Kelli Olsen Doula

06/10/2025

The rotation makes it easier for the baby to pass through the birth canal. (Sometimes, especially if the head is large, it must "mold" before it can rotate. This means the head changes shape, becoming longer and thinner. Molding is normal, although some babies' heads look somewhat misshapen for a day or two following birth, after which they return to a round shape.) The most favorable position for birth is usually the OA (occiput anterior) position.
-The Birth Partner pg. 76

05/10/2025

"The opening (dilation) of the cervix is also measured in centimeters. The measurement is estimated by the caregiver who inserts two fingers into the cervix, spreads the fingers to the edge of the cervix, and estimates how far apart (in centimeters) the fingers are - it is not an exact science. Dilation usually occurs with progressing contractions - after the cervix has undergone the changes just described - but it is common for the cervix to dilate 1 to 3 centimeters before the pregnant person has positive signs of labor. The cervix must open to approximately 10 centimeters in diameter to allow the baby through."
-The Birth Partner pg. 75

05/07/2025

"Usually about 1½ inches (3.5 cm) long, the cervix gradually shortens and becomes paper-thin. The amount of thinning (effacement) is measured in two ways:
Percentages: Zero percent means no thinning or shortening has occurred; 50 percent means the cervix is about half its former thickness; 100 percent means it is paper-thin.
Centimeters of length: One and one-half inches (3.5 cm) is the same as 0 percent effaced; ¾ inch (2 cm) long is the same as 50 percent effaced; and less than ½ inch (1 cm) long means 80 to 90 percent effaced. Do not confuse centimeters of cervical length with centimeters of cervical dilation."
-The Birth Partner pg. 75

05/06/2025

"The cervix points toward the pregnant parent's back during most of the pregnancy and then gradually moves forward. The position of the cervix is assessed by a vaginal exam and is described as posterior (pointing toward the back), midline, or anterior (pointing toward the front)."
-The Birth Partner pg. 74

05/03/2025

"While still thick, the cervix, through the action of hormones and prkstaglandins, softens and becomes more pliable." -The Birth Partner pg. 74

05/02/2025

Tune in this week as I walk you through six ways labor will progress! These can help you know what has to happen before baby will be here.

04/30/2025

"Normal is simply what you are used to."
-Birth in Eight Cultures pg. 196

04/01/2025

Updated Services!

05/04/2024

Such a great opportunity!

Come to this free postpartum support group where I will be teaching my super condensed Breastfeeding 101 class, and spend some time with other amazing mamas!

Please Register!

03/22/2024

Happy World Doula Day! 🌿 Doulas make a world of difference—reducing labor times, enhancing bonding, and empowering choices in childbirth. Here's to those who stand by every breath, every birth!

03/09/2024

That's a wrap!!! So grateful for everyone that came through Bump Night Out today! So grateful for all the connections that were made! See you next time!