A different world during a pandemic Everyone is feeling overwhelmed and confused. It’s no wonder – information is coming in quickly as those in power attempt to mitigate the effects this pandemic will have on our community and the world at large. Add pregnancy into the mix, and it feels like there’s even more […]
In a recent conversation with an expectant mom, she said: “I understand that doulas provide informational, physical, and emotional support … but what do you actually do? During a birth? Or before? Or – yeah, what do you do as a birth doula?” Good question. As a birth doula I …. ~ Answer any question […]
When another doula invites you to her birth, you may squeal a little. Or at least, I do. In my role as a birth photographer and doula it was amazing to witness Becky’s family and friends surround her. This mama is notorious for calling in support as she’s a minute from birthing her babies. So […]
Those first forty days are traditionally protected, so mom and her newborn can acclimate to their new reality. This is a time to be insular and focus on your baby. In our culture, 40 days of relative tranquility can be challenging – or even impossible – to achieve. Not just because we’re so busy with […]
This year has been exciting for the birth community in the North Country. We’ve grown, strengthened, and raised awareness. This has happened through a growing facebook group focused on local birth conversations; in-person Birth Circles; and the interest of our local community. I’m excited to see more people join our community as parents and providers […]
Birth is tranformative, important, and essential. It’s vital that the birth team is respectful, knowledgeable, and trusting of women and birth. When your planning an event (say a wedding); buying a house; or going to school, surrounding yourself with the right team makes all the difference. Birth is no different. So who should be on […]
You’re pregnant. Congratulations! Everyone is so excited! You’re birthing. Yay! You’re finally meeting your baby. Everyone is excited! You’re breastfeeding. That baby is demanding milk NOW! You’re doing your best to do what’s best for your baby. You’re parenting. Everyone has an opinion. Your mom. Your partner’s mom. Your best friend. Their parents. Your sister. […]
While homebirths are on the rise, the majority of NY residents (~99% to be more precise) will choose to birth in a hospital. Even so, we generally seek out an environment that is as close to home as possible when it’s time to birth. Fortunately, our local hospital birth options recognize this and are proud […]
I tell people that I was pro-home birth before having a home birth myself. I had two perfectly wonderful-minimally-invasive hospital births before having a homebirth. After having one … I will passionately support any and every low-risk family to pursue the home birth option. This is not an option everyone is comfortable with – but […]
Extensive review of recent studies, including over 15,000 women, shows that families benefit dramatically from continuous labor support during birth. Interesting. Because this is how we’ve traditionally birthed. Surrounded by the support of our friends and family. In a typical hospital setting, women no longer have this support. Labor Support Makes a Difference According to […]