Category Archives for Uncategorized

Pumping Tips
May 31, 2018 , , ,

Many women have to return to work while still breastfeeding. This does not mean that you now need to transition to formula. With the right preparation and schedule, a smooth, easy transition for you and baby is possible. Remember, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and then continuing breastfeeding until at least one year of age with the introduction of solid foods and ideally beyond (2+ years). 1….

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20 Things A Doula Does
Feb 08, 2018 , ,

So perhaps you understand what a doula is, but exactly does a doula do? 1. A doula supports the expectant mother and her partner throughout the pregnancy and is available to answer any questions or concerns about pregnancy, prenatal tests, and birth. 2. A doula meets with the expectant couple, usually in their home, at least once prior to the birth, around 30-35 weeks into the pregnancy. 3. Prior to labor, a doula helps the mother prepare for birth by educating her…

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Doulas are for C-Sections, Too
Nov 29, 2017 , , ,

Many assume that doulas only support natural birth or that you only need a doula if you want to have a natural birth. Doulas— especially the good ones— support all types of birth. Having attended natural, epidural, and cesarean births, I can tell you that each and every type of birth can benefit from doula support. In fact, my clients who have had births that have resulted in a c-section have needed even more support than my clients who have had natural…

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The Best Growing Foods for Your Bump, Babe, and Beyond
Nov 15, 2017

First trimester aversions, breastfeeding struggles and colic, and toddler picky eating can all make it seem like it is impossible to get in the healthiest foods, but it is also the most critical period for optimal growth and development. I want to share some of the best growing foods to get the most bang for your buck during pregnancy, infancy, childhood and beyond. Our most vulnerable babes need protection against the toxins, refined sugar, antibiotics, pesticides, EMFs, and all the other scary things…

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Why Your Birthing Environment Matters
Sep 20, 2017 , ,

A woman in labor is in a very vulnerable state— she is often experiencing intense physical and emotional sensations, working hard to allow her body to relax enough to open, and preparing her psyche for the birth of her baby— this is no small feat. For many women, this is one of their greatest accomplishments and, however it goes, an experience that they will remember for the rest of their life. I often think about other mammals in labor when I think…

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Doulas Are For Partners, Too!
Sep 20, 2017 , , ,

One of the most common misconceptions about doula support is that doulas replace or take away from a partner’s role. I understand where this concern comes from but most doulas (especially the good ones!) make it a priority to involve, empower, and support the partner. 5 Reasons Every Partner Can Benefit from Doula Support 1. A Doula Helps the Partner Help the Mother Most partners want to be active participants in the birthing experience but do not know specifically how to best…

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A Joyful Birthing Birth Story
Aug 06, 2017

Four hours after my baby girl was born, she stopped breathing in my arms. We were transferred to Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. Thankfully after an extremely stressful and emotional 2 weeks, we were finally home with our little bundle. That’s a long story for another day, but it is one reason why writing and remembering my birth story is so important to me. It was the most amazing experience of my life and the birth I never really knew I wanted…

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Happy Belly, Happy Baby (and Joyful Birth!)
Jun 07, 2017 , , ,

Hi Joyful Birthing friends! I am thrilled to introduce myself and share some insight to a healthy and happy prenatal and postpartum experience with you. My name is Katharine Murphy and I am a Nutritional Therapy Consultant, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mom of two, living in West Newbury. I am incredibly passionate about helping women to feel their best, look their best, and have an enjoyable pregnancy that leads to a healthy and happy babe. I believe with all my heart…

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Your Pelvic Floor Post Baby
Apr 12, 2017 , , ,

Hello Joyful Birthing! My name is Darcie Pervier– I am a very personal person by nature. It makes me laugh to think my passion in life is to help girls and women learn about their bodies inside and out. That means sharing with the world, my rocky recovery from child birth. I delivered both of my children vaginally while never getting past 8.5 cm….. Need I say more!??? I have been a physical therapist for over 16 years, I am a mom…

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Natural Ways to Avoid Induction
Feb 10, 2017 , , ,

There are many reasons why your provider may suggest an induction of labor. I will not go into these reasons here but– as with all medical decisions– be sure that you understand the risks and benefits and that you ultimately make an informed choice (definitely take the time to read the articles on evidencebasedbirth.com, talk to your doula, and ask your provider A LOT of questions). If you have an induction scheduled and are hoping to go into labor on your own…

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