Best of Both Worlds Doula Services

07/31/2023

I spend a lot of time talking about birth and your rights to say yes or no to interventions and standard protocol.⁠
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⁠👶 Follow .nurse.mama for tips about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum! ⁠
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The thing I want you to remember is that standard isn't always best for everyone. You have the right to choose what's best for your baby and your new little family.⁠
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So let's talk about the normal process after birth.⁠
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Ok, little Sam is born. What's the first thing we do?⁠
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Bulb syringe:⁠
Many times your dr will suction her mouth/nose. Nope, in 2014 a study was released showing that it only needs to be wiped with a towel to remove excess fluid. ⁠
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Cord:⁠
Please tell me that I have taught you enough about delayed cord clamping to not need to cover this one. DO IT!!! If you still have questions, read the article I am linking to my stories today.⁠
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Dried/Stimulated:⁠
Normal as soon as the baby is out and on mom, we dry and stimulate. So, I highly recommend you ask them not to dry vigorously and to leave the vernix on the baby.⁠
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APGAR Score: ⁠
We start assigning the Apgar at birth. ⁠
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Vital signs: ⁠
We can do this at birth and on mama—no need to take the baby. ⁠
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Skin to skin: ⁠
First hour of birth!⁠
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Physical Assessment & Reflexes:⁠
A baby nurse will do a complete assessment to check for any abnormalities. ⁠
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Meds:⁠
You have the choice to decide if you want the Vit K, Hep B, and eye ointment. ⁠
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Weight/Length: ⁠
This can be done after the golden hour and quickly. ⁠
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Hearing Screen:⁠
This is done at the bedside. ⁠
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PKU:⁠
This is a blood test done by pricking the baby's heel. The test is a screening for multiple disorders. ⁠
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Bath:⁠
OK, you guys know what I think. But did you know you can say no to the bath? Read the article in my stories for reasons why.⁠
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What are your thoughts? What are you going to say yes or no to?

07/30/2023

As humans, it is natural for us to give in to our emotions. When we look around at the world we live in, fear can easily take over. But as children of God, we know that our faith pleases the Lord (Hebrews 11:6).

"Fear not" is in the Bible 365 times. God gives us a daily reminder not to worry and trust in him no matter what. Nothing but wasted time comes from worrying and it won't change your situation. But you know what can? Prayer. Praise. Gratitude for what you have. Remembering all God has done and knowing that he can and will do it again.

As a new week begins, make the decision to shift your thoughts. Spend some time at the feet of Jesus. Release your fears and let faith fill your heart and mind. Believe that things will work out and your blessing is on the way. God's hand is upon you today and always.

07/29/2023

If you've ever heard the phrase "eating for two" you shouldn't take it seriously. While it is important to have a nutrient-rich diet during pregnancy for both you and your baby, it is even more important to properly nourish and replenish your body after birth.

Immediately after birth, several things happen to the body. Physiological changes such as brain chemistry, immune function, gut changes, cellular shifts, muscle composition are all happening while the nervous system becomes sympathetic (freeze/fawn/fight/flight) putting the body in survival mode. In this state, digestion and gut function are altered dramatically. Gastric juices, acids and enzymes stop being produced in order to focus on healing from birth and producing breast milk. Food cannot be properly digested and nutrients aren't being absorbed into the body normally.

The postpartum body is depleted of vital nutrients after labor and birth. It is important to properly nourish the body in order to heal and recover. When supported out of the sympathetic state and gut health is prioritized, levels of enzymes and gastric juices return to a normal state within weeks thus accelerating the recovery process. When gut & digestive health aren't supported immediately after birth, symptoms like bloating, constipation, irritability and larger hormone shifts occur.

Bottom line: A new mother's need for nourishment increases immensely even though her ability to digest has slowed drastically. The postpartum body needs a specific nourishment regimen to maximize nutrient intake causing hormones to balance and regulation of the nervous system. Consuming fully cooked foods that are rich in protein & fat and warm the body will best aid the body in healing and recovery on every level.

If you're looking for guidance on how to thrive during your postpartum period and receive whole body care & support, call me today to schedule a consultation.

Now offering:

✅ Doula Support
✅ Postpartum Coaching & Customized Nutrition Plans
✅ Childbirth Education, The Fourth Trimester and Newborn Care Classes
✅ Family Planning & Consulting Services

www.bestofbothworldsnc.com

07/29/2023

This week, we’re proud to be joining forces with mental health advocates, organizational leaders, moms and caregivers across the U.S. as we advocate for change during Black Maternal Mental Health Week.

Did you know? In the U.S., 20% of women display symptoms of a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder. From dismissed medical needs to birthing complications, Black women are more likely
to experience traumatic births and the mental health consequences that follow. For Black women, 44% will experience symptoms of a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder.

If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to seek help from a trusted professional or organization. Let’s continue the conversation about Black Maternal Mental Health.

Shades of Blue Project has online support groups https://www.shadesofblueproject.org/online-support-groups

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262)

Source: Shades Of Blue Project

07/28/2023

Hiring a doula is a worthy investment. But sometimes the cost of support can cause expectant parents to second guess their choice. Read more about the true value of a doula and various payment options 👇🏾

Financial planning for hiring a doula

07/26/2023

Magnesium is an essential nutrient that is crucial to the body's function such as regulating blood sugar and blood pressure, building strong bones, supporting muscle and nerve function and energy production.

Low levels or deficiency in magnesium have been associated with mood disorders, digestive issues, heart palpitations, fatigue, PMS and more.

After birth, a woman's nutritional needs are greatly increased due to pregnancy, labor, milk production and the body's need to heal and recover. Many new mothers enter into postpartum depleted from key nutrients such as magnesium which impacts everything from their breast milk, hormone balance healing time and immune response to toxic buildup. If a mother lacks key nutrients in her diet or is malnourished after birth, internal stress becomes prevalent. Stress leads to PMADs and auto immune disease, ultimately negatively impacting physical and mental health long-term.

This is the dreaded cycle of dysregulation.

A nutrient-rich postpartum diet is the key to healing and disrupting this cycle and resetting the nervous system.

Ways to increase magnesium intake:
◽Magnesium salt baths or soaks are recommended since the mineral is better absorbed through the skin (epsom salt or dead sea salt are best)
◽Eat magnesium-rich foods such as spinach, brown rice, avocado, nuts & seeds, rolled oats, bananas and salmon
◽Take a trip to the beach or spend some time in a float tank

If you're looking for guidance on how to thrive during your postpartum period and receive whole body care & support, call me today to schedule a consultation.

Now offering:

✅ Doula Support
✅ Postpartum Coaching & Customized Nutrition Plans
✅ Childbirth Education, The Fourth Trimester and Newborn Care Classes
✅ Family Planning & Consulting Services

www.bestofbothworldsnc.com

07/25/2023

I've said this before and I'll keep saying it....

The current culture promotes quick recovery/back to work, fitness over food, "snap back" and getting "back to normal", but the truth is that this is not healthy or sustainable. Having a safe and healthy postpartum journey rooted in tradition and evidence-based science & information is necessary. New moms need to be given the appropriate time, attention and space for healing. Let's encourage new moms to embrace the slowness of real postpartum healing and find joy in taking the time to accept the new person they are.

Naomi Osaka is motivated after giving birth to baby girl. Watch video: bit.ly/3pVoJvk

07/24/2023

This statistic is both astonishing and insightful. This statistic says a lot about postpartum care and the current culture of maternal and family health. And the frightening part? Not only is this number steadily on the rise, it doesn't include undiagnosed women who are suffering in silence.

Why has it become the norm to be depressed, anxious, overwhelmed and distressed in the fourth trimester? Why has it become widely accepted to be sleep deprived, malnourished and unsupported while recovering from birth and caring for your baby?

Some reasons women experience perinatal mood disorders include:

◽Learned behavior (failing to prioritize healing, dismissing traditional postpartum care and rushing to get back to your pre-pregnancy life)
◽Unhelpful social constructs and stress from support systems ("snap back" culture, lack of support from partner & family, returning to work before you're ready)
◽Trauma (childhood abuse, harmful work environment, domestic violence, assault, obstetric/birth, natural disaster)
◽Medicalized birth (disruption of natural birthing process, unnecessary interventions, bullying & manipulation from staff, not feeling in control)
◽Poor nutrition (not properly nourishing your postpartum body after it became nutrient depleted from birth means a deregulated nervous system and hormone imbalance)

This is why It is necessary to have a postpartum plan-so you can thrive physically and mentally. Healing requires prioritizing your needs and having a solid support system. Start your journey with proper nutrition. Let food be your medicine. Hire a doula for emotional guidance and care. Heal the body, heal the mind. You don't have to be in this number.

If you're looking for guidance on how to thrive during your postpartum period and develop the skills to not only be a good parent, but a healthy influence throughout your child's life, call me today to schedule a consultation.

Now offering:

✅ Doula Support
✅ Postpartum Coaching & Customized Nutrition Plans
✅ Childbirth Education, The Fourth Trimester and Newborn Care Classes
✅ Family Planning & Consulting Services

www.bestofbothworldsnc.com

07/24/2023

By the 20th week of pregnancy, a woman has 50% more blood than she did before conception. Her heart enlarges to accommodate the increase in blood volume. ❤️

Making room in your heart for more love.. literally 😉
https://buff.ly/3PZDurQ

07/23/2023

Happy !

No one knows all the details of your parenting journey and all the sacrifices you have made, but you have embraced the challenges and committed to protecting and providing for your kids. Every day isn't perfect. Mistakes will be made. And that's okay. Through it all, you have discovered that parenting is a journey of ongoing learning experiences and a daily opportunity to be a positive example for your children. This is the essence of parenthood.

Take some time to celebrate yourself and all that you do for your children and family. You're doing a great job!

Psalm 127:3 “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.”

If you're in need of parenting support, be sure to join Parental Advisory: My Virtual Doula.

07/23/2023

Listen, I'm not saying eat a 5 course meal. 😂

It shouldn't be anything heavy. I usually say don't eat anything that wouldn't be so bad if it came back up because vomiting is very common in labor.

With that being said you need to eat something during labor because -

➡️The uterus is a muscle.
➡️Muscles need energy.
➡️Energy comes from food.

You'll mostly eat in the early part of labor; once you're in the active part of labor you're typically not hungry.

**I know that many doctors are uncomfortable with people eating in labor because of the (very VERY low) risk of something called aspiration in the event of general anesthesia for a cesarean.

➡️So, eat a little something before you head to the hospital (assuming you're low risk).

07/19/2023

Parenting is hard.

There is no manual. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to each and every situation or circumstance that will arise when it comes to your children and family. Your journey will be filled with trial & error and eventually you have to learn to trust yourself.

But you want to know what I've learned in my 12+ years as a parent? It doesn't get easier. The older your children get, the harder it is to let go. That is, until you see the fruits of your labor come forth in the form of wisdom. Your wisdom.

Every sacrifice is worth it for them.
Every sleepless night is worth it for them.
You are planting much-needed, intricate seeds in your children that will impact the future of this world.

If you ever wonder or worry whether you are doing right by your children or family, you are already ahead of the curve. A good parent is mindful of the decisions they make and how it will impact their children, now & later. Be open to growing and changing for yourself & for the sake of your children.

I, too, have had days when I questioned my abilities and choices as a mother. But I also know that God intrusted me to raise my son and I do it with honor.

After my son was born, I struggled to find my way as a mom. I struggled to find my tribe and support system. So when I started , I wanted to give others what I didn't have. A space for mothers to learn to be vulnerable, ask for help, share trials & triumphs, receive support and connect with other parents. Best of Both Worlds Doula Services has always been and will always be a place of grace, comfort, encouragement and solutions.

"Find your tribe. Build your village. Start with a doula." Kelly Collins, Doula

If you're looking for guidance on how to thrive during your postpartum period and develop the skills to not only be a good parent, but a healthy influence throughout your child's life, call me today to schedule a consultation.

Now offering:

✅ Doula Support
✅ Postpartum Coaching & Customized Nutrition Plans
✅ Childbirth Education, The Fourth Trimester and Newborn Care Classes
✅ Family Planning & Consulting Services

www.bestofbothworldsnc.com