Doula'd by Traci

08/08/2025

Even with a natural birth plan, there are times when it’s important to check in:

Call or go in if:

Contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour (this is called the 5-1-1 rule).

Your water breaks and it’s green or brown (could mean baby pooped in the amniotic fluid).

You’re having heavy bleeding, like a period or more.

You feel intense headache, blurred vision, or sudden swelling (could be a sign of preeclampsia).

Baby isn’t moving as much as usual.

You have a fever or just feel “off.”

You feel something bulging that shouldn’t be there (cord prolapse—get help right away).

💖 Final Thoughts

Your body knows what it’s doing. Trust it. Labor doesn’t always look like the movies — it can start slow, feel confusing, or surprise you. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Breathe, listen to your instincts, and reach out if anything feels off.

You've got this 💪

Douladbytraci.com

08/07/2025

If you’re planning a natural birth, you’ve got options! Some ways to stay comfortable:

Walk, sway, squat — keep things moving.

Take a warm bath or shower.

Use heat on your back or hips.

Try massage, counter pressure, or hip squeezes.

Breathe deeply, use mantras or affirmations, and lean into your support team.

This is your time to settle in, hydrate, snack a little, and get in your birthing zone.

Next post: When to give your provider a shout!

Check out my services at douladbytraci.com

08/06/2025

💫 Signs That Labor Has Truly Begun

1. Real Contractions

These come in a pattern: they get closer together, stronger, and last longer.

They won’t stop with a nap, bath, or water.

You’ll know the difference when they keep coming and make you stop and focus.

Natural tip: breathe through them, sway your hips, get in the tub, or try leaning on a partner.

2. Your Water Breaks

It might gush or just trickle—either way, it’s a sign things are moving.

Clear and odorless? That’s normal.

Green, brown, or bad-smelling? Call your provider.

3. Other Subtle Signs

Backache, pressure in your pelvis, or just a “gut feeling” that something’s starting.

08/04/2025

🌸 Early Signs of Labor

🌼 So... How Do You Know Labor’s Starting?

If you’re close to your due date (or past it!), every little twinge can make you wonder “Is this it?” Totally normal. Here’s what to watch for and when it’s time to grab your bag (or your birth ball!).

👀 Early Clues Labor Might Be on the Way

These things can happen days—or even weeks—before labor really kicks in:

Baby “drops” lower into your pelvis (you might suddenly feel like you can breathe again!).

More discharge, or a thick, gooey blob (yep, that’s your mucus plug!).

Practice contractions (aka Braxton Hicks) might ramp up. They’re usually random and not super painful.

Loose stools or a queasy stomach — your body’s clearing things out.

Burst of energy or urge to deep clean your kitchen at 2 a.m.? Welcome to the nesting phase.

Next post: Signs That It’s Actually Go Time!

DouladByTraci.com

07/28/2025

🧍‍♀️ How Much Weight Should I Gain?

Your recommended weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI (Body Mass Index). These ranges are for singleton pregnancies:

If you were UNDERWEIGHT (BMI less than 18.5): 28–40 lbs (13–18 kg)

If you were NORMAL WEIGHT (BMI 18.5–24.9): 25–35 lbs (11–16 kg)

If you were OVERWEIGHT (BMI 25–29.9): 15–25 lbs (7–11 kg)

If you were OBESE (BMI 30 or more):
11–20 lbs (5–9 kg)

👶 For Twin Pregnancies:
• Normal weight: 37–54 lbs
• Overweight: 31–50 lbs
• Obese: 25–42 lbs

📆 Weight Gain Timeline (Single Baby)
• 1st Trimester: 1–4.5 lbs total
• 2nd & 3rd Trimesters: ~1 lb per week (for normal weight)

🌱 Why Healthy Weight Gain Matters:
• Supports your baby’s growth and development
• Builds fat stores for breastfeeding
• Increases blood volume, amniotic fluid, and placenta
• Reduces risks for pregnancy and birth complications

💗 Doula’d By Traci

Supporting you with wisdom, presence, and peace.

Call for a free consultation today!
407-307-3105

DouladByTraci.com

07/22/2025

Rebozos are AMAZING!🤩

Many cultures have wisdom about birth and ways to support and cope. One incredible tool for labor is a rebozo. A rebozo is a traditional Mexican wrap which can be used to support and comfort during labor.

07/22/2025

Go ahead and cuddle!! 🥰

Cuddling your baby doesn't spoil them - it builds their brain, their trust, and a sense of safety. Snuggles are essential, not extra!

07/22/2025

Doulas are there for partners too!

07/22/2025

What is your pregnancy craving?

Pregnancy cravings are real—and they’re not always random. Your body is doing extra work, and food is more than fuel—it’s comfort, connection, and survival mode.

💡 A few things to know:
– Cravings often reflect a real need (iron, protein, hydration, emotional regulation).
– You don’t need to “eat clean” to be healthy.
– Adding nutrients in is more powerful than cutting foods out.

✨ Gentle reminder: There’s no one right way to eat during pregnancy. Nourish, don’t punish.

💬 What’s been your weirdest craving so far? We’re all ears.👇

07/21/2025

7. Acupressure Wristbands
• How they work: Apply pressure to the P6 (Neiguan) point on the wrist.
• Available as: “Sea-Bands” or other nausea wristbands.

8. Hydration 💦
• Sip water, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks.
• Try ice chips or frozen fruit pops if liquids are hard to tolerate.
• Add a splash of juice or cucumber slices for flavor.

9. Rest + Avoid Triggers
• Fatigue worsens nausea, so prioritize rest.
• Avoid strong smells (cooking, perfumes), stuffy rooms, and stress when possible.

When to Seek Help:
If nausea is severe, persistent, or you’re unable to keep fluids down (possible hyperemesis gravidarum), contact your provider.

07/18/2025

4. Eat Small, Frequent Meals 🥪
• Why: An empty stomach can make nausea worse.
• Tips:
• Eat every 2–3 hours.
• Include protein and complex carbs.
• Try bland foods (crackers, toast) first thing in the morning.
5. Cold Foods 🥗
• Why: Hot foods may have stronger smells that trigger nausea.
• Try:
• Cold smoothies
• Yogurt
• Fresh fruit
6. Lemon 🍋
• Smell or sip: Lemon essential oil, lemon slices in water, or lemon candies.
• Lemon water can also help hydrate and settle the stomach.

07/16/2025

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Bonding for life!!