I'm a certified Birth, Labor (DONA) & Postpartum Doula, a Reiki practitioner, CLC, and Infant Potty
11/04/2025
🎉Today we celebrated Head Midwife Miss Shedlene’s baby shower! We’ll miss her while she’s on maternity leave, but our Kay Manman Yo program is in great hands with Miss Jodeline. Congrats, Miss Shedlene! Wishing you all the best on this exciting new journey.”
12/09/2024
**English:**
Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible Panamanian mothers! 💐 Today, we honor the strength, love, and unwavering dedication you pour into your families every single day. You are the heart and soul of every home, carrying traditions, values, and unconditional love that nurture generations.
Mothers in Panama are celebrated on December 8th, a day filled with warmth and gratitude for all the sacrifices they make. From the endless care they provide to the wisdom they share, today is about recognizing their irreplaceable role in our lives. You are truly the backbone of our culture and our greatest blessings.
To every mother, grandmother, and maternal figure—thank you for your love, resilience, and for being the guiding light in our lives. Today, we celebrate YOU, your strength, and all the beautiful ways you inspire us. 💖
May this special day remind you of how deeply loved and appreciated you are. ¡Feliz Día de las Madres! 🌹
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**Español:**
¡Feliz Día de las Madres a todas las increíbles madres panameñas! 💐 Hoy honramos la fuerza, el amor y la dedicación inquebrantable que brindan a sus familias cada día. Son el corazón y el alma de cada hogar, llevando tradiciones, valores y amor incondicional que nutren a generaciones.
En Panamá, celebramos a las madres el 8 de diciembre, un día lleno de calidez y gratitud por todos los sacrificios que hacen. Desde el cuidado interminable que brindan hasta la sabiduría que comparten, hoy se trata de reconocer su papel irremplazable en nuestras vidas. Ustedes son verdaderamente la columna vertebral de nuestra cultura y nuestras mayores bendiciones.
A cada madre, abuela y figura materna: gracias por su amor, resiliencia y por ser la luz que guía nuestras vidas. Hoy celebramos a USTEDES, su fortaleza y todas las hermosas maneras en que nos inspiran. 💖
Que este día especial les recuerde cuán profundamente son amadas y apreciadas. ¡Feliz Día de las Madres! 🌹
11/05/2024
I recently had the privilege of participating in the 10th anniversary celebration of the For the Advancement of Haitian Midwives (FAHM), and it was genuinely uplifting. As a fervent advocate for midwifery, I view midwives as pioneering advocates for safe births and comprehensive health care for women. I firmly believe that enhancing access to midwifery services can significantly reduce maternal mortality rates, particularly in areas where it is most critical. FAHM’s dedication to this mission and its efforts to empower Haitian families through empathetic and high-quality reproductive health care is a remarkable contribution that continues to boost communities throughout Haiti.
I want to express my gratitude to everyone who joined us in honoring a decade of FAHM’s commitment. Your involvement has a profound effect on the lives of numerous families and plays a crucial role in ensuring that reproductive health is recognized as a basic human right. If you were unable to attend but still wish to contribute, please think about donating any amount to FAHM. Your generosity aids in training and empowering midwives to deliver equitable and accessible care throughout Haiti, and together, we can carry on with this vital mission.
I recently had the privilege of participating in the 10th-anniversary celebration of the For the Advancement of Haitian Midwives (FAHM), and it was genuinely uplifting. As a fervent advocate for midwifery, I view midwives as pioneering advocates for safe births and comprehensive health care for women. I firmly believe that enhancing access to midwifery services can significantly reduce maternal mortality rates, particularly in areas where it is most critical. FAHM’s dedication to this mission and its efforts to empower Haitian families through empathetic and high-quality reproductive health care is a remarkable contribution that continues to boost communities throughout Haiti.
I want to express my gratitude to everyone who joined us in honoring a decade of FAHM’s commitment. Your involvement has a profound effect on the lives of numerous families and plays a crucial role in ensuring that reproductive health is recognized as a basic human right. If you were unable to attend but still wish to contribute, please think about donating any amount to FAHM. Your generosity aids in training and empowering midwives to deliver equitable and accessible care throughout Haiti, and together, we can carry on with this vital mission.
10/18/2024
Another heartbreaking reminder of the disparities Black women face in maternal care. A recent study highlights that Black women are disproportionately receiving unnecessary C-sections compared to their white counterparts, with devastating consequences. At the heart of this issue lies systemic racism and financial incentives driving hospitals to prioritize filling operating rooms over patient care. It's time to push for real change, advocate for informed consent, and demand policy reforms that prioritize the well-being of all mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. Let's work together to end these inequities in healthcare.
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10/12/2024
"Know the Signs: Early Detection Saves Lives!" Your health is your most valuable asset, and staying informed about potential changes in your body is the first step in safeguarding it. Unexplained changes in breast size or shape, lumps or thickening in the breast or underarms, skin dimpling or puckering, and ni**le discharge are all signs that should never be ignored. If you notice any of these changes, make it a priority to schedule a check-up with your healthcare provider. Early detection plays a crucial role in the fight against breast cancer, and your awareness can be life-saving.
Take charge of your health today—perform regular self-exams and encourage the women in your life to do the same. Together, we can spread awareness and empower more women to be proactive about their health. Don't wait—be vigilant, be informed, and take action now!
10/10/2024
Know the signs: early detection saves lives. Breast cancer can present itself in many subtle ways, so it’s important to stay informed about the changes in your body. If you notice unexplained changes in breast size or shape, a lump or a thickening in the breast or underarm area, don’t ignore them. These could be early warning signs; catching it early makes all the difference.
Be aware of other signs like dimpling or puckering of the skin, or any unusual discharge from the ni**le. These can also be indicators that something might not be right. Regular self-exams and screenings are essential, and the sooner you spot any of these symptoms, the better chance you have at taking action.
Take control of your health—if you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider today. Share this with your friends and loved ones—early detection could save a life.
Conoce las señales: la detección temprana salva vidas. El cáncer de mama puede manifestarse de maneras sutiles, lo que es importante estar informada sobre los cambios en tu cuerpo. Si notas cambios inexplicables en el tamaño o la forma de tus senos, o un bulto o engrosamiento en el área del seno o la axila, no los ignores. Estos podrían ser signos de advertencia tempranos, y detectarlo a tiempo marca toda la diferencia.
Mantente alerta a otras señales como hoyuelos o arrugas en la piel, o cualquier secreción inusual del p***n. Estos también pueden ser indicadores de que algo no está bien. Los autoexámenes regulares y las revisiones son esenciales, y cuanto antes identifiques estos síntomas, mejores serán tus posibilidades de actuar.
05/17/2024
Creating a birth plan is an excellent way for expecting mothers to express their preferences and empower themselves in the birthing process. However, it's important to approach this with a critical eye and understand potential concerns. Here are five concerns with birth plans along with tips and tricks:
Rigid Expectations: Some birth plans can be overly specific, setting rigid expectations that may not be realistic given the unpredictable nature of childbirth.
Tip: Keep your birth plan flexible and open to changes. Understand that unexpected circumstances may arise, and it's essential to remain adaptable.
Medical Limitations: It's important to advocate for your preferences.
Trick: Research and discuss your preferences with your healthcare provider beforehand.
Unforeseen Complications: Birth plans often focus on ideal scenarios, BE FLEXIBLE
Tip: It's important to be clear with your provider about your preferences, also have your provider include your birth preferences in your chart.
Communication Challenges: Miscommunication between the birthing person and healthcare providers can occur, ask follow-up questions for clarity.
Trick: Clearly communicate your birth plan with your healthcare team well in advance of labor. Consider hiring a doula, to help facilitate communication during labor.
Emotional Impact: Unrealized birth plan expectations can lead to disappointment or feelings of failure for some individuals. Ask questions when you are uncertain about procedures and you can ask for a second opinion.
Tip: Focus on the overarching goal of a safe and healthy delivery for both you and your baby. Remember that the birth plan is a tool to help guide your preferences, but the ultimate priority is the well-being of you and your child.
Empowering women to make informed choices through birth plans is important, but it's essential to approach the process with a realistic understanding of its limitations and potential challenges. By acknowledging these concerns and implementing the tips and tricks, expecting mothers can navigate the birthing process more confidently and quickly.
05/16/2024
Preparing for labor is an essential part of the childbirth process. Here are five ways to understand the signs and stages and prepare effectively:
Education and Research:
Attend prenatal classes or workshops where childbirth educators can provide comprehensive information about the signs and stages of labor. Understanding the physiological processes involved can help reduce anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions during labor.
Preferable a non-hospital-based Childbirth Education class
Create a Birth Plan:
Work with your doula to create a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labor and delivery. This plan can include your preferences for pain management, labor positions, who will be present during labor, and any special requests you may have.
Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider well in advance of your due date.
Practice Relaxation Techniques:
Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as visualization, meditation, and mindfulness. These techniques can help you manage pain and reduce stress during labor.
Consider taking prenatal yoga or meditation classes to learn effective relaxation techniques tailored to childbirth.
Stay Active and Healthy:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout your pregnancy by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercise regularly. Physical activity can help build stamina and endurance, which can be beneficial during labor.
See a Pelvic Floor therapist. Strong pelvic floor muscles can help facilitate labor and may reduce the risk of complications such as tearing.
Prepare Your Support System:
Surround yourself with a supportive network of family members, friends, and a doula who can provide emotional, physical, and informational support during labor.
Having a knowledgeable and supportive team by your side can make the labor process feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Remember that every labor experience is unique, and it's essential to stay flexible and adaptable during the process. Trust in your body's ability to give birth and rely on the knowledge and support of your healthcare provider and support team.
04/27/2024
Five birth tips:
1. **Stay Informed and Educated**: Knowledge is power. Attend childbirth classes, read reputable sources, and ask questions to understand the birthing process. Being informed can help alleviate anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions during labor.
2. **Create a Birth Plan**: Discuss your preferences for labor and delivery with your healthcare provider and create a birth plan. Include your preferences for pain management, interventions, and any special considerations. While birth plans may need to be flexible, having one can help you feel more in control and prepared.
3. **Practice Relaxation Techniques**: Labor can be intense, but practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and mindfulness can help manage pain and reduce stress during childbirth. Consider attending prenatal yoga or meditation classes to learn and practice these techniques.
4. **Build a Support Team**: Surround yourself with supportive individuals during labor, whether it's your partner, family members, or a doula. Having emotional support and encouragement can make a significant difference in how you experience childbirth.
5. **Stay Flexible and Open-Minded**: While it's essential to have preferences and goals for your birth experience, it's also crucial to remain flexible and open-minded. Labor and delivery can be unpredictable, and sometimes unexpected circumstances may arise. Trust in your healthcare team, stay adaptable, and focus on what's most important: the health and well-being of you and your baby.
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Contact The Practice
Send a message to Annette Perel Clearbirth Doula Services:
Hello! I’m Annette Perel, a DONA International certified birth doula and trained postpartum doula, and I began attending births in 2002. I’m also a doula mentor and a lactation consultant.
Working with women in labor and the birth of my son in 2005 inspired me to focus my studies on becoming a midwife. Growing up bilingual in two different cultures, New York and Panama City, I draw from a time-honored tradition in which supporting women is an integral part of community life.
My main goal is to help future moms and their families during labor, pregnancy, and postpartum, by giving personal support and by guiding them to make the right choices for the future, for themselves and the newborn.
Click here to discover more about my Pregnancy and Labor services.
Click here to discover more about my Post Partum services.
Through my social media, I want to spread awareness, educate, and inform women who don’t receive the help and support needed during this incredible time of their lives.
That’s the reason why I’ve recently created The Clearbirth Podcast.
A place where you’ll hear from doulas, doctors, lactation consultants, and other women as we work together to dissolve the fears and debunk the myths around the birthing process. I want to emphasize black women’s voices, by sharing their stories and let them know that they are not alone and they deserve to receive the right health-cares during this delicate process.
Have you got a story to tell? Do not hesitate to contact me at clearbirthpodcast@gmail.com, here on my page, or through my Instagram page. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
If you are interested in my services, click here to contact me.