The majority of families plan on breastfeeding. In the United States alone, 81.1% initiate breastfeeding in the hospital. Unfortunately, little is being done to help families reach their goals if breastfeeding issues arise or if mothers have to be separated from their infants. In fact, most medical professionals will recommend formula feeding in these situations. […]
Breastfeeding Support Equals Breastfeeding Success Continue reading »
The percentage of mothers returning to work after delivery within 3 months has increased in the last 50 years. [1] With 1 in 4 women returning to work within 10 days after birth, one-third returning after three months, and another third by six months. [2] Working mothers continue to be among the fastest growing segment
Breastfeeding Friendly Workplaces Influences Breastfeeding Duration Continue reading »
I came into doula work shortly after the birth of my first son who was a #borderbaby. I was one of the few Alabama woman who choose to birth across the state line to Tennessee to receive care from a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and have an out-of-hospital (OOH) birth. This choice was easy for
5 Tips for Supporting a Home Birth Labor Doula Client Continue reading »
The act of bringing your mind into the present moment—meditation, mindfulness, centering, or whatever term you use to describe it—is a tool we all have at our disposal to help manage stress and anxiety. But the term “meditation” can be intimidating to many, as it congers up an image of a robed Buddhist Monk or
Here and Now: Guiding Our Clients into the Present Moment Continue reading »
What is childbirth, really? Is it just about getting a baby out? Of course not! It’s also about becoming a family and working hard to discover what our bodies are brilliantly capable of. As doulas, it’s our job to see our clients through the process, to witness their transformation before our eyes, as they dig
Transforming Pain as Doulas Continue reading »
I had this interesting conversation with my client the other day which had to do with what people think they have the right to say when perhaps they should keep their comments to themselves. This has to do with breastfeeding, which is very close to my heart as I believe that is the best start
“Milk Jugs, Tits, Cow” Continue reading »
Providing care to a new mother and her newborn is a privilege that should not be taken lightly as a healthcare provider. Everyone that plays a role in either educating or participating in physical and psychological support must ensure the new mother feels safe and cared for in her ability to take care of her
Supporting a New Mother’s Ability to Parent Continue reading »
A few months back a colleague sent me information on a local study being done at MIT titled “Breast Fed Infant/Toddler Stool Sample Study”. She thought I would be interested in reading more about it and possibly participating. The criteria was: Being 18 years or older Having an infant/toddler 2-36 months Having an infant/toddler that
Studying the Microbiome Continue reading »
Several years ago, I kept coming across this list titled, “10 Keys to Success that Require Zero Talent”. The “zero talent” portion of that title intrigued me and made me want to delve deeper into the meaning. Over the years, it has become a part of my business and has also become a part of
Keys to Success Continue reading »
In my work, I hear the secret fears women have about childbirth. Today’s mothers are keenly aware of how their mindset affects the way they live their lives and wisely, they assume the same must be true of childbirth. They are ready and willing to seek out ways to become more mindful, more aware, and
The Practice of Birth Inventory Continue reading »