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New: Hear your voice on The Happy Birthway Podcast! Call 203-759-8639 to ask me a question or leave a comment that I will answer on the podcast. Unpopular opinion: A healthy mom and healthy baby are NOT enough. Why don't we pay attention to a mother's experience and perceptions of her birth enough? I'm an L&D nurse revealing insider secrets that you won't learn in your standard childbirth ed class. We explore every facet (from opposite extremes) of not just birth, but the experience of woman ...
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As a doula, navigating unexpected situations will become a part of our work. Perhaps a client who has a premature baby. Or those whose labors begin and progress too quickly to get to their chosen birth location. Thinking on our feet and embracing the unexpected will inevitably become a part of our work. When navigating these unexpected situations, …
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For many birth workers, where they enter this work is not the same place where they wind up. For example, some may enter this work providing labor support. Yet they may find once they have their own children, that postpartum work is a better fit. Others may enter into the field via postpartum support. Then, life leads them into childbirth or newbor…
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As doulas, it's not uncommon to encounter individuals with a fear of birth. This fear can be rooted in many sources. First, the way in which TV represents birth. Second, the stories our friends and family share; and third, an individual's lived experiences. The media often portrays birth as a dramatic process. The water breaks and the camera cuts t…
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Doula mistakes come in all shapes and sizes. We're human, so it's understandable that mistakes will happen. Some mistakes will be unavoidable and only discovered through trial and error. Others can be avoided. Common mistakes include a lack of effective communication, such as being slow or failing to follow up on inquiries or client communications.…
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One of the most common questions we hear is, "How do we navigate the question of how many clients we have supported when we first start out?" The question "How many births have you attended?" Or "How many families have you supported postpartum?" is not uncommon. Certain personality types are more inclined to ask these types of questions. For them, …
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Supporting single parents through pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period looks different than supporting those who are partnered. How we approach labor or postpartum support with an unpartnered parent will look different. Many factors will be different when planning for labor. For example, will they get to their birth location? Or who will mak…
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As birth professionals, providing evidence-based information to our clients is essential. However, it's not uncommon to wonder where to find quality research. Knowing how to read and interpret the evidence is also a skill that takes time and discernment. The first step is understanding the types of studies that exist. From randomized controlled tri…
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According to the American Cancer Society, vulvar cancer accounts for 6% of all cancers of the female reproductive organs. Over 1600 individuals will die from vulvar cancer per year. Cancers of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries are far more well-known, identified, and diagnosed. Yet, cancer of the vulva is a diagnosis that is often hard to obtain. Oft…
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Advanced maternal age is defined as a pregnant individual who is 35 years of age or older at the estimated due date or date of delivery. Pregnancy at or beyond this age is considered a risk factor for adverse outcomes in the birthing person and baby. When one is considered "advanced" in age, it is common for closer monitoring to be recommended duri…
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Combination feeding is one of many approaches families choose when feeding their baby. It may be the plan from the start. Or, clients may find themselves settling into combination feeding due to postpartum challenges. Some parents may feel that taking on 100% of the responsibility for infant feeding is an overwhelming task. For these individuals, s…
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After her first uneventful pregnancy and birth, Shoshana was thrown for a loop when her second pregnancy turned out to be a complicated one. Listen to the twists and turns of her story in this episode. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife and the hospital staff to advocate for yourself on yoledetacademy.com…
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Sleep is one of the most important things on a new parent's mind. Eva Klein of My Sleeping Baby breaks down the controversies and gives you tips on what you can do from the minute your baby is born. How you can reach Eva: Website- mysleepingbaby.com Free sleep masterclass- https://mysleepingbaby.ac-page.com/registration-page-v-2 Newborn sleep progr…
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Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders impact 15-21% of pregnant and postpartum individuals, according to the National Institute of Health. As birth professionals, it is likely that you will encounter a client who experiences a mood or anxiety disorder during pregnancy or after birth. We must be able to identify the signs and symptoms of those who ma…
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We don't hear enough positive birth stories, so here's one for you. Especially for all of you first-time mamas who may be extra worried about the unknown, let Raizy's story serve as encouragement to you that your birth can be wonderful. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife and the hospital staff to advocate…
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Quitting my L&D job has a silver lining - behold the next chapter of this podcast. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife and the hospital staff to advocate for yourself on yoledetacademy.com. Scroll to the bottom of the home page. Get 20% off of your purchase at EmeTerm anti-nausea wristband with code HAPPYB…
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It's been a busy, amazing year of growth, learning, and success. Here we are again at the end of another amazing season. Looking back over the past year, it's always fun to see our most popular episodes and share our favorites. As always, your love and passion for the topics we talk about are seen, heard, and felt so very much. We appreciate the in…
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When it comes to your website, there are a few website essentials that you should be sure to include. There are also common traps that you should avoid. Your website is the virtual storefront of your business. Often, it will be the first impression that a prospective client will encounter. As a result, you must make an excellent first impression. T…
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Choosing between virtual or in-person training is one of the first choices often made when considering the many pathways to becoming a doula. Both formats offer pros and cons to learners. Which format may work best for you will depend on many factors. Do you thrive in more independent learning? Or do you thrive in a classroom setting? Do you learn …
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The methods of support provided during the third stage of labor are many. How the third stage progresses will determine the type of support appropriate for each client. Assistance with bonding, the initiation of breastfeeding, and supporting a client through a perineal tear are all ways in which a client may need the support of their doula. It is a…
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Understanding birth-related trauma is an essential skill for all individuals who work in the perinatal field. The fundamental definition of trauma is: a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. When working with birthing or newly postpartum families, we may encounter clients who will identify their experience as traumatic. It is never our role …
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The expectations vs the realities of doula work can be vast. Many people consider entering this work, thinking it will be sunshine and rainbows. Experiencing birth and cuddling babies is often high on these lists. One of the very first stark realities that most doulas face is the fact that they are starting a business. It's easy to focus on just wo…
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Childbirth education is a way for pregnant individuals to learn about the process of birth and what options may exist. It does this through expelling fear and increasing knowledge. In addition, it teaches pregnant people how to advocate for their wishes. However, the role of the doula and the role of the childbirth educator seem very similar but th…
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The ultimate guide to fasting well on Yom Kippur while pregnant and nursing. Check out the most comfortable hatfall wig at The Hustle Wig, find them on Instagram - @thehustlewig or contact them on WhatsApp: 347-433-8541. Use code TRYON to get 2 wigs for a deposit on one. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife…
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I've been away for a very long time - but I have good reasons! Listen to find out about them. Check out the most comfortable hatfall wig at The Hustle Wig, find them on Instagram - @thehustlewig or contact them on WhatsApp: 347-433-8541. Use code TRYON to get 2 wigs for a deposit on one. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with you…
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For many, the pushing phase of labor is an exciting yet scary part of the labor process. Many individuals have concerns or fears surrounding the pushing phase of labor. From tearing to their infant's safety, a doula is needed for emotional and physical support. Supporting a client through this phase begins during pregnancy. Here, we can help client…
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We often see questions among doulas about agency interviews. There are a lot of specific questions about what to expect and what questions to ask the agency. Each agency will have specific questions that they feel are important to ask. So, what you may encounter will vary from agency to agency. However, some questions will overlap between businesse…
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There are many benefits to adding placenta services as a part of the services you offer. While there is a benefit to the clients who utilize this service, there are also benefits to those who offer it. Processing the placenta for encapsulation in the client's home brings a wealth of benefits to the client in addition to safety. It also allows the e…
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Learning how to initiate and lead conversations between prospective clients and clients is an essential skill in doula work. Yet at times, doulas often feel unsure about what to ask or how to keep the client conversations going. Beyond the core questions of due date, location of delivery, and basic contact information, what other information a doul…
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There are many facets to consider when supporting a client through active labor. This stage of labor is often an opportunity to become more physically active and present in client support. However, it is also important to remember to alternate periods of activity with rest during active labor. When supporting clients through this stage of labor, it…
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A common inquiry in many online doula communities is where to find free samples to give to clients. While it's likely true that most people love a freebie, are they actually free? Many individuals don't consider the cost of their time in requesting, processing, storing, and handing out freebies. Additionally, many companies that give out products f…
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As birth professionals, education surrounding the perinatal period is an ongoing process. While it is impossible to learn everything about pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, countless opportunities are available to expand your knowledge base. But how do you decide which topics to choose? When thinking about continuing education, think out of the box…
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Undoubtedly, social media plays a big role in our lives and how we communicate with the world. Social media platforms have become a big part of marketing products and services. Learning how to navigate social media as a business owner creates unique challenges. One of the challenges is creating and maintaining social media boundaries. As business o…
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When we think about the value of doula work, we must consider two perspectives—the perspective of the doula and the client's perspective. Before a doula can successfully market their services, they must understand their value to potential clients. While the hallmark of doula work is providing support, the doula must sell their service before client…
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Supporting early labor is a necessary skill for labor doulas. Yet many doulas may not know how to approach early labor from a mindset of patience vs the instinct to try to move labor along. Early labor can be a time of anxiety and doubt for expecting families. Contractions may come and go, and they often wonder, "Is this labor?" They often look to …
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Freidy & Roizy, 2 occupational therapists, talk about how you can influence your baby's neurodevelopment even before they are born. They share tips on how you can continue to help with their development both physically and emotionally as they grow. Freidy and Roizy's website: https://handsonapproaches.com/ Freidy and Roizy's Instagram: https://www.…
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Listen to Chomie's story of her 3 births in Israel and the United States and her journey to pelvic floor health with both physical therapy and surgery. Chomie's Instagram: @leaveit_tochomie Chomie's Podcast: Stop Being Stupid Register for the OJNA Annual Conference: https://tr.ee/upVxRN2SCK Check out the most comfortable hatfall wig at The Hustle W…
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One of the more challenging aspects of becoming a doula is navigating doula fees and payments. One of the most common decisions is how to take payment for the services you will provide. There is a tendency for doulas to want to avoid credit card processing fees. They often do this by using peer-to-peer payment options such as Paypal, Venmo or platf…
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Get the lowdown on vaccines in general, special considerations during pregnancy and what's going on with the Polio outbreak, a vaccine preventable infection. Sign up to the health conference on May 21st here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/raising-the-bar-improving-health-for-the-orthodox-community-tickets-471368003387 Use code FREERIDE to get a free…
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Transitional labor is the third phase of the first stage of labor. It is also considered the most challenging phase of labor, especially for those giving birth without pain medication. During the transition phase of labor, contractions occur every 1-2 minutes and last approximately 60-90 seconds. The cervix dilates from 8-10 centimeters. This is th…
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Professionalism has many definitions, and how one exhibits doula professionalism in their doula work will vary. We believe that professionalism means that we embody integrity and accountability, responsibly conduct ourselves, and always present the best versions of ourselves in our work. This means we have solid systems to navigate prospective clie…
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Constipation is a common complaint during Pesach/Passover. Pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding present additional factors that can further exacerbate this condition and its symptoms. Anyone who is concerned about constipation will benefit from listening to this episode. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midw…
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When are cervical checks beneficial? When might they be to your detriment? Ultimately you get to decide whether you consent to one in labor, but having the right information will help you decide with more confidence. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife and the hospital staff to advocate for yourself on yol…
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The poverty mindset is common in doula work. According to Alan Weiss: "A poverty mentality is one that influences behaviors consistent with beliefs that money shouldn't be spent, opportunities are limited, any risk at all is dangerous, any success is temporary and non-replicable, and generally remaining in the back of the pack is safest." Many indi…
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As doulas supporting client decisions plays a key role in our care. While there are many approaches to this side of our work, there are also many potential barriers. One of the most prominent barriers is the bias that birth workers bring into their work while supporting client decisions. We see this when doulas say, "I support my client in making i…
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Hyperemesis gravidarum is a very misunderstood condition in pregnancy. Hear Hennie's story for support and insight. Resources: HER Foundation: https://www.hyperemesis.org/ Click here to get the book, "Mama Has Hyperemesis Gravidarum (But Only for a While)" Hennie's email: henniegoldstein@gmail.com FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with yo…
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Sign up to the Self-Advocacy In Birth Live Virtual Workshop through this link. Happening on Tuesday, February 28th 2023 at 7:30 PM. Get your FREE guide with 30 phrases that you can use with your doctor, midwife and the hospital staff to advocate for yourself on yoledetacademy.com. Scroll to the bottom of the home page. Get 20% off of your purchase …
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When it comes to the ins and outs of how a doula agency works, many myths exist. The truth is, there are many perks to working with a doula agency. For many, the team approach creates a desirable environment where birth workers can find support. Others love being able to focus on the client-facing work and leave the client acquisition process to so…
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Chaya sustained crippling trauma from her first birth and thought that she would never have another baby again. Listen to her story of how she was able to heal from the trauma through her second birth. Sign up to the Self-Advocacy In Birth Live Virtual Workshop through this link. Happening on Tuesday, February 28th 2023 at 7:30 PM. Get your FREE gu…
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Learn about the pros and cons of having an IV in labor. Have any other questions? Call 203-759-8639 and leave a message for a chance to have them answered on the podcast. Subscribe to my email list through this link to be notified of upcoming workshops and other offerings. Get 20% off of your purchase at EmeTerm anti-nausea wristband with code HAPP…
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As doulas, we often give so much of ourselves as we help families navigate labor and the postpartum period. Yet self-care as a doula is often something that falls along the wayside. We often work with clients at their most vulnerable during one of life's biggest transitions. While our work with one client ends, we often step in to support the next …
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