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For many families, the expectations for how the postpartum period will unfold is vastly different than the reality.
Social media often shows beautiful nurseries, blissful moments with a newborn, and a perfectly well-kept home and family. However, for most families, their reality is vastly different. It's difficult to remember that social media typically only shows the best moments of someone's life.
What these images fail to show is the reality for many, including the pile of laundry in the corner, the sink full of dishes, wearing the same clothes for three days that might be stinky and covered in body fluids.
Life at home with a new baby is full of challenges many families may not expect. Challenges such as exhaustion, navigating caring for older children, or worrying about falling asleep and not hearing your baby cry. Join us as we take a look at the expectations vs realities of postpartum recovery.
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In many communities, those who desire a VBAC or vaginal birth after a 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.
The most important factor in going into a VBAC with confidence is knowing that you have support. 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 as we discuss the nuances of creating a VBAC plan for your birth.
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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 a tool. Experience has shown us that it is a tool that allows more time and opportunity for a vaginal birth to take place.
Understanding how internal fetal monitoring is applied and what information it can provide is an important part of informed decision-making.
Join us as we explore the how and why of internal fetal monitoring during labor and birth.
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The big day has come. Your baby is here! Now it's time to focus on getting to know your new bundle, but first, you have to navigate the immediate postpartum recovery.
Those first few hours and weeks post-birth have many physical and hormonal changes. From recovery from a vaginal or cesarean birth, postpartum bleeding, and fundal massage to navigating your need for sleep, immediate postpartum recovery is something many do not expect.
No matter how your baby was born, there will be challenges in your physical recovery and your transition into parenthood. As doulas, we like to help clients plan ahead for these transitions.
Join us as we explore the ins and outs of your immediate postpartum recovery.
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May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. This month we direct awareness and recognition to those affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
When discussing maternal health happen, they tend to focus on postpartum depression. However, mood disorders can happen well before the post-birth period. For some, depression and anxiety may begin during pregnancy. Those with a history of depression and anxiety before pregnancy are at an increased risk of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Approximately 20% of those who have given birth recently, or 1.3 million individuals each year, will suffer from a postpartum mood disorder according to Postpartum Progress. In fact, postpartum anxiety may be more common than postpartum depression among pregnant and newly delivered individuals as reported by The Journal of Affective Disorders.
Balanced mental health is not only important for the wellbeing of the birthing person it is also important to the health and wellbeing of the baby.
Join us as we explore how maternal mental health can impact your pregnancy, birth, and post-birth experience.
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Decision-making surrounding pregnancy, labor, and birth is often the first introduction to major life decisions many individuals will experience. For many, this will be the first time they are responsible for making major decisions for someone other than themself.
As doulas, we understand your decisions do not happen in a vacuum. Your life experiences and personality strongly influence how and why you will make the decisions you make about caring for yourself and your baby.
There are four basic ways that most people come to a decision. Some will rely on research and the best evidence available. Others will purely rely on their gut and intuition and where it leads. The opinions of others, family, friends, or your partner may influence your decision strongly. Additionally, the opinion or recommendation of your provider may be where you find yourself making the most comfortable decisions.
Join us as we discuss the various approaches to decision-making and how we support you in your choices from a place of unbiased, nonjudgmental support.
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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 used once their baby is born, the list of what they take is drastically longer than what they used. Overpacking is common, we totally get it. You want to make sure you have everything you might possibly need. However, the reality is that the things that you actually need can fit into two backpacks or small duffle bags.
We recommend a different approach to pack for your birth. All you need is two bags. One for labor and birth. One for your post-birth recovery.
Join us as we discuss what to pack for your birth. Make sure you visit our blog post "What to Pack for Birth" on the Tucson Doulas' website to get your downloadable PDF packing list.
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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 to self-advocate Fear of the unknownThere are many avenues to helping growing families navigate these common fears. Join us as we discuss the top five most common fears surrounding childbirth and how you can navigate them.
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As you prepare for the birth of your baby, a lot of your focus is on creating a plan for labor and birth. What is often overlooked is creating a plan for your recovery and transition into life with your new baby.
Postpartum planning is the process of assessing your needs and resources during the days and weeks after birth.
This process goes far beyond who will be responsible for doing the dishes or walking the dogs. This in-depth process can help growing families turn what is often a time of exhaustion and confusion into a time of nurturing, bonding, and intentional recovery.
From meal planning, and housekeeping, to setting up your home to facilitate ease of care for yourself and your new baby, postpartum planning is an essential part of preparing for the birth of your baby.
Join us as we discuss the ins and outs and even some doula secrets for planning for your postpartum success. -
Induction of labor is a topic that many of our clients bring to their doulas, especially as the due date grows closer.
The 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. The other involves mechanical means.
Join us as we explore the reasons, methods, and what to expect when an induction becomes part of your birth plan.
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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 placenta 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.
Join us as we discuss the many considerations when choosing placenta encapsulation.
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Trigger Warning: Discussions of trauma surrounding childbirth and neonatal loss.
Trauma surrounding childbirth can come in many forms. Physical and emotional trauma is the most common, but the perception of a threat to oneself or the baby can also result in trauma.
Childbirth is one of the great unknowns. How the birth of your baby may unfold is unpredictable for most pregnant individuals. Especially for those who desire a vaginal birth.
Individuals who have experienced previous trauma are at an increased risk for trauma surrounding childbirth. Along with those who have existing anxiety or panic disorder. Trauma can result when labor doesn't go to plan or expectations surrounding how labor and birth will go are unmet.
Finding a way to comfortably and safely process a traumatic birth experience is an important part of recovery from birth trauma. For some, the help of a qualified professional will be essential. For others, journaling, support groups, or speaking about their experience to others can help them move through trauma.
Join us as we take on the very tender topic of recovering from a traumatic birth.
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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:
"Can you help me with feeding? We are having issues." We got you.
"I am really struggling to try to figure out a daily routine. I need predictability." We can do that.
"I have some big feelings about losing myself, and I want to be the best parent possible to my baby." We can help you navigate that.
"My partner and I haven't slept in the past 3 days. How quickly can you be here" We've got you covered.
Adding a baby to the family is a huge transition. A transition full of unknowns and uncertainty. A postpartum doula can help you navigate this transition with confidence.
Join us as we discuss the many benefits of adding a postpartum doula to your post-birth support system.
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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 choose cesarean birth.
Doulas dislike doctors and hospitals.
I'm not planning a natural birth, a doula won't support me.Join us as we explore and debunk these common doula myths!
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When it comes to pregnancy, there's no doubt that it brings a host of physical and emotional sensations. Many of which you've likely never experienced. With all the "weird" that is happening to your body, it's hard to know which pregnancy symptoms are normal and which to be concerned about.
Many pregnant individuals don't want to bother their providers. They hesitate to call or go in to be checked when they have a new symptom. But ask any provider, they'd rather you call, and determine it is nothing vs. it being something that you shouldn't have ignored.
In this episode, we discuss five pregnancy symptoms that shouldn't be ignored.
Vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal cramping, back pain
Leaking fluid
Severe swelling and visual disturbances
Persistent itchy skinCome join us as we explore these pregnancy symptoms and why you should contact your provider if you experience them.
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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 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 you want your birth to look like. What options would you like to have available? Do you prefer giving birth in a hospital, birth center, or at home? For many, the preference in birth location will determine which type of provider is available in that setting.
Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of why who you hire as a prenatal care provider can influence the options available to you during birth.
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Having a grandchild is often one of those peak moments in a grandparent's life.
There is typically a lot of excitement surrounding welcoming a new baby into the family. Some grandparents are anxious to jump in and get their hands dirty, and others prefer to give their support from afar.
When grandparents are present and participate in the lives of their grandbabies, there are often points at which the grandparents and their children will disagree on how a baby should be raised. This is a power dynamic that many growing families may not have experienced before.
So how do you handle those disagreements or differences of opinions with your parents as a parent?
As a parent, it's essential to understand where the grandparent comes from. For many, they are relying on the practices that they used to raise you. You turned out ok, right?
Many grandparents haven't kept pace with the changes in research and recommendations surrounding infant care. Changes that have likely changed since they raised you. The use of car seats, sleep safety, when to start solids, and outdated breastfeeding practices. These topics present points at which conflict and disagreement can happen between parents and grandparents.
There are many complexities in navigating how involved grandparents will be in the lives of their grandchildren. Join us as we discuss how to handle those expectations and navigate those hard conversations with your parents!
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Is this labor? This is one of the most common questions doulas receive from our clients.
From Braxton-hicks to spotting to irregular contractions, how labor may begin is as varied as the person having a baby. Yet, understanding the overall labor process and the stages of labor can help growing families assess where they may be in the overall labor process.
While early labor is often the longest part of labor, it is also where contractions are further apart, shorter, and less painful.
Active labor is where things start to happen. Contractions are coming closer together, are more predictable, last longer, and can cause you to stop what you're doing and give your total focus to the contraction until it is over.
Transitional labor is the point at which labor is the most intense. It's normal to want to quit. To want to go home. Yet while it is the most intense, it's also the shortest part of labor for many.
The following two stages are pushing and the birth of the placenta. While pushing looks different depending on the individual and their unique circumstances, it is often where many birthing individuals feel most productive.
Join us as we help you learn about the stages of labor and how to navigate them confidently.
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As doulas and lactation professionals, we support client choice. The decision surrounding infant feeding is as individual and unique as you are.
When choosing how to feed your baby, there are countless options. Breastfeeding, formula feeding, combination feeding, the list goes on and on. The decision that you will make will depend on many factors. Do you need to return to work? How much time off will you have before returning to work? Will you be a stay-at-home parent?
No matter your choice when it comes to feeding your baby, there is often judgment and criticism.
Yet as birth professionals, we recognize that the decision for how you will feed your baby is made out of love. We understand that sometimes alternative decisions may need to be made. Or that once the baby is here, you may entirely change your mind.
No matter what or how you choose to feed your baby, we see you, the human, attached to the other end of whatever feeding method you choose.
Come join us as we discuss the many factors influencing infant feeding decisions.
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One of the most frequent questions we are asked is, "Why should I hire a doula?"
Usually, our response is, "Do you want the short answer or the long one?"
As labor and postpartum doulas, our goal is support. Supporting our clients through pregnancy, birth, and into the world of parenting your new baby.
Some clients come to us seeking emotional support. Others want to know all the information and all the options that exist. Then we have clients looking for a warm and friendly person to help guide them through the process. A person focused on the emotional impact these transformative events bring.
When choosing a doula, you'll know you've found the right one for you when they make you feel heard and validated, and you feel safe being vulnerable when you are in their presence.
Come join us as we discuss why you should hire a doula and what to look for when choosing your doula.
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