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 »
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 »
Birthworkers are a dedicated bunch. The phone rings at all hours, and we answer, ready to roll. We offer comfort for the aches, balm for the fears, and remind our clients to believe in themselves, find their power, love their bodies, and nurture their babies. We wipe away tears without judgment and celebrate joys without
Healthy Self-Care and Preventing Burnout 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 »
I remember the very first time that I held a newborn baby. I remember the sensation in my heart as I held her like a fragile tea cup. I was a young and wide-eyed first year nursing student assigned to teaching newborn care. I was invited to hold her while listening to her mother share
Self-Compassion: “We Were All Babies Once” Continue reading »