Ashland Birth Center

09/25/2025

The first hour after birth, often called the golden hour, is one of the most important times for both you and your baby. It is a period of transition where your baby is learning to breathe, regulate temperature, and adjust to life outside. Holding your baby skin-to-skin helps support all of these changes. It keeps your baby warm, stabilizes vital signs, and encourages early feeding and bonding.

For you, the golden hour allows your body to begin recovering from the work of labor. It is a time when your hormones shift to support healing, milk production, and emotional connection. We keep this hour simple and undisturbed so you can stay close to your baby, begin nursing if you choose, and settle into those first few moments together.

There is nothing you need to do except be present. This hour is about rest, recovery, and connection. We are nearby if needed, but mostly we step back and let you begin your time together.

09/22/2025

09/18/2025

Eating during labor can be helpful, especially in the earlier stages when your body is still building momentum. Light, simple foods like fruit, toast, crackers, or yogurt can give you the energy you need to stay steady and focused.

Labor is physical work, and your body needs fuel to keep going. Some people feel hungry and want to snack. Others may not want much at all. Both are normal. The key is to listen to what your body is telling you and choose foods that feel right in the moment. Staying nourished can support your strength and help you move through labor with more ease.

09/11/2025

One of the most helpful things during labor is having the right people by your side. Whether it’s a partner, friend, doula, or family member, their role isn’t to fix or take over. It’s simply to be present. Sometimes that means offering a sip of water, applying pressure to your back, reminding you to breathe, or just sitting quietly with you when things feel intense.

We spend time helping support people feel confident and involved. You don’t need to know exactly what to do ahead of time. You just need to care and be willing to stay close. The people who offer steady encouragement, even in small ways, can have a lasting impact on how labor is remembered.

09/08/2025

August brought eight beautiful babies, four were first time moms! One successful Vbac birth (vaginal birth after cesarean section) born in the waterbirth tub. One baby born in the car (on Hwy 63) with the midwives on site moments after. One surprise breech presentation, who delivered at the local hospital. Thank you Tamarack Ashland Hospital and the local EMS team for their wonderful and swift care. We had two babies born on the 4th and two babies born on the 15th. The closest two babies were born 2.5hrs apart. We are so happy that you all have your little blessings in arms. Welcome little ones and congratulations to your families!

08/01/25 💖 7lb 11oz Baby Girl
08/03/25 💖 7lb 7oz Baby Girl
08/04/25 💖 8lb 4oz Baby Girl
08/04/25 💖 7lb 14oz Baby Boy
08/13/25 💖 9lb Baby Boy
08/15/25 💖 6lb 3oz Baby Boy
08/15/ 25 💖 8lb Baby Boy
8/23/25 💖7lb 4oz Baby Girl

09/04/2025

Moving your body during labor can make a real difference in how you feel. Simple things like changing positions, leaning forward, or walking to the bathroom can relieve pressure and help your body work more efficiently. You don’t need to follow a plan or stick to any one position.

We’re there to offer suggestions and support you as you find what works. Sometimes what feels good one minute doesn’t the next, and that’s completely normal. Movement gives your body the chance to adjust, respond, and keep things moving in the right direction.

09/02/2025

Skin-to-skin contact is one of the most connecting things you can do in the first hour after birth. When your baby is placed directly on your chest, their temperature, breathing, and heart rate begin to settle naturally. It also encourages early feeding and helps your body start the process of recovery.

That first hour is often called the "golden hour" because it sets the tone for bonding and regulation. We do everything we can to protect that time. No rush, no weighing or wiping down unless needed. Just you and your baby, getting to know each other with calm support nearby.

08/26/2025

Counter pressure on your lower back during labor is a great tool. When someone applies firm pressure to your back, it can help ease the pain of contractions and make things feel more manageable. It’s especially helpful if the baby’s in a posterior position, helping to reduce that intense back pain. Having someone there to provide this support can really make a big difference in how you handle labor.