I Love What I Doula, LLC

10/14/2025

Labor prep with a twist 😌🍹

10/13/2025

I have to brag about my girl, Rita. 💛
We spent some time this morning with one of our moms on call . Collecting colostrum and walking her through how to use our labor TENS unit. Rita showed her how to apply the pads, gave a mini test run so she could feel the sensation, and made sure she felt confident and supported every step of the way.

Her knowledge, gentleness, and light are truly admirable. I couldn’t imagine doing this work alongside anyone else. she shines so bright! ✨

10/13/2025

As we head into RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) season, it’s important to remember how vulnerable babies and toddlers are to illnesses. Their immune systems are still developing, which means something that seems like a mild cold for an adult could lead to serious complications for them.

Even the smallest gestures, like kissing a baby’s forehead or holding their tiny hand, can unintentionally pass along germs that their little bodies can’t fight off as easily. This isn’t about being overly cautious or dramatic; it’s about being mindful and protective of those who can’t protect themselves.

If you see a sweet baby or toddler this season, share your love with smiles, kind words, and gentle interactions, but avoid kisses if they’re not your own child. This simple act of care can make all the difference. It’s not about you… it’s about protecting their health ♥️

10/11/2025

🤰🏾🔮Birth Balls By 🔮🧘🏽‍♀️

Do you use Birth Balls in your hospital?

📖 Positive effects of birthing balls supported by studies -

1. Reduction in labour pain (subjective experience)

• Some systematic reviews and trials also support a statistically significant decrease in pain during the active stage of labour when a birth ball is used.
• A trial among primigravidae (first-time mothers) reported lower VAS pain scores in those who used birthing ball exercises versus controls.
• Another RCT found that birth ball use improved childbirth self-efficacy (i.e. confidence in coping) and reduced pain.

2. Shortening of labour / improved labour progression

• Several studies report that use of a birth ball is associated with shorter first-stage labour, faster cervical dilation, or faster descent of the fetal head.
• A recent meta-analysis (2025) concluded that birthing ball exercises reduce cesarean rates, alleviate labour pain, and shorten the first stage of labour.

3. Increased maternal satisfaction, sense of control, and psychological benefits

• Several studies report that women using a birth ball report greater satisfaction, less anxiety, more sense of control, and empowerment in labour.
• The self-efficacy study (Gau et al.) showed improved confidence in ability to cope with labour.

4. Potential effect on cesarean delivery rates / mode of delivery.

• A 2025 meta-analysis suggests that birth ball exercises may reduce cesarean section rates.

5. Safety and no obvious adverse effects

• Meta-analyses and systematic reviews, generally report no increased risk of adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes associated with birth ball use.

10/02/2025

Some women even go to sleep for a few hours as they and their baby take a much needed rest, then wake up when it’s time. Don’t be pushed to push.

10/02/2025

Good info!

💙 Baby Blues vs PPD vs PPA: Know the Difference 💙

Not every mood change after birth is the same:

🔹 Baby Blues: Mild mood swings, tears, irritability; usually resolves within 2 weeks.
🔹 Postpartum Depression (PPD): Persistent sadness, hopelessness, low energy, loss of interest; can last months without treatment.
🔹 Postpartum Anxiety (PPA): Intense worry, racing thoughts, panic attacks; can interfere with daily life.

Recognizing the signs early is key to recovery. Mental Illness Awareness Week is the perfect time to learn, reach out, and support each other.

*️⃣ Perinatal mental health disorders also include OCD, Bipolar Mood Disorders, PTSD, and Psychosis. *️⃣

You are not alone. Get help now ⤵️
🔷 Call or text the Postpartum Support International HelpLine at 800-944-4773. You never need a diagnosis to ask for help.
🔷 Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262
🔷 In a crisis situation, call or text the National Su***de & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
🔷 Download the Connect by PSI app in the App Store or Google Play Store
🔷 Visit postpartum.net for additional programs and resources.