Bellies In Bloom

Intuitive Mothering is Born

2011-02-16T21:25:00.000-08:00

Hello all you faithful followers of Bellies In Bloom. I have a new endeavor I want to share with you all. It is Intuitive mothering, a site with all my services and a mothering blog to go with it. It has been a wonderful journey here at Bellies In Bloom, but you can see all of my previous posts at my new blog. Please join me over here and see my latest post!

Muah!

MIA

2010-11-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

So sorry to my faithful followers. I currently have a new website and blog in the works and it has been consuming my time. When it gets up and running I will let you all know what to convert to. Thanks for understanding on the lack of posting lately.

Blessings!

FREE TICKETS - Only 20 Hours Left

2010-09-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

BOLD is nearly here! As it quickly approaches, we are so excited to have media recognition for our event. We will air on Good Morning Texas on September 22nd at 9am, be sure to tune in if you are local. Also, The Dorsey Gang on 96.3 will play our interview on their station the week of the show. And, The Star Telegram is doing a special feature article. What great news....literally!!

You still have until 10am on Friday, September 17th to enter to win FREE TICKETS to see "Birth" on stage.

See details below on how to enter and visit the BOLD website for more details on the event happenings.

Free Tickets to BOLD

2010-09-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

In the post below, I told you all about BOLD Fort Worth.

Girls Night Out, date night with hubby, or spend an afternoon with your mom! This event is on Saturday, September 25th!

The play will be fantastic. The professional actors have volunteered their talents and time to make this an awesome show. Curtain times are 2:00pm and 7:00pm.

Before or after the show you can head over to the free Birth Fair and Silent Auction (12:00pm-6:30pm).

There will be many vendors at the Birth Fair for you to peruse and enjoy.

The Silent Auction will boast items from local and national companies. You don't want to miss it. Some of the items include: baby girl bedding, restaurant gift cards, spa gift certificates, jewelry...but I don't want to give it all way. You definitely want to show up and bid on these amazing items. (all proceeds will benefit the Tarrant County Birth Network)

Now it's time to win a pair of tickets to the play!

How to enter:
1) Comment on why you want to go to this event - 1 entry
2) Become a follower of my blog - 1 entry
3) "Like" my Bellies In Bloom Facebook page - 1 entry
4) Write about the event on your blog (1 entry) and if you live and blog in North Texas (2 entries)

Be sure to leave a comment and tell me how many entries you earned!
Winner will be chosen on Friday, September 17, 2010 at 10:00am.

Fort Worth Birth Event

2010-09-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

Birth, a Play by Karen Brody, Birth Fair and Silent Auction

WHEN: SEPTEMBER 25, 2010
WHERE: MARTIN HALL, 1309 WESLEYAN, FORT WORTH, TX
ADVANCE TICKETS: $ 10 (available through www.boldfortworth.org)
AT THE DOOR: $ 15

Fort Worth, TX - BOLD Fort Worth is presenting a day of focusing on mother-friendly childbirth choices on September 25, 2010. Theatre goers will gather to see the DFW premiere of Birth, a play by Karen Brody, and a Birth Fair will offer new, expectant and future mothers access to professionals and companies who follow the Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative.

All proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships will benefit the Tarrant County Birth Network. The event is part of BOLD (Birth on Labor Day), a global arts-based movement aspiring to create childbirth choices for mothers around the world.

“Childbirth today is a human rights issue for low-risk pregnant mothers,” states author Brody, who spent a year interviewing over 100 low risk women before writing her play. “Choices in childbirth have been severely restricted for this large population of pregnant women despite strong evidence-based research supporting a wide variety of birth choices.”

Brody founded BOLD in 2006 with the intention to use her play to raise awareness and money that promotes childbirth choices that work for mothers. As Brody explains, “Pregnancy today is typically viewed as an illness and emergency. BOLD uses theatre to raise people’s consciousness that childbirth is normal. Once this is recognized people will start demanding a childbirth model of care that is compassionate, evidence-based and puts the mother at the center of her birth experience.”

Producer Shannon Blackwell became interested in the play after the birth of her second child in 2009.

"My two different births and the care I received during my pregnancies from my providers showed me the huge difference in experience a woman can have," she states. "Being educated and knowing your options are significant factors in walking away from a birth feeling empowered. It is a milestone in a woman's life and we should celebrate that."

Blackwell recruited Christi Moore-Murphy, an established theatre director and long time friend, to direct “Birth” after Moore-Murphy delivered her second child via emergency c-section earlier this year.

"We have an amazing group of actors, an unbelievably talented director and a fabulous group of volunteers who are coming together for one day to change the way Fort Worth views birth," Blackwell continues. "And the best part is that our advocacy efforts will continue through the funds we raise for the Birth Network."

Since 2006 nearly 100 BOLD locations have raised over $130,000 for childbirth organizations. Tickets are available online at www.boldfortworth.org. The play is PG-13 and not recommended for younger children.

The Tarrant County Birth Network is a community organization, with national roots, whose mission is to provide information about, and advocacy for, evidence-based, Mother-Friendly care for expectant Tarrant County families seeking a healthy, informed, and enjoyable pregnancy and birth.

# # #

BOLD Fort Worth is a small group of (mostly) women in the DFW area joining others around the world in September 2010 in performing the play, Birth, by Karen Brody.

The Book I Cannot Be Without

2010-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am a natural birthing, breastfeeding, baby wearing, sleep sharing, non-circumcising mommy and this book helps me do that the best way I can.

The Baby Book my Dr. William Sears and Martha Sears is my go to book for all kinds of questions. I have referred to it for anything from newborn procedures, to potty training, to growth and breastfeeding. This book has it all.

One of the reasons I really like this book is because it coincides with a lot of the beliefs I have about how to care for my baby. This 28 chapter, 767 page book is written from a non-biased prospective and points out both sides of issues and questions I have. But, I like the fact that my questions regarding parenting from a somewhat non-mainstream point of view are answered.

Cloth Diapering

2010-08-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Are you overwhelmed by the idea of cloth diapering? Does it seem too time consuming? Or, are you kind of grossed out by all of it?

There are many reasons to use cloth. It is cost effective, eco-friendly, there are many brands and styles available, and they are so comfy on your baby's bottom, not to mention healthier too.

We have chosen to cloth diaper for all of the reasons listed above. Let me tell you why I absolutely love to cloth diaper.

COST EFFECTIVE:
The average cost of diapering a child from birth to age three with disposables is between $2,000 - $3,000. Cloth diapering for the same amount of time can cost about $300 - $800 depending on the diaper choices you make. And, you can reuse them for subsequent children - an even better savings!

So far for our 7 week old we use organic cotton prefolds and little beetle hemp diapers. I bought three sets of a dozen prefolds in three different sizes to use as he grows for about $15 - $18/dozen from Hip Green Baby and the Little Beetles were hand-me-downs from my sister. Although you change diapers more often and do laundry about every other day, cloth diapers are less expensive in the long run. And, if you line dry, you are saving money on your energy bill too.

ECO-FRIENDLY:
Cloth diapering allows you to reuse and recycle. It makes me feel good to know that I am not contributing to the landfill. And, being open to using hand-me-down diapers helps out our wallet as well. We use flannel washcloths to wipe his bottom when changing him which also helps reduce the use of disposable baby wipes. I have a large pail lined with a washable bag from Hip Green Baby and a small bag for holding dirty diapers so that cloth diapering can be just as convenient on the go. If you have a baby like mine, you can often times change several diapers within a matter of a few minutes. Think how little time that diaper spent on that little bum compared to the hundreds of years it will spend in the landfill.

MANY OPTIONS:
Cloth diapers have come a long way in the past few years. If you are thinking messy, hard to fold cloths with scary diaper pins and plastic covers, think again! There is quite a variety of choices when it comes to using cloth diapers. Cloth diapers are snug fitting, waterproof (in some cases), breathable, and have user friendly covers with Velcro or snap closures. We use a leak free, inexpensive diaper cover from Terra Tots over the prefolds and Little Beetles, as well as the diaper cover from gDiapers that we place a prefold organic cloth diaper in. As he grows, there are many adorable cloth diapering options including FuzziBunz, BumGenius, Swaddlebees, and many more.

COMFORT and HEALTH:
Thankfully my little guy hasn't had a diaper rash from the little bit of disposable diapering we have had to do. But, many babies get diaper rash and their bottoms can become irritated by the chemicals in disposable diapers. In addition, the toxins associated with disposable diapers have been known to cause respiratory problems and asthma. Disposable diapers are made with Tributly-tin (TBT), a toxic pollutant known to cause hormonal problems in humans and animals. They also contain a harmful ingredient called Sodium Polyacrylate which is the gel-like, crystal substance used as a super absorbent. Other harmful ingredients include: polypropylene plastic, petrolatum, stearyl alcohol, cellulose tissue, elastic, and perfume.

Consider investing in the health of your child, planet, and your pocketbook. It is well worth it for you, your baby, and the environment.

World Breastfeeding Week

2010-08-03T19:13:00.001-07:00

My last post was on breastfeeding, but in light of it being World Breastfeeding Week, I would like to share a few more thoughts.

Did you think about breastfeeding when you were pregnant? I did. And, in my mind I really thought it would be a cinch. I would just buy a special bra, slap in a nursing pad, and feed my baby when he got hungry. Ha ha, if only it were that easy. I have a tendency to be an optimist when it comes to these things.

While pregnant, I had been glancing through several of my breastfeeding books, but honestly, the information doesn't make as much sense until it is actually happening to you and you are trying to figure the whole breastfeeding thing out as you go.

My experience hasn't been as challenging as some, but I can say that I understand why women quit just like I understand now why women want to be induced and get epidurals. But, I was one determined mommy to not do any of the above. Having cracked, bleeding nipples is not fun though. My toes curled up and I would clench my teeth each time I latch him on. I consulted a lactation consultant during the first weeks of breastfeeding and I contribute my healing to her suggestions. Ultimately, I think it came down to the Medela Soft Shells for Sore Nipples that made the difference. After four and a half weeks of painful feeding 8-12 times a day, I used the shells for three days and, voila!, my nipple was scarring over and healing. And, now, he latches on and I have no pain. It is just a joy to feed him now. Ladies, please hear this...DO NOT quit until you have tried to get help from a professional first. It is worth it for your sake and your baby's.

To all the women out there who are dealing with early breastfeeding issues, listen to those who have come before you (just as I did) - IT DOES GET BETTER, I promise.

What a joy to know that I am giving my son the wonderful gift of breastmilk. It is building his immunity, our bonding, and it is so healthy for us both.

The Joy of Breastfeeding

2010-07-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is a commitment. Yes, it can be challenging. Yes, it takes a bit of an effort to learn. Yes, it takes a lot of mommy's time. Yes, there can be soreness and trauma. But, it is OH. SO. WORTH. IT!

I love to feel little fingers tickle my back as his arm dangles under mine while he eats.

I love when he locks eyes with mine as he is suckling and he smiles at me.

I love that he is getting the best nutrients on the planet from his food.

I love the bond I feel with him when I hold him close to feed him.

I love that breast milk helps build his brain with the natural omega-3 fatty acids DHA and ARA.

I love that I don't have to get up and fix a bottle at 2:30am.

I love that it it doesn't cost $1,200 a year like formula does, not to mention the cost of the bottles and all the equipment involved.

I love that it is easy on his delicate digestive system.

I love that it doesn't create extra work for me...like washing, sterilizing, and drying bottles.

I love that it is rich in natural, well absorbing lactose, iron, calcium, and zinc and DOES NOT contain corn syrup like formula.

I love that it is building his tiny immune system and protecting him against germs in the environment.

I love that it lowers my risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

I love that breastfeeding is helping me lose those extra pounds gained during pregnancy.

I love that it is a natural form of birth control.

I JUST LOVE IT!

My Mom Style

2010-07-07T12:53:00.000-07:00

While I was pregnant, I got a lot questions.

Things like...

Will you use pacifiers?

Are you going to pump?

Will you co-sleep?

What kind of slings are you going to buy?

Will you use cloth diapers?

...and so on.

I was kind of determined not to set myself up for disappointment by deciding ahead of time what I would be doing. In my gut it felt better to say I would just play it by ear. Now that he is here, I take his cues for what his wants and needs are. There is a lot of conversation surrounding this topic. Some people call it attachment parenting vs. scheduling your baby (Babywise), but, for me, it feel right to do what he is asking for and not put a label on it. I don't really want to be put into a category of what kind of parenting style I have.

So, this is what I do....

I feed him when he wants. If that means a half hour after he just ate, than that is what I am doing. I have never had to pump because his eating habits have encouraged an ample milk supply. But, if he goes more than three hours at this point, I start to feel a little engorged and sometimes that to wake him to eat.

He sleeps in our bed with us because to us that feels best. Plus, I can just pull him close to feed him while I can somewhat continue sleeping.

I wear him in a sling or wrap a lot and he sleeps on my chest for his naps throughout the day. I like to have him close. Sometimes I think moms get caught up in getting the baby to sleep so they can get on to the next project or cleaning or whatever, but to me, the early weeks and months are so important for bonding with your baby so he or she can feel safe and secure. I am not worried one bit that he will become spoiled or to used to being close all the time.

He has always fallen asleep at night right after he eats, so I don't stress about staying awake during the day so he will sleep better at night.

I was hoping not to use a pacifier. I had always heard and believed it caused nipple confusion. But, I tried it one night. He likes to have it in as he falls asleep. I take it out when he is soundly sleeping, but it has become a necessity now.

One thing that I have put a lot of emphasis on is my diet as I am breastfeeding. I am staying away from gassy, hard to digest foods such as dairy, beans, tomatoes, chocolate, broccoli, etc. So far, he has only had one bout with gas...I ate a bean salad...my fault. However, he doesn't scream and cry with the gas, he seems to get more squirmy, toots, and he finds it hard to fall asleep.

Talking to him is also very important. I treat him like the little human that he is. He deserves to know what is going on when I am changing his clothes or giving him a bath or will feed him right after I go potty myself.

He wears cloth diapers because it is better for the earth, his little bottom, and our wallet. Ya, it is a little more work to clean them and you have to change the baby more frequently, but it is so worth it.

I also believe in the importance of allowing Daddy to be involved too. He changes the baby's diapers and I have left the baby with him on several occasions to run errands. Dads should form a special bond with their babies from the beginning as well.

My baby will be three weeks tomorrow. Besides two visits to see the midwives, I have not ventured outside the house with him. I have had a few visitors, but for the most part I think he is too itty bitty to be out and about and be passed around to people. I have started to get out a little bit more myself, but for the most part, I have been taking it easy and trying to recover from the birth. It has been a big help for my family to be around to help care for me. I know that a lot of women don't have this luxury, but allowing yourself to rest and recover before trying to get back at it is very important.

I am still learning myself and I am not saying that I have it all figured out. But, following the cues of my little guy is important to me and works well him and for my mom style.

Birth Trauma and Breastfeeding Remedies

2010-07-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be nice if our bodies and babies came with a guidebook specifically for written for each of us?

We could know ahead of time that labor could potentially be 25 hours long. We could plan on how to deal with the back labor and the third degree tears. The cracking, bleeding nipples from breastfeeding would be anticipated and we could seek help before that ever happened. We would know that the hormones that are trying to balance out are going to give us some serious ups and downs and that just looking into the sweet eyes of our baby will make us cry for no reason at all.

But....

That isn't reality.

Thankfully, they write books to refer to once you know you are dealing with these issues.

I have been referring to The Baby Book by William and Martha Sears and Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher and Kathleen A. Kendall-Tackett. In addition, I have been consulting a fabulous lactation consultant in my area.

So, here are some of the things I have been doing to recover from birth and baby.

Repair "Down There"...
For the first two days after the repair of my third degree tear I used herbal ice packs on the inflammation. These were made from soaking sanitary pads (overnight and regular size) in the herbal bath blend and freezing them. I changed them as needed. They melted, so I put this frozen pad onto another large pad they gave me at the hospital when I went in for the stitches after my home birth and then I put on a Depends. It isn't the most glamorous look, but for anyone who has had a tear that needs comfort, you know you don't even care at that point. After day two, I spread Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Balm onto a pad and it soothed the area. In fact, two and a half weeks later, I am still occasionally using this balm. It is definitely some amazing stuff.

Nipple Trauma and Repair...
For some reason, I have had issues with my left nipple. The right one has been just fine. My baby has a really great latch. If he happens to latch on incorrectly, I take the time to reposition and relatch as much as I need to until it is correct. My left nipple, however, started cracking and bleeding. I "toughed it out" for a few days and it just wasn't getting better. Just so you know, I don't recommend "toughing it out". Consult your lactation consultant right away if you think you may be having a issue with breastfeeding. But, I knew he had a proper latch according to the book and my knowledge of breastfeeding. When reading up on sore nipples and nipple trauma in Breastfeeding Made Simple, I discovered I had all of the following...

intense, toe-curling pain
pain throughout the feeding or between feedings
broken skin, blisters, or color changes
a burning sensation during, after or in-between feedings
persistent soreness that does not improve after a day or two of trying to correct the problem

My book suggested that if I have any of the previous issues, to contact a lactation consultant immediately. The next morning, I called Mellanie Sheppard, IBCLC first thing. Her advice was to ensure the proper latch, use a saline wash after each feeding. I make this from 1/8 teas. sea salt and 1 oz. water in a shot glass and seal it over the nipple and areola to soak for 2-3 minutes. Don't soak for longer than 2-3 minutes or the nipple will get too soft. After the soak, I apply colloidal silver directly to the nipple as well as take 1 teas. orally to prevent further infection. Then, I use either Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter or a Lansinoh Soothies gel pads to ensure that my nipple does not stick to the nursing pad and cause further trauma. She also suggested to use a product by Medela called Soft Shell for Sore Nipples. I haven't tried those yet. In addition, she recommended taking supplements to boost my immune system in order to not fully develop mastitis. So far so good. My nipple is slowly recovering and I can tell a difference with each feeding.

We can't always prepare for all the what-ifs before they happen, but we can consult some great books and wonderful professionals for their advice once we know what kinds of things we are dealing with after birth.

My Very Own Birth Story

2010-06-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

As I reflect back to a week ago, I am glad we are through that. But, I am sad that my baby is already almost a week old. We are definitely cherishing each and every moment - even the night time feedings. A week ago I was in labor. In fact, I was about to start active labor this very moment I am writing. Whew...again, I am glad it is over. I need a little time to gather my thoughts before I write out the entire birth story. I have had many people anxiously waiting to hear it. Maybe it is because I am a doula, and pregnancy, birth, and babies are my work that everyone is expecting an amazing, incredible, joyous, peaceful birth story. You know, just because I am a doula, I think that I had to experience a birth that was quite far from this. My work with women will ever be changed by my birth experience. It was long. It was very difficult at times. We had some unexpected things happen. But, in the end, Eli was born at home. He was born in the middle of the living room in the water in the presence of 5 midwives, 1 chiropractor, my mom, my sister, my husband, and me. He is perfect and healthy in every way. As of right now, it is difficult for my family and husband to talk about this experience. When I am able, I will post the whole birth story, but here are some highlights.

My mom arrived on Monday night, June 14th - the due date. On Tuesday, the 15th, I went to work at Gladney. I stayed for about an hour and then didn't really feel up to being there so I came home. Mom and I ran some errands and did some last minute shopping instead. That afternoon we did a belly cast out of plaster of paris strips which was so fun. I am excited to paint it when the inspiration comes to me. When Scott got home from work that night we ate dinner and then game 6 of the NBA finals was on. Scott watched that while Mom and I played Racko. I was feeling uncomfortable, but nothing far different than "normal". I did have to sit on a ball for a while because of the slight cramping. At about 11:15 we decided to call it a night. While filling my water and taking the evenings vitamins and herbs, I felt a little wetness. I went in and sat on the bed to have a small contraction and felt more water come out. Then, I got up to go to the bathroom and when I sat down I felt a small gush. It wasn't a lot, but I called out to Scott and Mom that I thought my water had broken. They kind of got excited. I watched it for a few minutes as more came out and discovered it was not clear. Because of the presence of meconium, I called the midwives. They decided it would be best to come and assess the situation. They arrived at about 1:00am. They checked me. Eli (still Baby R at this point) still had a bag of water over the head, but it definitely was water that was leaking. At that time, I was 3cm and 30-40% effaced. His head was kinked. I had my wonderful friend and chiropractor, Rachel, on call for me so we gave her a call to come and adjust my pelvis to see if this would help relieve the pain that had started in my back and the kink in Eli's neck. When she left, I tried to rest. I got a short massage from Mom because my back was beginning to hurt and then I went to bed. It was 4:30am. The midwives had decided to stay and sleep at the house and at 6:00am they came in to check my vitals. I was definitely in labor by this point. Throughout the morning we did things like eat breakfast, go for walks, climb stairs, hula on the birth ball, etc. Labor became very intense at about 1:00pm. From this point on, it wasn't very fun. I will continue from here when I am ready, but for now I will just tell you that it became a long, hard journey.

Here's why...

I was born with a fusion in my lumbar 5 vertebrae. The left side of my L5 is fused to my sacrum. I found this out about 8 years ago when I had x-rays at a chiropractor for the low back and sciatic pain I had been having. Because of this, I thought I may have a difficult time during pregnancy so I was receiving weekly adjustments to keep things mobile. For the most part, the sciatic pain stayed under control. I had a lot of round ligament pain and some sciatic pain, but by late in the 3rd trimester, I really was not experiencing any back pain. I could not have imagined that it would show its UGLY face in labor. My pelvis just does not open or give in that area of my low back. Needless to say, I experienced intense, almost unbearable back labor for the remainder of the time until the moment he was born. This is that part that is difficult to recount for everyone there. So, for now, I am going to skip it. But, apparently, according to several chiropractors I have talked to about this, it is a true triumph to have succeeded to have a normal, unmedicated birth with this type of sacralization in my back. I feel so happy, blessed, and brave to know that I defied the odds. And, I had the most amazing group of women surrounding me while I have birth. They all supported and prayed for me throughout the entire process. They encouraged me. They loved me. They believed in me. When I said no, they said yes. I love them all for that.

I never once doubted I could do it. I never once wanted to go to the hospital. It truly became a matter of sheer will and determination that I was going to birth this baby and he was going to get here safely in our home no matter what it took. Something in me decided that I wasn't going to allow anything to stand in my way. Let's just say that the midwive's new line for me is "I am woman, hear me roar!" Um, yes, I was uninhibited that is for sure.

Eli Scott Reasoner was born in the water at 12:24am on June 17th. He weighed 8lbs and was 21 3/4 inches long. And, after all that, I tore. My worst fear of birth was tearing. The midwives warned me that often times your worst fear is the thing that happens to you in birth. Well, it did. In fact, I had a 3rd degree tear because Eli (precious baby) decided to come barging out with a fist and arm flying. Scott thinks he was working on his blocking out skills for basketball. Ha, ha Daddy. Because my midwives didn't feel comfortable in their experience in repairing 3rd degree tears, they suggested that I go to the hospital and I agreed that was the best idea. We called several hospitals to see who was on call and who would be willing to come in to do the repairs at 4:00am. After feeding Eli and getting him settled in and crying my eyes out that I had to leave my new little family, (I wasn't about to take my newborn to the hospital with me) Mom, one of the midwives, and I loaded up and headed to the hospital. We got there about 4:30am. I was immediately taken care of by the nurse who was waiting for me to arrive. She was so wonderful and had had 3 babies of her own at a birth center. I also had an amazing doctor who came in especially for me. They cared for me and worked quickly so that I could get home to my baby. At 5:45am we were on our way home. I was so eager to get back to my family. Scott was anxiously awaiting our return and came out to meet us. We walked in the door to discover Heidi (my sister) had him wrapped up on her chest and he had been sleeping with her for the entire time. I was so grateful to know he was being taken care of so well. She had sent us a text while we were at the hospital to assure us he was doing just fine. I took my baby in my arms and Scott, Eli, and I went to the bedroom to rest. This is when I discovered how difficult the past 12+ hours had been on my husband. He was very emotional and concerned for me and was trying to block most of it out of his mind. All I could say and do at that point was look at our sweet boy and reassure my husband that all I had gone through was worth that precious face we were gazing into.

In the past week I have discovered so many wondrous things about my son. Because he was a chiropractic baby from 10 weeks pregnant to moments after birth and he had a drug free birth, I credit this to Eli being able to track his eyes and follow our voices to look around already. He likes to be swaddled, but only from the armpits down. Those hands and arms must be free. He likes to take naps on the Boppy. He giggled out loud yesterday and he often smiles in his sleep. I know he dreams about milk. The little guys nurses like a champ. He can sleep through getting a diaper change. He only fuses when we keep him from food too long. He loves to be naked in the sun. There are just so many things that I find out daily that make me so happy. I have looked at him and cried at the sheer joy I feel for having him as my son. I love him to pieces.

Scott is the best daddy and husband I could have ever asked for. He was my rock at the birth. He is my sons amazing father. I cannot tell you how he has surprised me as a dad (he has changed more diapers than I have) and how much I see the love he has for his son. We are so blessed as a family. The love I have for my husband and the love he has for me has increased a million times over since going through this and bringing our son into the world together.

If you are still reading, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to share my story. Thank you for your support and love as friends, family, clients, and passers by of my blog.

Upcoming Fertility Awareness Classes

2010-05-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

Many couples desire to become pregnant, want to prevent pregnancy without the use of invasive birth control methods, or just want to track their reproductive health.

Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) is a natural method that helps women and couples understand fertility based on four main fertility signs. This Fertility Awareness Method is 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when used properly and can also help women understand if and when they need to seek a health care provider regarding any health issues they may find while charting their cycles.

This class is designed to teach you the basics of FAM. Once you gain an understanding of the basics, you may find you need one on one consulting to discern your specific signs and your charts. One on one sessions are available for you and your partner upon appointment.

* This class is open to individuals and couples.
* Nursing babies are welcome

UPCOMING CLASSES:
Saturday, May 8th, 2010 - 10am - noon
Saturday, June 5th, 2010 - 10am - noon

Registration and Cost: Space is limited, so please RSVP to hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com or call 214-783-3668 to reserve your spot. Classes are $20 per person or $35 per couple.

What you will learn:

- How to chart your fertility signs
- How to tell when you are fertile and infertile during your cycle
- How NFP can help you get pregnant or avoid pregnancy
- How to chart for general reproductive health
- How to determine if you need to seek a physician based on your body's signals
- Fertility Awareness while breastfeeding
...and more!

Please feel free to share this information with anyone you believe may benefit from attending this class.

Pregnancy Massage Special

2010-04-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

April and May Special
60 Minute Prenatal Massage - $40

I have been a Licensed Massage Therapist and have worked with pregnant women for 5 years. Massage is a wonderful way to stay comfortable and relaxed during pregnancy and prepare for a enjoyable, safe, and healthy birth.

Availability:
April - Monday and Wednesday (10am - 7pm)
May - Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday (10am - 7pm)

Space is limited and appointments will book quickly so call or email to schedule your prenatal massage today!

214-783-3668 or hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com

Preparing A Way

2010-04-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I realized that I am going to have a baby! That may sound crazy considering I am 30 weeks pregnant, but it hit me...I will be giving birth to this growing being inside of me.

I am not sure how much all the things I am doing leading up to birth will actually prepare me for what I will experience, but I am preparing none the less.

Some people assume that because I am a birth doula, I will be more prepared than most. Maybe. But, although I have attended many births and advised many pregnant women, nothing can compare to my own experiences during this pregnancy. It is so different actually experiencing it yourself. I am sure this all will make me a better doula as well.

So what am I doing to prepare you ask?

Here are a few things....

Reading Up On....

Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way
by Susan McCutcheon-Rosegg and Erick Ingraham

Birthing From Within
by Pam England and Rob Horowitz

The Thinking Women's Guide to a Better Birth
by Henci Goer

Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn
by Penny Simpkin, Janet Whalley, and Ann Keppler

The Parent's Concise Guide to Childhood Vaccinations
by Lauren Feder

Watching...

The Business of Being Born
Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein

Orgasmic Birth: The Best Kept Secret
Debra Pascali-Bonaro

In and On My Body...

Organic Food Based Prenatal Vitamins

Olympic Labs Pea Protein
added to my fruit smoothie in the mornings....YUMMY!

Lots of WATER....Obviously!

Organic Coconut Oil for lathering up my belly and skin

Earth Mama Angel Baby Products
I love them all, but I have been using the Stretch Mark Oil, Happy Feet, and Mint Herbal Lip Balm!

We are also taking Bradley Method Childbirth Classes with my friend Donna. And, I am getting weekly chiropractic adjustments from my friend Rachel.

When Is Your "Due Date"?

2010-03-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

Do you even know how they come up with that day?

Ever wonder or get frustrated about why your "due date" changes as your pregnancy progresses or after you have a sonogram? Do you really want to rely on a sonogram to tell you the date you are due?

And then, do you get hung up on all those dates they are throwing out at you?

Unless you know the exact day you conceived or you have a 28 day cycle on the dot every month, combined with the fact that you were trying to conceive, you may not know that the "due date" you were given could be off.

Did you know that your caregiver is taking that pregnancy wheel out and calculating your "due date" based on a 28 day cycle? What if your "normal" is a 35 day cycle and you have been that way for years? Your "due date" is going to show that you are due a week earlier than you really are.

Or, what if you haven't had a period in 6 months and you become pregnant?

As women with such wonderfully fashioned bodies and intricately designed cycles, we should be aware of how our bodies work. Women who observe and chart their cycles and what is happening with their body throughout the month will find it much easier to formulate a "due date" for pregnancy. This is because you will know exactly the days you were most fertile and what day you most likely could have conceived on. In fact, you may be able to tell your care giver when you are due instead of the other way around. It is a great feeling to know you have that knowledge!

And, remember, before setting your sites on that magical "due date"...

Your baby does not know its "due date".
First babies tend to come late.
As long as the baby is inside of you, it has everything it needs.
Patience is a wonderful thing when it comes to giving birth.

Green Your Clean for Baby

2010-03-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

We all want to live in a clean, disinfected home, especially when we have a baby.

Have you ever stopped to think about the chemicals that your baby is exposed to?

How about bath time? Or baby learning to crawl on the kitchen floor?

Did you just bleach the tub, mop the floor with chemical disinfectants, or put down carpet deodorizer before vacuuming?

What happens to the chemical residues left behind after these harsh cleanings? They probably get absorbed into the bath water or rub into the baby's skin when on the floor. And, as we all know, a baby does not have a sense of "yuck", they will lick and taste anything.

So, how do you get your house clean and disinfected without these harsh cleaners? Here are a few items and recipes you can use for some natural household cleaners that are safe for you and your family.

Common Household Items:

Baking Soda - Extremely versatile, baking soda is an all-purpose, nontoxic cleaner. It cleans, deodorizes, scours, polishes and removes stains.

Borax - (sodium borate) It deodorizes, removes stains and boosts the cleaning power of soap. It also prevents mold and odors. Great alternative for those who do not want to use bleach.

Cornstarch - cleans and deodorizes carpets and rugs, you can use this to replace expensive "baby powders" also.

Ketchup - great for cleaning copper

Lemon juice - great for whitening items, but vinegar is cheaper . It also cuts through grease and stains on aluminum and porcelain

Pure Soap - cleans just about anything and is mild

Salt - regular table salt makes an abrasive, but gentle, scouring powder

White Vinegar - very cheap and versatile, great for whitening, also fantastic for cleaning hard surfaces, windows and shining up metal surfaces. Removes mildew, stains, grease and wax buildup. This is another natural cleaner that whole books have been written on!

Recipes:

All Purpose Quick Shiner
Mild and safe to use for all surfaces

1-1/4 cups white vinegar
1-1/4 cups water
22 ounce spray bottle
4-5 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

Pour vinegar and water into the spray bottle. Shake gently to combine. To use, spray on and wipe off.

Homemade Dust and Furniture Polish
1 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup lemon juice

Pour oil and lemon juice into a squirt bottle or jar. Stir to combine. To use, dip dust cloth or rag into oil, blot the oil by folding the cloth together, and then dust your furniture.

All Purpose Window and Glass Cleaner
Vinegar cuts grease and leaves windows sparkling clean. Best of all, this mixture is absolutely safe. It's the best choice if you have young children in the house.

1/4 cup white vinegar
1 quart of water
4-5 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

Pour vinegar and water into a bowl or container, or mix the ingredients in a spray bottle. Clean windows directly with a sponge dipped in the bowl of cleaner or spray on and wipe clean.

Sink, Shower, and Tub Cleaner
Combine equal parts baking soda and salt to scrub stainless steel.
OR
Combine baking soda and vinegar to make paste. Add 4-5 drops of essential oils (optional)

Baby Talk

2010-03-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

Talking to your baby from conception to birth can be such a beautiful bonding experience. Even though your baby has not fully developed hearing very early on, I believe it is important to recognize the connection you have with your baby and start talking to him or her from the moment you find out your are pregnant. Encourage dad to talk and bond with the baby too. When that baby is born he or she will be able to recognize your voices.

So what exactly should you say to your baby in the womb?

As the mother, your baby is going with you everywhere. As you drive in your car, take a walk, do housework, or whatever you may do throughout your day, tell your baby what you are doing.

When you sit down to eat a meal, share with your baby about the delicious food you are both about to eat.

At times when the baby is especially active during the day or night, talk to the baby out loud or just in your heart. What may be making the baby so active and what can you do to help he or she to be calm? Listen for the answer. You will be surprised what you may hear.

At bedtime, have daddy tell the baby about his day and have him read the baby a children's story.

When you go to see your caregiver, tell the baby what to possibly expect. Do you have an ultrasound or other prenatal testing that day? Prepare the baby for what will be happening.

Do you feel especially emotional some days? Do you cry or feel overwhelmed at times? Explain to your baby the feelings you are having.

Are you reaching the end of pregnancy? Tell your baby and your body the kind of birth you want. Ensure the baby that what is about to happen during birth is a lot of work for both of you and you will be so excited to greet him or her in the end. Tell your baby the position you would like he or she to be in for the best birth.

Establishing a relationship before birth will help you to continue once the baby is born. Because you have been talking to the baby for so many months in your womb, it will be very easy to continue that bonding once you are holding him or her in your arms and going about your day after the birth.

Don't underestimate the awareness of your baby. Just because your baby is very tiny and young doesn't mean that he or she doesn't understand what is going on it's environment. Babies know more at a young age than we will ever understand.

The Amazing Body of a Woman

2010-03-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stopped to really ponder and appreciate what amazing beings we are as women?

At birth we have all the eggs we will have for the rest of our lifetime. These give us the ability to conceive.

When puberty begins, we start our cycle. At that time we are given physical signs by our body as clues to our fertility and reproductive health.

The womb was created to grow and nourish a little life.

Our body's unique design has the ability to birth life into the world and our instincts tell us we can do it.

That little life we give birth to is sustained by food from our breasts.

Eventually that baby with grow up and the cycle of life will start all over again.

And, that is just the beginning.

I believe so strongly that a woman should know and understand her own body even before she begins puberty. It opens up an whole new understanding, appreciation, and responsibility for our cycle and our reproductive health. Talking with your daughters about their cycles is an important dialogue. It is so much more information than "the birds and the bees" talk. Girls can gain an understanding on a new level. Moms, it is important to know these things for yourself as well so that you can relay them in a way that is mature and understandable to your adolescents as they grow into young women themselves.

Fertility Awareness is much more than knowing when you are fertile in order to achieve pregnancy. It empowers girls and woman to understand their bodies by observing many things that are happening and changing during her cycle. Knowing and maintaining optimal gynecological health from puberty to menopause, appreciating your womanhood, and nurturing your marriage relationship are all beautiful experiences you can have when you are aware of your body and what it is doing.

Upcoming Fertility Awareness classes will be March 27, 2010 and May 8, 2010. Please contact me at hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com for more information.

Green Products I Love

2010-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, I attended a cloth diapering demonstration and met Kristi Rooks from Hip Green Baby. I bought all kinds of organic and eco-friendly baby products for our little one on the way. Here are just a few of the products that she carries that I LOVE and highly recommend!

Mommies and Mommies-To-Be, I believe it is so important to preserve our delicate planet by consuming eco-friendly and reusable products. Not only is it important for the planet, but for the precious little baby we care for each day.

Please visit Hip Green Baby to see what products you and your baby can enjoy to support a healthy lifestyle and conserve our planet.

It is never too late to start going green!

Organic Coconut Oil for the Blooming Belly

2010-03-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, my mom was in town and brought with her some coconut oil she uses for everything. I love to cook and bake with it myself, but hadn't yet tried to lather it on my belly yet because I have been using my new Earth Mama Angel Baby Stretch Oil (which I love, love love!). My mom also suggested I try to put it on a skin tag that had conveniently popped right under my bra line during my pregnancy. It was becoming irritated and painful but was still hanging on for dear life. After putting coconut oil and a bandage over it for three days, it fell off and I am happy to report...no more irritation.

Thank you, Mother, for leaving your Spectrum Organic Coconut Oil with me. I have been lubing up my belly every night this week. Personally, I love the smell of coconut and don't mind the slipperiness of it on my belly at night. Knock on wood, the only tiny stretch marks that have appeared are coming from my appendectomy scar and the two very low scars from my ectopic pregnancy surgery. I am hopeful and determined to steer clear of stretch marks with the use of all of these great oils.

Gotta love a product with multiple uses! Coconut oil can also be used for:

Skin Care: Besides stretch marks, it is a great moisturizer for dry skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions.
Stress Relief: Massage a bit into your skin in sore or stressed areas.
Aiding Digestion: It has anti-bacterial properties. You can swallow it plain or add it to your cooking to help the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Fitness: It can stimulate metabolism, improve thyroid function, and increase energy levels.
Healing: Apply to cuts and scraps to protect against bacteria and virus and can speed the healing of bruises.
Hair Care: Can be one of the most nourishing products for your hair. Use it to prevent dandruff and dry scalp.

Anyone else had great success with coconut oil?

My Body, My Baby, My Birth

2010-03-11T12:48:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy and birth has become so high tech. Makes you wonder what they did all those years ago when women just got pregnant and nine months later had their baby.

Here are some of my thoughts and views regarding my pregnancy and birth.

My First Prenatal Appointment: Although I was having regular blood testing in the beginning of this pregnancy for low progesterone levels, I did not have the first prenatal appointment until 17 weeks. The group of midwives we chose were eager to help me over the phone before hand as I needed though. I love the attention that I get from such nurturing care. I spend 5 minutes in the waiting room and 45 minutes in my appointment....not the other way around.

Routine Testing and Procedures During Pregnancy: So many tests are dne while you are pregnant - many of which have declined! I give a urine sample at each appointment which is very inevasive. I plan to have an iron test done which involved a stick and is fairly inevasive. I have opted out of taking tests like glucose and many of the other unnecessary (in my opinion) blood testing and other screenings. And, I definitely steered clear of the flu and swine flu vaccines.

Ultrasounds: Before I was pregnant, I vowed not to have an ultrasound. But, when I began spotting at 5 weeks and it continued until week 12, I felt it best to ensure the safety of the baby and pregnancy. However, I am not a fan of ultrasounds. There is too much evidence out there that shows ultrasounds to be very dangerous to the health of the baby. Have you ever had an ultrasound and your baby was moving and kicking around a lot? The technician may have even joked about how much your baby was moving. Did you know that the ultrasound waves sound like a freight train to your poor, innocent little baby. Their tiny ears are just trying to acclimate to normal noises like the voice of Mommy and Daddy. Imagine how harsh those loud sound waves must be like.

Because we have not an ultrasound with this pregnancy since the bleeding at 12 weeks, we will not find out the gender of our little one. People's reactions are very interesting. Some say, "Oh, that is wonderful. There are so few surprises in the world." Others say, "I am too much of a planner to not find out." I find the latter response amusing. You see, I am a first born and a Virgo. I plan, organize, and research to the max. But, when it comes to having a baby, I prefer taking a simpler approach.

Childbirth Classes: Whether you birth at home, birth center, or hospital, I highly recommend taking a childbirth class to prepare you for the birth. We are taking The Bradley Method with my friend Donna. Bradley encourages the father to play a large role in labor and birth of the baby. It teaches many techniques to support a natural birth and avoid unnecessary interventions. ABC News did a recent report on the best childbirth classes to take. Check it out here.

Our Place of Birth: Home. For us, we could think of no better place than our home to welcome our little baby. It is a peaceful, quiet, safe place for my husband and I to have a calm and relaxing birth experience. And, our baby will be born into an environment free of bright florescent lighting, gloved and masked care givers, and cold, stark air. ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) states "Choosing to deliver a baby at home is to place the process of giving birth over the goal of having a healthy baby." All I can say to that is that those doctors have obviously never had the joyful experience of welcoming a baby into the world in a homebirth setting. They must often see babies born under severe distress due to the birth they highly intervened in with the use of drugs, induction, and/or cutting them open to get the babies out. I believe that my body and baby will be just fine at home. It is just pure, natural instincts for a woman to know how to have a baby. What kind of birth she decides to have is largely based on her ability to not be afraid of her own body's normal, natural function to give birth.

As a mother-to-be, I feel very strongly about the choices we have made about this pregnancy and the birth of our first born. I know this isn't for every mother and her baby, but it is right for us.

A Dad's View During Pregnancy

2010-03-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

What is it like for the husband leading up to the birth of a child? First, there was the day when my wife, Hannah, showed me the pregnancy test and tears of joy came out of my eyes when I saw the plus sign. After that, I began to feel pressure because once the baby is born I will have to provide for my family. Then I began to imagine what Baby Reasoner is going to look like. Will he or she be long legged like me or shorter and more muscular like Hannah. Of course the thought of having a son or daughter who wants follow in my footsteps and play basketball would be special too.

The toughest part of the whole pregnancy was watching Hannah during the first trimester with nausea. I felt so helpless and wish I could have done more. There was also the second and last sonogram we will have this pregnancy. I looked at the sonogram and felt like Baby Reasoner looked like me. Hannah laughed. Now we have begun our Bradley class so I can prepare for June 14th or whenever the baby decides to come. This class is going to help me be a great coach for Hannah during birth. Also, I have been working on the Baby's room but must finish the kitchen first.

Finally, the last thing I always think about is holding Baby Reasoner in my arms for the first time and having that first bonding moment with him or her.

Fertility Awareness Classes

2010-03-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

Many women desire to become pregnant, want to prevent pregnancy without the use of invasive birth control methods, or just want to track their reproductive health.

I am now teaching the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) of Natural Family Planning (NFP). It is a natural method that helps women and couples understand fertility based on four main fertility signs. This Fertility Awareness Method is 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when used properly and can also help women understand if and when they need to seek a health care provider regarding any health issues they may find while charting their cycles.

Due to limited space at this time, classes are designed for women. If couples desire, I do one on one consultations after the initial class.

Upcoming Classes:
Saturday, March 27th 10am - Noon (Fort Worth, TX)
Monday, April 12th 6:30 - 8:30pm (Northwest Arkansas -Location TBA)
Saturday, May 8th 10am - Noon (Fort Worth, TX)

Registration and Cost: Space is limited, so please RSVP to hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com or call 214-783-3668 to reserve your spot. Classes are $20.

* Nursing babies are welcome.

What you will learn:

How to chart your fertility signs
How to tell when you are fertile and infertile during your cycle
How NFP can help you get pregnant or avoid pregnancy
How to chart for general reproductive health
How to determine if you need to seek a physician based on your body's signals
Fertility Awareness while breastfeeding
...and more!

My husband and I have been using FAM for almost four years now. I have achieved two planned pregnancies and avoided pregnancy during the first part of our marriage by only using these Natural Family Planning Methods. I have also been able to chart irregularities in my cycle when trying to achieve pregnancy and consult with a physician for these issues. (More on that if you come to a class).

Please feel free to share this information with anyone you believe may benefit from attending this class.

Protein in Pregnancy

2010-03-03T11:26:00.000-08:00

"Eat your protein!" That is what everyone seems to be telling me. "It helps the baby grow." "You need 80-100 grams while pregnant."

Apparently I have been having trouble getting adequate protein. Now, I am keeping a food diary to account for every gram I eat for two weeks.

I am not a big meat eater. In fact, I am not a big eater in general. But, while pregnant, I do understand the importance of eating adequately for my baby's sake.

I like beans, nuts, fish, turkey, and chicken for protein. But, did you know that raw, organic fruits and vegetables can also be a great source of protein? Meat is not the only way! I found a website that helps me calculate every type of food for its protein content and am happily calculating each bite of fruits and vegetables into this amount as well.

I also like to have a protein smoothie with pea protein powder. A typical smoothie consists of 1/2 a banana, 1/2 c. peaches, 1/4 c. blueberries, 1 c. rice milk, a handful of raw spinach, and a scoop of protein (all organic ingredients of course). This is at least 35 grams of protein in this powerful and filling breakfast.

Looks like I will be browsing some cookbooks for some new recipes to spice up my diet. I am open to suggestions for vegan and vegetarian recipes too!

Sore Nipples

2010-02-28T11:54:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for the mommies who have gone before me. I admittedly don't know everything about pregnancy, childbirth. and beyond and I welcome the advice and support.

My first trimester of pregnancy was a bit rough. I had spotting from 5 weeks until 12 weeks. On top of that, I was nauseated and throwing up from week 9ish to week 13ish. Now that I am feeling EXCELLENT in my second trimester, I am going to try and relay my own personal experiences, concerns, and questions about pregnancy and childbirth.

Many women have sore breasts and nipples during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In fact, my first pregnancy symptom was very tender breasts. But, I never expected to have such sore nipples. There were days in the first trimester that just the graze of a shirt across them or water running on them was so painful. As a breastfeeding advocate, I plan to put my baby to my breast the moment after birth. Although my nipples have toughened up during this 2nd trimester, I am nervous that I may experience sore nipples in my breastfeeding journey.

I am open to any suggestions, personal experiences, organic products, etc... I know Earth Mama Angel Baby has wonderful products for nipples. What else worked for you? Anyone had the same concerns or experienced what I am feeling? Did you prepare your nipples and breasts for breastfeeding in any way?

Stretch Marks Anyone?

2010-02-24T12:37:00.000-08:00

Currently, I am trying two different products on my 24 week, growing, stretching belly. I believe it is really important to be careful, especially during pregnancy, about what you put on your skin. What you put on or in will get to baby. Use organic, chemical free, paraben free products that aren't made with artificial preservatives when at all possible.

One product I love is made by Earth Mama Angel Baby. It is an organic shea butter stretch mark lotion called Earth Mama Body Butter. Made with chamomile and calendula essential oils, it goes on very nice and smooth and feels very nice on the tummy.

The other is called Tummy Honey and it is a thick, oil-based formula that smells of sweet, natural cocoa butter and feels amazing. It glides on easy and does not leave a sticky, greasy residue.

What Is Your Fertility IQ?

2010-02-14T07:17:00.000-08:00

As many of you already know, I am an advocate of Natural Family Planning and Fertility Awareness Methods as a form of birth control, pregnancy achievement, and maintaining the optimum health of your reproductive system as a healthy woman.

Using the these methods, I prevented pregnancy for 2 years with my husband before we chose to start our family. I have now become pregnant twice by utilizing these methods and find them very effective. And, not only is this an excellent way to prevent and become pregnant, but I have also been able to detect specific reproductive issues while charting and was able to contact a health professional for a healthy women's consultation.

So, What Is Your Fertility IQ? This quiz comes from The Garden of Fertility website. After you take the quiz, you can check your answers at the bottom.

QUIZ
1. The Rhythm Method is another name for Fertility Awareness. True or False

2. To conceive from sexual intercourse which takes place before ovulation, three things are required: sperm, a mature egg, and ________ _______.

3. A girl can get pregnant before her first period. True or False

4. A woman can have intercourse on Monday and conceive as a result on the following Friday. True or False

5. Fertile cervical fluid (CF) can keep sperm alive in the cervix for how many days?

6. Cervical fluid and arousal fluid are the same thing. True or False

7. It is possible for a woman to get pregnant if her partner does not penetrate her or ejaculate. True or False

8. Pre-ejaculate contains enough sperm to become pregnant or cause HIV. True or False

9. Lambskin condoms are as effective as latex in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. True or False

10. A woman can conceive as a result of intercourse that takes place while menstrating or breastfeeding. True or False

11. Females are born with all their eggs already in their ovaries. True or False

12. The lifespan of a mature egg:
(a) 3 days
(b) 6-8 days
(c) 6-24 hours.

13. Beginning at puberty, how many sperm do healthy males produce per second?
(a) 100
(b) 10,000
(c) 1,000
(d) 10

14. ____% of infertility issues are due to problems in the male; ____% are due to problems with the female; ____% are due to problems with the couple.

15. Which of the following can decrease sperm count?
(a) hot tubs
(b) hot weather
(c) tight pants
(d) marajuana
(e) environmental toxins
(g) all of the above

16. Before ovulation, the women's basal temperature is warmer or cooler than after ovulation?

17. A man's testicles are like a woman's (a)________. A woman's fallopian tubes are like a man's (b)____ _______. A man's seminal fluid is like a woman's (c)________. The penis is like the woman's (d)________.

18. Charting fertility signals can alert a woman to thyroid problems, vaginal infections, propenstity of miscarriage, propensity of ovarian cysts, ideal times for surgery, etc. True or False

19. Fertility Awareness and The Pill are equally effective forms of birth control. True or False

20. What are the two most common forms of birth control in the U.S.?

ANSWERS
(1) False (2) Cervical Fluid (3) True (4) True (5) three to five (6) False (7) True (8) True (9) False (10) True (11) False (12) 6-24 hours (13) 1,000 (14) 40%, 40%, 20%, (15) all of the above (16) cooler (17) ovaries, vas deferens, cervical fluid, clitoris (18) True (19) True (20) Female Sterilization and The Pill.
See website for an explanation and more information for each answer.

Cesarean Section Stats

2010-02-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

As I approach the 23rd week of my pregnancy, I am very much looking forward to the birth of my baby in a few months. We are planning a homebirth and are very excited to birth in the comfort of our own home. I chose a homebirth because I want to feel safe, secure, loved, and in control of my birth experience.

More than 4 million women give birth each year. Around 98% of those women birth in the hospital. There are some interesting statics surrounding hospital births. Did you know that in 1975 the c-section rate was 7%? Today it is almost 30%. In North Texas, where I live, it is an astounding 50-60%. I believe this to be due mostly in part to continuous electronic fetal monitoring as well as the adverse effects of the use of medication during birth. The World Health Organization recommends the c-section rate to be 15%. And, CIMS, the Coalition for Improving Maternal Services recommends a 10% c-section rate in community hospitals and 15% in high risk situations.

Ina May Gaskin is a well known midwife and author of many wonderful books on birth and related topics. She is the director of the Farm Midwifery Center in Summertown, Tennessee. According to the documentary, Pregnant In America, over 2,000 women give birth at The Farm and of those births, less than 1.5% ended up with c-sections.

What makes these statistics so astonishingly different? What does this say to you about the care given in hospital verses birth centers and homebirths?

There are several documentaries on birth that I recommend to anyone who is planning to give birth in any setting: Pregnant In America, Orgasmic Birth, and The Business of Being Born.

On May 13th from 7-9pm, the Tarrant County Birth Network will be hosting its free monthly "Round-Up" at Grapevine Public Library in Grapevine, TX. We will have a speaker on the topic of Cesarean Section and VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). A panel of moms will also speak on their personal experiences. If you live in Tarrant County or the surrounding area, you will want to attend this meeting!

Tarrant County Birth Network - Update

2010-02-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

The Tarrant County Birth Network is now up and running after much hard work and many ideas, thoughts, and suggestions. We have a lot to do to prepare for our first meeting on Thursday, March 11, 2010! We hope Tarrant County families, birth professionals, and expectant parents will come and be educated about their choices in pregnancy, birth, and beyond. So exciting!

If you are interested in receiving information about membership or the free monthly meetings please email me at hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com. Visit www.birthnetwork.org for information, as the Tarrant County Birth Network will be a branch off the National Birth Network.

Acupressure Workshop - March 26-27, 2010

2010-01-30T20:40:00.000-08:00

On March 26-27, 2010 there will be a two day workshop on Acupressure and Childbirth for Birthing Professionals held in Wichita, Kansas. It will be lead by Dr. Lorraine Jones, who has been practicing acupuncture for many years and is extremely knowledgeable. Among other things, this class promotes and educates on healthy pregnancy and safe birth for expectant mothers, families, and their babies.

As as doula and massage therapist myself, I have had a small amount of training in acupressure from Dr. Jones. I have had wonderful success helping mothers begin labor and have successful natural births. In fact, I just had another mom have a successful natural birth this past Friday morning after doing acupressure with her on Thursday night to help enhance and facilitate her labor. This is just one of many amazing testimonials that I have from happy clients. It is well worth the knowledge, time, and expense as a birthing professional to take this training!

For more information about the instructor, Dr. Lorraine Jones, please visit her website at http://www.drlorijones.com.

If you are interested in receiving more information on this workshop, please forward me your physical address and I will ensure you get the information and registration forms by mail. If you have any questions about this workshop, you can contact me at hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com or 817-386-3355.

Acupressure for Labor and Birth - Fort Worth

2010-01-27T18:34:00.000-08:00

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE ACUPRESSURE FOR MY LABOR AND BIRTH?
The majority of babies born in the U.S. show signs of stress or traumatic imprinting which begins with their fist interaction with the outside world - namely their birth. Natural, non-invasive techniques such as acupressure, acumassage, and gentle Asian massage techniques can prevent such trauma and help the mother and child to bond and enjoy their first moments of physical interaction. These techniques also aid in the process of giving birth and can eliminate some of the issues that can arise during this precious time.

WHAT IS ACUPRESSURE USED FOR?

Facilitates labor to start for post due babies
Encourages labor to progress at a steady pace and may prevent the use of medical intervention
May help baby to position correctly for birth and/or help turn a breech baby
May help to maintain the mother's and baby's vital signs and prevent unnecessary medical interventions

ACUPRESSURE SERVICES
$60 per hour
outcall fee - $15

Postpartum Doula Services - Fort Worth

2010-01-27T17:55:00.000-08:00

As a Postpartum Doula, I have been supporting families with postpartum care with their families and babies since March 2009. I have many years of experience with newborns, infants, toddlers, and older siblings. I understand that a new baby can be quite an adjustment for a family and I enjoy helping ease the transition and nurturing the new family.

WHAT IS A POSTPARTUM DOULA?
A "doula" is a "woman who serves". She is trained to support women and their families in the days and weeks following the birth of a new baby.

WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA DO?

The work of a postpartum doula depends on the needs of the family. Postpartum doulas do whatever a mother needs to enjoy and care for her new baby. This may include, but is not limited to: light cleaning, the baby's laundry, breastfeeding support, new baby care, and playing with and supporting other siblings.
She focuses on helping to nurture the family to become independent as they adjust to their new family dynamics. As the family experiences success and knowledge, the needs of the professional support will diminish.
The doula will share information about infant care with parents as well as teach the family and siblings to "mother the mother".
Depending on the needs of the family, a postpartum doula can work during the day or overnight shifts to care for the family and baby.

For more information on the role of a postpartum doula, visit the DONA website.

POSTPARTUM DOULA SERVICES

The cost of postpartum support may vary depending on the families needs and the length of time spent with the family. The general fee can range from $15-$25/hour.

*Please do not allow financial limitations to hinder you from getting the care that you deserve. Payment plans can be arranged for postpartum care.

Birth Doula Services - Fort Worth

2010-01-27T17:15:00.000-08:00

Supporting growing families is my passion! I have been a Certified Birth Doula through Doulas of North America (DONA) since May 2009 and have been serving pregnant and birthing women through doula and massage work since 2005. I serve pregnant women who plan to birth at home, a birth center, or the hospital.

WHAT IS A DOULA?
"Doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier, and they breastfeed more easily.

WHAT CAN A BIRTH DOULA DO FOR ME?

Recognize birth as a key experience the mother will remember all her life
Understand the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a women in labor
Assists the woman in preparing for and carrying our her plans for birth
Stay with the woman throughout labor and birth
Provide emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the woman and her family get the information they need to make informed decisions
Facilitate communication between the laboring woman, her partner, and her clinical care providers
Perceive her role as nurturing and protecting the woman's memory of the birth experience
Allow the woman's partner to participate at his/her comfort level

BIRTH DOULA SERVICES INCLUDE:
2-3 Prenatal Visits
Acupressure to Facilitate Labor in "Post Due" Pregnancies
Support for Labor and Birth
1-2 Postpartum Visits
$500

*Please do not allow financial limitations to hinder your from getting the care that you deserve. Payment plans can be arranged.

Prenatal Massage Therapy - Fort Worth

2010-01-27T15:53:00.000-08:00

As a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2005, I have enjoyed working with pregnant women and new mothers for several years. I have specific training in Prenatal Massage and can work with you to incorporate massage into your prenatal care from 12 weeks pregnant to birth.

WHAT IS A PRENATAL MASSAGE?
Prenatal massage is designed to meet the specific needs of pregnant women from 12 weeks to birth. This includes the common aches, pains, and swelling associated with a healthy pregnancy. The massage is done in a side-lying and angled back-lying position with pillows and bolsters for the expectant mother to experience ultimate comfort and relaxation. Mild pressure is applied to the muscles throughout the body to address the common discomforts associated with the skeletal and muscular changes brought on by the hormone shifts during pregnancy.As a professionally trained therapist, I am aware of specific pressure points to avoid that may cause pre-term contractions. In addition, there are pregnancy related conditions that are contraindicated for prenatal massage such as, high risk pregnancy, pregnancy induced hypertension, preeclampsia, previous pre-term labor, severe swelling, high blood pressure, and severe headaches.

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE DURING PREGNANCY:
Prenatal Massage has been shown to reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve lymph and blood circulation. Other potential benefits include: reduced back pain, reduced edema, reduced muscle tension, improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles, and better sleep.

MASSAGE TO REGULATE HORMONE LEVELS:
In recent studies, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (the stress hormone) were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased in women who received massage bi-weekly during pregnancy. These changes in hormone levels can lead to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of complications with the newborn.

MASSAGE TO REDUCE SWELLING:
Massage can help to stimulate soft tissues to reduce the collection of fluids in joints, which improves the removal of tissue waste through the lymph system. This can reduce the occurrence of edema that is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure from the uterus on major blood vessels.

MASSAGE TO REDUCE NERVE PAIN:
Many women experience significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain with regular massage during pregnancy. Sciatic nerve pain can be caused by the added pressure of the uterus on the pelvic floor. Massage therapy can address the inflamed nerves by helping to release tension on the nearby muscles.

PRENATAL MASSAGE SERVICES
60 minutes - $60

Babywearing - Slings and Wraps

2010-01-11T17:22:00.000-08:00

Last fall I attended a presentation on babywearing. There are so many choices when it comes to how to wear your baby and what is most comfortable for you and the needs of you baby. Below are several different types of wraps and slings. When searching for the best babywearing option for you, I suggest trying them on with a weighted baby to see what fits you best. While I was at the presentation, I was attracted to one sling in particular, but when I put it on, it wasn't a good fit. I ended up liking the one I thought I would least like.

MOBY WRAP (starts at $40) - two shoulder carrier, best for newborns, carries up to 15 to 20 lbs., stretchy, can be hot in summertime, one size (6 yrds).

MAYA WRAP (starting at$65.95 for regular fabric and $94.50 for organic) - great for newborns, carries up to 35 lbs., one shouldered, cool for the summer, best for nursing, sized by height of wearer.

GYPSY MAMA (starting at $69 - $74) - gauze and stretchy (6 yrds.), great for newborns, for babies up to 35 lbs, two shouldered, sized to fit wearer, most versatile. For more photos in how to wear the gypsy mama, click here.

PIKKOLO (starting at $129) - soft structured carrier, for newborn up to 40 lbs., unique features such as cinching at bottom to allow smaller babies to sit with legs out, most versatile carrier, and two shouldered.

ERGO (starting at $105) - soft structured carrier, two shouldered, for newborn up to 40 lbs., best for 5 months and up when baby can straddle, has an infant insert for babies less than 4 months, great accessories.

BECO (starting at $140) - for newborn up to 40 lbs., two shouldered, front and back soft structured carrier, no need for infant insert.

Visit www.peppermint.com for more fun babywearing ideas!

Swine Flu Vaccine Has Led to Miscarriage

2009-11-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Vaccinations can be a difficult topic, especially among moms and moms-to-be. There are very strong opinions out there and who's to tell another mother, no matter what her choice is, that she is endangering her child? Each one believes she is protecting her child.

About eleven years ago, I first heard about the controversies of vaccinating. Until then, I didn't understand the right to choose to or not to vaccinate. Over the years, I have done a lot of research for myself and that is how I have come to my own personal decisions and beliefs about vaccinations for myself and my family.

I am almost 12 weeks pregnant now and have been getting a lot of questions about whether or not I have gotten the flu and H1N1 vaccinations yet. I have no intention of getting either vaccination. Although, I do not go into great detail unless I am probed, I believe that it is too great of a health risk to me and my baby to be subjected to the ingredients of these vaccinations. In addition, in the short time it has come onto the market, the H1N1 vaccination has not been properly tested for the adverse reactions and side effects it could have on pregnant women.

Last night I had a dream that I was being forced to get a flu shot against my will. Strangely enough, I woke up to discover I had an email from Dr. Mercola about the side effects involved with receiving the flu and H1N1 vaccine during pregnancy. I have attached the article here. After reading short article at the top, click on Organic Health November 11, 2009 at the bottom of the article. This will link you to a site where you can read stories that women have shared about the devastating miscarriages they had not long after receiving the H1N1 or flu vaccine.

Natural Preventative Measures to Avoid the Flu While Pregnant:

wash hands frequently
avoid large crowds
avoid being around people who have recently been sick
avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
keep your house clean and tidy to avoid unwanted germs
if possible, avoid air travel during flu season
take your vitamins
eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
keep the rooms in your home properly ventilated
dress appropriately for the temperatures outside
drink plenty of fluids

My only hope in sharing this is to help educate you to make an informed decision. Ultimately, as a parent, you have to decide what is the best choice for you and your family.

FuzziBunz Giveaway

2009-11-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

Blog readers - thanks for hanging in there with the giveaways until I get back to research and blogging on pregnancy and birth related topics.

Until then, click here for a cloth diaper giveaway!

There are so many reasons for cloth diapering. It is better for the environment and your baby! Tine, at Bloom Spokane, just wrote a fantastic article on her blog about why cloth diapering is a better choice. Check it out!

Onesie Wonderland Winner

2009-11-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to ANNE C! She is the winner of the very cute and fashionable onesie from Onesie Wonderland!

Thanks again to Karilyn for her adorable contribution to my celebration giveaway!

Celebration Giveaway!

2009-10-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all of my readers and followers. Many of you know of my story of losing a baby to an ectopic pregnancy and trying to conceive once again. If you have not read it and are interested, the link is at the top right of this blog.

This week, I would like to offer a contest in celebration of my new pregnancy! Thanks to all your love, care, prayers, and support, we are finally expecting our first baby in June.

Onesie Wonderland has offered a beautifully and uniquely designed custom onesie to the winner of this celebration giveaway! Karilyn, the creator of Onesie Wonderland, designs these adorable onesies for boys and girls from newborn to 18 months.

HOW TO ENTER THIS CELEBRATION GIVEAWAY:

Browse Onesie Wonderland and leave a comment about your favorite design. - 1 entry
Leave me some advice...I need all the help and support I can get in this first trimester and beyond into this journey of motherhood! - 2 entries

Contest ends on Wednesday, November 4th, 2009.

*Photo copyright Heaven's Eye Photography 2009

A Sign in a Doctor's Office

2009-10-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

*I just reread this post. It made no sense. I was a bit under the weather. It is fixed now!

This sign is up at a obstetrician's office in Provo, UT. The physicians seem to get mixed reviews from the research I have done on them. They either love the practice or really dislike it. Overall, I get the feeling they opt to subject their own agenda on their patients. Obviously, they do not advocate three very important aspects of birth that have been shown to improve outcomes have a positive affect on babies and birth - doulas, birth plans, and natural birth methods.

In case you can't read it, it says:

"Because the Physicians at Aspen's Women's Center care about the quality of their patients deliveries and are very concerned about the welfare and health of your unborn child, we will not participate in: a "Birth Contract", a Doulah Assisted, or Bradley Method delivery. For those patients who are interested in such methods, please notify the nurse so we may arrange transfer of your care."

Well, at least they are honest. Too bad they can't spell Doula.

Another Giveaway - Gift Card to Whole Foods

2009-10-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

Check out Dr. Cindy Haggerton's blog. She is a local chiropractor and has a giveaway for a gift card to Whole Foods!

"Laugh and Learn" DVD Set Giveaway

2009-10-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Jump on over to Bliss Tree for a great giveaway!

Tea For Two

2009-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

I love Organic Traditional Medicinal teas!

They have a wonderful line of teas that support health and wellness. I would like to share a few that I recommend for women's health, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Organic Raspberry Leaf tea supports the female system. It aids in healthy menstruation as well as tones the uterus. Many traditional healers will recommend raspberry leaf to women with irregular menstruation, menstrual cramps, and for pregnancy.

Organic Pregnancy Tea also supports the female system by toning the uterus and preparing the womb for childbirth. It has a pleasant blend of herbs as well as raspberry leaf as its primary ingredient.

Organic Mother's Milk Tea supports healthy lactation and can be used to increase milk production. Lactation consultants and medicinal healers recommend this tea for its traditional combination of anise, fennel, and coriander promote lactation.

All of these teas are caffeine free and perfect for any time of day!

Visit the Traditional Medicinals website for more information about their products.

Delayed Cord Clamping

2009-10-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

Delayed cord clamping is waiting until the cord stops pulsing to clamp and cut it.

In my research, I have been finding that delayed cord clamping is helpful to the baby and provides the baby with healthy placental blood.

At a recent birth, I was taken back when a doctor made a very negative comment about delayed cord clamping saying "I am not going to injure a baby for some idiotic idea." His explanation was that the cord blood can provide too much blood to the baby making the red blood cell count too high or not enough blood and can make the baby anemic.

I had no idea that this was out there. Most practitioners (OB's and Midwives) I have worked with are very open to delayed cord clamping.

Looks like I will be doing a little more research on this so that I am more familiar with both sides of the study. Although, I still believe that delayed cord clamping has a positive result for the baby.

Anyone out there have thoughts on this?

Your Birth People

2009-10-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Pregnant? Now what?

Whether you know it or not, your birth can be dramatically different depending on the caregiver you choose and place you decide to birth. Will you pick an OB or Certified Nurse Midwife and have you baby at the hospital? Or perhaps you would like to have your baby at home with a direct-entry midwife and a doula by your side.

I hope this post will help you understand the differences and debunk any myths you have about "unsafe" birth choices.

OBSTETRICIANS
OB's or OB/GYN's have completed medical school and four years of obstetric and gynecology residency. They have received specific instruction in gynecological surgery, women's health care, prenatal care, treatment for complicated pregnancies, vaginal delivery, and cesarean sections. The focus of an OB is to ensure you and your baby have come out healthy after the birth. They are not necessarily helping you to have a "birth experience". Many women choose an OB because of their high level of education and their ability to handle complications* should they arise.

*Please note that serious complications can occur due to procedures such as a medical induction, medications given during birth, and cesarean section, just to name a few.

FAMILY DOCTORS
Family doctors have also completed medical school where they learn to provide care for children, adults, and how to deliver babies. FD usually work with uncomplicated pregnancies and will consult and OB should a complication arise. Unless you live in a rural area or smaller town, you would most likely have access to an OB, but if not, a Family Doctor may be your only choice within a reasonable traveling distance.

CERTIFIED NURSE-MIDWIVES
CNM's are advanced-practice nurses who have two to three years of education in a nursing program. They have training in prenatal care, women's reproductive health, and childbirth. They care for women with uncomplicated pregnancies and will collaborate with an OB should a problem arise. Many CNM's are interested in helping women have a "birth experience" they desire. They work in hospitals or birthing centers.

CERTIFIED MIDWIVES
CM's have must pass the same national certifying exams as CNM's, but they are not nurses. They may have other medical training or a degree in a health-related field. They are for uncomplicated pregnancies and attend mostly hospital births. Only a few states recognize CM's. For more information about CM's in your state, contact your state health department.

DIRECT-ENTRY MIDWIVES
DEM's have midwifery training, but are not nurses. Their education varies and many of these midwives train with other established midwives who attend home births or work from a free standing birth center. They are familiar with the unique process of out-of-hospital births and are skilled to care for you and your baby during birth.

There are three kinds of Direct Entry Midwives:

Licensed Midwife: attended a direct entry midwifery school and passed a state exam. Many licensed midwives will take payment from your health insurance provider. They care for uncomplicated pregnancies and attend out-of-hospital births. Many of them have a recognized relationship with a physician should a complication develop prenatally or during labor.
Lay Midwife: trained by apprenticing with an experienced midwife. She attends home births and may or may not have a back up physician. She is not regulated or certified by the state, so you must do your own research into her skills and background.
Certified Professional Midwife: is a licensed midwife and recognized nationally for her certification. She undergoes a lengthy process of establishing her experience and demonstrating her skills. She must keep her certification current by completing continuing education every three years.

REGISTERED NURSES
When you choose to birth at the hospital, you will be assigned a nurse for your labor. She may have one to three patients that she is monitoring at once depending on the staffing and number of patients that day. Nurses vary in their interests and experience. Some may be very supportive of natural birth and others may be more comfortable with medicating and high-tech monitoring.

DOULAS
A doula, or professional labor assistant, is trained to emotionally and physically support a laboring woman and her partner. Doulas know a variety of comfort measures such as massage, positioning for comfort, visualizations, and relaxation techniques. A doula can help you to have the "birth experience" you desire. She can also help you in understanding what may come during birth and give you the information you need to make informed choices about your birth.

~~~~~~~

Of course, there are many other types of people that I recommend to have the ultimate pregnancy and birth you want such as: yoga instructors, childbirth educators, nutritionists, fitness instructors, chiropractors, lactation consultant, and acupuncturists.

Hoping you have a wonderful pregnancy, birth, and beyond!

Raw and Organic Foods

2009-09-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been inspired to take a hard look at the foods I am eating. My husband and I eat the same things but probably should not. He physically trains hard to build lean muscle and gain weight. I am looking to be healthy and prepare my body to grow a baby. Thankfully, he is open to eating anything I fix...as long as it has enough protein. And for him, getting enough protein (at least 200 grams daily) is way more than I am looking to get myself. He prefers to get his protein from eggs, whey, and meat, where I like eggs, lean meats, pea protein shakes, and veggies such as organic leafy greens. I do not prepare red meats or pork in my kitchen. We eat lean organic meats like fish (salmon and tilapia), turkey, and chicken.

Although I am not a big recipe person, I refer to many books for ideas to make my own "creations". The Complete Book of Raw Food is one book I like to refer to for raw recipes. Raw (or living) food is a type of vegetarian cuisine that is plant or animal food that has not been heated above 115 degrees. When heated above this temperature, vital enzymes are destroyed and denatured and cannot provide the same nutritive value. Some raw foodists who take it to the extreme do not eat any meat or animal byproducts such as honey, eggs, or dairy. This is considered vegan.

When eating raw foods, or any foods really, I suggest eating organic. Why? Growing and raising organic products helps in conserving our soil for future generations and enhances the environment. Organic meat, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that have been given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without pesticides, chemicals, fertilizers make with synthetic ingredients and sewage sludge, bioengineering, or ionizing radiation. The USDA has set organic standards for the foods that we eat in order to keep us safe.

Organic foods are defined on may levels. Below is the break down:

One hundred percent certified-organic products can be labeled 100% Organic.
Products with 95% or more organic ingredients can be called organic on the primary product label.
Products with 75% to 95% organic ingredients can be described as made with organic ingredients, and up to three organic ingredients can be listed.
Products with less than 70% organic ingredients may use the term organic only on the ingredient information panel.

Happy Eating!

My First VBAC

2009-09-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

About a week and a half ago I got a call from a mom to be who was due in three days. She had a previous cesarean birth with her son and after much reading and discussing with her husband they thought that a doula would be very helpful for them for the VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) birth they desired to have with their daughter. Usually I get weeks to prepare with clients, but these were special circumstances because we were so close to the due date.

In her eighth month of her pregnancy she changed care providers from her doctor to a group of midwives who practice at a local hospital. (Side note: changing care providers late in pregnancy is always an option if you are not satisfied. As long as the baby is still inside of you, you have choices. Get the kind of care and birth that you desire!) So, after she changed groups, she decided to look into a doula. Thanks to a referral from a previous client, she was led to me.

As her "due date" came and went, she was visiting the midwives to assure that her pregnancy was still going well and that she and baby were fine. Of course, everything checked out and she was given 14 days past her "due date" before they would do any sort of medical intervention.

On Friday, six days past her "due date", she had an appointment with the midwives for stress testing. Her cervix was dilated to a four, but she and baby were fine and she was not in active labor so she went home. I went over to her house to work with her. She had taken Castor oil, been walking, and was ready for anything more at that point. I arrived early in the afternoon and worked with her for several hours doing acupressure and labor enhancing massage techniques. She was having contractions and things were seeming to move forward, but when the evening approached, I felt it best to let her rest and try and get a good nights sleep in case labor did come on. I did not want her to be too tired for what was ahead of her.

On Saturday morning, I woke up to find I had not received a call in the night. When I called her that morning, she told me she had gotten a good nights rest and that she felt that things had progressed in the night. I told her I would come later that afternoon to work with her more unless her labor started before then. At about 4:00 that afternoon, I went back over to work with her some more. This time not much was happening. The contractions were few and far between and she did not feel as though they were as productive as they had been the day before. Her mother and sister arrived at about 8:00pm. Again, I decided that it would be best for her to rest and at 9:00pm I left them for the evening with instructions for she and her husband to take a walk and relax.

On Sunday morning at 2:24am, I received a call from her husband telling me that contractions had picked up. I didn't get much information other than they were coming on stronger than ever, but told them I would head over to help them labor at home, and it was their call on whether to head to the hospital at that point. It took me about 10 minutes get dressed and head out the door. I said many prayers on the way. I was unusually calm as I drove down the road in the middle of the night. The streets were bare and the rain was falling. I had a good feeling that this was going to be okay. Just as I approached the highway to turn left toward their home, he called and told me they were headed to the hospital. I could tell there was no time for talking and I told them I would see them there. I took a right onto the highway instead of a left and headed to the hospital downtown. I parked in the parking garage, which can be kind of scary at that time of night. My birth bag was in the trunk and I wasn't sure what to take out of it or take the whole thing in. I popped the trunk, hurried out of my car, grabbed the bag and got back in my car and locked the doors. I searched for a couple of minutes through my bag before deciding just to take the whole thing in. After all, there is no telling how long these births can last. With my cell phone in hand and my purse and birth bag tucked tightly against me, I headed for the parking garage elevators down to the ground level and into the hospital. I was greeted by a security guard. He asked me who I was coming to see. I said "I am a doula, and I need to get to maternal observation." "A doula?" he replied. Well, once we got that all straightened out, I was off to meet them on the maternity floor. I waited in maternal observation. When I saw the dad behind the double doors I got my things and went on back. He rushed past and told me he was headed to the restroom and she was in room 4. I thought I heard room 4, but then I second guessed what I had heard when I got down the hall. Then I heard the moans of a woman in labor and he nurses in the room calling her name. I knocked on the door and two nurses suddenly yelled at me to move the wheel chair in the hall out of the way and that the baby was crowning. They were telling my client not to push as they rushed her in the bed down the hall to labor and delivery. I ran with her, leaving her husband behind. I wasn't really sure what to do, but felt she needed someone with her, so it was with her that I stayed. As she approached L&D the nurses rolling her bed were shouting, "she is crowning!" About six nurses rushed into her room and I moved off to the side while they got her squared away. They pulled up her gown and I could see the baby's head. Her mom and her husband got to the room and we all squeezed past nurses to get up next to her as she began to push.

At 3:24am, just one hour after I received the phone call, they were holding their baby girl in their arms. She did it! She had a VBAC! It was a success for them and for me, as now I can say that I had my first VBAC and it was successful doulaing experience and they can go on to have many more children vaginally as they plan to.

When we all settled down after the birth to admire the baby, I sat on the sofa next to my unopened birth bag. You just never know.

Castor Oil Induction

2009-09-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

It is not uncommon to hear much talk of "induction" among pregnant and soon to be birthing mothers. Induction methods can include using medication like Pitocin to bring on labor or other techniques such as stripping of membranes or manually rupturing the bag of waters by the caregiver.

When I have a client who is hoping and preparing for a natural (unmedicated) birth and she finds herself in a "post due" situation, I often like to suggest to begin natural methods of induction in the couple of days prior to the scheduled medical induction. In addition to many other things I recommend, Castor oil is one of them.

Castor oil acts as a laxative to clean out the bowels which in turn can stimulate the onset of labor about 2-6 hours after ingesting it. Its effects are so great that I recommend it high on the list of methods to begin trying first. It is, however, not the most palatable of tastes and can have some uncomfortable side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. But, when taken with a juice cocktail or with crackers, it is manageable for many women.

Here is a recipe that you can try:

2 oz. Castor Oil mixed with 2 oz. Orange Juice and 1 tsp. Baking Soda

*Please note that I do not recommend this to anyone who has not reached 41 weeks of pregnancy.

Broken Promises

2009-09-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

I cried yesterday. I promised my baby that I wouldn't cry anymore, and I did. I know there are many women (and men) out there that can relate to the frustration and sadness of trying to conceive. A term that I have become quite familiar with and many of "us" abbreviate to is TTC.

The two week window is suspenseful enough, and then when that unwanted period arrives it can really wreck havoc on the emotions. Month after month goes by with no positive result. I know there are some of you that are reading this that can completely relate. I can absolutely say that I have a new understanding for families who have experienced a loss through miscarriage or have been TTC for some time with no positive result. My heart and prayers are with you.

I think for me, it is difficult to understand what is truly going on. Sometimes I wonder why my body is not working with me. Other times, I don't understand why my husband doesn't feel the same emotions as I do about TTC. But, then again, he isn't the one who gets the period....again....instead of the two lines on the stick. I can't blame him. He loves and cares for me and feels sad when I am sad. But, I put too much pressure and blame on myself each month, even knowing that stress can hinder getting pregnant. It is one thing to have people tell you to just not worry about it anymore and just not think about it and it will just happen. Easier said than done folks.

In May, I began to take oral Progesterone capsules that were prescribed by a doctor. It was really a last resort for painful, unbearable periods that I have as a result from scar tissue buildup from the surgery for the ectopic pregnancy I had last year. It turn, I have many side effects from this drug such as tiredness, bloating, cramps, worry, irritability, and the worst....BREAST SWELLING AND TENDERNESS. After four months of trading two painful days on my period for two weeks of side effects every month, I have decided to discontinue the drugs. This is a difficult decision for me because they were given to me based on a diagnosis of very slight endometriosis. Endometriosis can be tricky when trying to become pregnant. The lining of the uterus often does not allow implantation to occur correctly, if at all. I just feel that my body, if given the proper nutrition and TLC, will allow me to eventually conceive on my own like I did before. AND, I am trusting in my decision to stop the medication and have a peace about it. When the time is right, we will blessed with a baby.

So, this is where I am...me being raw about the real things that I am going through will we continue our efforts to conceive a child.

Who's Pregnant?

2009-09-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

There can be many signs and symptoms early on in pregnancy. Things like just having that feeling, implantation spotting, positive pregnancy tests, nausea, missed period, and the list goes on.

Does anyone out there care to share the story of how you found out or had a hunch your were pregnant?

Who did you tell first?

How did you tell your spouse? Family? Friends?

Nutrition: This for That

2009-09-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

Start thinking about how to eat differently in order to maintain your health and the health of your growing baby even before you become pregnant. It is really important to prepare your body ahead of time to allow for the best environment for your growing baby and so that you feel your best while pregnant. Changing your bad eating habits can even increase fertility.

Below are just a few foods and ingredients that are a little more healthful than the usual. Of course, I recommend organic as much as possible, especially during pregnancy.

*Honey or Agave Nectar for Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners
*Ground Turkey for Beef
*Juiced Frozen Mango Puree or a Fruit Smoothie for Ice Cream
*Brown Rice for White Rice
*Spelt, Whole Wheat, or Brown Rice Pasta for Regular Pasta
*Rice Crackers or Brown Rice Cakes for Chips and Crackers
*Whole Grain Carrot or Zucchini Muffins, Cookies, and Bread for Cookies, Cakes, and Bakery Items
*Avocado Dip, Hummus, Salsa for Dressings and Rich, Creamy Dips
*Plain Yogurt with Nuts/Dried Fruit/Granola and Sweetened with Agave Nectar for Ice Cream
*Garlic Cloves, Pepper, Lemon or Lime Juice, and other low sodium spices and herbs for Salt

PLUS LOTS OF:
Veggies (raw and steamed) and Fruits (raw and dried): carrots, broccoli, zucchini, squash, raw dark leafy greens, beets, cabbage, apples, bananas, plums, pineapple, mango, peaches, blueberries, apricots, grapes, oranges, pears, and grapefruits. EAT THE RAINBOW!

Protein: beans, lean meats such as wild caught tilapia and salmon, turkey, and chicken, and yogurt.

Grains/Carbohydrates: brown rice, spelt, whole wheat, and multi whole grains.

Fats: avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

And....drink Water! Water! Water! Try for a gallon a day while pregnant, especially during the hot, summer months. A gallon will be drinking about 1 liter every 2 hours during a 12 hour day. It will also be important to limit, if not totally eliminate, caffeine while pregnant and trying to conceive. That includes: coffee, soda, tea, and energy drinks.

Frequent small meals are important during pregnancy. Planning ahead and packing healthful snacks for on the go or at work is key to maintaining your appetite and energy.

And the Winner is.....

2009-09-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Ceecee Blogger at www.ceeceeblogger.blogspot.com!!!

Thank you everyone for your amazing comments and advice.

I laughed. I cried. I recommend.

2009-09-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

I love to watch a good movie or get so into a book that I don't want the end to come. Baby Catcher: Chronicles of a Modern Midwife by Peggy Vincent was one of those books. I could not put it down. It was sad, hilarious, and deeply gripping. I highly recommend this book about Peggy's journey as a midwife. The birth stories that she shares are incredible and she sure had some amazing experiences during her tenure as a home birth midwife. Love this book!

Tomorrow is the last day to enter the contest to win some amazing organic body care products. Comment on the post below to enter!

100th Post Giveaway

2009-08-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

It's my 100th post!

Thanks to all of my dedicated readers. I have so many ideas about women's health, childbirth, pregnancy, fertility, etc. I am happy that you have joined me in my journey!

"Enjoy this time with your husband...you will have kids for the rest of your life." - This is the a great piece of advise I hear from all my friends and family who have children.

TO ENTER THE CONTEST:
1. I want to hear the advise you have gotten as a mom or mom-to-be. Leave me a comment on this post. 1 entry

2. Tell your friends and readers about my contest on your blog. 1 entry

And, in honor of my 100th post, Lusa Organics has offered to help me out with a give away. Lusa Organics makes a line of handmade, body, baby, and mama products. Click here to visit the Lusa Organics website for more information. Great products!!!

The fantastic prize package includes: Booty Balm, Citrus Lip Balm, and a Lavender Sugar Scrub.

Winner will be randomly chosen on Wednesday September 2nd!

Ignorance is 'Not' Bliss

2009-08-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

Remember the 1991 movie, Fried Green Tomatoes? Evelyn Couch, played by Kathy Bates, goes to a class where at one point the women are given mirrors and asked to take down their panties and explore their vaginas. Evelyn gets so uncomfortable that she has a break down and leaves class in tears.

Ladies.....ignorance is not bliss.

When I was in 8th grade, two years after starting my menstrual cycle, I was convinced I had a yeast infection and asked my mother to get me an OTC medication for it. Oh. Oh. Oh. Little did I know. It wasn't a yeast infection, it had been normal vaginal cervical fluid! But, it wasn't until 12 years later that I would know what cervical fluid would be all about. I know a lot of young girls and even women see "stuff" coming out down there and probably freak out like I did. This is normal ladies! Most likely you do not have an infection unless it has a bad odor or is discolored. (By the way, I treat my yeast infections with apple cider vinegar, pau d' arco tea, and plain yogurt these days...but that is for another post.)

By now, you know that I chart my cycles. I chart because I want to to know my body. Sure, it may seem overwhelming to get the hang of it at first, but it gets easy and hassle free eventually. I started charting in 2006. I began charting because I did not want to introduce anything "unnatural", such as "the pill", into my body. I wish I had started charting much earlier, but I didn't think to do it for maintenance and detection of infections or abnormal issues during the cycle because I was always normal and regular. I thought fertility charting was just a method of birth control so I studied up on it just before we got married. In actuality, fertility charting can help you understand if there are things going on that just aren't quite right.

I say all of this because I believe it is important to know what is going on "down there". If you are pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or if you are a women from puberty and beyond, I think it is important to look at your anatomy. Terms like vaginal opening, perineum and labia will come up during pregnancy and birth. Do you know where they are? In addition, after birth, you will want to take a look again. If you had a episiotomy or tearing, you may want observe the healing and the ongoing changes that will take place as you body repairs. Ladies, take a mirror and look. Don't be an Evelyn Couch!

The Basics of Charting Your Fertility

2009-08-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Fertility charting can be used by those who want to use a natural form of birth control and determining the optimal time to achieve pregnancy. You will need to chart your own cycle to find what your most fertile days will be. These are very basic charts and simplified for the specific needs of this woman. By reading Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler, you will be able to detail a chart that is specific to you. I recommend charting for a few cycles in order to understand your body enough to use this as a form of birth control. Charting is also a great tool for women who have irregular periods, women who have been told they are infertile and still want to try to conceive naturally, those who have gynecological issues or are prone to infections in order to be diagnosed more easily by a physician, and many other needs.

This method has worked as a form of birth control for us for several years and for pregnancy achievement when we desired. Once you get the hang of charting, it becomes very easy! You get to know your body very well. And, in some cases, you can determine when "things just aren't quite right" with your body and you can seek further care.

Refer to the charts below:

1. Chart the cycle you are on (in this case, she is on #11), your age, the length of the cycle (first day of period to first day of the next), and the date your cycle started.

2. Then, chart the cycle day starting with "1" as the first day you see blood. The "date" is the day of the month, the day of the week.

3. Each day you will take your waking temperature at the same time each morning. Your temperature will be low until after you ovulate. The day after your most fertile day of ovulation (peak day), your temperature will rise and you are safe for intercourse without protection. It will drop again when you begin your period. If it does not lower again on the day you expect your period, and you have 18 days of high temperatures in a row after ovulation, you can expect to see a positive pregnancy test!

4. Check the days you have intercourse and be sure that you are especially noting your most fertile time which is shown below in this example highlighted in yellow. You will need to abstain or use a protective barrier method, such a condoms, when having intercourse on your fertile days if you are not wanting to become pregnant. If you do want to become pregnant, you will want to chart your fertile days carefully and plan intercourse on those days.

5. Your cervical fluids are the indication of fertility. If you are not on your period, you will be dry, creamy, sticky, or have fertile egg white cervical fluids. Click here for a website that has a great representation of the cervix and fluids.

6. Notes can be taken on travel, moods, stress, PMS, illness, exercise, etc....

Chart #1: This women did not want to become pregnant on this cycle
and did not. She started her period again after her 28 day cycle.

Chart #2: This women wanted to become pregnant on this cycle
and did. Her temperature remained high after her 28 day cycle.

These charts are only examples and this is a very simplified review of charting. If you have questions or are interested in using this method, I encourage you to read up on it and ask questions on how it can be used by you.

Vaccination Exemption in Texas

2009-08-20T14:59:00.001-07:00

In addition to medical and religious reasons, I recently learned that Texas and Arkansas have been added to the list of 20 states that allow for "philosophical" exemptions from vaccinations. By stating that you are opposed to vaccinations based on your philosophies, your children can be exempt from getting any or all vaccinations. It is not necessary to state your philosophical reasons when you complete the proper forms for exemption. Remember that it is important to apply early to avoid the backlog and possibly delays for school deadlines.

There has been a lot of publicity on the evening news this week about vaccinations. Parents are being advised to vaccinate their children to go back to school. And, there have been a few local cases of severe reactions to Gardasil, the HPV vaccination.

According to the poll on my blog, about 42% of my readers have chosen not to get all of the recommended for some or all of their children. Because many doctors and hospital staff are presenting vaccinating as "the law" most parents are vaccinating their children without the proper education and information. Be aware that it is "the law" that they offer your tiny new baby the vaccines, but you are able to waive any and all of these vaccination given at birth.

If you decide to vaccinate, I recommend that parents wait until their children are at least two years old before doing any vaccinating. As far as school aged children go, I would strongly urge doing a lot of research before getting all of the vaccinations recommended by your pediatrician. Many vaccines are still so new and do not have long term, double-blind placebo test studies done on them. A chiropractor friend of mine recently informed me that longer studies have been done on shampoo than on vaccines. Hmm......

Click here to find a vaccine friendly doctor near you.

Newborn Crawl to Initiate Breastfeeding

2009-08-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

I love the video of a newborn crawling up it mother to feed. I wish the poor baby was a bit more dried off and had a hat on, but overall, it is a great demonstration.

Evidence shows that 22% of all deaths among babies in developing countries may be prevented by early breastfeeding initiation.

The breast crawl is natural and instinctive for babies. This does not guarantee successful establishment of breastfeeding for every mother and baby, but it can have some great advantages if it is achieved. The skin to skin contact with the newborn baby has many amazing affects on the mother and baby as well, including bonding and warmth.

Advantages to the mother and baby for the breast crawl and early breastfeeding initiation include:

Skin to skin contact which keeps the baby warm
Leads to fast and effective achievement of feeding skills by the baby
The first feeding of colostrum has a high concentration of antibodies. It is the babies first immunization. The baby will get bacterial flora from the mother that protects against infection and ultimately leads to the baby's survival
Promotes uterine contractions for better birth of the placenta
It can prevent maternal blood loss and anemia
Leads to better sugar levels and other biochemical parameters in the first few hours after birth
Promotes earlier passage of meconium and decreases the potential of newborn jaundice
Early and long term breastfeeding success
Better mother-infant bonding

Information gathered from http://breastcrawl.org

It's Up For Discussion

2009-08-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all my faithful readers! I want to hear from you. Vote for the topics you want to know more about on my new poll to the right. Or, if there is something else you want to read up on, leave a comment or send me an email.

My Current Read: Making Babies

2009-08-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

Making Babies: The Science of Pregnancy by David Bainbridge

The cover really grabbed me! This book is a bit over my head, but has some fascinating, scientific information about how sex and pregnancy has evolved over the last several hundred years and really since the beginning of time. It is amazing how much we were not able to know and discover without simple objects such as microscopes. I am about halfway through and have found some interesting information that pertain to my own journey with trying to become pregnant. Not sure if I recommend this one yet as a good source for your own library, but I will let you know.

The Seduction of Induction

2009-08-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

As a doula, I have to be up to date on all the statistics, findings, pros, cons, and all the other information out there on induction of labor. According to statistics, induction of labor accounts for42% of all births (research done by www.solaceformothers.org). I think it is important to point out that in most cases their is no evidence of better maternal or neonatal outcomes with induction of a normal, healthy mother and baby.

The most common methods of inducing of labor are done by introducing a synthetic hormone called Pitocin into the bloodstream through a continuous IV drip or by inserting a prostaglandin suppository into your vagina for cervical ripening. Each of these methods is usually followed by the artificial rupture of membranes. If you are scheduled for an induction, I recommend that you do all of the research you possibly can about what is involved. In most cases, many other interventions will follow that you may not understand or wish you knew more about.

Note: The decision to have an induction could be the last decision you make about your birth.

In her talk, Penny Simkin raised the question, "Are there repercussions from interrupting normal pregnancy and bypassing the normal birthing process?"

ACOG (American College of Gynecology) states that induction is okay for the purpose of medical reasons such as illness, oligohydraminios (low amniotic fluid), post dates, prolonged PROM (premature rupture of membranes), IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction), and *M.D. decision on a case by case bases. ACOG is now silent on induction of "big baby" as of 2009.

*I personally feel that this leads to a wide variety of interpretation by doctors and their patients.

Now on to Macrosomia or better known as the "big baby" theory. How many of you have been told were going to have a large baby, only to give birth and find out they were overestimating by pounds? A "big baby" is classified as being suspected to weigh 8.5 lbs. or larger. I say "big baby" with quotes because there is truly no way to tell how much a baby weighs while in utereo and the ultra sound can be off by as much as 10%. "Big baby" is a relative term. Often times there is fear associated with inducing for a suspected "big baby" such as shoulder dystocia or further baby weight gain throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. Shoulder dystocia occurs in only about 30% of babies over 8.5 lbs. and it is also important to know that SD can occur in babies of all weight and size. Furthermore, induction for "BB" does not prevent a cesarean delivery, nor does it improved the outcome of mother and/or baby.

The reasons for induction vary across the board. I do not advocate all of these. In fact, I am highly opposed to many of these. But, I am not opposed to induction as a medically necessary procedure when absolutely necessary. Here is a list of reasons. I will let you decide what sounds like a "good" reason for induction.

A mother is between herpes outbreaks
She had a previous rapid labor
She and her partner are a long distance from their birth place
The father/partner must leave home for an extended period of time (i.e. military)
The mother is at or near term. Why not go ahead and just induce?
She wants her caregiver to be the one to deliver her baby
They are scheduling her induction to ensure adequate hospital staff
The parents want to choose to avoid or coincide with a specific date
Suspected "big baby"
The baby is post due
The mother has an illness
There is low amniotic fluid and the baby is at risk
There is prolonged PROM (premature rupture of membranes)
The baby growth is being restricted by an unpreventable cause IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction)
M.D. decision on a case by case bases.

Remember: You are the consumer. The illusion of control can be very alluring.

Because induction of labor is so widely practiced now, and you may have many friends who have had an induction, it is important to understand the issues involved and how to have a conversation with your caregiver regarding this topic. Many women are not aware that induction, in a majority of cases, is an elective procedure. You need to understand the difference between a medically indicated and an elective induction. It can be very difficult to resist the offer of an induction to the "ninth month woman". Induction becomes a "hurry up and wait" process. You will be restricted from food and drink, possibly for many, many hours during this process. Also note that when you choose an induction, you are also choosing to have an IV and continuous fetal monitoring because of the risks involved to you and the baby. And, you may be told to call ahead of your scheduled induction because the unit is too busy to take you on until later that day or the next. This can be very unsettling and emotional for the women who has been told that her induction is "medically necessary". Here are some suggestions to ask your caregiver when deciding on an induction.

Is there a problem? How serious is it? How urgent is it that we induce? What are the next steps if we hold off on the induction?
Describe the induction procedure. (Often times they will give you a hand out that explains it all. I highly recommend you get it straight from the mouth of the caregiver.)
What are the risks?
What are the alternatives?
What if my induction fails?

Because I love what I do, I work with women who have inductions. It is part of today's birth world. Again, my main focus is getting my clients educated and informed about making decisions that are right for them at the place where they are.

Thought: I agree with Penny Simkin, birth should be seen like the weather.

Can You Relate?

2009-08-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to say thanks for all the great comments on the Attachment Parenting post below. I think that the diversity in parenting is great. I do not have children yet, so I have not tried any parenting techniques. I will be curious to see what we pick and choose to use to form our own style.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Many of you know that we lost a baby to an ectopic pregnancy a year ago. I love to read all the blogs of women and families who are trying to conceive a child. It is a challenge and very difficult emotionally, spiritually, physically..... I don't feel alone in the journey. Today/tomorrow is a year since it all happened and I have this on my heart......

Dear Baby,

It's your mom here. It has been a year since I found out about you and lost you all in the same hazy moment. I think about you all the time. I am thankful for your short presence because it truly did change me. I know that sounds so cliche, but it did. Sometimes I wonder what it would have been like if you had decided to really come and live in this world. I tease you that you wanted to be big and muscly like your daddy and that is why you didn't make it all the way down the tube. That gives us a bit of comic relief. But, if you were here, I wonder what you would look like. Were you going to be a boy or a girl? What would your personality be like? All these things I want to know about you.

When I say I think about you all the time, I really do. I know your time here inside of me had a purpose. You weren't meant to make it and sometimes I wonder why? I kind of know better, but still I ask why? God placed you inside of me for a reason and I guess I don't need to know all the whys right this moment. I know enough.

We really want you back though. I take it a lot harder than your daddy does. I wonder when I will see you again. Will you come back or will it be another? I try and tell myself not to take the tests...that I am only setting myself up for disappointment when they only have one line instead of two. Sometimes I beat myself up and wish I had been a more observant mother. If I had, then my tube would not have gone with you, or maybe it still would have, I don't know. Saying or thinking that won't change what is though.

So, baby, I want you to know that we are waiting for you. You are very much anticipated and being prayed for constantly. I will be a good mommy and your daddy is amazing. We can't wait to meet you. I know that you are waiting for just the perfect moment and that is really okay. We will do our best to be wait patiently. I will try not to cry the tears of sorrow any longer. It makes your daddy sad when I cry for you. You just come when you are ready.

I love you baby.

Love,
Mom

Attachment Parenting: The Science Behind the Style

2009-08-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, attachment parenting it is!

Attachment Parenting is the special bond between you and your baby. It means the mother (and father) are in harmony with the needs of the baby. It usually refers to the mother more because the mother-infant attachment can be stronger than that with the father mostly due to breastfeeding and the care given to the baby. Not to exclude the father, but the mother is often more attached with the newborn. Attached children play better with peers, are better lovers, better students, better parents, have higher IQ's and faster motor skills, and they are more resilient. There are 7 B's to attachment parenting as formed by Dr. Robert Sears that I have outlined below. Click here for more information at Dr. Sears' website.

1. BIRTH BONDING
The mindset of attachment parenting starts at birth. In the initial hours following the birth, it is suggested to avoid separation to allow the initial bonding with both parents. Healthy, normally birthed babies (without special needs directly after birth) should be placed on the mother's chest immediately after birth until the first feeding is finished. The first exam may be done on the mother's chest. Ideally, the baby should stay with the parents throughout the recovery period until the parents go home. In order to ensure this happens, it is suggested that the parents visit with the caregivers prior to the birth.

2. BREASTFEEDING
If a baby achieves breastfeeding in the first hour of life, he/she will be more likely to exclusively breastfeed for longer. Breastfeeding helps you read your baby's cues and understand his/her body language. Breastfeeding provides the hormones to give you a "mothering boost".

3. BABYWEARING
This lets you develop your own instincts with your baby. Babies in slings are more attached to their mothers that those in baby seats. More attached babies become more independent children. Playpen babies have been shown to develop skills at a slower rate. Babies carried in 3-D (side, back, front) cry less and their brains grow faster.

4. BEDSHARING (CO-SLEEPING)
Sleeping with your babies and children in your "safe" adult bed has been shown to promote more attached, independent, and secure children. Three times as many babies die in cribs as die in adult beds. Bedsharing is safe. Half of Americans co-sleep with their babies and children about half of the time. Bedsharing actually decreases the rate of SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room sharing to lower the rate of SIDS (except if one or both of the parents are smokers or abuse alcohol, which increases SIDS if room sharing by 25 times!) Solo sleepers or babies who sleep alone are shown to startle more often, have higher anxiety, have increased heart rates, and have interfered sleep. SIDS is lowest in countries that routinely practice co-sleeping. When you have small children in your bed, you should take your bed off the frame, have no cracks, no water beds, take no sedatives, and have no really soft, cushy linens. And, if you do not want to bedshare, don't do it. It has to be something you want or you will become resentful of sharing your bed. *When bedsharing, it is important to note that newborns/infants and small children should not be in the same beds.

5. BELIEVE YOUR BABY'S CRIES
Your child's development is most importantly influenced by the mother's response to the cry. When you respond to the babies cries, you meet his needs and he will know he is loved. "Crying it out" babies are shown to cry more and more annoyingly because they are insecure. The more babies cry, the more stress hormones circulate which suppress growth and immune function.

6. BEWARE OF BABY TRAINERS
Watch out for rigid, extreme parenting styles that suggest schedules and watching the clock. This promotes a short-term gain and long-term loss and Dr. Sears suggest it is not a wise investment.

7. BALANCE
Your marriage is still very important. Figure out and gain the wisdom of when to say "yes" and when to say "no".

Attachment Parenting is NOT:
Ignoring your marriage, ignoring your health, self-sacrificing, being critical of others, or insisting your way is best.

For more information see www.askdrsears.com.

What Do You Want?

2009-08-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!

I have missed you. I just returned from a DONA (Doulas of North America) conference in Atlanta. It was a packed three days of much information that I cannot wait to share with you. We had speakers who are well known to the field and are authors, educators, and professionals such as Dr. Robert Sears, Penny Simkin, Marshall and Phyllis Klaus, and many others. These amazing people have written many of the books that I now have in my library for expectant mothers.

I am eager to start posting all about the things I have learned. I would like your feedback on where to begin. Here are some of the topics that I am now a bit more knowledgeable on:

SOLACE - Ongoing care and support for the mother who has had a "traumatic" birth experience
Vaccinations - As per Dr. Robert Sears and The Vaccine Book
Kangaroo Care - Immediate skin to skin care for preemies to full term babies
Attachment Parenting - Attachment ideas for new families versus schedules for new babies
Teen Mothers - Helping support pregnant and birthing teens as they become new parents
Hospital Birthing - How to efficiently and effectively work with the hospital staff and parents. There are some great ideas for negotiating and having an amazing birth in the hospital setting.
Seduction of Induction - Penny Simkin's talk on the lure of induction in today's society and the outcomes of such
Attachment for the Laboring Mother - How to effectively help a mother by attuning and attaching to her during birth for better infant and maternal outcomes
Eco-Friendly Birthing - What are we coming to by taking the natural, normal, spontaneous, birthing process away from the mothers and manipulating it into a convenient package

Ok, let's start there. Anyone want to suggest the first post from those ideas?

FAM "Miss-Conception"

2009-07-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Natural methods of birth control have kind of gotten a bad reputation. I hear women say "I got pregnant using those methods". If used correctly, this will not happen. But, FAM and NFP are often confused with the rhythm method. The rhythm method is an unreliable method of family planning in which the fertile phase of the cycle is calculated according to the lengths of the previous menstrual cycles. Because of its reliance on regular menstrual cycles and long periods of abstinence, it is neither effective nor widely accepted as a modern method of natural family planning. In addition, the rhythm method technique is known to use information based on a 28 day cycle. This is just simply not what all women experience. If you were to tell your caregiver that you use the rhythm method as a form of birth control they would most likely scoff and tell you it is an ineffective method, which it is because of what I just mentioned above. However, their calculations for pregnancy and "due dates" are based on a 28 day cycle wheel. Something is missing here.

I believe that if you are wanting to conceive and especially if you are having difficulty, it is crucial that you begin to document and chart your cycles. And, if you are wanting to avoid induction you must chart!

A quick story:

Dana was a 25-year-old women who had recently come off the Pill, so her cycles had not yet returned to normal. Because she and her husband wanted to get pregnant, they practiced Fertility Awareness to determine her fertile phase. After she became pregnant, he doctor asked her the date of her last menstrual period to apply the standard pregnancy wheel. Dana mentioned that the pregnancy wheel would be inaccurate in her particular case since it assumes ovulation on day 14. She explained that she practiced FAM and knew that she didn't ovulate until day 37, so it would inaccurately predict her due date a full three weeks earlier than it really should be.

You can imagine Dana's surprise when the doctor not only did not give her credence to her charts, but actually expressed great concern when his pelvic exam revealed that the fetus was "extremely small for dates." Had this women not been practicing Fertility Awareness, she would have been distressed to be told by the doctor that something was wrong with her fetus, all because he was basing her cycles on the average women's day of ovulation, rather than her own. As if that wasn't enough, he actually red-flagged her chart with a "medical alert" tag, indicating that her pregnancy was high risk and needed to be followed carefully.

I believe this story is also a classic example of the importance of charting not only to know the exact day of conception, but also to avoid a possible risky induction. Had she not been charting and instead relying only on the date of her last period, she would most likely be induced before the actual 40 week mark and never even know it. Her baby would not even be 40 weeks when they would possibly induce at 10 days past her "due date" according to her doctors calculation based on the pregnancy wheel.

Why I am a FAM girl

2009-07-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

FAM - Fertility Awareness Method and NFP - Natural Family Planning Methods

I often use the description of birth control like this. Men are fertile every single day of their lives from the age they hit puberty until the day they die. Women are fertile 12-24 hours of each month. So, to me, the idea that birth control methods that fall completely on the responsibility of the woman seems a bit unrealistic.

Although I do not use all of the ideas in FAM, such as feeling my cervix for softness or hardness, I am aware of my fertile cervical fluid, which is the most important aspect of using FAM as birth control and for pregnancy achievement. What makes this method so great is that you and your spouse can become very aware and knowledgeable of her body and the changes it goes through during her cycle. He can be an active part of helping chart and staying informed on fertile days for pregnancy and "safe" days for prevention. Fertile days, when trying to avoid pregnancy, can be spent SPICE-ing it up. Spiritual - Physical - Iintellectual - Communicative - Emotional

The basics of FAM and NFP are charting your cervical mucous. As I described in my previous post, your "peak day" is the day you are most fertile. This means that you will best be able to conceive on this day. All of us use the restroom several times a day. Each time you use the restroom, you check for cervical mucous. With a tissue, you wipe the area (front to back) before and after using the restroom. Cervical mucous is described as sticky, creamy, or eggwhite. In the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler, cervical mucous is described in great detail, so I won't go too much into it in this post. The most important cervical mucous you need to be aware of is the eggwhite mucous that looks very similar to the eggwhites of an egg. It is very stretchy and slippery. Estrogen peaks the day before ovulation and creates the most fertile fluid. Sperm can live in this very fertile cervical mucous for 3-5 days. With the absence of eggwhite mucous, sperm will die within hours.

I know that some people believe that you can get pregnant at any time during the month. This is simply not true. If you diligently chart your cervical fluid, you will know what days you are most fertile and what days you are not fertile for pregnancy. These methods, FAM and NFP, when used properly are very effective (99%) in preventing and achieving pregnancy. I strongly suggest you look into it. This method is totally free. With the exception of buying the book of your choice to read up on the method, you will only be using pencil and paper for charting. Birth control pills, condoms, and other contraceptive methods have an initial or ongoing cost. This can be difficult to manage if you do not have health insurance or the means to keep replenishing your methods.

Charting your cycles can also be effective in determining if you have specific reproductive issues such as endometrieosis, low progesterone, or even cancer. If you are having spotting between periods, spotting during pregnancy, history of miscarriage, missed periods with no pregnancy or more, then charting could be very essential to knowing what to tell your caregivers.

Some more facts:
* Spotting or miscarriage during the 1st trimester of pregnancy could mean an issue with low progesterone.
* When checking for cervical mucous, you use the 3 C's, color, consistency, change, and sensation.
* After birth you are fertile for 56 days if you are breastfeeding.
* "The Pill" does not prevent pregnancy. It keeps the uterine lining so thin to you will miscarry and abort the baby if you do indeed become pregnant while using the pill. You will most likely never know you were even pregnant when you miscarry.
* From fertilization to implantation it takes nine days. Pregnancy tests are designed to detect HCG levels. HCG is produced by implantation. It is recommended to not take a pregnancy test until 16 days following your peak day.

Earth Mama Angel Baby Giveaway

2009-07-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

"Organic Baby Products 101" Blog is having an Earth Mama Angel Baby product giveaway! These are amazing, sustainable, organic products for mommy and baby. I love all of their products and recommend them to my clients. Winner will be selected in August 2nd, so hurry and enter. Click here for contest details.

Here is what you are eligible to win:

Happy Mama Spray

The Angel Baby Kit

The Angel Baby Kit includes:

Angel Baby Bath Blossoms, 42 g.(1.5 oz.), Angel Baby Bottom Balm, 30 ml.(1 oz.), Angel Baby Lotion, 60 ml.(2 oz.), Angel Baby Oil, 30 ml.(1 oz.), Angel Baby Shampoo & Body Wash, 50 ml (1.67 fl. oz.), Angel Baby Sleep CD

Sneak "Peak" on Fertility

2009-07-23T18:36:00.000-07:00

Remember my post on Birth Control and Pregnancy Achievement? If you are trying to conceive (or not), it is nice to be aware of your most fertile or "peak" day of fertility. If you already chart your cycles, you are aware of how this works. If not, the following information may be very helpful.

Charting the Most Fertile Day of Your Cycle

Your peak day, as the name suggests, is the day that your fertility peaks and the best time to get pregnant. If you are charting you can determine your peak day by checking your cervical mucous. After you have ovulated your cervical mucous will begin to dry up. This is one way to confirm that you have ovulated. Your peak day is the last day of fertile cervical mucous. You won’t be able to identify your peak day until after it occurs, when you notice your cervical mucous has become dry. Mark your peak day on your chart with a P.

Charting your Peak Day

You will want to look for your peak day when you are charting. You will know it is your peak day by the days that follow it. Once you see the shift from wet fertile cervical mucous to dry cervical mucous you will know that your peak day has occurred. Mark your chart with a P on the last day you see fertile cervical mucous. Then mark the following four days of dry cervical mucous with 1, 2, 3, 4. Once you have seen four dry days you can assume you are no longer fertile.

Peak Day and avoiding pregnancy

If you are trying to avoid pregnancy, do not have intercourse until four days after your peak day. Your peak day usually occurs the day before ovulation or the day of ovulation. Since your egg can survive for about 24 hours you will not want to have sex until around four days after your peak day to avoid pregnancy.

Peak Day and trying to conceive

If you are trying to conceive you will want to start having intercourse before your peak day. After your period ends you will notice an increase in cervical mucous. The typical pattern is tacky cervical mucous, that turns to creamy, that changes to clear stretchy egg white looking cervical mucous. While it is true that you are looking for egg white slippery cervical mucous to indicate ovulation, it is a good idea to start having intercourse before you see this. The reason behind this is that sperm can last up to five days and your egg can only last 24 hours. If you wait until the day you see slippery egg white mucous, you only give yourself a one day opportunity to get pregnant. If you have sex prior to ovulating as well you will increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Kickin' It

2009-07-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

My bad habit that is.

Caffeine

I have had a hunch that is been affecting my fertility. When we conceived last summer, I was not drinking caffeine. But, because of my work schedule these days, I have been drinking more coffee in the past several months. I would say that I drink an average of 12 oz. per day. That isn't a lot compared to the intake of many, but it is more that I feel I should be having.

After about seven months of trying to conceive with no positive outcome, I have decided to take a good look at my diet. Caffeine is the first to go and here is why. Some studies have shown the link of caffeine consumption and the ability to conceive. For example, one study showed that women who have an intake or 300mg of caffeine per day have a 27 percent less chance of conceiving compared to those who do not have caffeine. So now it will be herbal tea for me.

What will be the next nutritional change? I am not sure. Stay tuned.

Blog Facelift

2009-07-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know it is a little hard to read, but I am trying out my new skills with "paint". A program that I have decided I do not like. So, enjoy for now and I will pretty it up later!

A Conversation on Birth Choices

2009-07-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

It's inevitable. You get a group of women together and childbirth will most likely come up. Especially if anyone of them is pregnant. It seems like this topic has come up a lot lately in discussions I have been a part of. There are so many different ideas out there on caregivers, childbirth classes, where to have your baby, breastfeeding, and the list goes on an on.

I must begin by saying that I have not had the experience of any of this yet, so I am the bystander on many of these conversations. Of course, as a doula, natural birth advocate, and breastfeeding supporter, I do often find myself wanting to advocate more than I should. I also know that natural childbirth advocates can often times get categorized as "radicals", not willing to hear any other side.

But, it makes me really think after these gatherings and such discussions with these women. I am glad to be a part of such a diverse group of friends who have different ideas and opinions. By now, you all know that I do, however, feel that it is important to be educated and informed on all aspects of childbirth if you are a mother (or father) or plan on becoming one soon.

I understand that when you are pregnant that you get all kinds of advice, solicited or not. But, if you say to me "I am not brave enough to have a natural birth" or "I need the epidural before I even go into labor", then you are going to get a few probing questions from me. I would ask you, "What makes you feel that way?" "Do you know you have a 1 in 2 chance of having a cesarean section if you birth in a hospital?" "Do you understand the repercussions of an induction?" Sometimes just talking it out with them helps bring the topic into a whole new light. Maybe they have heard horror stories about other births and feel the hospital and drugs are the safest route for them. Maybe they aren't fully educated on how the drugs may effect the mother and baby during and after birth. Maybe they want the process to be easier for their husband/support person so he/she doesn't have to "worry" about her as much or get too tired while she is in labor (a doula would help, but that is for another post).

Many people have gotten their view of childbirth from television and movies. You know, the shows that all depict childbirth as an "emergency situation". The media has truly misrepresented the intimate, calming, loving nature of birth. They have created birth to be a fearful, stressful situation that it does not have to be. Besides the media, I often wonder what really makes women feel fearful of childbirth. Is it the pain? Is it the "what if" factor? It is all the unknowns? Does she feel unprepared?

As women, we have the right to choose whatever kind of birth we want to have. It is, after all, our body and our birth. So, whether you choose to have a natural (unmedicated) birth or a medicated birth, please understand why you made that choice. That choice could affect you and your baby for the rest of your lives.

Breast is Best

2009-07-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

Breastfeeding Facts

Breastmilk is the best food for infants and small children:

Reduces the risk of allergic reations and asthma
Provides babies with the most easily digested food
Promotes healthy growth and development
Studies indicate a higher I.Q. among breastfed babies
Protects against cancer and diabetes
Transmits mother's immunities
Leads to fewer ear and respiratory infections
May protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Yields health benefits that last a lifetime
Reduces crying and colic
Reduces cause of abuse and abandonment
Allows mom time to cuddle and nurture her baby
Mother's milk changes throughout the duration of nursing to meet the baby's specific needs at a given time
Diapers have less offensive odor
Mother's milk is the safest food for infants in any emergency

Breastfeeding is best for mothers:

Releases prolactin: the calming, "mothering" hormone
May delay ovulation and menstruation
Protects against breast and ovulation cancer
Helps uterus get back to pre-pregnancy size and shape
Allows mothers to miss fewer work or school days because baby is sick less often
Creates a special time for mother-baby bonding
Less time preparing bottles
Permits mothers to get more sleep at night (if baby shares bed)

Breastfeeding is best for families:

Saves money in formula and health care costs
Leads to healthier baby and mother
Allows mother to spend more time with entire family
Can offer a special bonding tie for siblings and fathers, too
Makes for easier traveling
Makes comforting baby easier - less crying

Breastfeeding is best for the world:

Uses a natural resource
Protects the environment: no packaging, no plastics, no waste
Yields healthier work force for the future
Requires no storage
Saves tax dollars by decreasing health care costs

Information provided by: 2007 Department of State Health Services

Organic Product Suggestions?

2009-07-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

I am looking for more suggestions on great, organic mommy and baby items or products. Anyone have anything they recommend...can't live without?

Homebirth: Not Just for the Crunchy, Country Folks

2009-07-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have had many women comment about their "normal" friends birthing at home. Many people are under the misconception that only "weird" people have babies at home. I can tell you that growing up I may have been guilty to think that only certain types of people had babies at home. I now know differently.

I grew up in a rural community in Kansas. If you were to ask me as a teen what I thought about homebirth?" I would probably have told you that I am sure that the local Mennonite community was maybe the only group that would birth at home. My mother had five natural, unmedicated, hospital births, but I don't think I even knew there were any other options.

When my sister and her husband got pregnant with their first child in 2005, they decided to have a home birth. They live in Northwest Arkansas where they have access to midwives that would come to their home for prenatal visits and then for the birth. They don't have birthing
centers in their immediate area.

I recently sat down with my sister to ask her specific questions about her homebirth experience and the choices they made surrounding their pregnancy and birth. "I don't like drugs or pressure," she told me when asked why they decided to have their children at home. After interviewing local midwives, they made their choice based on the openness of the midwives, their loving spirit, and their passion for birth. (*Pictured is my sister with her daughter who was born at home in August 2008.)

She went on to say she had a positive, interested reaction from friends and family. No one ever made them feel bad or guilty for having a home birth. They got asked many questions that they could easily answer because of their comfort level with birthing at home. Her only concern with homebirth was "the worst case scenario" option which, in their mind, they were believing that they weren't going to have. And, they never did with either birth.

They loved both of their experiences with having babies at home. The intimate, safe, calm, peaceful atmosphere is what they desired for the baby and themselves and it was perfect for them. She believes the safest place to have a baby is where a mother and her support feel most comfortable. She read that during her first pregnancy and tells that to anyone asking advice.

"It is awesome," is her response to having a homebirth, "the love and care you get at home and the approach to labor and newborn care is refreshing and reassuring." She would tell anyone on the fence to keep doing research. If one of the parents is not in agreement with the other, continue to get educated. Read books, watch documentaries on birth, talk to friends who have had a homebirth experience, and talk to midwives, natural childbirth educators, and doulas. Make a final decision based on education, not fear.

Homebirth is safe. Midwives come fully prepared for anything that could happen during and after birth. I wouldn't say that homebirth is for every couple, but certainly I believe that it is a glorious option for every low-risk, healthy mother and baby.

Childbirth Education

2009-07-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Did you prepare for your birth with childbirth education classes? Lamaze, Bradley, HypnoBirthing or another?

Why or why did you not choose to take a class?

What class did you take?

Tell me about your experiences and how it affected your birth.

And the random winner is.......

2009-07-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Congrats, HANNAH MACBETH!!! She is a great high school friend has three precious little girls. Visit her awesome blog...click here!

A Petition for Health

2009-07-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

Today on the radio I heard an ad that was promoting a petition for "free your health care". The idea is to not let the government run our health care system and to ensure that it stays in the hand of the people. If the government takes control, we will not see as many options of our own desires for care available. I looked into the website (here) and decided I needed to sign the petition.

I rarely share my "opinion" on my blog, but I feel so strongly about this that I must share it today. As a practitioner in the "alternative health care community", I believe in massage, chiropractic, natural birth, homeopathy, acupuncture...and so much more. Do I really want the government to put restrictions on these alternative health care services (or even mainstream health care for that matter)? Do I not have a right to choose and obtain the health care of my choice without the government putting restrictions up for what I can do for myself and my family in time of need? Or, what insurance can or cannot pay for?

Although, most alternative health care options are not covered by insurance, I truly believe that it is imperative that people should have access to these options if they choose. For example, it would be a shame if the government had control of birthing centers or even decided that it was against the law to have your baby at home.

One reason I am so passionate about this topic is that I have seen first hand the benefits of alternative health care on for acute and chronic illnesses. When my sister was sixteen years old, she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis....a chronic, devastating colon disease. With only the use of alternative treatments such as acupuncture, dramatic diet changes, and yoga, she is completely well today, eleven years later.

What are your thoughts on this?

One More Day

2009-07-09T06:38:00.001-07:00

Remember the giveaway? You still have one more day. Click here to enter!

Coming Full Circle - Ch.5

2009-07-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

CHAPTER 5

When I awoke from my groggy, post-surgical state, I could faintly see the television on in front of me. It was now Thursday around noon. I looked over to see Scott and his dad sitting next to me in the chairs. The doctor had already visited with Scott and shown him pictures of the 5wk 6day baby they had taken out of me along with my left fallopian tube that didn't survive the event. Had we waited even just a few more hours and my tube had ruptured, I would have bled out with within two hours. Yes, I am blessed.

When I came to fully, one of my firsts calls was to my friend Marissa. Her dad is a pastor in our church. She didn't know any of what had just gone on. When I told her, she immediately said she would come right away. She came with her dad and daughter to pray for my recovery. They didn't stay long. I was going to be heading home in the next couple of hours anyway.

First things first though. You have to empty your bladder before they let you leave. Sounds easy, but it isn't. Once that was accomplished, I was free to go. It was all such a blur. I don't even remember anything that happened between getting into the wheel chair and getting into the car. Thankfully, it was a short drive home.

I went straight to bed when I got to the house. Scott laid down next to me. We both needed the sleep. Mom still was on her way. The next thing I knew, she was standing at the side of my bed. She was saying some things, but I don't remember any of them now. She brought me a smoothie. She had also brought me lots of supplements and herbs for my rehab.

For the next few days, I had friends coming in and out bringing us food and stopping for visits. I am so grateful for so many wonderful, amazing friends that surrounded me during that time.

The plan was to get well enough to go to Arkansas on Monday. My sister was still sick, and had a newborn, a husband, and a two year old, and she also needed her momma. Most of the weekend was spent watching the Olympics. Saturday was when it hit me. I had been okay emotionally until then. When I think back, I am thankful to not have known that I was pregnant before the loss. There wasn't much time to mourn a loss when we only had just a short while from the time we found out till the time I had surgery.

I began to have a flood of emotions that Saturday. I had been pregnant. My body had betrayed me. Why did this happen to us? I have one less body part. So many things were going on in my head and in my heart. Shortly after that day, I wrote this down and it has become my prayer:

"Lord, I know you have a will and a reason for everything that happens in our lives.

This little baby that was growing inside of me that was taken so suddenly has a meaning and a purpose for its existence.

Lord, teach Scott and I what you have us to learn from this. Help us to grow and to be stronger and to be able to help others from what we have experienced."

That prayer sits in my prayer box and every once in a while I read it. I believe that I have had this experience to help others in their journey through this life.

Slowly, I began for feel better physically. Every now and then, I have a moment when I want to ask "why?", but usually catch myself and grin, knowing that I know the "why". I think deep down we all know the "why" when things like this happen.

My current prayer is for another life to join us in this life's journey. But until then, I know that every day I have is a day that I have to touch another soul in a way that I may not have been able to otherwise. And, for now, I am a mother of a heavenly baby, awaiting on our gift to come to this earth to live with us.

~The End. (or actually...To Be Continued one day...stay tuned)

Coming Full Circle - Ch. 4

2009-07-07T10:10:00.001-07:00

CHAPTER 4

At 5:00am the sonographer came in with his big machine. He was a nice guy. I asked him if he was there to take a better look at my cyst. He said "well, I was told you are pregnant and that I need to take a look to see what is going on." And that is how I found out I was pregnant, sadly without my husband there with me. He had brought an obnoxious nurse with him for the procedure. He prodded and poked around on my belly. It was not the most comfortable experience, I will say that. I remember him telling me that there was no baby in my uterus. At that point I knew that with all the bleeding, no baby in the uterus, and a positive pregnancy test, this was not a good combination. It got to be kind of a blur after that. I do seem to recall the moment he told me that the baby was growing in my tube. There was a lot of whooshing sounds. At one point the nurse asked in very chipper voice "is that the heartbeat?" Seriously lady!? You are a nurse. You should know better than to ask that question when you clearly know that my pregnancy would not be sustainable after hearing what the sonographer just told me. The answer from him to many of my questions that followed was, "I will let the doctor answer that for you." I knew he knew it wasn't good and wasn't allowed to share a lot of medical information with me. I bet that makes their job hard. In the middle of the sonogram, Scott came back in and I told him about the baby, but that it wasn't good news. When the sonogram was finished at about 6:00am we waited only about five minutes for the ER doctor to come back in.

When he returned, he wasted no time in telling us that I indeed had an ectopic pregnancy that was growing in my left tube. He said that the the gynecologist on call was on his way down and that I would be having surgery as soon as possible. I asked him what my other options were. I think I caught him off guard with that question because there were no other options at that point, other than being dead I guess. He left and we sat on the hospital bed and cried and prayed. Then, I called my mom who was still in Arkansas helping my sister and her family with the new baby. It was about 6:15am. I told her that I was headed into surgery. Unfortunately, this was not the most opportune time. My sister had developed a pretty bad case of mastitis and was sick with a fever. I told my mom to stay with her, but she said she would come down anyway.

The gynecologist came into the room and found us a bit shook up. Scott was taking it harder than I was. He was really concerned for me. The doctor explained to us what he was going to do. I was sitting up on the bed and Scott sat in a chair across from me. Mom had asked me to make sure he knew what he was doing. I was going to make sure I was fully informed before going under the knife. His response to my obviously ridiculous question of "have you done this procedure many times before" was "well, let's just say this isn't my first rodeo." Then, when I asked him how much this was going to cost, he looked at me like I was half crazy. He told me not to worry about the cost. This was going to save my life. I would find out later that the cost of saving a life comes at a very high price. He also reassured Scott that he would keep him in the loop every step of the way. Then he left the room.

I was again poked and prodded and put under for surgery at the brand new Baylor Women's Center. Then, by 9:00am I was in surgery.

Only Four More Days!

2009-07-07T07:52:00.001-07:00

Don't forget about the BIG give away....click here for details!

Dads and Doulas

2009-07-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

My husband's cousin has a wonderful website in Spokane that is devoted to natural childbirth. She recently had a post on her blog called Hiring a Doula: A Husband's Perspective. It has great insight of one dad's view of having a doula at their birth. Check it out!

Coming Full Circle - Ch. 3

2009-07-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

CHAPTER 3

I had chalked four days of bleeding up to being my period and moved on. About the time I was to start ovulating again, I began to bleed for three days. Looking back, I am not sure why I let it go on for that long. It wasn't anything that had ever happened to me before. Ignoring it was kind of the best option at the time. On Wednesday, August 13th, I woke up feeling "off". I had one client coming for a massage that I could not cancel because she was headed off to college and would not be home till Thanksgiving. Then I was supposed to head to my job that afternoon and work into the evening. Feeling crumby, I decided to keep the massage appointment, but called in sick to my other job for the afternoon. Scott was in the kitchen getting ready to leave for work. I told him that I wasn't feeling well and wasn't going to work. He said "are you really that sick", to which I replied, "YES!", but not exactly sure why.

It took everything I had to get through the massage, but I did. After it was over, I decided that I felt like this was something that was out of my hands. I called the only gynecologist that I knew of in the area. They said they could work me in on August 28th. I took the appointment and then called my mom for advice. I relayed all my symptoms to her and she said she would get back to me. She was in Arkansas with my sister who had just had a baby eight days earlier. I mustered the energy to make myself some red raspberry tea and I sat at the kitchen table pondering. I had self diagnosed myself with a ruptured ovarian cyst after walking around the house hunched over in pain. It wasn't my appendix, I knew that much. Shortly after that my mom called back to tell me that she had researched and came up with me having a tumor or an ectopic pregnancy.

"Could you be pregnant?", I remember her asking.

"Well, I wasn't sharing that info, but yes, we had tried."

She told me to call the doctor back and ask for an urgent appointment, so I did. They could work me in the next morning at 8:30am, but told me to go to the ER if I felt like it was an emergency. I called my mom back and she agreed that an ER visit may be warranted.

I was home alone until 9:30 that night. I had been trying not to bother Scott and work with all this because I knew he would worry. I asked him for some chocolate chip ice cream on the way home. I ate it curled up in a little ball in the corner of the couch. Scott was watching the Olympics and I went into the bedroom, laid down and cried. He came in and asked "is it really that bad?" I was just not sure what to do. I was scared. I said I think we should go to the ER. It was about 10:30pm. I got up and got dressed and sat on the edge of the bed. He sat next to me. I said, "let me take one last walk around the house and make sure we need to go." All of a sudden, it was like something came over me and I knew we had to go to the hospital. I think the hesitation at the time was the cost involved. We sat in the car wondering what hospital to go to. We are a little naive when it comes to those things, so Scott called the ER to make sure they took our insurance. We had only had health insurance for a little over a month at that time. I had gotten it when I started working at my job in June. It was the first time we had insurance our entire marriage, and I was glad for it. But, since we didn't know a lot about ER visits and insurance, Scott wanted to make certain they would take it. Well, come to find out, the ER can't refuse you. At 11:00pm we were on our way.

When we arrived at the hospital there was a bit of a wait. They take the sickest people first. I said my pain was at a 7. I guess I wasn't that sick to them. They took my temp, my urine and my vitals. Then we waited. And we waited. And we waited. We felt for a grandmother and her sick little grand daughter who sat a few chairs away. And, we watched the Chinese gymnasts who were pretty amazing. At 2:30am and about seven potty breaks later they called me back. A really nice nurse came in to take a pregnancy test and other blood samples. Scott had to work the next morning at 7:30. Pretty sure that we were going to be headed back home that night, I finally told him to go out to the car and sleep. It was going to be a while.

Give Aways Galore!

2009-07-05T19:29:00.000-07:00

Ok blog readers. I am a little bit disappointed at the response to my previous blog contest. So, I am going to try this one more time. Contest winner will be chosen on July 10th.

This time, here are the rules:

Leave a comment - 1 entry
Become a follower of Bellies In Bloom - 1 entry
Post my contest on your blog and link to mine - 2 entries
Be sure and let me know in your comment how many entries you are are eligible for.

Here is what you can win. Your choice handmade baby shoes or earrings!

***************

If you connect to Jenna's Blog, you can try and win another fabulous pair of Forever 21 earrings! Check it out.

Coming Full Circle - Ch. 2

2009-07-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

CHAPTER 2

When you decide on a whim that it is time to add a baby to the mix, as we had, there is no stress, no pressure and no methodical, rhythmic, calculations of baby making that are involved. It is purely joy and bliss. Though, I still felt ready and unready all at the same time. Who is ever really ready, though, you know? As the day approached that I would find out if out if our pregnancy efforts had been satisfactory, I had a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts going through my head. What if this isn't the right time? What if we can't handle a baby financially right now? What if...? What if... What if? As, I often do, I began to journal my feelings and thoughts about what I was feeling emotionally and physically.

7.31.2008

Dear Diary,

"Yesterday was day 12 after conception. If I calculate correctly, that means implantation of egg would be occurring. I bled a little yesterday and today the same only more. I have some cramping and a lot of bloating. Still not sure if I am pregnant....period would have started tomorrow according to schedule.

I am a bit nervous about having a baby. Last night I cried. I am hormonal either way. I am sad that the door to 'just to two of us' is closing. It was fun, I mean, we still have nine months, but the thought is sad. I am having mixed feelings, probably just because I am emotional right now."

I am not sure how he does it, but Scott can always bring me back down from my emotional roller coaster with little effort. I, on the other hand, can sometimes work myself into a tizzy over the smallest hurdles. I guess we complement and balance each other that way.

Looking back, the tears I cried for the loss of "just the two of us", seem so strange. Mostly because there would be many more tears to come and it wasn't because I was mourning the loss of our couple hood.

Coming Full Circle - Ch. 1

2009-07-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

CHAPTER 1

Lucky. Blessed. Whatever you want to call it, I am it.

Today marks the first day of my year long journey. And this is my story.

I didn't know it yet, but this was going to be the cycle that we would conceive a baby. When you calculate your pregnancy, you count from the first day of your last period. Technically, you are considered pregnant already when you start your period. Odd, I know. Well, that was the day for me.

Two weeks then passed. When I think back, I remember so vividly all that followed. I sprawled out on my massage table talking to my mom on the phone. As in many conversations that would follow that one, we were talking about pregnancy. I was beginning to have the "baby fever" as they call it. Mostly in part to the fact that my sister was due with her baby in a few short weeks. Scott was sitting at the computer in the same room filling out a job application. This had become the story of our lives. The conversation with Mom was one to ponder. We discussed life, babies, pregnancy and such. It wasn't much different than most of our daily conversations. When our phone call ended, I was feeling inspired. Scott and I had not been "officially" talking baby yet. We were, at that point, still trying to figure out where our lives were headed. But, you can't really "plan" these things or you would never think you are ready to grow your family.

Because I track my cycle for birth control and now for pregnancy achievement, I know what every feeling and sign of ovulation is supposed to look like. My sister had given me some ovulation tests that the previous homeowners of their new house had left behind. She wasn't in need of them and had passed them along. I knew I was ovulating, but I wanted to reassure my confidence. Sure enough, the test said I would ovulate in the next 24-36 hours. I was pretty laid back about the whole thing. There was no pressure and no stress that surrounded that time. After a brief discussion of timing, jobs, and readiness, we decided no time was better than the present.

That was the beginning of the journey. Little did we know what was to follow.

Placenta For Dinner?

2009-07-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

I read an article on the Time website about placenta encapsulation. It is a hilarious story about one husbands point of view on his wife's ideas to encapsulate her placenta and ingest it for the nutrients. Read here and tell me what you think.

July is Prenatal Massage Month

2009-07-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

We are amidst the hot, sunny, summer days! I feel for all expectant mommy's out there. July is dedicated to the pregnant moms who are braving the summer heat. Please feel free to pass the word around. I hope to see you soon!

July - Prenatal Massage Month

Hannah Reasoner, LMT, CD(DONA)
817-386-3355 or (c)214-783-3668

60 Minute Prenatal Massage - $40 (reg. $60)

July 1st - July 31st

Mondays 12pm - 6pm
Wednesdays 12pm - 8pm
Saturdays 10am - 5pm

(other days and times may be available upon request)

*For women 16+ weeks pregnant to 4 weeks postpartum
*May not be combined with any other offer
*Sorry, gift certificates are not available for this special.

Defending My Cause

2009-06-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

I recently had the following comment on my blog by someone anonymous in response to my episiotomy post:

Mother-Friendly Childbirth--Highlights of the Evidence

"My BFF did the Bradley method and did everything right and still needed an episiotomy, or as you call it, "the cut".

And to all the moms reading this who DON'T circumcise your sons, NOBODY is going to want to date them when they are older because uncircumcised penises are DISGUSTING! Especially when you're 80 and can't clean behind the foreskin. (I'm a nurse). Ugh, even the word foreskin makes me want to vomit. Gross!"

Although I believe this comment to be very derogatory and inappropriate, I would like to clarify any misguided thoughts and beliefs on the subjects of the Bradley Method, episiotomies, and circumcision.

The Bradley Method of childbirth education is a 12 week class that provides couples with information and education on how to have a spontaneous, unmedicated, vaginal birth. Couples come away with comprehensive information on topics such as medical vocabulary, nutrition, relaxation exercises, birth plans, bonding techniques, and staying healthy and low risk. Attending a childbirth class of any kind will not guarantee that you will or will not be faced with interventions during birth. Furthermore, women and their partners are responsible for relaying information and discussing expectations with their caregiver prior to the birth. Unfortunately, many doctors are still doing routine episiotomies for babies of any weight or presentation. For more information about The Bradley Method, visit their website, and for episiotomy information see my previous post.

Circumcision is a decision parents make based on personal, medical, or religious beliefs. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association do not recommend circumcision as a routine procedure. Statistics now show that 57% of babies born today are not being circumcised. However, parents need to feel free to make the decision that is right for them and their son. See my previous post for more information.

I have always wanted my blog to be informative and educational for all who desire to know more about pregnancy, natural childbirth and holistic healthcare. I understand that there are many ideas and opinions out. I encourage you to always research and be completely informed before making decisions that will affect you, your birth, and your family.

Welcome Baby Luke!

2009-06-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

The 15th Baby

Baby Luke

Born: 6/27/09 at 12:44am at the birthing center in Dallas

Stats: 8 lb. 12 oz. 21 1/2"

Battle for "Best Dad" and "Doula" Contests

2009-06-21T12:17:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day, to my dad and all dads today!

I currently have two contests on my blog right now. One in honor of Father's Day today. I am eager to hear your "best dad" stories. Tell a story on a father you admire in your life. It could be your husband, father, grandfather, or friend! And, in the post below, share one for your birth experience with a doula. Tell me about how a doula helped you at your birth.

The winner of each contest will get a custom made pair of shoes made by me (like the ones below) for the special little baby boy or girl in your life!

On July 1st, I will randomly select a winner from both contests! Thanks for sharing your stories.

Hannah Reasoner, CD(DONA)

2009-06-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is official, as of today, I am now certified as a birth doula through DONA!

In honor of these new credentials, I thought I would have another contest on my blog.

Obviously, I am very passionate about labor support and helping couples achieve their desired birth. I am interested in hearing your stories about the doula support you had at your birth. Why did you and your partner decide to hire a doula for your birth? How do you feel about the support she provided? Would you do it again? Have you had a doula at all your births? If not, what were the differences in your births with and without a doula present?

Thanks for your participation. I will randomly select a winner on July 1st!

Teen Pregnancy

2009-06-17T15:04:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been doing research on teen pregnancy. In my work at The Gladney Center for Adoption, I mentor many teens who are preparing to place their baby for adoption. But, this is only a handful of girls who will become a teen pregnancy statistic. Many others will plan to parent or have an abortion.

With teen pregnancy on the rise, I feel it is important to provide support, education, and care to these young women and their support system. Many young girls may find themselves without the support they had hoped for during their pregnancy. A doula can help provide this support to the young teenagers and help get them started on the right track into parenthood.

Doulas can help with mentoring, in-home support, making healthy pregnancy choices, preparing for labor and birth, developing a birth plan, breastfeeding support, and newborn care and preparation for the postpartum period as the teen parent(s) and their families prepare for a new baby. In addition, the doula has a network of caregivers she can refer these young women to, such as, safe housing, drug and alcohol treatment centers, counceling, lactation support, parenting support groups, and programs to assist in completing education and furthering their education if desired.

If you are a teen or the parent of a teen and desire support, please contact me for further information. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to receive the support and help you need for little to no cost.

The following is an article I retreived from another website. Click here to connect directly to the site for more information on teen pregnancy.

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Teenage Pregnancy and Teen Abortions - Statistics and Facts

Teenage pregnancy is an issue that is rampant throughout the world and is a major concern due to the ill effects associated with teenagers bearing children. Here is an attempt to fathom all the possible reasons that lead to teenage pregnancy as well as the effects of teenage pregnancy and teen abortions. Teenage Pregnancy Statistics One of the surveys conducted by a leading international organization called Save the Children stated that annually 13 million children are born to women under the age of twenty, more that 90% in developing countries. It also said that the highest rate of teenage pregnancy in the world was found in sub-Saharan Africa. The United States has the highest teenage birth rate and a very high teenage abortion rate as well. Until 2006, there had been a declining trend in the teenage pregnancy numbers, especially since the early nineties. The Guttmacher Institute conducted a research, which stated that the decline was owing to successful promotion of abstinence and effective use of contraceptives amongst teenagers. However, as of 2007 the teenage pregnancy rates have begun to rise again reversing the positive trends seen in the previous years. Causes of Teenage Pregnancy While discussing the issue of teenage pregnancy it is very important to think about the possible reasons that are responsible for this phenomenon. One of the most important reasons for teen pregnancies is the way in which adolescents are looking at sex. For a majority of teenagers, lack of appropriate sex education, and the portrayal of sex through the mass media results in an inappropriate and a rather careless approach about the phenomenon of sex in general which leads to the fact that teenagers look at sex very differently. Most of the teenagers lack the maturity and sound understanding about the phenomenon of sex and often get carried away in the moment. The practice of unprotected sex leads to teen pregnancies and further to teen abortions. Although some of the teens decide to give birth to the child, the process of raising a child at a teenage is extremely difficult and hampers many factors like the education of the teen, the financial concerns, and of course the psychological stress associated with the process. Teen pregnancies can also result from sexual abuse of teenage girls. Instances of teen pregnancies resulting from sexual abuse by sexual predators, or even date rapes have been on the rise. Dealing with a teenage pregnancy can be even more difficult in such cases, due to the emotional as well as physical trauma. The Internet might have been a great source of communication, but has emerged as an easy option for sexual predators to lure and victimize teenage girls. In some countries child marriage is practiced which leads to teenage girls being forced into motherhood at a very young age at which the girl is not ready for motherhood both physically and emotionally. Impact of Teenage Pregnancies and Teen Abortions Most of the people put a lot of thought and planning before they decide they want to have children, since raising a child is an extremely difficult task, which requires a lot of psychological, physical as well financial strength. The first and most important thing about teenage pregnancies is that teenage is a very tender age, and hence teenagers lack the physical as well as psychological maturity required for conceiving children. Teenage pregnancies can very extremely difficult to deal with not only for the teen, but the entire family and might have an effect on the younger siblings of the teenager. Continuing education becomes very difficult for teenage mothers, which again leads to an unstable future without education and proper employment opportunities. This affects the quality of living of both the mother as well as the child. The risks associated with childbirth are higher for girls under the age of fourteen years. An underdeveloped pelvis often leads to complications during childbirth. The Caesarean section option can be used for dealing with obstructed labor, however, in developing regions where medical services might be unavailable, it can lead to obstetric fistula, eclampsia, infant mortality, or even maternal death.

It's hard to raise a child when you're still a child ~ Anonymous

Do You Need a Doula?

2009-06-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

Even with a caring partner, family support, and the care of a doctor or midwife, will he or she:

Come to your home and labor with you until it's time to go to the hospital or birthing center and then stay with you continuously until the baby is born?

Provide advanced labor techniques such as massage or acupressure?

Provide several prenatal visits in your home?

Help you develop a "birth plan"?

Provide the encouragement you need while you are in transition and when the baby is being born?

Take notes during labor and provide you with a written record of birth?

Take photographs of you and your support person(s) during the labor and with your new baby?

Help you with breastfeeding?

Correction!

2009-06-16T23:05:00.001-07:00

See below to changes made in the documentary that will be shown at the screening on July 11th. Sorry for the confusion. Still hope you can attend!

Free Movie Screening

2009-06-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

Join us for a free screening of this popular documentary on childbirth. See additional information below. We hope to see you there!

Movie Synopsis

Joyous, sensuous and revolutionary, Orgasmic Birth brings the ultimate challenge to our cultural myths by inviting viewers to see the emotional, spiritual, and physical heights attainable through birth. Witness the passion as birth is revealed as an integral part of woman's sexuality and a neglected human right. With commentary by Christiane Northrup, MD, and midwives Ina May Gaskin, Elizabeth Davis and other experts in the field . . . and stunning moments of women in the ecstatic release of childbirth.

Orgasmic Birth has had an international impact on the film festival circuit and was screened this year at the prestigious Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival; The Baltimore Women's Film Festival; Usti Film Festival in the Czech Republic; Festival Caminhos in Portugal; and 'Official Selection' The European Independent Film Festival (ÉCU) 2009 in Paris. Orgasmic Birth also won the Audience Choice Award at the 2008 Motherbaby International Film Festival in Bermuda.

Five years in the making, Filmmaker Debra Pascali-Bonaro reveals a revolutionary approach to birth that is statistically safer for both mother and child than the birthing and delivery methods that are standard in many parts of the world today. The viewer becomes an intimate part of the birth stories of 11 women during this 85 minute documentary.

The evocative score for the film was created by John McDowell, composer of the score for the Oscar-winning documentary Born Into Brothels, with additional composition by Sabina Sciubba of the group Brazilian Girls.

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What: "Orgasmic Birth"- Movie Screening

When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 7-10pm

Where: Mansfield, TX (exact location TBA)

Who: Adults who are interested in learning more about natural childbirth

Why: To educate and provide information on childbirth

Hosted By: Donna Ryan, AAHCC, ICEA

Please RSVP by June 22nd to hannah.reasonerLMT@gmail.com.

New Poll

2009-06-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment to take the new episiotomy poll on my blog located in the right column. Thanks!

The Dreaded Cut

2009-06-09T16:03:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons that I am thankful I have become a "birth junkie" before having children of my own. Many doulas happen upon this as their calling because they had a wonderful or not so wonderful previous birth experience. But, for me, I desire to educate, care for, and nourish pregnant and birthing mothers.

The "cut" is one of those things I dread to see and hear happen in births. It looks awful and sounds horrid when it is happening. Flesh being cut with scissors is almost the worst sound ever next to nails on a chalkboard!

If dads could really grasp what the "cut" is and all it entails, I believe he would demand for it not to happen at all costs. The first time I educated my husband about it, he was mortified and cringed in horror. I knew at that point that when the time came, he would fight for me if it comes to that.

When I discuss a birthing with my hospital clients and the "cut" comes up, I am sure to let them know that they need to discuss that with their caregiver and the nurses they have in the hospital. Many nurses will help adequately prepare the perineum for the birth. I also discuss the benefits of kegel exercises that help to prepare and strengthen the pelvic floor.

Many midwives pride themselves in having minimal perineal tearing in births. They will use hot compresses and perineal massage with oils. Midwives do not perform episiotomies and most believe that tearing, if that occurs, will heal better.

What is an episiotomy?
An episiotomy is a cut made in the back of the vagina to enlarge it for birth. With midline or median episiotomy, (the type usual in the U.S. and Canada), the cut is made from the back of the vaginal opening straight toward the anus. With mediolateral episiotomy (the usual type in most of the rest of the world), the cut is made off to one side. See photos below.

How does an episiotomy affect my pelvic floor?
In the past, most care providers believed that episiotomy would prevent serious tears extending into the anal muscle. Anal muscle injury is a concern as it can lead to leaking gas, a sense of urgency about elimination, or even leaking feces (bowel incontinence).

However, a large body of consistent research has shown that liberal or routine use of episiotomy promotes rather than prevents pelvic floor dysfunction. It offers no advantages over the spontaneous tissue tears that may occur during birth. Midline episiotomy (the type that is usual in the U.S. and Canada) increases risk for tears into or through the anal muscle. Nearly all anal muscle tears that occur during birth are extensions of midline episiotomies.

Mediolateral episiotomy (the cut is made diagonally off to one side) is usual in most other parts of the world. Although it doesn't seem to cause anal muscle tears, it doesn't prevent them either. Women with no episiotomy have similar low risk for anal muscle tears compared with women with mediolateral episiotomy. This type of incision, however, goes through muscle fibers and can involve a longer, more painful healing period, scarring, and sometimes a scar with uneven healing that pulls to one side.

What is a reasonable episiotomy rate?
While the percentage of women who give birth vaginally and have episiotomies has fallen steadily in recent decades in the U.S., it still has far to go. Currently, about 35 in 100 women with vaginal births have episiotomies. Episiotomy rates vary widely across caregivers and across birth settings; studies show that they could safely be much lower, 7 or fewer in every 100 vaginal births.

How can I avoid an episiotomy?
With 1 woman in 3 with a vaginal birth in the U.S. having an episiotomy and much higher rates in many other parts of the world, it is important to understand the practice style of those who might attend your birth. If possible, arrange to receive care from a caregiver (or group of caregivers) with a commitment to restricted use of this procedure. If this is not possible, make it quite clear that you do not want an episiotomy unless there is a medically urgent need to hurry the birth.

When might an episiotomy be recommended?
About the only reason most caregivers would agree that an episiotomy is appropriate is when the baby is close to being born and an urgent problem develops.

When examined in scientific studies, none of the reasons given for the common or routine use of episiotomy holds up, including:

Woman is a first-time mother: Studies that attempt to restrict episiotomy do not find that having a first baby is in and of itself a reason for episiotomy.
Caregiver believes a tear is about to occur: Performing an episiotomy for this reason has not been shown to have a protective effect.
Woman is having a vacuum extraction or forceps delivery: Women are much less likely to have anal muscle injuries if they don't have a midline episiotomy with an assisted vaginal birth. (Mediolateral episiotomy neither prevents nor causes anal injury compared with no episiotomy.)
Belief that episiotomy prevents pelvic floor weakness: Women are just as likely to have weak pelvic floors or urinary incontinence in the early months after childbirth with or without an episiotomy. Women with no episiotomy and no or only a tiny tear at birth (intact perineum) have the strongest pelvic floors while women with tears into the anal muscle have the weakest pelvic floors. Women with spontaneous tears do just as well as, or better than, women with episiotomies.
Belief that episiotomy is easier to repair (to stitch closed) than a tear: No research supports this claim. Certainly the tear that occurs when a midline episiotomy extends into the anal muscle is more difficult to repair than more a small tear. With optimal care, many women will need no more than a few stitches or no stitches at all.
Belief that episiotomy heals better: An episiotomy of either type is more likely to have delayed healing or to become infected in comparison with no episiotomy. A mediolateral episiotomy is more likely to scar and heal pulled to one side compared with the tears that may occur with no episiotomy.

Take the poll located on the right of the blog.

The 14th Birth

2009-06-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 5th I attended my 14th birth with a client from the adoption agency where I work. Here are some "belly notes" from that birth.

At 23 years old, she desired to have a natural birth because her mother and grandmother did and she wanted to carry that on. In addition, she wanted to steer away from medications for the sake of the baby. It is rare when we have a client that truly understands and embraces the ability her body has to birth naturally and who also cares enough for the health of the baby that she intends to place for adoption.

As an agency, we are working to accommodate the needs of every client, but unfortunately because 99% of them want medication, their 6 hour childbirth education class does not fully prepare them for having a natural birth.

I am grateful for the two amazing nurses (two shifts) she had at the hospital that fully accommodated her efforts to have a natural birth and her 25+ hour labor, 12 hours of which we were at the hospital.

I am thankful for the doctor on call who did not do a cesarean when she stalled at 8cm for a few hours. It makes me appreciate birthing in the middle of the night when there are not as many time restrictions and clock watching. Even the nurse admitted to that one!

When she began to get tired and the pain got too much for her I got nervous. As much as I feel that I know how to help, this was a situation that I felt helpless. I had to dig deep into myself to really know what to do and say with her. After almost 20 hours in labor, she decided to have the help of medication.

Although the agency does not have access to alternative childbirth classes, it has made me appreciate the births I have attended with clients who were adequately prepared. I believe that it is important for my clients to be well prepared and going forward I may request that my clients outside from the agency have Bradley, Hypnobabies, Hypnobirthing, or some other form of childbirth class that is geared toward natural birthing.

I got to see the nurse actually birth the baby that early morning at 3:53am. The doctor was taking his time. But, because he did and the nurse was so careful, she did not tear or receive an episiotomy that she so desperately did not want to have.

I was with her for 19 hours of her labor and birth. Although, not the longest birth I have ever attended, it was still tiring, but worth every minute of being sleep deprived. I never question why I do this because watching a new life come into this world makes me so happy.