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Episode 19: Creating a VBAC Plan
In many communities, those who desire a VBAC or vaginal birth after cesarean can face many obstacles and challenges. For some, the biggest challenge is finding a care provider who is supportive of vaginal birth after cesarean. For others finding a birth location can be a major obstacle. Knowing that you have support is the most important factor in going into a VBAC with confidence—support from your partner, family, friends and your provider. There are many facets to consider when creating a plan for vaginal birth after cesarean. Hiring a doula for support is one way to ensure you are aware of all the options for your birth. Join us…
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Episode 14: What to Pack for Your Birth
As doulas one of the most common questions get is, “What should I pack for birth?” A quick google will result in countless lists that recommend all the things that you should have on hand for your birth. However, if you ask the parents what they actually use once their baby is born, the list of what they take is drastically longer than what they used. Overpacking is common. We get it. You want to make sure you have everything you might possibly need. However, the reality is that the things you need can fit into two backpacks or small duffle bags. We recommend a different approach to pack for…
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Episode 13: Fear of Giving Birth
The fear of giving birth is a common experience for expecting families. However, it’s a fear that isn’t often vocalized. Far too often, those who are pregnant are hesitant to express their feelings surrounding birth. Oftentimes this is rooted in a fear that no one will understand. Or concern that their feelings may be invalidated. As doulas, talking about the common fears surrounding childbirth is a common part of our practice. There are 5 common fears that we often hear growing families express: Perineal tearing or trauma during birth Something bad will happen to themselves or the baby Birth takes a different path than they were expecting Not being able…
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Episode 11: Induction of Labor
Induction of labor is a topic that many of our clients bring to their doulas, especially as the due date grows closer. Induction of labor can happen for two reasons. Some indications are necessary for medical reasons, and others happen due to the ability to schedule the day the labor will begin. When induction is medically necessary, there are some factors to consider. The Bishop’s score will indicate whether the chance of the induction is likely to result in success. When the Bishop’s score is not determined to be favorable for induction, cervical ripening is the first step. There are two methods to approach cervical ripening. One that involves medications.…
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Episode 10: Placenta Encapsulation – Location Matters
When it comes to placenta encapsulation, who you choose to process your placenta matters. The placenta is an organ. An organ that carries all of the biohazardous risks that any other organ or meat carries. How it is processed, and the location in which it happens is foundational to a safe process. When considering the encapsulation, you may picture a stainless steel location, like a commercial kitchen. But the reality is most individuals who perform encapsulation are doing so in their own homes. Typically their own kitchen or garage. While this can seem harmless on the surface, many factors can impact the quality of the process and the finished capsules.…
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Episode 8: Postpartum Doulas – What do they do?
Postpartum doulas are innovators of support and masters of adaptability. The particular challenges your family may face after birth are as varied as you are. But there are commonalities amongst the families we work with. As postpartum doulas, we have the experience and resources to help you and your family find the path of least resistance as you recover from birth and navigate life with your new baby. Your postpartum doula can minimize stress and frustration and increase confidence. We focus on your bond with your baby and how you are handling this transition into life with this new tiny human. We often receive calls from growing families who ask:…
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Episode 5: Choosing A Prenatal Care Provider
One of the first decisions you make when you find out you are pregnant is who you will hire as your prenatal care provider. For some, an established relationship with a trusted gynecologist may make this an easy choice. Others may find themselves searching for the perfect provider to provide their prenatal care and to facilitate their birth. You may have a preference for an obstetrician, or perhaps you prefer a midwife. Regardless of your choice, the individual you pick will significantly influence where you will give birth and what options are available to you as you navigate pregnancy and birth. As doulas, we recommend giving some thought to what…
