Panhandle Birth Center

07/03/2025

To adorable not to post!

https://www.facebook.com/lessonslearnedinlife/videos/691330160172206/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

06/30/2025

Midwives are leaving. Not because the work is too hard. But because the boundaries are too soft.

We aren’t burned out from birth.
We’re burned out from everything around it.

From the student who says she wants to learn but never takes a note, never shows up early, never stays late—and posts selfies instead of questions. The one who isn’t ready, but insists she’s “called.” The one who confuses proximity with preparation.

From the client who ghosted the intake form for six weeks, paid in $40 chunks while shopping for photographers, then got upset when you didn’t jump to respond at 10 p.m.

From the woman who knew you just had a baby—but still asked, “Will you be back by October? I just really want you.”

From the chronic boundary testers. The ones who don’t mean harm—but still text too much, ask too little, book late, pay slow, and expect your availability to remain sacred while they treat it casually.

And you, the midwife, are trying to hold it all with grace.
Trying not to sound harsh.
Trying to be understanding.
Trying to be “accessible.”

But let’s be clear:

> The perception of midwifery has been diluted by this lack of clarity.

You’re not seen as a professional.
You’re seen as the help.
Flexible. Affordable. Personal. Bendable.
And quietly replaceable.

And when you finally crack—when you raise your fee, set your phone to silent, or say “this apprenticeship isn’t working”—you’re the villain.
Cold. Unavailable. Gatekeeping.

But the truth is, you should have said no months ago.

No to the student who isn’t ready.
No to the client who wouldn’t commit.
No to the emotional leakage that slowly turned your schedule into chaos.

Because when we don’t say no, midwifery gets cheapened.
When we let people treat our sacred work like casual service, it affects how every other midwife is perceived.

And it’s not sustainable.

This is why the turnover rate is so high.
This is why midwives disappear.
Not because of birth itself—but because we’re slowly extracted by people who say “I love your care” but don’t actually honor it.

Midwives—listen:

You are not selfish for protecting your time.
You are not rude for releasing a client.
You are not harsh for ending an apprenticeship that drains your spirit.
You are not “money hungry” for charging what this work costs you to hold.

You are the gatekeeper.
And when you forget that, everything spills out.
Not just your time, but your joy.

So tighten the gate.
Say it early.
Say it clearly.
Say it without shame.

Because your calling wasn’t meant to be handed over to indecision, performance, or passive abuse.

It was meant to be guarded.

And if no one else will say it—here’s your reminder:

You can be kind and still be closed.
You can be generous and still charge your full rate.
You can be called and still say:

> “You’re not mine. And I won’t carry what wasn’t assigned to me.”

That’s not unloving.
That’s holy.

06/13/2025

It's important to advocate for the needs of midwives and their patients, as they play a crucial role in providing care. Remember, your voice matters, and raising awareness about these issues can lead to positive change. Keep pushing for what you believe in—every step forward contributes to improving the profession and ensuring better care for families! You've got the strength to make a difference!

06/09/2025

06/08/2025

What a beautiful birth experience! This mother truly was incredible. I was thrilled when the talented photographer Nicole McClendon arrived. She was completely dedicated and attentive in her work. The photos she took were fantastic, and she even came back for a special session to capture the moment when big sister met her new baby for the very first time. I wholeheartedly recommend her for anyone looking for exceptional birth photography!

All photos posted with permission.

05/01/2025

MONEY!

04/30/2025

Ari and I loved the work shop with Dr. Stuart Fischbein, OB/GYN , Reteach the Breech. Just in the nick of time.
It was taught with clarity, simplicity and patience. It was absolutely a wonderful learning experience. We need more OB/GYNS like Dr Stu!

04/30/2025

"Women can face a lot of pressure from all sorts of people towards the end of pregnancy.

“Haven't you had it yet?!"

Perhaps this is because our modern culture values efficiency, productivity and being on time, because being overdue in any context is seen as a negative thing.

But women have the right to make their own decision about induction and any other intervention they are offered and guidelines are just that: a guide."

This is especially the case when there are other pros and cons to be taken into account.

That’s a quote from my book, Inducing Labour: making informed decisions.

It’s one of two books I have written on this topic.

I also have lots of free posts, articles and resources on my website if you’re looking for more information about induction.

Because what’s important is that you make the decision that’s right for you.

Find out more at https://www.sarawickham.com/iol

02/20/2025

This was an amazing birth experience, showcasing a resilient mother and a lovely baby girl. I feel truly privileged to have been involved in this momentous occasion.

02/20/2025

Opting for a hospital birth does not mean that you have to labor in bed.😊
🌼 Why Movement During Labor is a Game Changer! 🌼
Pregnancy and labor bring a flurry of emotions and physical challenges, but did you know that staying active during labor can be incredibly beneficial? Here are a few reasons to keep moving:
1. Pain Management: Movement can provide natural pain relief. Find what feels good—bouncing on a ball or walking the halls.
2. Smoother Labor: Active labor can help reduce the time it takes, meaning you might meet your little one sooner!
3. Emotional Lift: Endorphins from movement help counter stress and fear, allowing for a calmer birthing experience.
4. Better Baby Positioning: Gravity works wonders—staying upright helps your baby get into the best position for delivery.
So, don’t be afraid to move! What worked for you? Share your stories below! 👇

02/10/2025

Vaginal Exam in Labor? ✨🩺
Let’s set the record straight about vaginal exams, whether before labor starts or during the labor process! While these exams can indeed be painful 😣, their role is often misunderstood. So, what do they really tell healthcare professionals? 🤔
👉 Fetal Position Confirmation: Yes, they can confirm fetal position! But let’s be clear—skilled palpation is just as effective in determining this.
👉 Identifying Potential Issues: They can help identify complications, like cord prolapse, especially when concerning fetal heart tones arise.
👉 Timing for Delivery: In a hospital setting, they may indicate when to call the doctor for delivery.
However, let’s not lose sight of an essential truth: these exams cannot predict when labor will start, when you’ll deliver, or how your baby is managing during labor. 🚫
The reality is that an unmedicated labor and a woman’s natural responses provide far more meaningful insight! Even those silent, stoic mamas are communicating the progress of labor in ways that are often overlooked.
And remember, fetal heart tones are the most reliable indicators of your baby’s wellbeing—not continuous fetal monitoring! 💖
Stay informed, stay empowered! 💪

02/02/2025

I've got a controversial confession to make.

I'm not the doula you call if you want your baby to be in the "perfect" position in labor. Yes, baby's position can greatly affect labor and there are TONS of courses and info out there to encourage optimal position. You'll even find an abundance of doulas who claim to have the magic touch to resolve long or painful labors.

But here's where I stand. I believe my clients have the intuition to birth the way they're meant to. They create an experience where they connect to their body and baby to help guide their movements. It's almost as if there's a song that only they know how to dance to. I know the instruments, have seen the moves, and have been to this dancefloor many times but only she and her baby can compose that song and dance to it.

So what's my approach when labor just ain't working? Honestly, not much. If my client does not see her labor as a problem - neither do I! Of course, there are moments where my guidance is helpful, but my head isn't always needed in labor. I prefer to lead with my heart and hands and bust out the tricks when necessary.

I also encourage my clients to understand where their responsibilities lie. As much as we want to believe we have total control of our babies in labor, the truth is we don't. All we can do is invite the baby to move but we can't force them.