Birth 'n' Herbs

04/08/2024

First car birth ✅

The last couple of months have been filled with lots of firsts! I am enjoying this journey so much. There's nothing like walking in your calling.

03/15/2024

Two ancestors returned!

What a way to bring in Black Midwives Day!

Truly blessed!

Simply honored!

03/14/2024

03/14/2024

HAPPY BLACK MIDWIVES DAY!

02/19/2024

Free Midwifery For the People was a success! Thank you to the five families that blessed us with the opportunity to care for them.

Gratitude to for orchestrating this offering.

To my Sistars:

I feel so honored to walk this walk with you. Thank you for pouring into me. Thank you for everything that you do and will continue to do. You are appreciated!

To the community:

This was not a one off. We will be offering FREE care for the people on a monthly basis. Pull up next month (3/23).

Note to self:

Keep flowing. Keep it slow and steady. Savor these precious moments.

01/31/2024

February’s Expecting Parents Gathering is our monthly invitation to tour the birth cottage, meet the traditional birth attendants and learn about traditional midwifery. it’s also an option for families to begin their care with us!

How and what happens in prenatal, birth and postpartum care at the cottage:

* 60min prenatal / family / wellness visits
* Custom herbal support from the apothecary
* Complimentary prenatal vitamins
* Custom Birth & postpartum Kit
• Traditional labor & birth support from your ENTIRE birth team!
• Immediate postpartum care for parents & baby.
• Postpartum homevisit 24-48hrs & 2wks postpartum (within 2hrs of RVA)
• Postpartum visits at 4wks & 6wks at the birth cottage
• Birth certificate application & submission
• In the event of hospital transfer, continuous in person midwifery support.

Register on the website under the “Contact” page, under “Expectant Parents Gathering”. We look forward to meeting you!

https://gathergroundedmidwifery.com/events-1

01/30/2024

The lovely posted this card and lemme tell you it is speaking to me!

✨ message ✨

I had to tell myself to

slow
it
down!

Girl, you're doing too much!

Trying to go to this training and that training.

Trying to meet this one and that one.

Whole time I wasn't tapping in and seeing if those folks truly aligned with me.

Alignment is huge in this work. But that's a whole 'nother story.

So, I'm listening

I am obeying

I am flowing

I am no longer in a rush

I am present

Excited to savor every moment of this slow, fulfilling journey.

Everything in divine timing

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Note to (my)self:

Everything you need is already available to you.

Everyone you need has already been revealed to you.

Flow

It's already written.

01/24/2024

When you're tapped in, you're tapped in!

01/20/2024

I’ve had the pleasure of gleaning wisdom from some phenomenal elder Midwives.

One gem that they all drop in some form or fashion is that the true essence of traditional midwifery lies in utilizing:

Common Sense 🧠 💡 🎯

Intuition ♾️ 🧘🏿‍♀️ 💡

Spirit 🌬️ 🤲🏽 ♥️

Varney and Myles can’t teach you that!

Folks that are truly called to walk this path…..

I am talking to you!

Recognize that you do not walk alone.

Tap into the essence of source

Call on your ancestors for guidance and protection

Call on the wisdom of the healers and Grand Midwives of the past, present, and future.

You were called to do this work for a reason

Do not take this calling lightly

Do not allow yourself to become tainted or jaded

Protect yourself

Always fill your cup

Stay true to you

Stay true to your lineage

And then pass down this work to the next generation

WE ARE RECLAIMING BIRTH AND LACTATION!

01/19/2024

Don't call me a Doula!

I am not your Doula!

We decolonize Birthwork ova here!

My people have been supporting pregnant folx and their babies

forever,

forever,

ever,

forever,

ever!

They didn't call themselves Doulas - nor will I!

When I officially started my birthwork journey I referred to myself as a Birth Sista (shout out to Sister Nicole of for her wisdom), as I started to learn more about how we did things back in the day I evolved to a Traditional Birthworker (shout to Sister Divine of for her teachings), now under the guidance of my ancestors, the spirits of the Grand Midwives, and dope ass Midwives like I have been elevated to a Traditional Birth Attendant.

So again, do not call me a Doula!

Come correct when you step to me.

I encourage other melanated Birthworkers to take a deep dive to figure out how they want to be addressed cause Doula ain't it. Tuh!

We reclaiming birth and lactation over here!

We are making .

01/10/2024

🌿 Welcome new folx! 🌿

I'm Audrey, the founder of Birth 'n' Herbs, where we normalize out-of-hospital birth, birth autonomy, human milk for babies, and the revival of ancestral healing modalities.

I'm a Bronx, NY native thriving in Northern Virginia. When I'm not supporting families as a Traditional Birthworker, you can find me in the kitchen whipping up serious eats, tending to my houseplants, or lost in a book while vibing to 90s R&B/Hip-Hop/Reggae/Dancehall/Alternative. I'm a child of the 80s stuck in the 90s. LOL!

My life's mission? Circling Black & Brown people back to their indigenous practices and birthing on their own terms. Thanks for joining my journey. I'll try to stay active here, but honestly, I be living y'all, so catch me if you can! ✨

01/03/2024

This is not just art; it's a powerful declaration of autonomy and the right to curate one's own birth experience.

This is birth undisturbed!
This is freedom!
This is love!

I feel so honored to hold space for families in this way.

Much gratitude to the ancestors and spirit guides that protect the space during these transformative experiences.

Artist & Fearless Mama: Amaka Bey
Midwife: Raquel Ferreira-Silva
Traditional Birthworker: Audrey Gentry-Brown

Doula: Taja Inglesias

12/14/2023

Big shoutout to for orchestrating a weekly study hall that keeps us on track with our academic hustle.

This is the epitome of accountability.

09/28/2023

🌻 Nurturing Your Inner Garden: Healing Trauma Before Conception 🌻

Embarking on the journey of parenthood is a profound experience, and for some, it may involve addressing and healing from past traumas. Here are some gentle reminders and practices to consider before you try to conceive:

1️⃣ Cultivate Self-Compassion

Healing from trauma begins with self-compassion. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate your healing journey. Acknowledge the impact of your experiences and allow yourself the space and time to heal at your own pace. Seek support from therapists, counselors, or support groups who specialize in trauma healing.

2️⃣ Create a Safe Space

Before bringing a new life into the world, creating a safe and nurturing environment is essential. Evaluate your physical and emotional surroundings. Surround yourself with positive influences and eliminate triggers that may hinder your healing process. Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature.

3️⃣ Seek Professional Support

Working with a therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma can be immensely beneficial. They can provide guidance, tools, and coping strategies to navigate the complex emotions and triggers that may arise during your healing journey. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

4️⃣ Practice Self-Care

Prioritize self-care as an integral part of your healing process. Engage in activities that bring you joy, promote relaxation, and help you connect with yourself on a deeper level. This may include yoga, art therapy, exercise, or any other activity that allows you to express yourself and nurture your well-being.

5️⃣ Cultivate a Supportive Network

Surround yourself with a loving and supportive network of friends, family, or a community that understands and respects your healing process. Sharing your journey with trusted individuals can provide comfort, validation, and encouragement along the way.

Remember, healing from trauma takes time and effort. It's important to prioritize your own well-being and address any unresolved trauma before embarking on the journey of parenthood.

09/28/2023

Calling all passionate DMV based doulas, midwives, lactation professionals, pelvic floor therapists, childbirth educators, advocates, and other maternal health professionals!

✨ Are you ready to take your business to the next level and connect with like-minded birthworkers? Then mark your calendars because the Black Birthworker Reboot Weekend is here! 🎉

📆 Save the Date: Fri, Oct 20 - Sun Oct 22, 2023

📍 Location: Greencourt Innovation Center
12358 Parklawn Drive Rockville, MD 20852

🔥 What's in Store for You 🔥

✅ Action-Packed Workshops: Get ready to supercharge your birthwork business! Our weekend conference is jam-packed with informative and interactive workshops led by industry experts. Learn essential skills, strategies, and tools to help your business thrive. 💼📈

🫱🏽‍🫲🏿 Connect and Network: Build meaningful connections with fellow birthworkers who share your passion and vision. Share stories, exchange ideas, and collaborate on new projects. 💡

🌟 Day 1: The Heart of Birthwork

Join us for a deep dive into the history of birthwork and policy. Explore state policies and reproductive health with informative forums and small group sessions. Learn how to work with government agencies effectively through workshops and advocacy activation. 📚🗳️

🌟 Day 2: Alternative Business Models and Industry Analysis

Discover innovative business models in the birthwork industry through panel discussions and small group sessions. Perform a SWOT analysis to identify what's missing in birthwork and find opportunities for growth. Learn how to plan your business for the greatest impact. 📈🌐

🌟 Day 3: Self-Care and Rejuvenation

Recharge your spirit and prioritize self-care. Enjoy a day of relaxation and activities designed to help you find balance and inner peace. 🌿🧘🏾‍♀️

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to invest in your growth as a birthworker, connect with your community, and prioritize your well-being. 🪷

🎟️ Reserve Your Spot Today! 🎟️

Link in Bio!

Tag a fellow doula, midwife, lactation professional, or maternal health advocate who needs to be a part of this empowering event! 👇🏽👇🏾👇🏿

09/12/2023

Calling all passionate doulas, midwives, lactation professionals, pelvic floor therapists, childbirth educators, advocates, and other maternal health professionals! ✨ Are you ready to take your business to the next level, connect with like-minded birthworkers, and prioritize self-care? Then mark your calendars because the Black Birthworker Reboot Weekend is here! 🎉

📆 Save the Date: Fri, Oct 20 - Sun Oct 22, 2023
📍 Location: Greencourt Innovation Center, 12358 Parklawn Drive Rockville, MD 20852

🔥 What's in Store for You 🔥 Action-Packed Workshops: Get ready to supercharge your birthwork business! Our weekend conference is jam-packed with informative and interactive workshops led by industry experts. Learn essential skills, strategies, and tools to help your business thrive. 💼📈

🫱🏽‍🫲🏿Connect and Network: Build meaningful connections with fellow birthworkers who share your passion and vision. Share stories, exchange ideas, and collaborate on new projects. 💡

🌟 Day 1: The Heart of Birthwork 🌟
Join us for a deep dive into the history of birthwork and policy. Explore state policies and reproductive health with informative forums and small group sessions. Learn how to work with government agencies effectively through workshops and advocacy activation. 📚🗳️

🌟 Day 2: Alternative Business Models and Industry Analysis 🌟
Discover innovative business models in the birthwork industry through panel discussions and small group sessions. Perform a SWOT analysis to identify what's missing in birthwork and find opportunities for growth. Learn how to plan your business for the greatest impact. 📈🌐

🌟 Day 3: Self-Care and Rejuvenation 🌟 Recharge your spirit and prioritize self-care. Enjoy a day of relaxation and activities designed to help you find balance and inner peace. 🌿

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to invest in your growth as a birthworker, connect with your community, and prioritize your well-being.

07/25/2023

🌿 Embracing Ancestral Traditions: Honoring the Placenta after Homebirth

💛 In many Black and Brown cultures, the placenta is considered sacred, symbolizing the connection between mother and baby. Today, we'll explore beautiful ways to honor this vital organ after your homebirth.

💛 Burial with Roots: In line with our heritage, consider burying the placenta beneath a tree. As it nourishes the earth, it symbolizes the nurturing bond between you and your baby, fostering growth and strength.

💛 Planting New Life: Embrace the cycle of life by planting the placenta in a pot with a beautiful plant or tree. As it flourishes, so will your little one, creating a powerful connection to nature and ancestry.

💛 Burning Ceremony: For a transformative ritual, hold a burning ceremony. As the placenta turns to ash, visualize releasing any fears or doubts, stepping into motherhood with confidence and grace.

💛 Ancestral Offerings: Some traditions involve returning the placenta to the land as an offering to our ancestors. It symbolizes gratitude for their guidance and protection on this sacred journey.

💛 Nourishment for Soil: Like our ancestors, give back to the earth by using the placenta as fertilizer for plants, nurturing new life and honoring the cyclical nature of birth and rebirth.

💛 Remember, honoring the placenta in these ways connects us to our roots, strengthens our bond with nature, and symbolizes the infinite love between a mother and her child. Embrace the beauty of these traditions, celebrating the miracle of life, and preserving the sacredness of homebirth.

💬 Share Your Story: We'd love to hear from you! What did you do with your placenta after homebirth? Share your unique traditions and experiences in the comments below. Let's celebrate the beauty of our diverse cultures and the magic of motherhood. 🌟
💛 Need guidance with creating a ceremony to honor your placenta? DM placenta for assistance.

03/28/2023

🧡 What I witnessed today is how birth should be!
No white coats
No bright lights
No unnecessary interventions
Just a Mama surrounded by love in the comfort of her own home.

🧡 I feel so honored to be one of the guides that helped to usher Imamu into this realm.

🧡 What a wonderful way to end World Doula Week!

🧡 Tribe, you know how we do. Join me in welcoming baby Imamu Earthside! 👇🏾👇🏿

02/19/2023

‼️You're looking at the next wave of SAFE Black Midwives in the DMV.

🧡Follow each of these dynamic women to learn more about the services they offer and their student Midwife journeys.

🧡 I thought that I was going to miss this meet & greet as I was at a birth all day. I'm thankful that these ladies waited for me. After insuring my client was good I hauled ass to make it to them. 😂

I'm a pretty quiet and slightly introverted person but baybee lemme tell you each and everyone of them were warm and welcoming. I felt at home.

🧡I'm so grateful for the opportunity to build community with these beautiful women! Thanks for connecting us Das!

We are Black History! Stay tuned.....

02/02/2023

The female pelvis is unique and with a rounder inlet compared to a male pelvis.
The female makes hormones when pregnant that allow the pelvis to open up enough for the baby to come through. Then during the postpartum period the pelvic returns to its pre-pregnancy state. And stabilizes.

01/06/2023

I urge you to head over to YouTube and comment on the TedTalk. Let's get them to take the video of this & .

12/17/2022

‼️We're going live!

Tune into tonight at 8 pm! We will be discussing our journey to becoming black birthworkers.

12/14/2022

🎯Get ready to dive deep!

Join me and Ashlee of for a live discussion on PLACENTAS!

Tune in on IG.
12/14/22
12 PM EST

12/07/2022

🌟 BLACK DOULAS FOR BLACK MAMAS 🌟

🧡I was called to do this work.
🧡I do not take it lightly!

🧡Much gratitude to Sista Toni for allowing me to support her!

🧡If you're a Black Mama in need of a Birth Sista or Breastfeeding Support. I got you! In-person support available in the DMV or virtually worldwide!

🧡Click the link in my bio to schedule a complimentary consultation. You deserve all the support in the world, Luv!

12/04/2022

‼️ When Black Birthworkers link ‼️

🧡I had such an amazing time vibin' with my fellow Doulas today. We talked birth experiences, the business side of being a Doula, and our plans for the future.

🧡If you're a Black Birthworker in the DMV come out to the next gathering. It is high time for us to create our own network of like minded Birthworkers.

🧡Shout out to Ashlee of for organizing this amazing meetup!

🧡Sidenote: I finally got to meet my sista from another mista ! We've been rocking since we met in Doula training. 🥂

11/27/2022

5 herbs to support you during pregnancy!

🌿 like, share, & save
follow for more pregnancy, lactation, and herbal tips!

🌿 herbal infusions are a wonderful way to incorporate plant allies into your daily life.

🌟Try these herbs to give your body an extra boost!

🌿 nettles: nourishing, anemia support
🌿 red raspberry: uterine toner (use in 2nd trimester & beyond)
🌿 oatstraw: energizing, blood pressure regulator
🌿 alfalfa: digestive aid
🌿 passion flower: eases anxiety, sleep aid

This is just a brief overview of these amazing plants. Stay tuned for more in depth herbal spotlights in the coming weeks.

11/26/2022

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11/22/2022

“I often see pictures on social media of freezers full of breast milk. The caption always reads something like “thankful for my freezer stash” or “stocked up to go back to work”. I wanted to show moms what a going back to work stash normally looks like.

It seems as though no one is posting about their completely normal and adequate “freezer stash”. This is 16 oz of milk, and it is completely adequate for a moms first day back to work.

The average baby takes around 1-1.5oz per hour while mom is away. This means that if baby is at daycare for 9 hours the maximum amount baby should need is about 13oz. This also leaves a 3oz cushion should the parents get stuck in traffic or if some is spilled.

If mom is pumping to make up missed feedings while away from baby she will get what she needs for the next day. Preparing to leaving baby is hard enough without the pressure to fill a deep freezer.”

~ Whitney Callahan

There is no right or wrong here. small stash, huge stash, no stash...We are all doing the absolute best we can and you should be proud of yourself for that! More often than not we see the huge freezer stash pictures, I thought it was important to see the other side of that. ❤️❤❤

(Shared from .life)

11/21/2022

🚫Stop scrolling

I have an announcement!

✨ *WE'RE VIRTUAL!*

Receive individualized, holistic Doula & Lactation support in the comfort of your own home!

✅ Virtual Birth & Postpartum Planning
✅ Return to Work Planning for breastfeeding Mamas
✅ General questions
✅ Virtual Full Spectrum Birth Sista

Visit the link in bio to schedule 1:1 ancestral support.

11/21/2022

👋🏼 I see some new faces here.

🎶 Allow me to reintroduce myself.......

🌿 My name is Audrey.

🌿 I am a Full Spectrum Birth Sista (Doula), Lactation Educator, & Medicine Woman.

🌿 I am originally from The Bronx. **BX stand up!**

🌿 I founded Birth 'n' Herbs with a few missions in mind:

1. Provide individualized holistic care to Mamas.

2. Reclaim and institute traditional ancestral birth and healing rituals.

3. Empower women by instilling in them that a natural, unmedicated birth free of fear is possible!

4. Normalize breastfeeding within the community through education, advocacy, and trauma healing.

A little more about me.....

🌿 Herbs are a lifestyle for me.

🌿 You can find me sipping on a herbal infusion, tending to my plants, while listening to some 90's Hip Hop and R&B or neosoul.

🤰🏿Now accepting homebirth clients due in 2023.

🤱🏾Available for in-person breastfeeding support in the DMV. Link in bio.