The final weeks of pregnancy bring a whirlwind of physical changes, emotional shifts, and mental preparation. While you may feel joyful and ready to meet your baby, you might also be uncomfortable, restless, or even a little nervous about labor. Whether this is your first or fifth baby, learning how to care for your body,… Read More Coping Skills & Comfort Techniques for the Third Trimester and Labor
An in-depth look at Dr. Nicole Pensak’s groundbreaking guide for navigating motherhood with compassion and science Motherhood can be beautiful—and it can be overwhelming. For new moms who find themselves anxious, uncertain, or not quite like themselves, Dr. Nicole Pensak’s book, Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain,… Read More Rattled: A Must-Read for Every New Mom Navigating Anxiety
Labor and birth are incredible processes, but for many expectant mothers, contractions are one of the most feared aspects of childbirth. The good news? You don’t have to fear contractions! Your body is designed for this process, and understanding what happens during labor contractions can help you feel more confident, in control, and prepared. The… Read More All About Labor Contractions: Understanding What’s Happening in Your Body
We’ve highlighted key information from several reputable websites to help expectant mothers feel informed and confident throughout their pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medications or changing your routine. Can I Take Medications During Pregnancy? In general, it is best to avoid unnecessary medications during pregnancy. Minor discomforts such as headaches, mild… Read More Pregnancy FAQs: Common Concerns, Safe Medications, and When to Seek Medical Care
Labor and childbirth are unique experiences—no two births are exactly alike. What one person goes through may be completely different from another’s experience. Every birth story is different, and every labor progresses in its own way. There are four stages of labor:1️⃣ The First Stage – The process of the cervix dilating to 10 cm.2️⃣… Read More Understanding the First Stage of Labor: What to Expect and How to Cope
Written by Nneka Hall (12/2017; Edited by Dr. Ashley Barksdale (03/2025) WARNING: Infant loss is mentioned in this blog post. I am a mother of four—three here with me and one who rests in paradise. My third child, Annaya, was stillborn at 39 weeks due to missed preeclampsia. There were so many missed warning signs,… Read More Counting Kicks: A Simple Way to Monitor Your Baby’s Well-being
If I had to choose just one essential tool for pregnancy and childbirth, it would be the Rebozo. In every childbirth class I teach, I introduce my students to this incredibly versatile and comforting tool. The reactions are always the same—instant relief, increased relaxation, and excitement at how simple yet effective it is! But here’s… Read More The Rebozo: A Timeless Tool for Pregnancy, Labor, and Beyond
Have you ever wondered how babies receive oxygen while still in the womb? Although some people are familiar with this process, others may not have considered how it works. The way babies receive oxygen before birth is both fascinating and complex. Babies Do Not Breathe in the Womb Unlike fish, which use gills to extract… Read More How Do Babies Get Oxygen in the Womb?
You’ve hired a doula to support you throughout your pregnancy and birth—but when should you actually reach out to them? 📌 Should you call if it’s the middle of the night?📌 What if your doula is with their family?📌 Is it okay to contact them early in the morning? ✅ Yes! Call your doula. That’s… Read More When to Call Your Doula: A Guide for Expectant Parents
Childbirth is a profound and transformative experience—one that brings anticipation, excitement, and, for many, anxiety. Questions about pain, uncertainty, and the possibility of medical interventions often arise. Fortunately, continuous labor support, particularly from a doula, has been shown to significantly improve the birth experience and outcomes for many families. According to the American College of… Read More The Importance of Continuous Labor Support: How Doulas Improve Birth Outcomes