Statesville Doula and Lactation, LLC

07/25/2025

When she goes in for a vbac (and gets her vbac) only to discover baby was over 9 lbs 💪🏼 which was over two pounds bigger than her first.

Her labor was long and hard with curves and shuffling of her birth plan, but her determination, self advocacy, and strength kept her head in the game and she absolutely rocked it.

Her birth team was patient and trusting and that makes all the difference. I can’t say that for all practices and it’s a huge reason why Providence OB is so widely recognized as the preferred practice for vbac in Charlotte.

I was with her for 32 hrs of her beautiful journey, so now I sleep 💤

07/09/2025

Have you heard of this amazing device? Pretty incredible instrument to help with postpartum hemorrhage. This is a fabulous video showing how it works.

07/02/2025

We need to eliminate the word 'allowed' when it comes to birthing mamas.

You're a grown ass woman so no, you don’t need to be “allowed” to eat, move, stand, or hold your baby during birth.

But for far too many women, that’s exactly how it feels. They are told:

⚠️They can’t eat or drink anything but ice chips.
⚠️To stay in bed, hooked to monitors.
⚠️They can’t use the tub or shower.
⚠️They must push lying on their back, legs in stirrups.
⚠️Their partner has to leave during exams.
⚠️They can’t delay cord clamping or newborn care.
⚠️Photos or videos aren’t allowed.

This isn’t care. It’s control.
You are not a passenger in your birth.

Your body. Your baby. Your birth. You deserve respect, autonomy, and evidence-based support.

Most of these “rules” aren’t about safety. They’re about outdated protocols, convenience, and liability fears. Here’s what evidence actually shows:

🍎 Eating and drinking in labor is safe for most women—and fuels stamina.
🚶‍♀️ Moving, walking, using the tub (if your water isn't broken) or shower, and choosing your position can shorten labor and reduce interventions.
🤱 Immediate skin-to-skin and delaying newborn care improve outcomes for both of you.
📸 Photos and videos? Your birth is your sacred story.

Birth is not something to be managed. It’s a rite of passage. You don’t need permission to make informed choices—you need support to stand fiercely in them.

That’s why I created MamaPathway—a radical, compassionate birth course to prepare you for birth, protect your autonomy, and step into motherhood with unshakeable confidence.

We cover what your OB should teach you but rarely does:

🌿 Nourishing your body and microbiome
🌿 Your rights and options in the hospital
🌿 How to reduce interventions in labor and recover powerfully postpartum

Birth is not something that should happen to you. It’s something you get to do, your way, with respect for your preferences.

💭 Did you experience these restrictions—or were you supported in your choices? Share below. Your story can empower another mama today.

✨ Tap the link below to join MamaPathway and walk into your birth with clarity, courage, and power.

https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway/

04/29/2025

There is something profoundly beautiful about watching two people navigate the sacred journey of birth together. The way a partner leans in close, whispering words of encouragement. The way they offer a steady hand, a quiet presence, a fierce love that speaks louder than words ever could. In those moments, labor becomes more than a physical experience—it becomes a love story.

Birth partners are not just there—they are THERE. In every contraction, every breath, every tear. They are the safe place, the anchor, the strength behind the strength. Their support is not just helpful—it’s vital. It’s transformational.

As a doula, I have the honor of witnessing these moments that feel too tender for words. The soft forehead kisses, the back rubs through the hardest surges, the eye contact that says, “You’re not alone. I’m with you. I believe in you.” These are the moments that make me believe in the power of love all over again.

To every birth partner who shows up fully, vulnerably, and lovingly: You are a hero in the birth story. Your presence matters more than you know. And to be in that space, witnessing the quiet power of love in action—that is a gift I’ll never take for granted.

04/29/2025

These guys are incredible! It was a wild weekend of babies and watching the team shuffle rooms around while simultaneously being present for each family was an honor to witness. I spend two days and nights there and honestly, Haley, Erica and Michaela are 💪🏼

04/18/2025

03/11/2025

02/28/2025

This made me smile. Nights are rough. Help, helps.

01/28/2025

Updated availability for 2025! Always free consultations and once a month FREE "Meet the Doula" Events.

Sign up at www.thestatesvilledoula.com

01/17/2025

🌸 Why Self-Care During Pregnancy & Postpartum Matters 🌸

Pregnancy and postpartum are transformative journeys, both physically and emotionally. Prioritizing self-care during this time is not just a luxury—it’s essential for your well-being and the health of your baby. Here’s why:

✨ Physical Recovery

Pregnancy and childbirth are demanding on your body. Rest, hydration, nourishing meals, and gentle movement support your recovery and replenish your energy.

✨ Emotional Health

Hormonal changes can impact your mood. Taking time for yourself can reduce stress, help manage anxiety, and foster emotional balance.

✨ Stronger Connections

Caring for yourself allows you to show up as your best self for your baby, partner, and family. When you feel good, you’re better equipped to nurture those around you.

✨ Preventing Burnout

Motherhood is beautiful but can be overwhelming. Regular moments of self-care build resilience and help you navigate challenges with clarity.

✨ Modeling Self-Love

Your self-care sets an example for your family, showing the importance of balance and prioritizing personal health.

Ideas for Self-Care:

• Enjoy a quiet cup of tea or coffee
• Go for a gentle walk
• Journal your thoughts and feelings
• Ask for help—lean on your village
• Take a warm bath (if cleared by your doctor)
• Meditate or practice deep breathing or go for a massage

Remember: Taking care of YOU is the first step to taking care of your baby. 💕 You deserve rest, love, and compassion—always.

THIS IS WHAT MY SELF CARE LOOKS LIKE 😍

01/17/2025

Amazing! I LOVE supporting vbac. Supporting vba2c and vba3c is something I cherish.

Did you know? The largest study available on VBAMC, conducted by Miller et al. in 1994, found that among those who planned a VBA3C, 79% had one.

01/04/2025

A beautiful tool for pregnancy and labor ❤️

🌿 Honoring Indigenous Wisdom: The Rebozo in Labor 🌿

For centuries, Indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America have used the rebozo, a handwoven shawl, as a sacred and practical tool in birth and everyday life. This tradition, passed down through generations, reflects the deep connection between body, culture, and the Earth.

✨ Indigenous Uses of the Rebozo in Labor:
🌼 Sifting & Relaxation: Traditional midwives (parteras) use the rebozo for “manteada,” a gentle rocking or sifting motion to relax muscles and encourage optimal fetal positioning.
🌼 Pain Relief: Indigenous birthing practices incorporate the rebozo to relieve tension in the hips, back, and pelvis during labor.
🌼 Cultural Significance: Beyond its functionality, the rebozo represents strength, femininity, and community—a source of comfort and empowerment for the birthing person.
🌼 Postpartum Healing: After birth, the rebozo is used for “closing of the bones,” a ceremony to nurture and restore the body.

This practice, rooted in the knowledge of Indigenous communities, reminds us of the power of cultural traditions in modern birthing spaces. 🌎✨

When we honor tools like the rebozo, we honor the wisdom of the ancestors who have paved the way.

✨ Benefits of Rebozo Techniques:

🌼 Encourages relaxation and releases tension
🌼 Helps baby find the ideal position for birth
🌼 Provides gentle support for birthing positions
🌼 Enhances connection between the birthing person and their support team

Again, using the rebozo during labor is a way to honor ancient traditions while embracing comfort and empowerment. Whether you’re swaying, lifting, or relaxing, this simple yet profound tool can make a big difference.

Have you experienced or witnessed rebozo use in labor? Did you see a difference?