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Episode 18: Internal Fetal Monitoring
There are many options for monitoring the health and well-being of the baby during labor. External monitors monitor the baby’s heart rate from the outside. Internal fetal monitoring records the baby’s heart rate from the inside. When there are concerns about how the baby responds to labor, an internal monitor called a fetal scalp electrode is often used. Internal monitoring is a method of monitoring a baby from the inside. It’s also a more accurate method of monitoring the beat-to-beat variability of the baby’s heart rate during labor. As doulas, we don’t subscribe to the philosophy that all intervention is bad. As a result, we see the internal fetal monitor as…
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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 7: Five Common Doula Myths
Ask 10 people about doulas, and you’ll likely hear at least one of the common doula myths among the responses. Doulas are like midwives. They are only for those who plan to have an unmedicated birth. Doulas hate hospitals and doctors. The possibilities are endless. While some of the myths may apply to some doulas because they had to start somewhere, right? There are far more doulas today that do not fit these common myths and stereotypes. In this episode, we address five of the most common doula myths: I have a supportive partner; I don’t need a doula. Doulas are the same as midwives. Doulas can’t support those who…
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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…
