pitocin I got to see her get into her labor groove), but sometimes things don't go your way and can be disappointing. I am so happy that they have a very healthy and beautiful baby! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of a very special time in your lives!

(permission to post from parents)

Now: I am preparing to attend my fifth birth and my first home birth. My next client's due date is November 19th. I am very excited and a little nervous. I am really looking forward to working with  home birth midwives and experiencing a home birth.

International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day: October 15

Today is International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day. It is a day to remember babies and pregnancies that were lost in miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. I can't tell you how important this day is to me and to many people I know.  I personally have experienced loss in this way and I have supported and loved people through these types of devestating loss. Losing a baby is life altering. My role as a doula has been a very joyful one, but I will always remember that my joy was born out of deep sorrow. Consider lighting a candle today in rememberence of babies lost. Join families all over the world in honoring their precious children.

For more information: http://www.october15th.com/

Guest Post: Pelvic Organ Prolapse

The Basics of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
There was a time when women wouldn't think of discussing reproductive issues. The subject was taboo and even doctor visits, pregnancies and childbirth stories were considered hush-hush. Unfortunately, this cultural aversion has led to a generation of women who are largely uneducated about the anatomy and physiology of pelvic tissues and organs. As a result, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) — a condition that can largely be avoided and or mediated using conservative measures — is diagnosed in as many as 50 percent of women between the ages of 50 and 79. Preventing the onset or severity of POP symptoms can eliminate the need for risky surgical intervention. Women who learn about the condition can help spread the word to other women regarding how it can be prevented and/or treated.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
A woman's pelvis, as well as pelvic organs and tissues, are unique. It is designed to accommodate the growth of a baby during pregnancy and to help the baby emerge naturally when it is time to be born. However, this design is not without potential weakness. Pregnancy and childbirth do take a toll on these tissues, stretching and contracting to house and deliver a baby. Even the healthiest of women might find that their abdominal muscles, and pelvic tissues, are never quite the same after childbirth. If women, do not continue to focus on pelvic health through the postpartum period and beyond, or if they have other contributing factors such as obesity, smoking, pelvic injury and/or a family history of POP, these muscles can grow continually weaker and allow pelvic organ prolapse to develop. As women age, estrogen levels decrease, which causes further weakening of pelvic tissues. This is why  OP is usually diagnosed when women are closer to menopause. As the connective tissues  eaken,  elvic organs can start to shift out of place and descend toward the pelvic floor. In some cases, there  re no symptoms and women can use non-invasive methods to restore and maintain pelvic floor  trength. In other cases, the prolapse is so severe that organs will begin to collapse on the vagina, and/or tissue may even drop into the vaginal canal.

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include:

• The inability to insert, or retain, a tampon
• A pulling or heavy sensation in the pelvis and/or lower back
• Unusual spotting or bleeding
• Incontinence and/or constipation
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

Treatment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Unfortunately, one of the most common treatments for POP is a surgical procedure using transvaginal mesh implants. Bladder slings  have been linked to significant numbers of health complications, some of which are irreversible. Any woman diagnosed with POP should discuss non-invasive treatments or alternative surgical procedures with her doctor. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that unless a case of POP is severe, doctors should always use conservative treatment methods before suggesting surgical intervention.

Conservative treatments include:

• Healthy lifestyle choices
• Pelvic floor exercises
• Electrical stimulation
• Pelvic physical therapy
• Pelvic massage
• Vaginal pessary (a device that is inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs)

Thousands of women have suffered from the complications of vaginal mesh use and have since  ought to file bladder sling lawsuits  against manufacturers of mesh products. The more educated women are about POP, the more likely they will be to focus on pelvic health and seek the safest and most effective treatment(s) for their symptoms.

Elizabeth Carrollton writes to inform the general public about defective medical devices and dangerous drugs for http://www.drugwatch.com/.

Luvs Commercial

This is the first commercial I have seen on network TV with breastfeeding. Awesome!

Booby Traps

When you are a new parent, there is so much information that people give you. But sometimes the information is wrong...and from your doctor. This can be totally frustrating, especially when you are trying to breastfeed. There are so many old wives tales or non-evidence-based information. How do you navigate it all? First do your own homework. Read reputable breastfeeding books (written by organizations whose focus is breastfeeding, e.g. La Leche League) and attend a breastfeeding class. Also, find a pediatrician who is breastfeeding-friendly and who will support you and get you the help you need. When you are having trouble-- get help from a lactation consultant (have this person lined up before you need her help). Finally, compare all your information and question the outlying facts. Knowledge is power, especially when breastfeeding. You can do it!

Here are some breastfeeding myths to avoid: http://www.bestforbabes.org/booby-traps-series-six-breastfeeding-myths-you-might-hear-at-the-doctors-office

Eating for Twins and More

Recently, I have been reading an enlightening book by Elizabeth Noble called, "Having Twins and More". The most interesting facts I have found has been about nutrition. There are so many nutrients missing in the modern American diet, especially pregnant women, specifically for women carrying twins.

"Here is a list of essential nutrients and the amount required daily by expectant mothers of twins, compiled from tables in Having Twins (by Elizabeth Noble) and Make Room For Twins (by Terry Alexander), which also list food sources and sample menus. In keeping with our "better higher than lower" philosophy, we have chosen the higher figures where the two books did not agree. Even so, there are several cases, most notably Vitamin B and C, where many researchers would feel that these values are still too low."

Calories 4,000
Protein 145 grams
Vitamin A 5-8,000 IU
Vitamin C 100mg (milligrams)
Vitamin D 600 IU
Vitamin E 12 mg
Thiamin (B-1) 2 mg
Riboflavin (B-2) 2 mg
Niacin (B-3) 20 mg
Pyridoxine (B-6) 3.2 mg
Folic Acid 1.25 mg
Vitamin B-12 5 mcg (micrograms)
Calcium 1600 mg
Iron 100 mg
Magnesium 600 mg
Phosphorus 1600 mg
Potassium 3250 mg
Iodine 150 mcg
Zinc 25 mg

Reference: http://www.twinservices.org/articles/nutrition.html

So if you are pregnant with or without twins, please do your research and find good sources of nutrients. Eating healthy is important for women to carry twins to term, avoid development problems in babies, and avoid health problems like preeclampsia in mothers. Gain weight, but in a healthy way!

Snip Less, Please!

Episiotomies used to by a routine procedure when having a baby. In fact my mom used to say, about my birth, that they [doctors] cut her from "stem to sternum". That doesn't sound very pleasant! Not only is it not very pleasant, it most cases it is completely unnecessary. Studies show that tearing naturally is less painful, more easy to repair, and heals more quickly. So be very weary if your doctor or midwife routinely does episiotomies. The less "snipping" the better!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/22/episiotomy-childbirth-guidelines_n_1799394.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular

Pain in the Back

Many women experience the painful type of labor called back labor. It is thought to be a sign that the baby is Occiput Posterior (your doctor call this OP), which basically means that the baby is face up with the back of his/her head pressing right into mom's lower back. This can cause terrible pain and pressure in mom's back and buttocks area even with an epidural. I have read however that back labor doesn't always mean that the baby is OP. There are several other causes of back labor in women and some techniques that can help ease this pain. Check out this blog to read more about back labor and some things you and your doula can do to ease the pain in your back!

http://birthunplugged.blogspot.com/2011/05/theres-more-to-back-labor-than-fetal.html

To Snip or Not to Snip

Circumcision is a very controversial subject nowadays. It can be a hard decision for parents to make.  I have two boys and I also had to make that decision and at one point we were very unsure.  I don't want to make it sound simple, but it really is: do research and go with your gut.

Interesting article about circumcision:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-19072761

Natural, Un-medicated--It Can Happen and You Can Help

A natural, un-medicated birth is often a goal of moms-to-be, but sometimes may seem daunting or unobtainable. It can happen and there are some things that you can do to help. The following article gives great tips that can help you achieve a natural birth. Dr. Shannon gives evidence based information that will definitely increase your chances of meeting your natural, un-medicated birth goal. (Please note that tip #3 is hire a doula :)

You can do it!

http://evidencebasedbirth.com/2012/06/08/dr-shannons-tips-for-a-natural-or-un-medicated-birth/

When Fear is Near

Having a baby can be a very anxiety or fear-producing situation, especially if it is your first and you don't know what to expect. You will hear all kinds of birth stories that may shake you up. But your birth doesn't have to be scary. It can be empowering and satisfying. This article highlights 4 ways that you can reduce your fear during childbirth. You can do it!


http://www.parentingstartshere.com/index.php/2012/08/16/4-tips-to-help-reduce-fear-of-childbirth/

So, I sew...

So, I sew and one of my favorite things to create is baby stuff. I love sewing all things baby, but my latest new sewing obsession is the moby wrap. I sewed three moby wraps for less than the price of one. Incredible! I have also sewed lots of other types of baby carriers, including a sling and mei tai. I love creating things that are super useful! I have two extra moby wraps. Contact me if you are interested ($15)

Moby wrap

Mei Tai

Sling

Thanks to my little guy for participating in the photo shoot.





Nesting-In

For the months of August and September, I am focusing on my postpartum doula services. I am backing-up a couple births, but sort of switching gears to help my new mom clients. I love chatting about birth stories, helping with breastfeeding, running errands, snuggling with babies, and dressing moms in all kinds of baby carriers! I would love to work with a mom with multiples, so if you know any who wants help, please let me know. I love being a part of all the different aspects of being a doula. Loving "nesting-in" with moms and dads right now!

When You're Expecting

Expectations. They can lift you up or let you down. I am all too familiar with expectations that haven't been met, but most recently I was faced with some doula expectations that let me down. I had planned on shadowing a birth with my doula mentor very recently, but she called to let me know that her client changed her mind and rather than have me attend, she wanted to have her friends there. I was bummed. I was feeling very sorry for myself, especially since two weeks ago I missed another birth. But then a thought came to me. If that is how that mom wanted her birth story to go, who was I to feel bad about that. The main job of a doula is to help a mom (and dad) achieve her birth plan however she defines it. Her birth story didn't include me and that is ok.

A lot of people have expectations when they are pregnant and they can feel let down too. Maybe a pregnancy ends in miscarriage or stillbirth. Maybe the baby is the "wrong" gender. Maybe the baby is born with a disability. Or maybe the birth story doesn't happen as planned. All of those circumstances can be devastating. It is hard to find hope. But hope does remain.  Our expectations change or we change.

My reproductive history is just peppered with bad circumstances and un-met expectations, but that does not define who I am. Just like being a doula does not define who I am. It is a part of who I am, but thankfully, there is much, much more to me. So with that, I look forward to the next time I get to attend a birth, but all my hopes are not set on it.

World Breastfeeding Week

August 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week. Great job to all the moms who breastfed their babies. Whether it was 1 year, 1 month, or 1 day, I congratulate you. It is hard, but so important!
http://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/

Birth, Bellies and Babies Expo

If you are preggo or  just became a mom, you may want to check out the free expo all about babies and mamas in Baltimore. Check out the link for more info: http://www.marylandbirthnetwork.com/BBBExpo.html

Back-it-up!

I learned first-hand how important it is to have a back-up doula. I had three clients in the month of July and all of the them were due 5-10 days a part. I thought it was possible that I would need a back-up doula, but thought it was unlikely. Low and behold, two clients went into labor about 3 hours apart. I couldn't believe it! Thankfully, my back-up doula, Elizabeth, was able to cover. While I attended a 36 hour labor she attended another 36 hour labor. It was epic, but we couldn't have done it without each other. I hope that one day I can be there for her too!

(permission to post from parents)

Johns Hopkins and Doulas

I just discovered that Johns Hopkins has been training nurses to be doulas since 1997!  So cool! They offer a DONA certified doula class as an elective for students becoming nurses. This class focuses on, not only on training certified doulas, but also, reaching out to the community of people who would not normally have the means or opportunity to hire a doula. The nurses are paid for their services through a special community outreach fund. It is so awesome for Johns Hopkins, a very scientific medical school, to see the value of a doula. Basically, it comes down to offering people a better service and at the same time saving money (studies show that the use of a doula decreases the incidence of more expensive procedures, like c-sections).

Check out these websites to read more about doulas and Johns Hopkins:
http://nursing.jhu.edu/areas_of_excellence/local/birth_companions/index.html
http://www.urbanitebaltimore.com/baltimore/mothers-helpers/Content?oid=1245199

Baby Number Two

Well, it finally happened, I attended my second birth! As I waited for my two overdue clients to call me, they went into labor virtually at the same time. I couldn't believe it! But since I work with a back up doula, both clients were covered.

I got a call on Wednesday night from the mom who wasn't quite 41 weeks. She said she was having regular non-painful contractions. I was pretty sure these were not Braxton-Hicks, but I waited until midnight on Thursday morning to come over to her house. She labored at home until 4am and then we went to the hospital. We had no idea what was in store for her. She was in active labor for over 30 hours and 24 hours unmedicated. She was awesome! Baby was big and a little stuck but she pushed through the pain and exhaustion and had a beautiful vaginal delivery early Friday morning.

As a doula, I helped her constantly change positions to get the baby to come down, but it seemed like everything we tried didn't work. The midwife was really proud of her for moving around and changing her position. Without her hard work, she most likely would have had a c-section.

It was such a hard labor, but it was such an honor to be by her side and cheer her on. Most of all it was so amazing when she finally triumphed. I was so proud of her and over-joyed to meet her little boy. Thank you to those tough parents who allowed me to be a part of his miraculous appearance. I have never met a tougher mother in my whole life!

(permission to post from parents)

My First Doula Experience

After what felt like months of waiting, it finally happened. I attended my first birth! I should have known something might happen since Friday the 13th was just around the corner. In the midst of dinner making on Thursday, I got the call. We all rode to the hospital together and "mom" was admitted. She was such a champion, even through excruciating back labor! At first it seemed like I wouldn't be needed since there was lots of family present, but my doula skills and my bag of goodies came in handy. In addition to the snacks I brought in my doula bag, I had some tools that really helped mom. She loved the icepack for her back and general cooling. The flower fan and trigger ball were big hits too. I was also able to suggest some walking and some position changes that helped move labor along. Although mom had some fear about labor and delivery, she conquered each one and had a great vaginal delivery. So proud of her and happy that my training really paid off!

It was such an emotional experience to see a baby being born. Tears gushed from my eyes, as we all rejoiced for the proud parents and congratulated mom's efforts. My first birth is something that I will remember and hold dear for the rest of my life. Thank you (you know who you are) for allowing me to be apart of such a personal and precious part of your life!

(permission to post from parents)

Birth Story Documentary

Recently, I read an article in a magazine about a new documentary coming out called Birth Story: Ina May Gaskin and the Farm Midwives. I was so excited to read that a documentary has been made about Ina May. She is like the grand matriarch on midwives in America. Don't let her hippie style scare you, she really knows what she is doing. Please read more about Ina May: http://www.inamay.com/

Here are the detail about the documentary coming out: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/birthstory/birth-story-pushes-on-to-the-los-angeles-film-fest

It should be super interesting! I can't wait for the DVD!

Annie-versary

Today is my 8th wedding anniversary. I am finding it hard to enjoy today, because I am looking foward to three moms who are having their babies any day. It is almost like I am waiting to have my own baby. I am so excited to attend my first birth, and I am having trouble keeping my mind occupied on other things. I know I won't do everything perfectly, but my hope is that the moms (and dads) know how much I care about them and that they feel that love throughout labor and delivery. So today, as one of my clients suggested, I will rest and patiently await the babies' arrival. So blessed to be a part of their lives!

The Adoptive Parent and Postpartum Care

Adoption is a huge part of my life. Both of my sons are adopted and it has been a way of life for my family (extended too) and me. One thing I really wished that I had, was post-adoption help from someone who had adoption experience. My mom helped with basic infant care and my sister-in-law helped with breastfeeding, but I didn't have emotional support I needed.  Even though I had read books, I was not prepared. I felt like I had to be super-mom since I hadn't actually given birth, but what I really needed was to nest-in with my new little one and let everything else go.

There is a real need for adoptive parents to have post-adoption care from someone who knows what to expect when you have just entered into an adoptive relationship. There needs to be time for bonding and attachment, along with basic knowlege of infant care, breastfeeding support (if applicable), household organization, etc. Also, adoptive mothers (and fathers) can experience post-adoption mood disorders, like depression and anxiety. Someone who can help identify this, as well as help the parents with their new adjustment, is key to a positive adoptive experience. I think a great soluntion to this is the postpartum doula. Even better is a postpartum doula who has experienced adoption in someway.

Adoption can be challenging, but with some post-adoption support and tons of parental love, it can also be an amazingly rewarding experience for everyone involved!

Don't wear yourself out...just wear your baby!

"Baby-wearing" is an essential parenting skill. There are many well documented benefits of wearing your baby.  You are probably thinking, "what do you mean, 'wear my baby'?" Baby wearing meaning carrying your child in a sling, holder, or long piece of cloth that attaches directly to you. In other cultures, baby wearing is a way of life. There aren't fancy strollers or infant car seats. Mom (or dad) wears baby wherever she goes.

Besides the fact that babies who are worn in carriers cry less, are socialized earlier, and learning language and social cues earlier, there are practical reason that help parents out too. Babies are more portable. Happy baby=happy parents. Wearing your baby means that you can meet your own needs, like eating, shopping, cleaning, or walking the dog for example. It also eases the transition for older siblings, because baby isn't always occupying mom or dad's attention. Baby becomes an extension of the parent.

There are many types of baby carriers and there is a lot to consider when purchasing one. Here are some things to think about:

• What is the main purpose? Short-term carriers or the long haul?
• Comfort
• Style
• Who will be using the carrier mainly?
• Hands-free
• Washability
• Do you have multiples?

Ten Reasons to Wear Your Baby: http://www.naturalchild.org/guest/laura_simeon.html

Happy Baby Wearing and Happy 4th of July!

The Extraordinary Milk League

The extraordinary league of milk, otherwise known as le leche league, is like a league of breastfeeding superheros. Well, not really, but LLL is a great resource for moms to have to get breastfeeding off to a great start. Each group is led by two or more CLC (certified lactation consultants) and meets about monthly to talk about breastfeeding questions. It is a time to be learn more about breastfeeding (and parenting in general) and to be encouraged by other moms. If you are pregnant, nursing your first baby or you are a veteran breast feeder there is something at LLL for you! Check out LLL and get connected and get a great start at breastfeeding.

http://www.lllofmd-de-dc.org/

Super Helpful Breastfeeding Links

LactMed help you know what medications/drugs you can and cannot take while breastfeeding:
http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT

Best Start shows you how much your baby should be eating in the first few days and also what signs to look for that your baby is getting enough milk: http://www.beststart.org/resources/breastfeeding/pdf/breastfdeskref09.pdf

Doula Droid Timer

I just got this sweet app on my phone to make time contrations even easier! The Doula Droid Timer will help me and parents-to-be get an accurate time and frequency on each contraction. It records everything too. Awesome! Thanks again, Google!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.douladroidtimer&hl=en

Happy Memorial Day Millitary-Breastfeeding Moms

Active duty millitary moms breastfeeding. I have never seen something as tough as a millitary mom breastfeeing in combat boots. Super cool. Check out the link:
http://moms.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/05/30/11955844-military-mom-proud-of-breast-feeding-in-uniform-despite-criticism?lite

The Baby Book

So I ordered The Baby Book by William and Martha Sears and it just came. I had no idea what I was in for. I was expecting something like what I already had--like The Premature Baby Book by the same authors. Well, was I in for a surprise. It is HUGE! After lugging it around everywhere I went to read it while I waited for things, I decided, "I need to know how much this thing weighs!" So I got on the scale and weighed myself (not telling :) and then weighed myself holding the book. 4 lbs...that is almost as much as my youngest son weighed when he was born. It is big, but boy is it a good read! It is a super resource and I bought mine for like $5 used online. I highly recommend it, but just be prepared for its large-ness!

Being a Mom in the U.S.

Just recently I talked to a friend who lived in Australia for a year. She was telling me that there, after mother's give birth and if "mum" and baby are doing well, they move to a nice hotel down the street where they can be together in a quiet, less germy environment (checked by a nurse of course). Mothers also get 6 months off work with full pay or 1 year off with half pay and your job is guaranteed for 3 years! Being a mom in Australia seems pretty sweet. Then I stumbled across this article showing that Australia is the 7th best place in the world to be a mom. Guess what the US was ranked?....25th. Not the best showing, but hopefully this will improve with education and awareness. Check out this link to see all the top 30 best countries to be a mom.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/08/global-motherhood-the-bes_n_1475607.html?ir=Impact&ref=topbar#s936964&title=7_Australia

The Amazing Placenta

Check out this link to learn some awesome things about an organ that your body grows while you are pregnant: the amazing placenta!

http://blogs.babble.com/being-pregnant/2012/04/24/facts-about-placenta-umbilical-cord-amniotic-sac/

Cultures, Customs and Caring

Being a doula is so cool! I get to meet so many people with such different cultures and beliefs whom I wouldn't normally meet in my everyday life.

 Recently, I have met a family with deep religious beliefs and customs. They were very nice and welcoming people, but I was caught off-guard. I was dressed inappropriately for their customs and was embarrassed (although they seemed very understanding and not offended at all). After leaving their home, I was struck by how doulas must be aware and respectful of the environments that they are entering. It was a lesson learned and I hope I can do a better job of respecting people's beliefs in the future.

And last week I had a meeting with some folks who were very into spirituality, but not necessarily a particular religion. Although, we undoubtedly won't agree on every spiritual thing, I know that her birth and her baby will unite us. That is what being a doula is all about. Serving the mom during a time where she can be completely vulnerable, but she can feel completely safe.

Mercy Hospital's New Childbirth and Children's Center

On June 10th, Mercy Hospital in Baltimore will be opening their new Childbirth and Children's Center. The goal of this new center is to  "build the mother-child bond as quickly as possible, by ensuring mothers and their newborn babies spend as little time apart as possible".  It will be equipped with many features that promote a natural birth, like tubs for water births, showers, and other cool natural birthing tools. Also, each room is private. This seems like it will be a really cool new addition to Baltimore. I look forward to attending births there!
http://www.mercybunting.com/aboutBuntingCenter/servicesAndAmenities.html
http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/news/2012/05/10/mercy-unveils-415m-family-childbirth.html

The Essential Ingredient: Doula

This video about Doulas gives you a powerful understanding of the importance of labor support for mothers. I find it facinating that some of the founders of DONA are men. Even men can recognize the importance of woman-supported labor and delivery.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u792CxDT7cE

Why be a Doula?

I have just recently completed my birth doula training through DONA international. (Check out their website: http://dona.org/) So, I am currently working through my certification process DONA. The workshop was an amazing experience in which I learned so much information and helpful tips about labor and delivery. But most of all I learned how impacting the experience of birth is for a mother and that they way she is treated during her labor and delivery largely determines how she feels about that experience for the rest of her life. I want to be a part of making that memory a positive and empowering one. So I am embarking on a life-changing path that I am certain will change my perspective on babies, women, and life in gerneral. I'm excited!